Good day to all of you. Haven't been able to even read a message due to an onslaught of work, thats a good thing. I mean for 6 months, kind of work.
So I am adjusting my compliment of handguns and on order to procure is a 5 shooter bigger than my Encore in 445 Supermag.
I want a DW 8 inch 7445 but I will not ever be in a position to stab one here in California, off roster, rare, expensive, did I mention rare and expensive?? So I have made inquiries into custom revolvers, Ruger rebuilds, etc. I don't like high pressure guns nor the fees associated with a Ruger remodel. The 445 SM is a proven killer at 200 yards. But as much as I'd like to stick with the 445, I'd like just a taste flatter trajectory in the same caliber. I'm an American, there is always more to be had.
So I have been getting pricing on the Magnum Research BFR in 10 inch and I really like the platform. Its almost an FA, but not quite. Its better than a Ruger, no barrel constriction, tighter and more attention to build for sure, scope mount included, freewheeled, tight/tight/tight. No offense to Ruger, just all of mine but one shoot like crap..... well I expect a lot of accuracy. Thats the Super Redhawk in 44 mag. 550-series serial number.
And so I am seeing my ability to buy in 444 Marlin, it can be loaded down to 44 mag and beyond 454 casull energy and I believe beyond. I can then launch 350 gr bullets if desired and use existing molds for bullets. Its lower pressure, less recoil (still massive), brass is not too expensive compared to handgun brass of similar power factor.
My 445 SM is for but one purpose, harvest. And for that there is one load that answers all calls. But it's a one shot wonder and I would like to carry a shorter chest mounted device that is capable of visually SCARING off a bear as well as harvesting one.
But the 460 Smith is interesting. It burns a bit less powder, much higher pressure, probably stuck more so shooting jacketed bullets (yuck and $$$$) and I have to retool completely from stem to stern. Also recoil should go up substantially for similar power and velocity factors. But still it is versatile, chambering all the way down to 45 LC (I dont shoot any 45 cal except my 1911 so it's a real leap for me to tool up)
So I am asking the crew here for insight. Contender shooters please speak up. I like the .430 bullet, so much so it's scary. Anybody own a BFR in any caliber??? Are you happy with the GUN, with your choice of cartridge, accuracy, fit and finish?? I can't afford an FA, even used!
I'd appreciate any help in coming to a final decision. I've looked at the 45/70 and its just too much bullet. I'd always be shooting/lobbing 400 plus grainers rather than 310/335's with a flatter trajectory. Granted the recoil may be less and a bigger bullet means more energy downwind. An express 45/70 just doesnt appeal and the 444M seems like it tops the 45/70 in smaller bullets by a large gap (under 400 gr)
Help me decide. Someone with a 444M please speak up and persuade me into the cartridge. I want nothing to do with a 500, a 475, etc. I like LONG, straight brass. And fueling the fire is the fact that the 445SM is the progeny of the 444M case! The parent of the 445SM has to be GOOD stock to come from.
I've added a poll, never done that before, seemed fun to try.
Thanks in advance.
Mike