The .458 SOCOM (Special Operations Command) is a large-caliber rifle cartridge designed for the AR-15 platform, providing enhanced stopping power for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. Developed in the early 2000s, it was created in response to the limited effectiveness of 5.56 NATO rounds in combat. The cartridge is based on a lengthened .50 AE case and can be used with a standard AR-15 lower receiver by swapping the upper.
The .458 SOCOM fires heavy bullets, typically ranging from 250 to 600 grains, making it suitable for hunting large game and home defense. It offers subsonic performance, making it ideal for suppressed shooting, and delivers high energy transfer at close to medium ranges. While its trajectory is less flat than smaller calibers, it excels in short-range power and penetration.
The cartridge has gained popularity among **hunters, tactical shooters, and firearm enthusiasts** due to its impressive versatility and effectiveness.
Suitable Powders
Bullet Weight (gr) -> | 0-50 | 50-75 | 75-100 | 100-150 | 150-200 | 200-300 | >300 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
👍 ... suitable powder
👍👍 ... suitable AND popular powder among our reloading community (clasification might evolve as more community members share their loads )
Caliber Specifications
Standard / Datasheet
Primer Size
Large Pistol (LP)
Max. Case Length
61.1 Grains of Water
Bullet / Barrel Diameter
0.458'' | 11.63 mm
Max. Case Length
1.575'' | 40 mm
Max. Cartridge Length
2.26'' | 57.4 mm
Max. Standardized Pressure:
34954 psi | 2410 bar
XXL ID
CID_791
.458 SOCOM load data is available with the following bullets:
(most popular first)
