A Glance Back in Time
The .480 Ruger
The world of handguns has always been a realm of power and precision. Within this world, there exists a niche for those who demand exceptional stopping power, a desire to wield a firearm capable of taking down even the toughest game. Two cartridges stand out in this realm: the .480 Ruger and the .475 Linebaugh. These are not your everyday handgun rounds; they are designed for serious work, for those who appreciate the sheer force of a well-placed shot. This article dives deep into a head-to-head comparison of these behemoths, exploring their histories, ballistic performance, the revolvers they inhabit, and their capabilities in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a firearms enthusiast, or simply curious about the power of big-bore revolvers, this comprehensive analysis is for you.
The .475 Linebaugh
To understand the .480 Ruger and .475 Linebaugh, we must journey back to their origins. These cartridges didn’t emerge from a vacuum; they were born out of the need for greater power in a handgun. The evolution of these rounds mirrors the continuous pursuit of more effective hunting and defense tools.
The .480 Ruger emerged in the late nineteen nineties as a collaboration between Ruger and Hornady. Ruger, a company known for its robust revolvers, wanted a round that offered a significant increase in power over the popular .44 Magnum, without necessitating excessively large or ungainly frames. The vision was a revolver that could handle large game without the punishing recoil of some of the heavier cartridges of the time. The .480 Ruger was designed to fit into existing revolver frames, albeit ones that had been reinforced to handle the higher pressures. This goal of a potent round in a manageable package was a key factor in the .480 Ruger’s eventual success. The round was engineered with the modern hunter in mind, a shooter that wanted reliability and manageable power.
The .475 Linebaugh, on the other hand, was a creation of John Linebaugh, a gunsmith renowned for his custom revolvers and his dedication to the art of big-bore handguns. His goal was simple: to create a truly formidable cartridge that would deliver devastating power on impact. He based his design on the .45-70 Government case, which was significantly larger than the .44 Magnum or .45 Colt cases, providing ample space for a massive bullet and a substantial powder charge. Linebaugh’s round wasn’t conceived for mass production; it was a bespoke creation meant to be chambered in strong, custom-built revolvers designed to harness its incredible power. This focus on raw power and hand-crafted precision would become the hallmark of the .475 Linebaugh. The .475 Linebaugh catered to the demanding hunter, someone who wanted a powerful round that would stop any animal in its tracks.
Exploring the Ballistics
Examining the Details
The raw performance of a cartridge is measured by several factors. Bullet diameter, weight, muzzle velocity, and energy all play vital roles. It’s crucial to understand how each of these factors affect the overall performance.
The .480 Ruger typically utilizes bullets with a diameter of roughly .475 inches. Bullet weights usually range from the mid-three hundred grains to over four hundred grains. The muzzle velocity with these heavier bullets hovers around the one thousand two hundred feet per second mark. When you translate that velocity and bullet weight into energy, you get a muzzle energy of around twelve hundred foot-pounds. The .480 Ruger provides a good balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it a solid choice for a variety of hunting applications. The round provides enough energy for large game while still being comfortable to shoot.
The .475 Linebaugh’s Power
The .475 Linebaugh, however, takes performance to another level. Its bullet diameter is approximately .475 inches, and bullet weights generally start at around four hundred grains, and can exceed four hundred and fifty grains. These bullets leave the barrel at velocities in the range of one thousand three hundred feet per second, depending on the load and barrel length. With these heavier bullets and faster speeds, the .475 Linebaugh generates impressive muzzle energies, often exceeding sixteen hundred foot-pounds, sometimes even higher. The Linebaugh is designed to provide maximum power for maximum impact, making it a favorite among hunters of the biggest, toughest game.
The energy difference between the two rounds is a noticeable one. The .475 Linebaugh delivers significantly more energy at the muzzle than the .480 Ruger. That said, these are general numbers, depending on the bullet, powder, and specific load. The .475 Linebaugh’s extra power comes at a price – increased recoil. The recoil of both rounds is considerable, of course, but the .475 Linebaugh kicks noticeably harder. This needs to be factored in when considering which round is right for you.
Comparing Platforms
The .480 Ruger’s Options
The revolvers themselves are as important as the cartridges they chamber. Each round is married to its respective platform, and choosing the right one is important.
The .480 Ruger is usually found in Ruger-made revolvers. The Super Redhawk is one of the most recognizable models. These revolvers provide the strength and durability needed to handle the cartridge’s considerable pressures. The Blackhawk is another option, although the frame size is a bit smaller. These revolvers offer an excellent balance of performance and affordability. These revolvers are generally considered easier to handle due to their weight, but are still capable of handling the powerful .480 Ruger round.
The .475 Linebaugh’s Revolvers
The .475 Linebaugh is different. The round necessitates a robust platform. Revolvers chambered in the .475 Linebaugh are typically custom-built or come from smaller, specialized manufacturers like Freedom Arms. These revolvers are often larger, heavier, and are designed to withstand the extreme pressures of this round. Their construction reflects their purpose: providing raw, unfettered power. The availability of these revolvers is far more limited, and the cost tends to be considerably higher.
The platform differences have implications that reach beyond the shooting range. The .480 Ruger’s revolvers are generally more accessible in terms of price and availability. This is an essential consideration for anyone looking to buy a big-bore revolver. The custom nature of the .475 Linebaugh platforms means that acquiring one requires more time and money, with potential for additional customization. The weight and dimensions of the .475 Linebaugh’s platforms are also often more substantial, impacting portability and ease of carry.
Putting Them to the Test in the Field
Hunting with the .480 Ruger
The ultimate test of any firearm is how it performs in the real world, and in hunting scenarios. The .480 Ruger and .475 Linebaugh offer distinct advantages.
The .480 Ruger shines when hunting a range of big game. Its manageable recoil and flat trajectory, especially compared to the .475, make it an effective choice for deer, black bear, and even larger game like elk or moose. The .480 Ruger offers plenty of power for hunting at typical ranges. The round allows for rapid follow-up shots due to the more comfortable recoil. The .480 Ruger can be the ideal choice for hunters who prioritize accurate placement of their shots and are not necessarily seeking the maximum possible energy. The round is versatile enough to be used in various terrains and environments.
The .475 Linebaugh in Action
The .475 Linebaugh, on the other hand, really comes into its own when hunting the largest and toughest game. With its considerable power, it’s a formidable choice for dangerous game such as grizzly bears or brown bears. The .475 Linebaugh’s heavier bullets and greater energy ensure deep penetration and a devastating impact on the target. The .475 Linebaugh’s power is better suited to long-range shots when the range allows. The .475 Linebaugh allows for the confident and decisive takedown of large, dangerous animals.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Advantages of the .480 Ruger
Ultimately, the best choice between the .480 Ruger and .475 Linebaugh depends on individual needs and priorities. Understanding the trade-offs of each cartridge is vital to making an informed decision.
The .480 Ruger offers several advantages. The recoil is generally less harsh, making it easier and more pleasant to shoot. Factory ammunition is easier to find, and it’s often more affordable. The revolvers chambered in .480 Ruger are more readily available and generally less expensive. While perhaps not the most powerful round in the world, it offers enough energy to hunt a wide range of game. The .480 Ruger provides a great entry point into the world of big-bore handguns.
Disadvantages of the .480 Ruger
However, the .480 Ruger has some drawbacks. It has slightly less power compared to the .475 Linebaugh, which makes it less ideal for the absolute toughest game. While bullet selection is still decent, factory bullet options may be more limited than the .475 Linebaugh, depending on your local market.
Advantages of the .475 Linebaugh
The .475 Linebaugh, of course, brings substantial advantages of its own. It is the powerhouse of the two, delivering greater energy and creating massive wound channels. This round is an excellent choice for those targeting the biggest game animals on the planet. With the .475 Linebaugh, there’s a wider array of bullets.
Disadvantages of the .475 Linebaugh
However, the .475 Linebaugh presents its own set of challenges. Recoil is significant, and it can be challenging to control, especially for novice shooters. Ammunition, custom revolvers, and gunsmithing costs are all typically higher.
The Verdict
The .480 Ruger and .475 Linebaugh represent the pinnacle of handgun power. The .480 Ruger offers a great balance of power, accuracy, and affordability, and is the better option if you are seeking a good all-around handgun. The .475 Linebaugh offers unparalleled power, which makes it the superior choice for the most challenging hunting scenarios and big game. Ultimately, the perfect cartridge is the one that best fits your needs and goals as a shooter. The best way to choose between these is to test shoot both if you can, and see which platform and round fits you. Both rounds will certainly satisfy the desire to shoot a high-powered handgun.
