American big-bore dangerous game cartridge designed to fit standard (non-magnum) bolt-action rifles. Long-standing choice for African PHs and dangerous game hunters on a budget compared to British nitro-express cartridges.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1956, United States
Parent case: .375 H&H Magnum
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.458" (11.63 mm)
Case length: 2.5" (63.5 mm)
Overall length: 3.34" (84.84 mm)
Max pressure: 60,000 PSI
Rim type: Belted
Primer: Large Rifle Magnum
Typical twist rate: 1:14
Muzzle velocity: 2050–2240 fps
Muzzle energy: 5336–5570 ft-lbs
Effective range: 150 yd
Common bullet weights: 400, 450, 500, 510 gr
Primary use: Dangerous Game, Hunting
Production status: Active
Also known as: .458 Win Mag · .458 WM
History: Introduced by Winchester in 1956 to give American hunters a capable dangerous-game cartridge that fit a standard magnum bolt action — specifically the Winchester Model 70 African. This eliminated the need for expensive British double rifles for elephant and buffalo hunting. Early pressure issues were resolved, and the cartridge has been carried by professional hunters across Africa for nearly 70…
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 70 African, Ruger M77, CZ 550, Browning BLR
Similar cartridges: .458 Lott, .450 Nitro Express, .470 Nitro Express