The .460 S&W Magnum is an extremely powerful big-bore revolver cartridge introduced in 2005, known for very high velocity for a handgun. Designed for large-game hunting and defense against dangerous animals, it is also notable for its multi-cartridge compatibility.

The .460 S&W Magnum was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2005 as a high-velocity big-bore revolver cartridge, built on a lengthened, higher-pressure case in the .45-caliber family. It was designed to deliver flat-shooting, high-velocity performance unusual for a revolver, aimed at handgun hunters wanting reach as well as power. A standout practical feature is its cartridge compatibility: a revolver chambered for .460 S&W Magnum can also safely fire the shorter, lower-pressure .454 Casull and 45 Colt cartridges, because the .460 is the longest of that progressively-lengthened family. This gives owners a remarkable range of options — from mild 45 Colt practice loads up through .454 Casull to the full .460 — with the barrel marking always the authority on what a revolver is rated to fire. Ballistically the .460 S&W fires .45-caliber bullets at very high velocity for a handgun, producing high energy, a relatively flat trajectory for the class, and deep penetration suited to large and dangerous game. That performance comes with very heavy recoil and muzzle blast, and the revolvers built for it are large and strong — it is firmly a specialist's hunting and field cartridge. Today the .460 S&W Magnum is used for large-game handgun hunting, defense against large animals, and recreational shooting, with availability centered on the large revolvers built for it and the bonus of .454 Casull and 45 Colt compatibility. Its combination of high velocity, big-bore power, and multi-cartridge versatility is why it occupies a distinctive place among the most powerful revolver cartridges.

General information about this caliber — not a recommendation for this specific firearm.