Tell me about the Magnum Research BFR in .45-70

[TTv2]

I'm not normally one to want to own a very powerful revolver, but the BFR .45-70 has had my attention for years. Not really sure why as .454 or .460 would be better considering I load .45 Colt already, but a .45-70 revolver just sounds cool. So, is the BFR more than just a gimmick?

 

[.455_Hunter]

I owned a rather rare factory 5.5" version (Cabela's exclusive), fitting in the size window of a 7.5" Blackhawk. The quality was top notch, but I found the BFR to be very ponderous and unwieldy for a sidearm.

 

[Targa]

The short cylinder version of the BFR is almost comically large so the long cylinder would be more so. With that said, yeh I think one in 45-70 would be pretty cool as well...

 

[NorthBorder]

Hickock 45 has a few videos on it.



He makes it look pretty simple like shooting a 357 magnum. I'm not sure I would want to shoot one more than once.

 

[Typetwelve]

This really doesn't answer your question...but a 45-70 BFR has been on my "list" for nearly a decade now. Last year, I had the financial opportunity to get a hard hitting, big bore revolver and I decided to go with 460 instead. After many discussions with people I know that own BFR's, I also decided to skip that and go with the S&W X-frame. I will say that the newer BFRs have changed a few things to make them less of knuckle-crackers by moving the trigger guard. They also now offer a bisley grip, which I like.

In the end, I do not regret my decision one bit. I've really enjoyed reloading the 460 round and the x-frame is great to shoot.

With that said, I will still have a 45-70 BFR, one day. My next is to get a Henry in 45-70 (as they're not making a 460 lever). Once I get reloading for it under my belt, a BFR will be the next logical step.

 

[Jim NE]

I would say that the BFR .45-70 is one of those guns that you should hold in your hand before deciding whether you want one or not. That's all I've ever done - held one in my hands. I was very impressed with it's workmanship, but I also know that practicality is something we all have to live with in the long run.

A good automotive parallel would be one of those motorcycles with the small block Chevy V-8 in it. A bike with the power of a big or fast car is exactly what some people want, but for many other very experienced motorcyclists the impracticality of it is something they can't live with, at least in the long run at that high price. Your statement, "I'm not normally one to want to own a very powerful revolver...." should be a reason for pause. OTOH, you might love it. Don't decide you want one 'til you shoot one or at least handle one.

 

[Boarhunter]

TTv2,

I have had one for years and it is a great range and hunting combo. Powerful, but not at all painful to shoot. Recoil is more an upward “push” that reminds me of black powder. And extremely accurate. The BFRs are top quality.

It is much, much easier and more pleasant to shoot, in my opinion, than a scandium 44 mag or a 500 mag, both of which I previously owned. I have no intention of ever selling my 45/70 BFR.

It is not a concealed carry gun and is easiest carried in a chest holster. But if you need something that will kill a large Russian hog with authority, the 45/70 BFR will get it done!

BOARHUNTER

 

[NorthBorder]

Jeez Boarhunter,
This wasn't on any list I could imagine.
Now you got me rationalizing. I have 2 rifles in 45-70 and load for it.
Now it just seems logical (twisted tho it is) that I should have a BFR.
I just don't know how I will pull this one out of a hat.

 

[Boarhunter]

I have a Marlin lever gun in 45/70, and the two make a perfect pair!

BOARHUNTER