450 Bushmaster

[TheSurveyor]

Anyone have any first hand experience with the 450 bushmaster round? I've wanted one for yrs. and the fascination has returned as of late.

I've got my eye on a custom built bolt action.

 

[elkantlers]

They are awesome in the AR-15 platform. A very good short range gun with lots of thump.

 

[MThuntr]

I like the idea of the 45 calibers in ARs but found the cost and availability of parts annoying so I opted for a 1895SBL in 45-70 for 2/3 the cost of an upper to fulfill my big bore needs

 

[1_pointer]

I think if I was going short action in a bore that big I'd probably lean towards the 458X2" American or maybe even 450 Marlin if brass was still readily available. The good news about the American is that it can be made from regular belted mag cases, so there will always be a ready supply of cases. Only reason I'd even lean towards the Bushmaster in a bolt gun is if I never plan to reload and had to rely on factory ammo.

 

[MThuntr]

The 458x2" has a lot appeal in a bolt gun too. I actually had planned to do that to an old Savage 7mmMag but never got around to it.

If you have an AR10 then I would consider the 45 Raptor...uses 308 brass cut down and replicates the 460S&W.

 

[LCH]

I built a .450 Bushmaster a few years ago. It's a pretty good choice for Indiana, considering our screwy regulations for deer rifles.

I really like mine. I can shoot 3-4" groups at 200 yards all day long with it. A 150 yard zero keeps it fairly flat out to about 250, which is the furthest shot I'd consider with it on game. Recoil is similar to a .30-30 in an AR platform.

I shot 2 deer with it last year, both were dead before hitting the ground.

 

[TheSurveyor]

I'm looking at the 450 in a bolt action as just a solid truck/brush gun. Like a good framing hammer. Always there and will do most anything.
I've always wanted a 45-70 but never got one. This would take its place. I like the 450 bushmaster but never wanted it as an AR. Just can't see myself hiking the mountains with one. Call me old fashioned.

 

[Rooster52]

Ruger just started making the 450 bushmaster caliber in there Ruger American.