It sounds as if you have never shot a big bore, but there was a first time for everyone. Ideally, you shouldn't buy either until you have properly tried both calibres.

I don't know if this is possible in the U.S., it certainly used to be just outside London, but try to spend some time at a good shooting school learning to handle such a rifle in .416 and 458+ calibres. The money will be well spent.

You can then decide on your own volition whether you can truly handle a 458 Lott. If you can, great! Buy one. But if not, then a .416 will be more than enough in practicle terms. Remember, there is nothing "macho" about shooting a .458 Lott and missing the target, it's not much fun either.

Good luck, whichever way you decide to go.

Martin