458 Lott- worth it?

[GI Joe]

I've been thinking about this one lately. I've heard much negative comments about the 458 Winchester Magnum. Namely, its short case does not allow it achieve the so-called "optimal" 2200-2300 fps for 500 grain bullets. Apparently, the Lott can do it quite easily and at lower pressure. So, is it worth paying the money for a Ruger #1 or M-77 for an extra 200-300 fps? And, is the felt recoil given similar rifle weight dramatically different between the Win Mag and the Lott? I have the Savage and am quite pleased with it and it rocks my world especially with the Hornady 500 gr Heavy Magnum loads. I can get a Ruger #1 458 Lott for about $650 out the door, and am waiting on how much the bolt action will cost although I am sure it is well over $1000.

 

[cratz2]

Well, on the issue of recoil, I suspect it is like the proverbial guy buying the yacht... if he has to ask about the price, he probably can't really afford it. That the 458 Win Mag has considerable recoil should go without saying. Recoil doesn't affect everone in the same way... it just doesn't bother some folks. While the Lott must have more recoil if the same weight bullet gets launched at a higher velocity, if a shooter can handle the Win Mag, he can probably handle the Lott.

They're both way out of my league. I don't think of myself as recoil shy in the least but the 6# 300 Win Mag and the 8 or so pound 375H&H are the two biggest kickers I've ever shot and, while I'm glad to shoot pretty much anything someone else has and the someone else is providing the ammo for, no way will I vever buy something that kicks more than those for field use.

I suspect one advantage of the 458 Lott is that ammo won't be quite as expensive as 416 Rigby or 470 Nitro Express though not much less expensive either. I think Ruger puts together a solid Safari rifle. I've been asking many folks experienced in this area about such things. I'm looking at something closer to the 375H&H but the Ruger name comes up a lot. My local dealer quoted me $1,400 on the M&& Magnum and I'm pretty sure the 375 and the Lott will be the same price. Only one person has mentioned the CZ by name though that certainly wouldn't sway me away from getting it.

 

[nextjoe]

GI Joe,

Consider visiting the forums at www.accuratereloading.com, particularly the Big Bores forum. You'll find LOTS of info on the Lott there. Just beware a troll named Axel. Most of the other guys are very experienced and helpful.

A Ruger No. 1 in .458 Lott is REALLY tempting to me, but I haven't seen any blued/wood guns yet. Every one I've found has been stainless/laminate. Another nice alternative is rechambering the CZ 550 Magnum.

Best,
Joe