Smith 460 dilemma

[jrebel]

So I have never been a large bore revolver guy, but now I want one.  I can't stop dreaming about the Smith 460 XVR.  Here is my dilemma.

Which one to buy...what are the pros and cans to each of these three models?

I will be using it primarily for bear and possible deer in heavier cover where 0-120 yards would be about 90% of the shot opportunity with the occasional 120+ yard shots. 

10" model...I don't like the looks of the barrel and don't like the fact you can't put a bi pod on it.  I really like the porting at the end of the barrel.
12" model...Hands down the look I like best...but it has no porting or break at the end of the barrel.  I am a little afraid this one will buck like a wild bronc.
14" model...Love the break on the end and love the overall look.  I absolutely hate the look of the smooth cylinder (don't know why, but do).  I also am not sure if 14" is just too long??

If they posted in order they are shown 10", 12", 14"

What are your opinions?  Is there another large bore revolver you may recommend? 

Thanks

jrebel

[stevemiller]

I have been wanting one of these since last year one of the members had one for sale a heck of a sale 1700 everything included,well had a wreck with my motorhome wife was in the hospital,all that is behind me now and have had the itch real bad again.I'm gonna get the shorter one I think its 12 in. the long one is just to long and not much gain in my op.  But if someone comes up with a game changing reason to get the 14in. I'm listening lol.

[BULLBLASTER]

I have no info other than my opinion on the looks... the 14 is what I would pick based on looks alone.

[carpsniperg2]

I have shot the base model. They are alright. The 460 is just fine and the best choice for your hunting ranges. I prefer my bolt action handgun over revolvers for hunting. They have always shot better then my revolvers and have a little better extended range.

[stevemiller]

Hmmm,which ones.(bolts that is)?

[carpsniperg2]

Weatherby CFP

[stevemiller]

Ok gonna go check it out BRB 

[stevemiller]

Yeah they are pretty sweet,I like the wood stock,What cal. do you have?

[carpsniperg2]

They don't make the wood model anymore a guy can still find them. I bought a wood stocked 7mm-08 and then bought a synthetic stock for it. I have been thinking about a 243 as I think they are no longer making them.

[stevemiller]

ok,you would have to order one or have it made.  they do have quite a few cal. for it.now that you brought this thing to my attention that .243 cal has really caught my eye.

[carpsniperg2]

sorry jrebel for the jack.

Mine has blown me away. When I hunt Wyoming again for lopes I am going to take it and do some long range shooting with it. Some good old doe smacking! I have taken deer out to 150 with it.

[yorketransport]

I'd go with the 10" out of those 3. A 14" revolver barrel is LONG! My personal limit is 10" on a revolver and even that is pretty awkward. A gun the size of the 12" or 14" is heavy and needs to be carried with a sling like a rifle. I carried my 10" 45-70 BFR with me everywhere in a hip holster for about 4 years. If you're tall enough you can pull off the shoulder holster. I'm about 6" too short for that though. 

The 12" wouldn't be a bad option. I wouldn't worry about not having a muzzle brake. That gun weighs enough that recoil won't be that bad. Plus those 460s are already loud, adding a brake to it will rattle your fillings loose

I have shot the base model. They are alright. The 460 is just fine and the best choice for your hunting ranges. I prefer my bolt action handgun over revolvers for hunting. They have always shot better then my revolvers and have a little better extended range.

For the record though, the Weatherby CFP too fancy. The rest of us just slum it with the Savage Strikers.

[CAMPMEAT]

You could always have a custom made chest holster for the 10 inch one. Very easy access........

[jrebel]

I have decided on the 10".  I would go with the 8" but I don't like the way the scope mount attaches to the pistol.  I really like the integrated rail.  Now I just need to find one to buy for an acceptable price.  Prices vary drastically depending on where you get them.  I have seen the 10" sell for as little as $1,100 and as much as $1,500+.  I am very patient and can wait for the right deal. 

I still don't like the looks of the barrel on the 10" but I will have to settle.   

[mountainman]

Think thats a great choice Johnny!