Considering CZ Safari Classic in 450 Rigby

[stug]

I shot one on the weekend, nice!! I watched the owner shooting a steel target at 215 yds, prone, using full power 500gr loads. Was impressive to watch, but rather his shoulder than mine. He had some 350gr projectile with red tip as practice loads. They did shoot quite differently to the 500gr ones though.

 

[sandman0921]

That seems like a great bullet choice/velocity to me. A 550g North Fork soft point at 2150 fps is just 20g shy of a 500 NE load, with better sectional density and a little less frontal area.

I agree....I saw the use of the heavy 0.458 bullets first described in an article by Dr. Kevin "Doctari" Robertson. Not that he was the first I'm sure, but being a heavy for caliber advocate, he was promoting the 550 grain bullet for the 450 Rigby, and if memory serves me, even a 600 grain pill (although I don't think there are any US manufacturers of those). As you alluded to, better sectional density for better penetration. Norma currently loads 550 grain Woodleigh softs and solids in their African PH line for the 450 Rigby.

http://www.norma-usa.com/index.php/...rtridge-of-the-month-450-rigby-rimless-magnum

 

[sandman0921]

I watched the owner shooting a steel target at 215 yds, prone, using full power 500gr loads

Geesh.......prone....ugggggh....

 

[BC.Pat]

I built mine on a Ruger RSM more than 10 years ago, and yes its a beast with full power loads. But I feel its a cartridge that begs to be reloaded, as a result I get mine to the range about once a month and put a handful of rounds into 50 meter targets so I can do my part when the rifle does hers. Sorry I prattle on, but my point is three fold 1st, I don't think most practice enough with DG calibers (reloading helps) 2nd, if you can afford a DG rifle you can afford to reload for it (even just for range days). 3rd practice, practice , ..... practice mitigates recoil. Just my 2¢

Pat

 

[8x68]

I have the CZ 550 in 450 Rigby. Really nice rifle. I'd recommend it. I have a Nikon Monarch 3 African atop mine. When shooting it at the range it kinda gets everyone's attention.