A Tale of Two Cartridges: Their Origins and Evolution
The 450 Marlin
The 450 Marlin burst onto the scene as a modern offering, seeking to revitalize the popularity of big-bore lever-action rifles. The cartridge was developed with the intention of creating a powerful, effective round specifically for hunting large game. Engineers aimed to provide hunters with a significant step up in power compared to the traditional .45-70, while still maintaining the user-friendly characteristics of a lever-action platform. This emphasis on power combined with the familiar lever-action style made it an immediate hit with hunters who wanted a modern cartridge that would fit the lever-action rifle’s specific action length.
The case design of the 450 Marlin features a rimmed, bottlenecked configuration. This design lends itself well to the lever-action rifles in which it is primarily chambered. The rim ensures reliable extraction and ejection, while the bottleneck allows for increased powder capacity and greater ballistic performance, especially when compared to older cartridges of its type. The cartridge quickly became a favorite among those who wanted to take down everything from large deer and black bear to moose and even elk.
The 450 Bushmaster
Conversely, the 450 Bushmaster takes a different approach, born out of the need for a hard-hitting, straight-walled cartridge designed to fit within the confines of the AR-15 platform. This innovative design, spearheaded by Tim LeGendre and later finalized and trademarked by Bushmaster Firearms, sought to bridge the gap between the AR-15’s inherent modularity and the desire for a big-bore hunting cartridge. The straight-walled case design was also a significant advantage for hunters in states with specific regulations restricting the use of bottleneck cartridges. The 450 Bushmaster has found popularity not only in hunting, but also in target shooting with its ability to deliver potent impact on target.
The 450 Bushmaster, with its rimless, straight-walled design, offers advantages in terms of feeding reliability and overall platform adaptability. This design allows it to be housed in magazines with larger capacities and makes for a more streamlined reloading experience in the field.
Decoding the Ballistics: Performance in the Real World
Understanding the ballistics of each cartridge is essential for evaluating its performance. The 450 Marlin typically boasts a higher muzzle velocity and greater kinetic energy compared to the 450 Bushmaster, especially when using heavier bullets. The 450 Marlin’s power is often showcased at both the muzzle and at extended ranges, giving it a ballistic advantage when more distant shots are required.
When considering trajectory, both cartridges exhibit significant bullet drop at longer ranges. However, the 450 Marlin’s flatter trajectory, particularly when using lighter bullets, offers some advantage over the 450 Bushmaster. Understanding this difference is critical for hunters who may encounter long-range shots or those who want to maintain greater accuracy at distance.
The downrange energy of the 450 Marlin often surpasses the 450 Bushmaster at a given distance, providing more knockdown power and energy on target. This distinction is vital when assessing the ability of the cartridge to stop or take down large game.
The 450 Marlin’s stronger ballistics come with a price, however. The recoil of the 450 Marlin can be quite noticeable, especially in lighter rifles. This increased recoil requires proper practice with the firearm to ensure accuracy in follow-up shots.
While the 450 Bushmaster produces less recoil, its flatter trajectory and higher sectional density means it typically travels less distance before dropping than the 450 Marlin.
Accuracy and Practical Applications: Putting Performance into Perspective
When it comes to accuracy, both cartridges are capable of delivering acceptable groups, but the inherent design of the rifles used and the quality of ammunition play a significant role. With practice, both the 450 Marlin and the 450 Bushmaster can consistently hit targets at ranges that match the capabilities of the ammunition and the shooter.
For hunting, the selection of each cartridge depends on game size, terrain, and hunting style. The 450 Marlin is generally preferred for hunting larger animals like moose, elk, and bear, as its greater power and energy deliver the knock-down power necessary to bring down these big game animals.
The 450 Bushmaster is more commonly used for deer, wild boar, and other medium-sized game. The straight-walled case design means it meets the legal hunting requirements in many states. It should be noted that the AR-15 platform, common with the 450 Bushmaster, is frequently easier to handle and has more accessories than the lever-action rifles of the 450 Marlin.
Both cartridges excel at close to medium-range shots. The choice often comes down to the specific hunting scenario and personal preference.
Platforms and Rifles: Understanding the Hardware
450 Marlin Rifles
The 450 Marlin is primarily chambered in lever-action and bolt-action rifles. Lever-action rifles, such as those manufactured by Marlin, offer the speed and efficiency of a quick follow-up shot. Bolt-action rifles, though typically slower to reload, often provide improved accuracy, due to the more secure action.
450 Bushmaster Rifles
The 450 Bushmaster is predominantly found in the AR-15 platform. AR-15s provide the modern appeal of customization, making the 450 Bushmaster a popular choice for those who enjoy adapting their firearm to their specific preferences. The platform also provides a wide range of accessories, further enhancing the rifle’s versatility.
Ammunition Availability, Cost, and Reloading Considerations
Both cartridges are widely available, but ammunition prices vary. The 450 Bushmaster generally offers more affordable ammunition compared to the 450 Marlin. The price of ammunition for either cartridge will depend on the brand, bullet weight, and type.
Reloading is an option for both cartridges, allowing shooters to tailor the ammunition to their specific needs and save money in the long run. The 450 Marlin is generally more forgiving to reload due to its design. Reloading also allows hunters to customize the bullet weight and powder charge. The 450 Bushmaster is also capable of being reloaded, although there are some differences in brass sizes and powder charges to be noted.
Weighing the Pros and Cons: Making the Right Choice
450 Marlin Advantages
The 450 Marlin offers a powerful cartridge with great potential for knocking down a large game animal. Its power is generally greater than the 450 Bushmaster at both the muzzle and at distance, making it a great choice for hunters who are looking for a high-powered round. The lever-action rifles in which it is frequently found offer the quick follow-up capability to deal with multiple threats. However, the recoil can be significant, especially in lighter rifles. The availability of lever-action rifles is limited.
450 Bushmaster Advantages
The 450 Bushmaster is a versatile cartridge, offering impressive ballistics in an AR-15 platform. Its straight-walled design means that it is legal in many states, and it has a great reputation for providing consistent accuracy. The AR-15 platform also offers the benefit of easy customization. However, the power of the 450 Bushmaster is less than the 450 Marlin at longer ranges, and it is not as effective at larger game.
Making Your Decision: Finding the Right Fit
Ultimately, the decision of which cartridge to choose depends on your specific needs and preferences.
The 450 Marlin is a good choice for hunters targeting large game species at close to medium range. If you prefer the classic lever-action rifle and value the ability to effectively harvest big game at longer distances, the 450 Marlin could be the better option.
The 450 Bushmaster is a great option for hunting deer and other medium-sized game, or for those who are interested in a modern platform. If you hunt in a state where straight-walled cartridges are required or you want the ability to use an AR-15 platform, the 450 Bushmaster could be a smart choice.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The 450 Marlin and the 450 Bushmaster are both highly capable cartridges that offer impressive power and performance. Understanding their differences in terms of ballistics, platforms, and hunting applications allows you to make an informed decision. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a target shooting enthusiast, choosing the right big-bore cartridge will significantly enhance your shooting experience. Consider your individual needs, your hunting location, and your personal preferences when making your final selection. Both cartridges are capable of delivering a strong performance on the range and in the field, leaving you with a reliable firearm and a satisfying shooting experience.
