.458 Lott Review: Pros and cons of the .458 Lott

The .458 Lott is a big game hunting cartridge that was introduced in 1971 by American hunter and gun writer Jack Lott. The cartridge is based on the .375 H&H Magnum case, but with a much larger bullet diameter of .458 inches. The .458 Lott was designed to provide a more powerful and reliable alternative to the .458 Winchester Magnum, which was known for its tendency to suffer from feeding problems and case head separation when loaded to maximum pressures.

In this blog, we will discuss the pros and cons of the .458 Lott cartridge.

Pros:

1. Power: The .458 Lott is one of the most powerful cartridges available for hunting large and dangerous game. It is capable of delivering a massive amount of energy to the target, making it ideal for hunting African game like elephant, buffalo, and lion.

2. Reliability: The .458 Lott is designed to be more reliable than the .458 Winchester Magnum, with a stronger case and thicker brass walls. This means that it can handle higher pressures and is less likely to suffer from feeding problems or case head separation.

3. Accuracy: Despite its large size, the .458 Lott is capable of excellent accuracy when loaded with the right bullets and matched with a good rifle.

4. Versatility: While the .458 Lott is primarily a hunting cartridge, it can also be used for long-range target shooting and even tactical applications. Its versatility makes it a favorite of hunters, sportsmen, and military professionals alike.

Cons:

1. Recoil: The .458 Lott is a very powerful cartridge, and with that power comes a significant amount of recoil. This can be a problem for some shooters, particularly those who are not used to shooting large-caliber rifles.

2. Cost: The .458 Lott is not a cheap cartridge to shoot. The cost of brass, bullets, and powder can add up quickly, making it an expensive option for many hunters and shooters.

3. Availability: While the .458 Lott is not a rare cartridge, it is not as widely available as some other popular hunting cartridges like the .30-06 or .270 Winchester. This can make it difficult to find ammunition and components, particularly in rural areas.

4. Overkill: The .458 Lott is a very powerful cartridge, and in some situations, it may be overkill for the game being hunted. In these situations, a lighter cartridge may be more appropriate, as it will deliver less recoil and be more economical to shoot.

The .458 Lott is a powerful and reliable cartridge that is ideal for hunting large and dangerous game. It offers excellent accuracy and versatility, but comes with some drawbacks, including recoil, cost, and availability. Shooters considering the .458 Lott should carefully consider their needs and preferences before making a purchase, but for those who need a cartridge that can take on the toughest game in the world, the .458 Lott is an excellent choice.

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