Large-bore rimfire revolver cartridge used in early American metallic cartridge revolvers. Offered substantial bore diameter in an era when large calibers were equated with stopping power.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1866, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: None
Bullet diameter: 0.46" (11.68 mm)
Case length: 0.9" (22.86 mm)
Max pressure: 18,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimfire
Primer: Rimfire
Typical twist rate: 1:20
Muzzle velocity: 600–750 fps
Muzzle energy: 180–230 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 230, 255 gr
Primary use: Self Defense, Target
Production status: Discontinued
Also known as: .46 Short Rimfire · .46 Long Rimfire
History: Part of the post-Civil War transition to metallic cartridge revolvers. Used in various transitional revolvers of the 1860s–1880s before centerfire cartridges with reloadable brass cases rendered large rimfires obsolete. Very few firearms chambered for it survive in shootable condition.
Notable firearms: Various transitional revolvers of the 1860s–1870s
Military use: United States (limited)
Similar cartridges: .44 Henry, .50 Remington Navy