Big bore handguns

bigshovel · Aug 26, 2008

I'm a fan of large bore rifles and have a want "by far not a need" for a Ruger Alaskan 454 Casull/45 lc. handgun. Does anyone out there own one of these?
I am torn between this model 454 vs. 44 mag. I own a Super Redhawk in .44 and have killed whitetail deer with it and some assorted other animals but it is a 9.5 inch barrel, scoped and not conveniant to holster as a supplemental side arm. I think the Alaskan with it's 2.5 inch bbl would be rather unpleasant in 454 to shoot more than about 15 or 20 rounds on any one day. My primary use for this handgun would be, well I don't yet but I'll think of one. Oh yeah I remember now, It will look good beside my 458 Lott and 404 Jeffreys.

Brad

gsganzer · Aug 26, 2008

I'd think a 2.5" large bore revolver would be pretty unpleasant to shoot. Fun to look at, but punishing in service. I have a Taurus 44mag with a ported 8 3/8" barrel and it's pretty decent to shoot. If I was you, I'd probably just buy a shorter barrelled 44 mag, rather than the 454. Ammunition prices are already crazy, at least you have more options with the 44.

As far as rifles, I have a 375 H&H and love it. I've been thinking of building a 458 Lott, but got sidetracked buying a couple of AR's (RRA AR-15 and an an Armalite AR-10). I figure I better get the "black rifles" while I still can. You never know what might happen come November.

bigshovel · Aug 26, 2008

Yes, I have a Remington custom shop 375 H&H as well what a great caliber. Back to topic, I am leaning towards the .44 I already have a dedicated press set up and a vast assortment of brass, powder and balls. I can get loads hot enough in 44 that are unpleasant to shoot the .454 is ok for now but my joints aren't getting any younger. Decisions... decisions.

Brad

RonMar · Aug 26, 2008

Even a 2" 44 is, or can be, unpleasant to shoot IMO. A friend had a ported "snubbie" in 44 and it was a real handfull with anything hotter than 44 specials...

GaryCrowell · Aug 27, 2008

I don't think I'd want to touch off a 454 Casull with a 2.5" barrel, but since you shoot a 458 Lott then maybe you're into that. It'll be interesting to say the least. I'd imagine accuracy would be "minute of barn" and don't think it would be a very practical firearm, but sometimes practical isn't what people are looking for. As you say, it's a want not a need, so if it trips your bean then get it, just don't expect too much.

jimg · Aug 27, 2008

One consideration is availability and cost of ammo. I think 44mag is going to be more common and less expensive. Guess it depends some on how you're going to use it...hunting, fun, etc.

Doc_Bob · Aug 27, 2008

I have a .44 Dan Wesson with a 2 inch barrel.
Only hurts when I shoot it.

Bob

Soundguy · Aug 27, 2008

I've been thinking about a .454 in a snubby frame.. i've seen them at shows with different colored molded grips..

I have a colt anaconda in .44mag with a 10" barrel.. it's no big deal to shoot. I also have a .50AE AMT automag V with a gasport 3 on it.. and it's quite a bit more to shoot than the .44mg... so far havn't worked up the nerve to get the snubby .454.. looks like it would be a great (cough) self defense weapon

soundguy

SimS · Aug 27, 2008

BigShovel;

If you are looking for a short barrelled revolver I think I would stay with a .44 magnum. I have a S&W .500 and I can't imagine shooting a .454 or a .50 with a short barrel. My .500 is a fun beast with long barrel but they make a 4" version if you are into pain. My .02 cents.

SimS