The .458 Lott is a high-power rifle cartridge developed in 1971 by Jack Lott. It was designed for hunting large and dangerous game, particularly in Africa, and is known for its stopping power and deep penetration. The cartridge is essentially an elongated version of the .458 Winchester Magnum, allowing for more powder and thus increased velocity and energy.
The typical bullet weight for the .458 Lott ranges from 500 to 600 grains, and it can achieve muzzle velocities of around 2,300 to 2,600 feet per second, delivering significant kinetic energy. This makes the .458 Lott highly effective for hunting big game species such as Cape buffalo, elephant, and lion.
The cartridge’s design ensures reliable performance under harsh conditions, and it has gained a reputation for being more effective and versatile than the .458 Winchester Magnum, especially in situations requiring a quick, decisive shot. The .458 Lott is commonly used in bolt-action rifles built to handle its substantial recoil and chamber pressure.