Looking to build up an upper solely for hunting. I’m liking the 458 Socom as it’d utilize same mags, same lower as my other ARs.
I’d like to utilize this for medium to larger game from whitetail on up to bear, maybe elk, caribou, etc…
My concern with the 458 is longer range shots, would it be accurate and effective out to say 300 yards or am I better off considering some other calibers?
What are the ballistics of the 458? What bullets can be used? The 45-70 launching .458" bullets at 1600 fps or more can make accurate shots out to 300 yards and further, but the shooter had to know what they’re doing because of the higher trajectory. Shooters that consistently take longer ranged shots with the 45-70 use longer bullets designed for such use
Why would you pick an AR for a hunting rifle?
Why not? I mean with all of the modularity of the AR Platform it seems like itd be a great hunting rifle. Want a bipod - done, sling - done, semi-auto - done, good Trigger - done, optics & BUIS - done, etc…
Already got a few bolt actions…in process of building an sbr, got a 16" middy, and got a stripped lower that’s screaming for an upper!
So I figured I’d build something that could be used for hunting and when I came across the 458 Socom it seemed like a great option as it’d utilize a standard lower, standard mags, etc…and be capable of knocking down anything I ever plan on hunting.
Any reason not to???
Depending on the scenario, an AR based platform can be ideal. Just not so certain for the scenarios that the OP wants.
Also, on average I don’t think I’d be shooting 300 yards…in my entire life hunting whitetail I’ve never had a shot that was over 100-150 yards…i was just thinking that if I was going to do this than I’d want to be able to use it and for some of that game such as elk or caribou something capable of a 300 yard shot would be ideal.
I really didn’t mean to be negative. Much like you I have bolt guns and love to play with the AR platform. Mostly I am into building accurate AR’s and varmint rifles. I hunt with my bolt guns. Now it sounds like to me you just need an excuse for another upper. I certainly can understand that. Go for it. Right now I am trying to justify why I should buy a 6mm ar turbo 40 upper. I am torn between the AR trubo 40 and another bolt gun in 6mm Dasher.
I have a mur upper receiver and a BMC bolt carrier group sitting on the shelf waiting for a Kraiger 26" Varmatch. Kind of forgot about that one. Who knows when I will get the barrel.
Didn’t take it that way…i was just responding with my thoughts. Just like texting…this stuff can easily be taken the wrong way. I’m just looking for feedback and info and I appreciate it all
Is the 450 Bushy a dead round now?
I built a AR similar to the one you are contemplating in 450B (Ballisticaly identical).
I solved the distance dilemma by using a Nikon Prostaff 3-9X scope that has the BDC reticule.
Nikon has a program that lets you enter your cartage and it gives you the distances each of the BDC marks equal. Print this out and tape it to the stock of your rifle and “Theoretically” you can make shots on game out to 350 yrds (and beyond) using the BDC without fiddling with the elevation knobs.
Of course, I went through all this and then harvested my deer at 25yrds… 
But, the theory is still sound.
Good luck,
Blute
Isn’t that how it always goes!!!
Thanks for the info!