H&Hhunter,
I’m quoting your post in a previous thread.
As you know, my heart is in there for the 404. However after reading your commentary, I’m starting to doubt my choice and wonder if the 458 Lott isn't a better one on all accounts except recoil. We all know people react differently to recoil, and I, for one, don’t see it as a necessary ingredient for pleasure. The ladies may like the 470 NE but, after all and like the 458 Lott, it packs a punch. My pleasure comes from accuracy and well placed shots. I do well and kill cleanly. I got very comfortable with my 375 H&H (300grns at 2725 fps) and shot it often and very accurately; 0.5 MOA from the bench and at milk cartons spread out in the pit from 15 to 50yds open sights, 5 fast shots, one at each carton and against the clock.
The 404 will push 450grns at 2200 fps at a recoil level comparable to the 375 in a rifle about 1lb heavier. The 458, in the same rifle weight, will push 500grns at 2300 fps with 60% more recoil than the 404 and 7% more kinetic energy or around 300 ft/lbs. I have never shot the 404 or the 458 Lott. The math comes from comparing loads and entering the data in an online recoil calculator.
Will the Buff know the difference between both rounds? I will. I anticipate not becoming as proficient with this level of recoil because I won’t enjoy practicing and getting a beating in the process. Maybe I have it all wrong? Maybe the difference is only 20%? After searching for PH caliber recommendations the 375 came in a strong 1st followed by the 416s and then the 458s, 470s and 500s. There is a mounting popularity with the 458 win and Lott for African DG. In Australia, the land of Woodleigh bullets, the 404 is said to be more popular than the 458s.
In my part of Canada it is prohibited to practice shooting anywhere but at the range; that means at the bench. A 458 Lott at the bench is not my idea of fun. Neither is getting trampled by a Buff. In your opinion, given the above, is the 404 still a reasonable choice/semi stopper?