Quick Look

The .458 Win Mag is a powerful big-bore rifle cartridge developed in 1956 to deliver heavy-hitting performance for dangerous game hunting. It balances high stopping power with manageable recoil. It remains popular among African and North American hunters targeting large and dangerous game.

Why It's a Top Choice

High energy for large and dangerous game
Reliable performance in harsh conditions
Versatile bullet weights and types available
Compatible with common magnum rifle actions
Proven track record in professional hunting

Key Variants

.458 Win Mag Full Power — Classic load favored for maximum stopping power on dangerous game.

.458 Win Mag Reduced Recoil — Designed for shooters seeking less recoil with effective terminal performance.

.458 Win Mag Lightweight Bullets — Utilizes lighter projectiles for flatter trajectories and target shooting.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.458 Win Mag	.450 Rigby	.460 Weatherby Mag
MSRP	Varies by load, typically moderate	Higher-end premium pricing	Premium pricing, often costly
Capacity/Size	Large magnum cartridge, 2.814\" length	Similar size, slightly longer	Longer and heavier than .458 Win Mag
Weight	Moderate recoil rifle weight typical	Heavier rifle recommended	Requires very heavy rifle to control
Optics-Ready	Yes, common with bolt actions	Yes, factory rifles available	Yes, though recoil impact must be managed
Trigger Type	Varies by rifle, mostly single-stage	Single-stage or set triggers common	Primarily single-stage due to power
Notable Pro	Balanced power for most dangerous game	Excellent penetration for large game	Top-tier power for extreme hunting
Notable Con	Moderate recoil may challenge some shooters	More recoil and higher rifle weight	Heavy recoil demands experience

Best Use Cases

Dangerous game hunting in Africa and North America
Big-game hunting requiring deep penetration
Professional hunting and safari expeditions
Range practice with big-bore rifles
Collectors of classic big-game cartridges

FAQs

Can I use .458 Win Mag in a standard magnum rifle action?

Yes, the .458 Winchester Magnum is designed for use in standard magnum-length bolt-action rifles. It requires a barrel chambered specifically for this cartridge to ensure safe and proper function.

What is the typical bullet weight range for .458 Win Mag?

Common bullet weights range from 300 to 500 grains, optimized for heavy penetration and energy transfer on dangerous game.

How does the .458 Win Mag compare recoil-wise to other big-bore rounds?

The recoil is heavy but manageable with proper rifle weight and recoil pads, generally less than larger magnum cartridges like the .460 Weatherby Magnum.

Site Map

Site Pages

Categories

Brands

Local Shops

Popular Search Terms

Gun Accessories

Ammunition

Gun Models

Firearm Manufacturers

Rifle Manufacturers

Pistol Manufacturers

Shotgun Manufacturers

Accessory Manufacturers