Quigley Down Under, the 1990 Western starring Tom Selleck, captivated audiences with its stunning cinematography and compelling story. But beyond the dramatic narrative, the film sparked considerable discussion amongst firearms enthusiasts: the caliber of the sharpshooter's rifle. This post delves into the specifics of the rifle used in the film, addressing the common misconceptions and exploring the historical context surrounding its chosen caliber.
The Myth of the .45-70 Government
Many believe Quigley's rifle fires the iconic .45-70 Government cartridge. While visually similar, the film's weapon actually utilizes a custom-made .45-100-400 caliber round. This crucial distinction often leads to confusion and inaccurate information circulating online. The .45-70, popular in the late 19th century, was indeed a powerful cartridge, but it wasn't the exact round employed in the movie.
The .45-100-400: A Closer Look
The .45-100-400 cartridge, specifically created for the film, aimed to replicate the power and trajectory of a historically accurate black powder rifle, while also offering improved safety and consistency for filming purposes. The name itself indicates its key characteristics:
- .45: This refers to the bullet diameter, approximately .45 inches.
- 100: This represents the approximate weight of the powder charge in grains.
- 400: This signifies the bullet weight in grains.
This combination resulted in a cartridge capable of impressive long-range accuracy, mirroring the feats depicted in the movie. However, it's crucial to remember this caliber is not readily available commercially; it was a bespoke creation for the film's production.
Why Not the .45-70?
The decision to forego the readily available .45-70 likely stemmed from several factors:
- Accuracy at Extreme Range: While the .45-70 is powerful, achieving the level of accuracy shown in Quigley Down Under at extended ranges would be challenging, even for expert marksmen. The custom .45-100-400 was designed with extreme long-range accuracy as a priority.
- Visual Effects: The .45-100-400 likely allowed for more controlled muzzle flash and recoil for the film's visual effects. This was especially important in close-up shots.
- Safety: Using a custom round allowed for more stringent safety protocols on set, reducing potential risks during filming.
The Rifle Itself
The rifle used in the film was a custom-built Sharps rifle, designed to visually represent a period-correct weapon. However, it incorporated modern safety features and modifications to accommodate the custom .45-100-400 cartridge. It wasn't a historically accurate replica in every detail, but it captured the essence of the Sharps rifles popular during that era.
The Legacy of Quigley's Rifle
Quigley Down Under, despite its fictionalized elements, has solidified the Sharps rifle's place in popular culture. The movie's romanticized depiction of long-range sharpshooting, combined with the unique caliber of the rifle, continues to generate interest and discussion amongst firearms enthusiasts and moviegoers alike. While you won't find the .45-100-400 on any commercial shelf, the legend of Quigley's rifle, and the questions it raises about historical accuracy versus cinematic license, live on.
