Viability of the Big Horn Armory Model 89 in .500 S&W (22" Barrel) for Cape Buffalo?

[DaBill]

Hi all,

I’m new to dangerous game hunting and have not yet been to Africa, but I’ve been doing quite a bit of research and would like to start a friendly and informed discussion.

One rifle that’s caught my attention is the Big Horn Armory Model 89 lever-action, chambered in .500 S&W Magnum, particularly with the 22-inch barrel. I’m curious what those with actual Cape buffalo hunting experience — especially PHs and seasoned hunters — think about this rifle and cartridge combination in real-world terms.

I’m not claiming it’s ideal, but I do think it deserves a look — and I’d appreciate hearing opinions on whether this setup has legitimate potential or clear limitations.

All data below assumes modern handloads in the Big Horn Armory Model 89 (22" barrel):

Bullet	Weight	Velocity (fps)	Energy (ft-lbs)	Source
Hardcast WFNGC	500 gr	~2,150–2,200	~5,100–5,375	Buffalo Bore, Cutting Edge, chronographed field reports
Monolithic Solid	500 gr (e.g., Cutting Edge Safari Raptor, Punch bullet)	~2,150 fps	~5,135 ft-lbs	Owner reports & field data (BHA forums, chronographs)

Penetration reports with flat-nose solids and monolithics indicate 30–40+ inches in gel and wet pack, with clean straight-line performance at velocities >2,100 fps. Some reports claim through-and-through on heavy game at close range.

One major consideration is that the Model 89 is a smooth, fast lever-action — offering:

• 5+1 round capacity (some users report up to 6+1 depending on cartridge OAL)
• Fast, instinctive cycling (comparable to or faster than some bolt-actions)
• Compact overall length for brush or backup roles

This puts it in an interesting position: more capacity than a double, faster than most bolt-actions under pressure, and still packing serious weight and energy.

Discussion Points I'd Love Feedback On​

• Has anyone here seen or guided a Cape buffalo hunt using the Model 89 or similar large-caliber lever-action?
• How would you compare its real-world performance (within 50–75 yards) to more traditional .375 H&H or .470 NE setups?
• With the right bullet (e.g., 500 gr Punch or Safari Raptor), does this qualify as a legitimate dangerous game option in your view?
• What would you personally consider the minimum bullet construction and performance for such a rifle to be acceptable?
• Does the fast follow-up and 6-shot capacity offer a practical advantage — or is it outweighed by concerns about trajectory, penetration, or platform strength?

Again, I’m here to learn, not to argue. This isn’t about trying to “prove” anything — I’m just exploring realistic, field-proven alternatives to classic DG rifles, especially those that offer something different (like lever-action speed and familiarity for North American hunters).

Thanks in advance to those who’ve “been there and done that.” I greatly value your insight.

---

 

[Red Leg]

One of our esteemed members, currently in witness protection in Alaska, once opined that one could probably kill a buffalo with a frozen sardine - but why? With so many proven options, why indeed.

 

[Flbt]

One of our esteemed members, currently in witness protection in Alaska, once opined that one could probably kill a buffalo with a frozen sardine - but why? With so many proven options, why indeed.

Well I asked about the 45-70 and 444.
One reason I was thinking about it. Is growing up using leaver actions.
I know it’s not dangerous game but with a 30-30.44 mag and 45-70 I have put multiple rounds more than 2 in deer infont of dogs and hogs infont of dogs or running towards me.
The speed and being able to put more rounds into something moving is a reason.

If the round is capable/

 

[Flbt]

Hi all,

I’m new to dangerous game hunting and have not yet been to Africa, but I’ve been doing quite a bit of research and would like to start a friendly and informed discussion.

One rifle that’s caught my attention is the Big Horn Armory Model 89 lever-action, chambered in .500 S&W Magnum, particularly with the 22-inch barrel. I’m curious what those with actual Cape buffalo hunting experience — especially PHs and seasoned hunters — think about this rifle and cartridge combination in real-world terms.

I’m not claiming it’s ideal, but I do think it deserves a look — and I’d appreciate hearing opinions on whether this setup has legitimate potential or clear limitations.

All data below assumes modern handloads in the Big Horn Armory Model 89 (22" barrel):

Bullet	Weight	Velocity (fps)	Energy (ft-lbs)	Source
Hardcast WFNGC	500 gr	~2,150–2,200	~5,100–5,375	Buffalo Bore, Cutting Edge, chronographed field reports
Monolithic Solid	500 gr (e.g., Cutting Edge Safari Raptor, Punch bullet)	~2,150 fps	~5,135 ft-lbs	Owner reports & field data (BHA forums, chronographs)

Penetration reports with flat-nose solids and monolithics indicate 30–40+ inches in gel and wet pack, with clean straight-line performance at velocities >2,100 fps. Some reports claim through-and-through on heavy game at close range.

One major consideration is that the Model 89 is a smooth, fast lever-action — offering:

• 5+1 round capacity (some users report up to 6+1 depending on cartridge OAL)
• Fast, instinctive cycling (comparable to or faster than some bolt-actions)
• Compact overall length for brush or backup roles

This puts it in an interesting position: more capacity than a double, faster than most bolt-actions under pressure, and still packing serious weight and energy.

Discussion Points I'd Love Feedback On​

• Has anyone here seen or guided a Cape buffalo hunt using the Model 89 or similar large-caliber lever-action?
• How would you compare its real-world performance (within 50–75 yards) to more traditional .375 H&H or .470 NE setups?
• With the right bullet (e.g., 500 gr Punch or Safari Raptor), does this qualify as a legitimate dangerous game option in your view?
• What would you personally consider the minimum bullet construction and performance for such a rifle to be acceptable?
• Does the fast follow-up and 6-shot capacity offer a practical advantage — or is it outweighed by concerns about trajectory, penetration, or platform strength?

Again, I’m here to learn, not to argue. This isn’t about trying to “prove” anything — I’m just exploring realistic, field-proven alternatives to classic DG rifles, especially those that offer something different (like lever-action speed and familiarity for North American hunters).

Thanks in advance to those who’ve “been there and done that.” I greatly value your insight.

---

On the rifle I would think it’s heavier than a New England firearms
Man the 500 out of the nef actually hurt me

 

[Green Chile]

I have used the Bighorn Armory .500 S&W lever gun on a big black bear. It broke both shoulders and exited at 30 yards. However, I wouldn't compare it to even a .375 bolt gun and would not recommend it for Cape buffalo that weigh more than the biggest bears on earth. Keep in mind, I have taken elephant with a 50 Alaskan lever gun many years ago and wouldn't recommend that either.

 

[One Day...]

Hello DaBill, you will most likely be interested in this thread:

C

Thread 'Why not a Dangerous Game lever?'

Jun 6, 2023

Why is there no speaking softly and carrying a big stick chambered in 470 NE?

I was pondering guns I could have in classic cartridges (mostly rimmed), without double gun money, and it struck me. How is it that neither Winchester nor Marlin created a lever gun in a low pressure, high performance safari cartridge that you could load on Sunday and shoot all week? Your second shot would be slower than a double but arguably faster than a bolt and the double guys don't have two or three more after that for a charging animal.

Why not? Are you all hat and no Kudu?

• ChaplainChawley
• Replies: 203
• Forum: Firearms & ammunition

• 

My own answer was/is:

"... can you kill a Buffalo or Lion with a modern .45-70, .45-90, or .405 Win load from a modern Winchester 86 or 95; or with a .450 Marlin load from a Marlin 1895M or Browning BLR; or with a .460 or .500 S&W load from a Big Horn Armory 89; and why not a .444 Buffalo Bore load with heavy hard cast bullet from a Marlin 444? Absolutely!
Is it a stunt? I do not think so, given the right circumstances and the right shot(s), but there is no escaping the fact that you are on the low edge of what over a century of conventional field experience considers the minimum safe power."

To specifically answer your questions:

Has anyone here seen or guided a Cape buffalo hunt using the Model 89 or similar large-caliber lever-action?
No I have not, but a number of AH members have used lever actions on Buffalo.

How would you compare its real-world performance (within 50–75 yards) to more traditional .375 H&H or .470 NE setups?
We all know that energy does not kill, but given a reasonable range of similar bullet calibers and weights, it remains a valuable one-word indicator of cartridges potential on big game:

.500 S&W 500 gr @ 1,850 fps = 3,700 ft/lbs. (beware sticky extraction in the hot African sun...)​

.375 H&H 300 gr @ 2,550 fps = 4.300 ft/lbs.​

.470 NE 500 gr @ 2,150 fps = 5,100 ft/lbs.​

I think that this captures pretty well any longer answer to that question.

With the right bullet (e.g., 500 gr Punch or Safari Raptor), does this qualify as a legitimate dangerous game option in your view?
As indicated above, it will work with the proper shot(s) but there is no escaping the fact that you are on the low edge of what over a century of conventional field experience considers the minimum safe power.

What would you personally consider the minimum bullet construction and performance for such a rifle to be acceptable?
500 gr hard cast or monometal.

Does the fast follow-up and 6-shot capacity offer a practical advantage — or is it outweighed by concerns about trajectory, penetration, or platform strength?
6 shots in the magazine never hurt, but a lot of things will have gone wrong before you need them. The conventional wisdom is to avoid doing things wrong, but again capacity does not hurt. This being said, it is not a decisive rifle selection criteria to me. I am completely OK with 4 .458 Lott rounds in my Blaser R8.

 

[BeeMaa]

One of our esteemed members, currently in witness protection in Alaska, once opined that one could probably kill a buffalo with a frozen sardine - but why? With so many proven options, why indeed.

"Frozen herring" is the term I believe he used. But then again, sardines are nothing but young immature herring. Kippers anyone?

 

[Red Leg]

"Frozen herring" is the term I believe he used. But then again, sardines are nothing but young immature herring. Kippers anyone?

I think you are actually correct, but I don't think a herring will fit into even the awesome .500 S&W case. It was my original quibble with @Velo Dog 's observation. But a rock solid frozen sardine at adequate velocity...........?!?

 

[Safari Dave]

IMO, a DG animal deserves to be hunted with the most powerful cartridge a hunter can shoot accurately (provided it meets the requirements of the country).

For most it's a .375 (H&H, Ruger, etc.)

I'm as good with my .416 Rigby as I am with a .375 H&H, so I choose it.


A .30/06 has about the same muzzle energy as a .500 S&W, but has much better Sectional Density (penetration).


I would opt for a rifle cartridge with at least 4,000 ft/lbs. of muzzle energy.


Just, MO...

 

[Hunter-Habib]

You can, but only if you severely limit yourself in regards to the kinds of shots which you’re taking. Only a perfect broadside double lung shot. No frontal or departing or quartering away shots.

So the question then becomes: Why would you pay for a four figure sum safari just to bring a caliber of rifle which is severely limited in the kinds of shots which it can afford you ? It’s a logical fallacy.

To answer your questions:

• Has anyone here seen or guided a Cape buffalo hunt using the Model 89 or similar large-caliber lever-action?

Ans: Yes, in .405 Winchester.

• How would you compare its real-world performance (within 50–75 yards) to more traditional .375 H&H or .470 NE setups?

Ans: A clear lack of penetration for most shots except those taken completely from a broadside position at close range.

• With the right bullet (e.g., 500 gr Punch or Safari Raptor), does this qualify as a legitimate dangerous game option in your view?

Ans: You can make it work if you really struggle to (see above), but it simply becomes a question of “Why would you ?”

• What would you personally consider the minimum bullet construction and performance for such a rifle to be acceptable?

Ans: The velocity is alright, but the bullet weight should be at least 570Gr

• Does the fast follow-up and 6-shot capacity offer a practical advantage — or is it outweighed by concerns about trajectory, penetration, or platform strength?

Ans: It’s a good feature, but nothing that a seasoned operator with a well made bolt action rifle (esp. one of the straight bolt designs such as the German Blaser R8) can’t replicate. Also, I personally prefer prioritizing accurate placement of the initial shot over rapidly firing off all the remaining rounds in your magazine.

 

[Flbt]

IMO, a DG animal deserves to be hunted with the most powerful cartridge a hunter can shoot accurately (provided it meets the requirements of the country).

For most it's a .375 (H&H, Ruger, etc.)

I'm as good with my .416 Rigby as I am with a .375 H&H, so I choose it.


A .30/06 has about the same muzzle energy as a .500 S&W, but has much better Sectional Density (penetration).


I would opt for a rifle cartridge with at least 4,000 ft/lbs. of muzzle energy.


Just, MO...

So no handgun? Or archery?

 

[275r7x57]

One of our esteemed members, currently in witness protection in Alaska, once opined that one could probably kill a buffalo with a frozen sardine - but why? With so many proven options, why indeed.

Agreed.

I would also argue that the same could be said for goof nuts with bow and arrows.

The OP’s rifle will get the job done with the right bullets and shot placement, but there are better options no doubt.

 

[Green Chile]

Ans: It’s a good feature, but nothing that a seasoned operator with a well made bolt action rifle (esp. one of the straight bolt designs such as the German Blaser R8) can’t replicate. Also, I personally prefer prioritizing accurate placement of the initial shot over rapidly firing off all the remaining rounds in your magazine.

The large bore R8 is so fast that I could put 3 shots on target before a double rifle is reloaded, much less fired a 3rd time. Big amen on the prioritizing accurate placement versus emptying a magazine. You can only count on 1 shot for sure.

 

[Safari Dave]

I really agree with you for the most part, but the penetration with the right broadhead/arrow combination "can" get the job done.

(I wouldn't do it unless, I had a PH with a "serious" rifle backing me up)


Actually, I wouldn't do it anyway, just because I prefer rifles!

 

[Red Leg]

My issue is the collateral damage. If one of us wants to go out alone and attempt to kill a buffalo with a pistol or a stick fine. But it won't go down that way. When we attempt it, a PH and at least a tracker will be added to the risk. Screw up that first shot through either placement or not enough gun or whatever, and they are most likely to pay the price for the client on his first buffalo hunt with a marginal weapon.

 

[275r7x57]

My issue is the collateral damage. If one of us wants to go out alone and attempt to kill a buffalo with a pistol or a stick fine. But it won't go down that way. When we attempt it, a PH and at least a tracker will be added to the risk. Screw up that first shot through either placement or not enough gun or whatever, and they are most likely to pay the price for the client on his first buffalo hunt with a marginal weapon.

I for the most part agree, but when an outfitter caters to bow hunters they are accepting that risk as well. They can always say no.

 

[Red Leg]

I for the most part agree, but when an outfitter caters to bow hunters they are accepting that risk as well. They can always say no.

I don't know. If an arrow angers rather than dropping a buffalo, which then kills a PH, let's say a young father with a couple of children, I don't believe I care to know the person who is capable of rationalizing his death as someone who accepted the risk.

 

[275r7x57]

I don't know. If an arrow angers rather than dropping a buffalo, which then kills a PH, let's say a young father with a couple of children, I don't believe I care to know the person who is capable of rationalizing his death as someone who accepted the risk.

I don’t disagree. I personally think that a hunter or PH that rationalizes hunting dangerous game with a bow in the first place is dangerous, risky and not rational.

The same goes for a rifle hunter with ill placed shots. The are plenty of so called hunters that really have no business in the field.

 

[1dirthawker]

@DaBill,

you asked an honest question, here are my thoughts. first, realize i have only killed ONE cape buffalo, so i am no experienced dg hunter. (i am a brown bear guide and have shot lots of those).

if the .500 is capable of 2150 fps with a 500 gr bullet, then it is absolutely capable of killing a cape buffalo. it would be great if michael458 would jump in here, he could give you some good advice regarding bullet choices. the sectional density of a .50 500 gr is not as great as a .458 or .470 in the same weight, but i suspect with the cutting edge bullets, you might even get away with a lighter bullet at a faster speed. (bullet tech changing the game a bit)

i bet it would be great on lions, leopards, all plains game. elephant is the one critter i would ask somebody with real world experience about. i suspect a body shot would get it done as well as a 375, or a 450-400.

i suspect it would be a fairly close range gun as well, is it a gun that could be scoped or have a reflex sight mounted on it?

i suspect recoil would be pretty sporty as well unless the gun weighs 9.5# or more. a pretty cool idea if one can actually get those velocities out of it. there are others here that have used a 45-70 (i believe tundra tiger and CRS) on buffalo with success and your rifle should hit harder for sure! i have killed several brown bear and a couple of moose with the 45-70 and it did a great job on them as well.

good luck on your project!

 

[Tundra Tiger]

With the right bullet and accepting you will have a reduced range? Hell yes! I believe it would be as fully capable as the .45-70 I have now used successfully twice.

I get the argument that it may somewhat increase risk, but frankly I think that can apply to hunters using "proper" calibers, if they don't adequately prepare or make poor choices. Animals can be injured or lost, or dangerous situations happen, from using a frozen herring up through a .458 and bigger calibers.

While we all strive to mitigate unnecessary risks, what we do always has risk. If risk was that great a concern, PHs would work as corporate executives and hunters would pursue model railroading or stamp collecting.

Put in the practice time. Communicate with your PH a lot before your trip. Temper your expectations. Use a good bullet. And then enjoy your hunt. That Bighorn rifle is super sexy. I wish I had one. I'd hunt buffalo with it if I did.