Based on recent articles and experiences of lack of penetration on elephants of even big cals. like the 577s due to low velocity loadings, i would say that velocity definitely has a major part to play. This is proven by the well known penetration of the 416 rigby, whose velocity is around 2400. Hence the 458 Lott with a heavier bullet than the 400 calibers but yet at the same magical velocity, should in my mind (only theory I must admit) be one of the finest ele cartridges in a bolt rifle.

I would like to hear real life experiences from 458 Lott shooters who have used then on eles. or PHs who have seen the Lott in action.

I am sure the 500 Jeff and 505 Gibbs is better still, but not many people can handle the recoil, good rifles are difficult to find, cartridges are expensive and so on.....

Arjun,

I can't believe you have not rec'd 50 responses on this one telling you their favorite ele stomper is the best. As to your question I don't know about what the best bolt rifle is for elephant but if a 458 Lott works better than my 458 WM it will be all you'll ever need.

Mark

There is no DG I worry about when armed with my .458Lott. And, yes, I have killed them all.

No. It's an excellent round, but it's not the best bolt cartridge for elephant.

That would be my .500 A-Square.

When I found out, years ago, that I could handle the .458 Lott with no trouble whatsoever, I moved up to the .500 and have never looked back.

But this is a question every hunter needs to answer for himself.

What works, or is best, for one, may not work, or even be workable, for another.

The 458 Lott is an excellent all around do everything cartridge for elephant. Great bullet availability, and I have used it for this purpose along with many others. Maybe one of the best common cartridges out there. Best for Elephant? Well no I don't think so, we all have our pets, 458 Lott was one of mine at one time too. Today it is my 50s--.500 caliber cartridges and the rifles they come in. Today I think the best is my 500MDM but yet to be proven 100%. Everyone one of us has our "best" and most all of them will do! The 458 Lott will certainly do.
Michael

like mark - i'm surprised you don't have 50 replies. the 458 lott is certainly an excellent round, as are others. the bottom line is the best round is the one you are happiest with

And that you shoot the best. . . .

The arguments would be loud and long if he had let the double rifle boys in it.

I would not hesitate to hunt Elephant with my .416 Rigby, but I would not know about "best"

quote:

Originally posted by crbutler:
The arguments would be loud and long if he had let the double rifle boys in it.

I would not hesitate to hunt Elephant with my .416 Rigby, but I would not know about "best"

Nor would I with my .450 Dakota but I still love my Lott.

I glad he didn't let the lever action crowd into this discussion.

The Lott is more than adequate for any elephant under any condition esp. so with the 550 grain Woodleighs at 2,150 fps. That is the load I have the most experience with on elephants. But bigger is always better if you can handle the added weight and recoil. Truth is most can't handle the recoil of the Lott or even a 458 Winchester.

465H&H

IMHO, A 458LOTT with 550grn Woodleigh solids would be the ultimate bolt action Ele rifle but I would much prefer a double.

Arjin, with over 6k of energy and a 500gr solid it would really crunch an elephant... I also used one on my first ele and buf in Zim...

Mike

quote:

Posted 07 March 2009 23:19 Hide Post
The arguments would be loud and long if he had let the double rifle boys in it.

boo - that just shows what you know - you're just gonna have to go out and get a double - some day if you're really nice I'll let you look at a few - maybe

Thanks for your thoughts guys. I totally agree that a double is a better overall choice, hence mentioned "bolt gun". When I said best I was basing it on ballistics more than anything else. Personally I have shot my one and only elephant with my 404 Jeffery and that's what I am using next time as well.