Guys,

First I would like to acknowledge you all for not bashing the 458WM. God! That argument about it should have been made on a longer case really is worn out. Of course it should have been the Lott to start with but that doesn't mean its 500 gr. bullets bounces off big animals. Actually for me the 458WM is about my upper level of recoil tolerance so for me it may be a better round than the Lott for really big game.

Anyway the 458WM works excellent with the 350X. A 350X at 2550fps easily makes the 458WM a 250 yard rifle for all but the heaviest game. I wouldn't use it for plains game and have another load with the 500's for buff or elephant though. First reason I can come up with is that having 2 differnt bullet weights or differently constructed bullets is a recipe for disaster. Maybe other folks can do it but I know in the heat of the moment Murphy will be there and I will have the special leopard load in the chamber when the 45" buff steps out. A premium soft and solid of the same weight would be my only exception.

I really like the 458WM but as others have stated its real purpose is to shoot big stuff at close to moderate ranges. If plains game is to be hunted as well as DG I think anyone would be well advised to put a second but lighter caliber rifle in your luggage and leave the 458 for the big nasties.

Mark