What is 458 Lott ammo? 🧐
It is a powerful rifle cartridge designed for big-game hunting. It was developed by Jack Lott in the mid-1970s as a modification of the .458 Winchester Magnum cartridge. The primary purpose was to improve upon the .458 Winchester Magnum’s performance, making it more suitable for hunting the largest and most dangerous game animals in Africa, such as elephants, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros.
Features 📝
.458 Lott ammunition is designed for hunting large and dangerous game animals, and it possesses several key features that make it suitable for this purpose. Here are some of the notable characteristics:
🔶 High Velocity: This ammunition is loaded to achieve high velocities, which results in excellent energy and trajectory performance. The higher velocity helps deliver deep penetration and quick, humane kills.
🔶 Deep Penetration: One of the primary features is its deep penetration. This is essential when hunting large and tough game animals like elephants and Cape buffalo. The cartridge is designed to break through thick hides and bones to reach vital organs.
🔶 Stopping Power: This cartridge is renowned for its exceptional stopping power. It delivers a significant amount of energy upon impact, which can quickly incapacitate or kill the targeted animal, preventing dangerous charges or escapes.
🔶 Reloadability: Reloading enthusiasts often appreciate the .458 Lott cartridge because it can be hand-loaded with various bullet types and powder charges to tailor performance to specific hunting scenarios.
Benefits 🔥
.458 Lott ammunition offers several benefits, particularly for hunters pursuing large and dangerous game in Africa and other regions. Here are some of the key advantages:
✴️ While .458 Lott is primarily associated with hunting dangerous game, it can also be used for hunting other large and tough game animals, such as moose, bear, and bison. Its versatility makes it a suitable choice for a range of big-game hunting scenarios.
✴️ This cartridge is known for its reliability and ability to perform in challenging hunting conditions. It can handle adverse weather, extreme temperatures, and rugged terrain, making it a dependable choice for hunters in various environments.
✴️ The high stopping power and deep penetration of such ammo contribute to ethical and humane hunting practices. It helps ensure that animals are dispatched quickly and with minimal suffering.
History and Relevance 📚
The .458 Lott cartridge has an interesting history and continues to be relevant in the world of big-game hunting. Here’s an overview of its history and its ongoing relevance:
| ✍️ History: | ✍️ Relevance: |
| ☑️ Development: The .458 Lott cartridge was developed by American hunter and ammunition expert Jack Lott in the mid-1970s. It was created as a response to the limitations of the .458 Winchester Magnum, which was widely used for hunting large and dangerous game in Africa at the time. Lott aimed to improve upon the performance of the .458 Winchester Magnum.
☑️ Purpose: Jack Lott designed the cartridge specifically for hunting Africa’s most formidable and dangerous game animals, such as elephants, Cape buffalo, rhinoceros, and large predators. He wanted a cartridge that could reliably stop these massive creatures with deep penetration and quick, humane kills. ☑️ Modifications: The .458 Lott is essentially a modified .458 Winchester Magnum cartridge. Lott increased the case length and changed the shoulder angle to allow for more powder capacity and higher pressures. This modification resulted in increased velocity and energy, enhancing the cartridge’s performance. ☑️ Acceptance: It gained acceptance among hunters and professional guides in Africa for its improved performance over the .458 Winchester Magnum. It became a popular choice for big-game hunting on the African continent and is still widely used today. |
☑️ Effective for Dangerous Game: This cartridge remains highly relevant for hunting large and dangerous game, particularly in Africa. It is known for its exceptional stopping power, deep penetration, and ability to quickly and ethically take down massive animals.
☑️ Versatility: While originally designed for African big-game hunting, it has also found use in hunting other large and tough game species worldwide, such as moose, brown bear, and bison. Its versatility makes it a valuable choice for hunters pursuing a range of big-game species. ☑️ Ethical Considerations: Its deep penetration and stopping power contribute to ethical and humane hunting practices. Hunters can be confident that they can dispatch their game quickly and efficiently, minimizing suffering. ☑️ African Safari Tradition: The cartridge is deeply ingrained in the tradition of African safari hunting. Many hunters are drawn to its historical significance and the sense of adventure associated with pursuing Africa’s iconic big-game species. |
📌 So, this cartridge has a rich history rooted in the pursuit of Africa’s most formidable game animals. Its continued relevance lies in its ability to deliver stopping power, penetration, and versatility for hunters seeking to ethically and effectively harvest large and dangerous game, as well as those looking to participate in the time-honored tradition of African safari hunting.
Best 458 Lott Ammo Reviews
1# Federal Premium Cape-Shok .458 Lott 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Sledgehammer Solid Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
So, what’s the deal with this ammo? Well, first off, it’s all about stopping power. As our tests have shown the 500-grain bullet is designed with a flat nose to make sure your shot stays on target, creating a deep wound cavity for an effective takedown. Its grooved shank might not sound fancy, but it improves accuracy across different rifles. So whether you’re using a variety of platforms, you can count on this ammo to perform consistently. And let’s talk about that thick, bronze jacket. It’s not just for looks. It adds to the overall accuracy of your shots. Plus, the nickel-plated case adds a touch of class and smooth performance. Overall, if you’re going after the big game, this ammo is worth considering. The core is bonded to that tough bronze jacket, so you know it means business. It’s a reliable choice for those moments when you need the utmost stopping power.
2# Federal Premium Cape-Shok .458 Lott 500 Grain Woodleigh Hydro Solid Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
When you’re dealing with a dangerous game, you need rounds that pack a serious punch. This ammo delivers just that, with a wood-destroying cavitation bubble that creates a massive wound channel. That wound channel doesn’t close up, which is exactly what you want when you’re taking down a formidable target. Our findings show that these rounds also feature solid copper-alloy bullets that are built to penetrate as deep as possible. They won’t let you down when it counts. What’s more, these rounds are made with a patented electrochemical process that produces pure lead-free bullets. Why does that matter? Because it means these bullets can travel twice the distance. That’s a game-changer for hunters who need that extra range. So, there you have it – the Federal Premium ammo. It’s the choice of hunters who want reliable knockdown power, precision, and the ability to take down even the most challenging game.
3# Federal Premium Cape-Shok .458 Lott 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Bear Claw Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
One thing we noticed right away is the performance boost you get from this ammo. When you use it, you can sense the difference almost immediately. Your shots become more accurate, and you’ll notice the impact on your target right from the start. These rounds are designed to deliver deep penetration, thanks to their bonded jacket and core. They retain over 95 percent of the bullet’s weight upon impact, ensuring you can effectively take down your target. The grooved shank on these rounds is a standout feature. It doesn’t matter what kind of firearm you’re using; this design improves accuracy across all gun platforms. Your shots stay on target, shot after shot. The nickel-plated case and bullet not only add a touch of durability but also help prevent corrosion. Your ammo stays in top-notch condition even in less-than-ideal storage conditions. This ammo is designed for precision, reliability, and deep penetration, and they’re suitable for all levels of shooters. So, give them a try and take your shooting to the next level!
4# Nosler .458 Lott Partition 500 grain Nickle Plated Cased Rifle Ammunition
Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Nosler ammunition, specifically designed to meet the demands of those who appreciate the precision and power of the Partition bullet. The boat tail design of this bullet not only looks sleek but also delivers a unique combination of mushrooming effect and a flat trajectory, even when faced with high initial velocities. This makes it an excellent choice for those who engage in long-range shooting. If you’re hunting a larger game that’s a bit slower on its feet, this ammo should be on your radar. With its heavy bullet weight and the short recoil it offers, you can expect fast shot-to-shot recovery times. Plus, the terminal performance on larger games is top-notch. If you’re searching for reliable and consistent performance in your shooting or hunting endeavors, this ammo is worth considering. It’s a reliable companion for both the range and the field!
5# Nosler .458 Lott Solid 500 grain Nickle Plated Cased Rifle Ammunition
Nosler is known for its precision, and this ammo lives up to its reputation. It’s crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring dependable Old West powders and Nosler bullets. What sets this ammo apart is its match-grade design. It’s based on the .458 Lott wildcat but with a special twist – the addition of the Partition bullet. Our research has shown that this seemingly medium-weight round now performs at a whole new level, offering a flat trajectory and impressive energy results, just like the original design. It is the nickel plating, which ensures durability and longevity. You can count on this ammo for years of big game hunting, even in the rugged and demanding conditions of the .458 Lott wildcat. So, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a hunting enthusiast, this rifle ammo offers a reliable and high-performance option. It’s a testament to precision and quality in the shooting industry, and it’s worth considering for your shooting adventures!
6# Hornady Dangerous Game .458 Lott 500 Grain Dangerous Game eXpanding Bonded Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
Hornady is known for its commitment to quality, and this ammo lives up to that reputation. It’s crafted with high-quality materials and precise engineering to ensure premium precision and reliability. The bullet feature is the patented Hornady InterLock nose tip and nose cavity. It ensures positive ignition and reliable function, which is crucial when you’re out in the field. But it doesn’t stop there – it also adds weight and enhances expansion, penetration, and terminal performance. In other words, it gets the job done. Whether you’re into the heavy-hitting DGS bullet or the DGX bullet, Hornady’s got you covered. These bullets are constructed from tough copper-clad steel, the same material used in moles (yes, those little underground creatures). They’re built to handle the toughest game out there. So, whether you’re planning a big game hunting adventure or just want reliable and high-quality ammunition for your rifle, Hornady delivers the same level of excellence you expect from their standard ammo!
7# Barnes Vor-Tx Safari Centerfire .458 Lott 500gr TSX FB Rifle Cartridges
The .458 Lott is a relatively recent addition to the rifle cartridge family, and it has a lot of promise. It boasts both caliber and power, making it a contender not just for high-volume hunting but also bench rest shooting. This ammo is the result of extensive development, where the design and performance characteristics of the round were meticulously fine-tuned. The design of the cartridge ensures an exceptionally high rate of chambering reliability. That’s a crucial aspect because you want your rifle to feed these rounds without a hitch, especially in hunting situations. Beyond chambering, the projectile itself must meet a certain standard. Barnes doesn’t make specific claims about why you should choose their ammo, but the quality speaks for itself. So, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone exploring the potential of the .458 Lott cartridge, this ammo offers a reliable option. It’s the result of careful development and promises to deliver the performance you need for your shooting adventures!
Reloading 🧑🔧
Reloading .458 Lott ammunition requires careful attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of the appropriate reloading equipment. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in reloading:
💡 Tools and Equipment Needed:
- 🛠️ Reloading Press: You will need a reloading press to perform various reloading operations, such as resizing, de-priming, and bullet seating. A single-stage or progressive press can be used.
- 🛠️ Dies: You will need a set of .458 Lott reloading dies, including a sizing die, seating die, and possibly a crimp die, depending on your preference.
- 🛠️ Shell Holder: Ensure you have the appropriate shell holder that matches the .458 Lott cartridge case.
- 🛠️ Powder Scale: A precise powder scale is essential for measuring and dispensing the correct amount of powder.
- 🛠️ Powder Measure: A powder measure can help you accurately dispense powder charges.
- 🛠️ Powder Funnel: A funnel helps to pour powder into the cases without spilling.
- 🛠️ Calipers: Use calipers to measure case length, overall cartridge length (OAL), and other critical dimensions.
- 🛠️ Case Trimmer: You may need a case trimmer to ensure that your cases are within the specified length.
- 🛠️ Case Cleaning Equipment: Brass tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner to clean and prepare your cartridge cases.
- 🛠️ Primers, Powder, and Bullets: Ensure you have the correct primers, powder, and bullets for your desired load.
📝 Steps to reload:
| 1️⃣ Clean and Inspect Cases: Start by cleaning and inspecting your fired cartridge cases. Remove any debris, dirt, or residue, and check for signs of damage or excessive wear. |
| 2️⃣ Resizing and Depriming: Lubricate your cases, then use the resizing die to resize and de-prime the cases. This step ensures the cases are within the correct dimensions for reloading. |
| 3️⃣ Primer Pocket Cleaning: Clean the primer pockets using a primer pocket cleaner or brush to remove any remaining residue. |
| 4️⃣ Trimming: If necessary, use a case trimmer to trim cases to the specified length. |
| 5️⃣ Priming: Install new primers in the primed cases using a priming tool. |
| 6️⃣ Powder Charging: Carefully measure and dispense the appropriate powder charge for your load using a powder scale and measure. Ensure the powder charge is accurate and consistent. |
| 7️⃣ Bullet Seating: Use the seating die to seat the bullet to the desired depth. Pay attention to the overall cartridge length (OAL) to ensure it complies with your firearm’s chamber specifications. |
| 8️⃣ Crimping (Optional): If you prefer a crimped bullet, use a crimp die to apply a slight crimp to the cartridge. |
| 9️⃣ Final Inspection: Inspect each reloaded cartridge for defects, ensuring proper primer seating, powder charge, and bullet seating depth. |
| 🔟 Testing: Before firing your reloaded ammunition, start with a few test rounds to ensure they function correctly and safely in your firearm. |
📌 Always follow the reloading data provided by the powder and bullet manufacturers, and consult reputable reloading manuals for specific load recipes for the .458 Lott cartridge. Safety should be your top priority when reloading ammunition, so never exceed recommended powder charges and follow all safety precautions.
FAQ 🤠
Conclusion 🙂
In conclusion, selecting the best .458 Lott ammo is a critical decision for any hunter or shooter pursuing a large and dangerous game. Ultimately, the “best” ammo will align with your specific needs and preferences. It’s essential to consider your shooting and hunting conditions, as well as your skill level and comfort with recoil. Choose wisely, stay safe, and enjoy the adventure of hunting with this formidable cartridge!😊❤️🔥
Tags: 458 lott ammo, .458 lott ammo, best 458 lott ammo
#Best #458 Lott #Ammo #Review #Remington #Winchester #Self #Homme #Defense #Hornady #Sale #Ballistics
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etс. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.
I’m considering purchasing a .458 Lott rifle, possibly a CZ model, without breaking the bank. My main concern is the recoil. While I’m not recoil-shy and have experience with firearms like the .375 H&H, I’m curious to hear from individuals who have firsthand experience with the .458 Lott. I’m wondering if I’ll be comfortable shooting a box or two of .458 Lott ammunition, or if I’ll end up with a sore shoulder the next day.
The .458 Lott definitely packs a punch and is not the most enjoyable option for recreational shooting at the range. These rifles shine when it comes to big game hunting, where you typically won’t be firing many rounds during an entire hunting trip. They’re not ideal for extended shooting sessions due to their heavy recoil.
I wouldn’t opt for factory ammo; reloading is definitely the plan. One compelling reason I’m considering the .458 Lott is my family connection to Jack Lott, the designer of this cartridge. As for recoil I can comfortably fire 20 rounds in a session, I’ll be content.
I stumbled upon a CZ safari rifle in .458 Lott while visiting a small gun shop in south-central Iowa. Interestingly, someone had ordered the rifle, put money down, but never came to pick it up. To cut a long story short, I ended up with the CZ rifle. To be completely honest, my experience with big bore rifles is rather limited. Recently, I came across an article discussing velocity and penetration. The article mentioned a specific 400-grain .458 solid bullet traveling at .45-70 velocities (around 1600 fps) and claimed that it could penetrate through 6 feet of wet newspaper. In contrast, the same bullet in a .460 Weatherby Magnum, traveling over a thousand fps faster, achieved considerably less penetration (less than half, if I recall correctly). I’m having some difficulty grasping this concept. I’d appreciate any thoughts on this penetration test and any opinions on the .458 Lott cartridge in general.
Congratulations on acquiring the .458 Lott! I’ve had the opportunity to load for about 8 Lotts, and I’m quite fond of them. They’re known for their stopping power and versatility. You can load them to launch 500-grain bullets at around 2400 fps or adjust the velocity between 2100 and 2400 fps to suit various big bore needs. Regarding penetration, it’s a fascinating topic. Velocity plays a crucial role in penetration, but it’s a bit more nuanced than simply faster equals deeper. When dealing with hard cast bullets, there’s a point at which velocity can cause them to break up or crumble upon impact. Overall, the penetration of hard cast bullets is influenced by multiple factors, including velocity, bullet design, alloy composition, and heat treatment. It’s a fascinating area of study for those who appreciate the intricacies of ballistics and bullet performance.
I’ve had the chance to own two .458 Lott rifles over the years. The first one was built on a Model 1917 Enfield action, which I found at a pawn shop in Anchorage. I had to do some stock repairs and load ammunition for it. After a while, I decided to sell it. Later on, I had a second .458 Lott rifle custom-built. What’s truly wonderful about the .458 Lott is its versatility in terms of loading. You can tailor it to a wide range of power levels, from .45 Colt pistol levels to anything resembling .45-70, .458 Win Mag, or even full-patch .458 Lott loads. For enjoyable shooting experiences, I recommend starting with a load of around 76 grains of RL 7 powder with a 350-grain bullet and gradually working up to achieve velocities between 2400 and 2500 fps, depending on what shoots best in your particular rifle. The recoil at these levels is comparable to a .375 H&H Magnum, which I find manageable and not overly intimidating.
I own a CZ550 chambered in .458 Lott and have been working on developing some suitable loads. While I do have a bit of data from the Hornady manual, it’s clear that load information for this cartridge is somewhat limited. I’m hoping to tap into the collective knowledge here for any pet loads, whether they’re reduced practice rounds or full-house loads for hunting.
I’ve found that TAC powder works quite well in my .458 Lott loads. Since I’m shooting a Ruger #1, which doesn’t have a magazine to contend with, I have some flexibility in adjusting the overall length (OAL) of my rounds. It’s worth noting that TAC powder is manufactured by Ramshot, and it’s been a good fit for my setup.
I’m curious about using big 500-grain cast bullets in .458 Lott beast. Is it feasible to run cast bullets, perhaps just for some plinking sessions or even if you plan to load up some heavier loads for specific purposes?
😉 Using 500-grain cast bullets in a .458 Lott is definitely feasible, and it can be a cost-effective option for plinking sessions and even for certain hunting applications. Cast bullets are often used in this cartridge for target shooting and practice, and they can also be loaded for hunting purposes if you choose the right bullet design and load.
➡️ When using cast bullets in a .458 Lott, consider the following:
💥 Bullet Selection: Choose cast bullets that are appropriate for your intended use. For plinking and practice, you can opt for standard lead or lead-alloy bullets. For hunting, consider hard-cast bullets designed for deep penetration and reliable expansion.
💥 Load Data: Always follow established load data for cast bullets in the .458 Lott. Reloading manuals and reputable online sources can provide you with specific load data for cast bullets.
💥 Barrel Condition: Ensure that your rifle’s barrel is in good condition and free from excessive fouling. Cast bullets can be more sensitive to fouling, so proper barrel maintenance is important.
💥 Velocity: Be mindful of the velocity you’re aiming for when loading cast bullets. Lower velocities are often preferred for cast bullet loads to maintain accuracy and prevent leading in the barrel.
💥 Leading Prevention: Leading in the barrel can occur when shooting cast bullets. To prevent this, use appropriate bullet lubes, maintain proper bullet hardness, and clean your barrel regularly.
💥 Accuracy Testing: Test your cast bullet loads for accuracy at your intended shooting distances. Cast bullets can provide excellent accuracy when properly loaded.
❗ In summary, running 500-grain cast bullets in a .458 Lott is a viable option, especially for plinking and practice. Just be sure to use appropriate load data, select the right bullet design, and pay attention to barrel maintenance to make the most of your cast bullet loads.
I had the opportunity to work with a .458 Lott for a friend some time ago. It was a CZ550 Magnum, and I must say it’s an incredibly rugged rifle. What really impressed me was its exceptional accuracy with the Hornady Dangerous Game .458 Lott 500 Grain Dangerous Game eXpanding Bonded Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. At 100 meters, they consistently hit the same point of impact, whether we were using soft or solid bullets. One thing worth noting is that you need to secure your scope very well in the rings. With the heavy recoil of the .458 Lott, any scope mounting system needs to be rock-solid to maintain accuracy and prevent any slipping or movement.