.460 S&W Magnum Load Data

The .460 S&W Magnum is a remarkable cartridge that was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2005. Developed in collaboration with Winchester Ammunition, the .460 S&W Magnum was designed to create a revolver round with unprecedented power, outclassing previous big-bore cartridges like the .454 Casull and .44 Magnum. The parent case for the .460 S&W Magnum is the .454 Casull, lengthened and reinforced to handle much higher pressures. This lineage places the .460 firmly within the family of high-powered revolver cartridges, but with performance that set new standards at the time of its introduction. The cartridge was specifically created to be chambered in the Smith & Wesson Model 460XVR revolver, which rapidly gained popularity among big game hunters and handgun enthusiasts seeking maximum energy and reach from a revolver platform.

In terms of application, the .460 S&W Magnum is tailored for hunting large and dangerous game, as well as long-range metallic silhouette shooting. Its exceptional power and flat trajectory make it ideal for taking down big game animals such as deer, elk, black bear, and even larger game like bison and African plains species where legally permissible. Many handgun hunters value the versatility of the .460 S&W, as its impressive velocity allows for extended effective range rarely seen in other handgun cartridges. Additionally, revolvers and single-shot pistols chambered in .460 S&W Magnum can also safely fire .454 Casull and .45 Colt cartridges, lending increased versatility for hunters and target shooters who wish to practice with milder loads or engage smaller game without switching firearms.

When it comes to target species, the .460 S&W Magnum shines in the field on tough animals where deep penetration and heavy bullet construction are crucial. It is often used for North American game such as bear, elk, and moose, and is also favored in regions where hunting regulations allow handguns for dangerous game like wild hogs and cape buffalo under proper conditions. The massive energy and high velocity of the cartridge make it a top choice for those venturing into bear country, or for hunters needing to make ethical shots at longer-than-usual ranges with a revolver. For metallic silhouette shooters, the cartridge’s flat trajectory provides advantages in accuracy and knockdown power on steel targets at extended distances.

The typical bullet weights for the .460 S&W Magnum range from 200 to 395 grains, with the most common commercial offerings between 240 and 300 grains. Lighter bullets, such as 200–240 grains, deliver extreme muzzle velocities, sometimes exceeding 2,000 feet per second from a revolver-length barrel. Heavier bullets, approaching 395 grains, offer tremendous terminal performance and deep penetration, suitable for the largest game animals. The cartridge operates at extremely high pressures—up to 65,000 psi—making it essential for reloaders to pay close attention to detail and use only components that are appropriate for the platform. The .460 S&W Magnum has a rimmed, straight-walled case with an overall length of about 2.3 inches and case length of 1.8 inches, which contributes to its large powder capacity and energetic performance. With its blend of power, accuracy, and versatility, the .460 S&W Magnum is a favorite among experienced reloaders and handgun hunters seeking the pinnacle of revolver ballistics.