Ruger 480 Alaskan

I love the concept, but personally I can't shoot anything bigger than a 44 accurate enough to be deadly.  And even then my BIG handcannons are Contenders  with 10 inch barrels--44 and 375.

With a straight offhand unsupported shot, I've killed 8 deer over 100 yards.  the Best being a 131 yard shot.

But for the BIG revolver cartridges, especially the .500, ,I'd love to have one in a 20 inch barreled Marlin 1894.  Would be bought by me in an instant.  It would be controllable for me.

Last year at my annual dentist check-up, he told me he was getting the 500 s&W.  I asked why, and he said "it is BIG and I want it".  I figured those were good reasons (he also had head visions of hunting Alaska). 

Well this year, after he has my mouth stuffed with cotton, he says "want to buy a handgun, 500 S&W!"  seems it kick way to much and he can't hit S%&T with it! At least I didn't see a hammer scar on his forehead.

I have the Ruger Alaskan only in 44 mag. I bought it a long time ago when they first came out. I chose the 44 instead of the 480 because I could not get brass or bullets for the 480 at the time and I wanted something to shoot instead of a safe queen. Thousands of rounds later I still really enjoy shooting it. It is accurate, recoil is heavy with full power load but manageable. With medium loads it is a pleasue to shoot.  I have several different loads from a 240 grain semi wadcuter at a medium velosity that is my standard plinking load to a 300 JHP full power for hunting. I also got a few 340 cast bear loads that I use in bear country.

I know alot of people say a big bore in a short barrel is not a good idea but I have to say that it is probably one if not the most enjoyable handguns I have ever owned. I do highly recomend them.

the .475 is a wimp cartridge.  I have a 348 model 71.  I've thought of having it converted.  The only way is the 50 Alaskan, makes the .475 look like a 30-30.