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480 Vs 454
- Thread starter DEPUTY
- Start date
I've fired a .454 once (i.e., one shot), and never shot a .480, so obviously I'm no expert on this, but, for what it's worth, I'd take the .454 for the following reasons:
1) It is more versatile because you can shoot .45 Long Colt as well as full-powered .454 in the same pistol.
2) It is more powerful than the .480 when using full-powered loads (but I suspect you could load it to more or less match the .480, .44 Magnum, or any similar cartridge).
3) It is a better established cartridge (more likely to still be somewhat popular in 10 years).
I'll be interested in hearing what others think (I've been thinking of getting a .454 myself), and I'm very open to being corrected if any of my reasons are incorrect.
Doug
1) It is more versatile because you can shoot .45 Long Colt as well as full-powered .454 in the same pistol.
2) It is more powerful than the .480 when using full-powered loads (but I suspect you could load it to more or less match the .480, .44 Magnum, or any similar cartridge).
3) It is a better established cartridge (more likely to still be somewhat popular in 10 years).
I'll be interested in hearing what others think (I've been thinking of getting a .454 myself), and I'm very open to being corrected if any of my reasons are incorrect.
Doug
redhawk44p
New member
I wish all choices in life were like your choices. It is a win win choice you cannot go wrong. I have the 454 my son has the 480 and they are both terrific. We cast 400 grain LBTs for my sons gun allowing him to shoot it for not much more than the cost of 22 ammo. If you buy the 480 I would highly recommend you cast. This would set you back only $100, you would quickly recoup the money if you shoot much not to mention the satisfaction of taking game with your own bullet.
redhawk44p
I have been afraid of casting. I don't know what the process might be. Do you have a good URL regarding where to get lead of the proper composition, the actual process and equipment comparisons? I previously ran searches on TFL, but haven't yet resolved these issues. Every time I think of casting my own, I think of burning my hands on my iron.
It was the desire for a large caliber that didn't absolutely kill my wrists that got me into the .480. Also, love my S&W 25 in Long Colt. Thanks..
I have been afraid of casting. I don't know what the process might be. Do you have a good URL regarding where to get lead of the proper composition, the actual process and equipment comparisons? I previously ran searches on TFL, but haven't yet resolved these issues. Every time I think of casting my own, I think of burning my hands on my iron.
It was the desire for a large caliber that didn't absolutely kill my wrists that got me into the .480. Also, love my S&W 25 in Long Colt. Thanks..
redhawk44p
New member
We run the local tire stores and buy wheel weights. We use this lead for our plinking and small game loads. It is usually 15-25 dollars for a 5 gallon bucket weighing nearly 150 lbs. Plumbing supply stores also sell pure lead for reasonable prices. A blend 3.2 ounces of lead added to 10 lbs. of wheelweights will give a 2% lead tin alloy. This is what most knowledgeable casters recommend.
We use Lee casting equipment it is very economical and produces great bullets. This is one of the best places to purchase it-
Lee Precision equipment
If you go to this site and look in the back issues you will find a treasure trove of info on loading-
Sixgunner
You are in far more danger driving to the store than you will be casting relax and enjoy. I hope this helps.
We use Lee casting equipment it is very economical and produces great bullets. This is one of the best places to purchase it-
Lee Precision equipment
If you go to this site and look in the back issues you will find a treasure trove of info on loading-
Sixgunner
You are in far more danger driving to the store than you will be casting relax and enjoy. I hope this helps.
Either one will be fine...but then again so would a 44 magnum. Of the two, I would choose the 454. More variety of components and factory ammo. AFAIK, Hornady is the only company offering factory loads for the 480. All the manufacturers make 45 cal bullets, in a slew of weights, designs and bullet types.
Jack O'Neal
Inactive
480 vs 454
Lucked out at the range today and shot the 454 it's not that bad recoil was very managable not at all what I expected. I'd have to go with the 454 becuase of componet availabilty. Just my 2cents
Lucked out at the range today and shot the 454 it's not that bad recoil was very managable not at all what I expected. I'd have to go with the 454 becuase of componet availabilty. Just my 2cents
480 vs. 454
I've got a couple of FA 454's, haven't tried a 480 yet - it's pretty new compared to the 454. If you get a 454 and you're going to cast bullets - Lyman made a mould for it that Casull used to sell with his guns. It makes a bullet developed for the 454, mine weigh 285 grains and are very accurate. If you go this way and want the mould number - leave a note here and I'll find it and post it for you (it's in my shop). You see these moulds for sale at gun shows - and maybe Lyman will bring it back into production now that so many 454 guns are available.
I've got a couple of FA 454's, haven't tried a 480 yet - it's pretty new compared to the 454. If you get a 454 and you're going to cast bullets - Lyman made a mould for it that Casull used to sell with his guns. It makes a bullet developed for the 454, mine weigh 285 grains and are very accurate. If you go this way and want the mould number - leave a note here and I'll find it and post it for you (it's in my shop). You see these moulds for sale at gun shows - and maybe Lyman will bring it back into production now that so many 454 guns are available.