What's the Best Big Bore Caliber for AR-15?

Hunting with Firearms
1

I’m looking to dive into the world of big bore AR-15 calibers and would love to get some feedback from fellow enthusiasts. There are so many options out there, like the .458 SOCOM, .450 Bushmaster, and .350 Legend, and I’m trying to figure out which one would be the best fit for me.

Areas of Interest

  • Hunting: I’m particularly interested in using this rifle for hunting purposes. I want to ensure that whatever caliber I choose will be effective for taking down medium to large game.
  • Self-Defense: I’ve also been considering the self-defense aspect. Does one caliber outshine the others in terms of stopping power and reliability?

Performance Factors

I’d appreciate insights on:

  • Recoil: How manageable is the recoil for each of these calibers? I will likely spend considerable time at the range, so a comfortable shooting experience is crucial.
  • Availability of Ammunition: Are there any calibers that are easier to find at local stores or online?
  • Cost: I’d like to understand the cost per round for these ammunition types, especially considering I’m on a bit of a budget.

Share Your Experiences

If you have experience with any of these calibers, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What do you like or dislike about your chosen caliber? Do you have any tips on building or modifying an AR-15 for big bore calibers? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Let’s get the conversation going and help each other out in making informed decisions!

2 Likes
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I think the .450 Bushmaster is a solid choice for big bore AR-15 builds. It offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil. Perfect for hunting!

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That’s interesting! I’ve been considering the .458 SOCOM for its versatility. It packs a punch and is great for short-range shots.

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I’ve used the .50 Beowulf, and it can be a real beast! But, I find the ammo costs can add up quickly. Great stopping power, though!

5

That’s a good point about ammo costs. Do you find the recoil manageable, or is it more than you expected?

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The recoil on the .50 Beowulf is stout but manageable with a good stock. I generally prefer the .458 SOCOM because it feels a bit softer on the shoulder while delivering similar performance.

7

Softer recoil sounds appealing! Has anyone done any long-range shooting with the .450 Bushmaster? How does it perform?

8

For long-range, the .450 Bushmaster can be effective, but it really shines at moderate distances. If you want flat trajectory, consider the .458 SOCOM as it tends to have better ballistics for longer ranges.

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I’ve read about the .450 Bushmaster’s trajectory, but I’m curious if it’s any better in brush hunting compared to the .50 Beowulf? Anyone have thoughts?

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I would say the .50 Beowulf excels in thick cover since it can punch through obstacles. However, for open areas, the .450 Bushmaster is preferable.

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Let’s not forget about the humor! All these calibers are fantastic, but can we agree that when you miss, it’s always the ammo’s fault?

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If you’re considering a big bore AR-15, start with choosing the right caliber. .450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM are popular options. They offer great stopping power and fun shooting experiences!

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What about the availability of parts? I’ve heard that some calibers have a better selection of aftermarket components than others.

14

When it comes to upper receivers, make sure they are compatible with the caliber you choose. I recommend looking at manufacturers like PSA and Aero Precision. They have a solid reputation!

15

That’s good advice! Any thoughts on what kind of barrel length works best for these calibers? I’ve heard different opinions.

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For barrel lengths, a 16-inch barrel is a sweet spot for balance and performance in most big bore calibers. Just check local laws regarding barrel length!

17

Great point! How about magazines? Which brands are known for reliability in big bore calibers?

8 Likes
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I’ve had good luck with Magpul PMAGs for both .450 and .458! They seem to handle the heavier rounds without issues. Reliability is key with big bore builds.

19

That’s wonderful to hear! How much should I expect to spend on a decent setup for a big bore AR-15?

7 Likes
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Expect to spend at least $800 to $1200 for a decent big bore setup, depending on the components you choose. It can add up fast, but it’s worth it for a solid rifle.