NEF Handi rifle in 500 S&W. Reports?

[BIG45-70]

I'm thinking about picking up a NEF Handi rifle in 500 S&W as my large bore range toy. Just wondering what the general consensus is on these rifles. I have heard the earlier models had a problem where the action would pop open under pressure from firing the cartridge. How are the latest models?

 

[hardluk1]

You may want to check out Graybeard Outdoors site. Big NEF/H&R group there. I would bet a 50s&w will loose'n fillings!!!

 

[hdbiker]

I had to return two Nef's in 25-06
because of ejector problems,gave up on them. biker

 

[wingman]

Owned two that were little better then throwing rocks, I would not want to be in area of anyone firing a 500 S&W in one.

 

[Craigman]

Mine is awesome. Good lockup and doesnt pop open the action, like others have "heard of" 2200fps with a 300gnFTX is lots of fun and I plan on getting at least one deer with it this year.

Not much love on this board for Handi-Rifles........

BTW....It kicks like a MoFo. be ready

 

[hardluk1]

I have a h&R 44 mag and it is flatout a very good shooter. With only a 2 3/4 power redfeild scope it will shopt groups around 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 with DT 240 sjsp.

 

[Owen Sparks]

I have both and like the .45/70 better.

Both will shoot a 400 grain chunk of lead at about the same velocity and provoded that you are using hollow or soft points, the original bullet diamiter does not make much difference because as soon as the bullets hit meat they will expand and the recovered bullets from either will be about the same size.

The main thing that I like about the .45/70 is that it has a nice big rim so that you can put 3 of them between the fingers of your left hand for fast reloads and follow up shots. This can make or break a hunt with a single shot.

 

[RugerMcMarlin]

44 mag and synthetic stock, bought it when I was bored. it grows on ya. I really like it.
mounted a scope and wrecked the balance. hunting a peep for it I like. Think I'm gonna get 1 in 357.

Got a vague notion break open rifles would do better with rimmed cartridges.

 

[Al Thompson]

Owen, what sights are you using on that .45-70?

 

[BIG45-70]

I have a 45-70 in a Marlin lever and have been hand loading for the cartridge for quite some time. I'm just looking for something a little different and loading a 600gr + bullet sounds right up my ally.