Looking for a big bore revolver.....s&w .500, or .454 casull

[BradXDM45c]

Looking for a big bore revolver to take with me out in the woods on the 4 wheeler. Ive shot revolvers, but never owned any myself. Have narrowed it down to 2 choices, either a s&w .500, or a Raging bull in .454 casull. Both have their +'s, and -'s and I am not opposed to owning either.


Ammo price isn't a huge concern, as I don't plan to plink with it, just shoot it enough to stay proficient. It's main purpose would be to accompany me in the woods around the house where black bear frequent. I know plenty of other smaller cartridges will take care of a black bear if the situation arises, but who doesn't want a big bore just because? Wife said get one, so I'm gonna get one!

[Breadman03]

Im not familiar with the others, but I have to recommend trying out a Ruger SRH Alaskan. Mine fits me like a glove and can be concealed.

[BradXDM45c]

Thanks! Will prob do like always and check a few out in my hands. Would also like to mention I'd like a 4-6" barrel!!!

[spoolup]

Everyone is going to have their own opinion. But for me, after running into a huge ass moose in the back country on foot the little 45ACP I carried would have been no good, so the week I got home I picked up a 454 Alaskan. Little gun, big bang. let me emphasis that for you, BIG bang. standard loads the first time shot will shake up most shooters. HOT loads can border insane. I shot some 325gr buffalo bore loads thru it, the first shot it felt like the gun blew up in my hands, I looked at my hands to make sure they were still there.

Wanting something bigger 4 years ago but the full size 454 Rugers were not SS but a painted SS, which I never really liked, then I heard of the 460 perfect! 460 can still shoot 454 and 45LC but it also allows the use of a long cartridge. And unlike the 500 it is not stupid in price, I really want to get another 460 in 4" but Ill keep packing the 4" 357 or 454 Alaskan depending on time of year and where the trip is.

Also recommend a "safepacker" holster for it. I keep the Alaskan in gov model, its tight but fits, there is the big grip version designed for 4" 460/500, Alaskan, 4" GP100s etc, which I also own, but its a good inch or so bigger in every measurement. Backwards compatibility was key in my eyes.

[Vhyrus]

I would get the 454, you can shoot 45 lc through it when you go to the range to save money and hurt less. They also make some 6 shot 454s but I am pretty sure all 500s are 5 shot.

[JoeOU1]

Here is exactly what you're looking for. 5" S&W 460. It shoots not only .460S&W, but 454 Casull and 45LC too, without a cylinder change. Perfect size for a hip holster. I love mine. Great shooter.

[shooterjim]

the big bore guns are a blast to shoot, but if your worried about black bears, same alot of money and get a Ruger Super Blackhawk .44mag, chances are with Black bears you will never need it, but if you do loaded with CorBon hard cast loads it will drop anything you aim it at, with more manageable recoil.

[mongovb]

Originally Posted by JoeOU1

Here is exactly what you're looking for. 5" S&W 460. It shoots not only .460S&W, but 454 Casull and 45LC too, without a cylinder change. Perfect size for a hip holster. I love mine. Great shooter.

Having the option to shoot 3 different loads from the same cylinder would be a plus in my book and you know 2 of those calibers will get the job done. When I buy a revolver, thats the one I want.

[Oldhoward]

I have shot the S&W 500 and I would say I'd only use it for hunting. It was to much gun for me. The Taurus in 454 I have shot as well and it kicked me hard it just didn't fit me well. Just purchased the S&W 460 with 8 3/8 barrel, recoil is milder than the 500, very accurate, and fits me well. You ca use 454's and 45 colt to practice with, much more economical. If you can find one give it a test drive.
You could also look for/find a Tc Contender used in 375 JDJ, but it will require hand loading.

Oldhoward

[BradXDM45c]

Hmmm, .460 XVR looks like a nice package!!!! Looking into that one as well. I'm hoping someone has one at the upcoming gun show, I'll try to trade my bolt gun and get some cash to me as well!!!