One of the most powerful production revolver cartridges. Originally a wildcat, it develops nearly twice the energy of .44 Magnum.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1958, United States
Parent case: .45 Colt
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.452" (11.48 mm)
Case length: 1.383" (35.13 mm)
Overall length: 1.765" (44.83 mm)
Max pressure: 65,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Small Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:24
Muzzle velocity: 1400–1900 fps
Muzzle energy: 1040–1800 ft-lbs
Effective range: 150 yd
Common bullet weights: 240, 260, 300, 360 gr
Primary use: Hunting, Big Game
Production status: Active
Also known as: 454 Casull · .454
History: Developed by Dick Casull and Jack Fullmer starting in 1957. Operated at extreme pressures requiring special 5-shot cylinders. Freedom Arms commercialized it in 1983. SAAMI standardized it in 1990.
Notable firearms: Freedom Arms Model 83, Ruger Super Redhawk, Taurus Raging Bull
Similar cartridges: .44 Magnum, .460 S&W Magnum, .45 Colt