Intro
Discover the powerful 475 Wildey Magnum, a cartridge that packs a punch. Learn about its origins, ballistics, and notable uses in hunting and firearms. Explore the 5 fascinating facts about this high-octane round, from its development to its performance, and find out why its a favorite among shooters and hunters.
The world of firearms is filled with fascinating stories and innovative designs. One such design that has garnered significant attention is the Wildey Magnum, specifically the 475 Wildey Magnum. This powerful handgun cartridge has made a name for itself among firearms enthusiasts and collectors. Let's delve into five key facts about the 475 Wildey Magnum.
Fact 1: Origins and Development
The Wildey Magnum was first introduced in the 1970s by Wildey F.A., Inc., a firearms manufacturing company founded by Wildey J. Moore. The company aimed to create a powerful, yet manageable, handgun cartridge that would surpass the performance of existing magnum cartridges. The 475 Wildey Magnum was designed to be a versatile cartridge, suitable for hunting large game and self-defense.
Fact 2: Ballistic Performance
The 475 Wildey Magnum boasts impressive ballistic performance, with a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,300 feet per second (ft/s) and a muzzle energy of around 2,000 foot-pounds (ft-lb). This level of performance makes it suitable for hunting larger game, such as elk and bear. Additionally, the cartridge's flat trajectory and high kinetic energy make it effective for self-defense.
Fact 3: Design and Features
The 475 Wildey Magnum features a unique design, with a large,.475-inch diameter bullet and a longer-than-standard case length. This design allows for a greater powder capacity, resulting in increased muzzle velocity and energy. The cartridge also features a rebated rim, which helps to reduce the overall size of the cartridge and make it more manageable in smaller handguns.
Fact 4: Availability and Popularity
The 475 Wildey Magnum has gained a loyal following among firearms enthusiasts and collectors. Although it is not as widely available as some other cartridges, it can still be found in specialty gun stores and online retailers. The cartridge's popularity has also led to the development of custom and hand-loaded ammunition, allowing shooters to experiment with different loadings and configurations.
Fact 5: Usage and Applications
The 475 Wildey Magnum is versatile and can be used for various applications, including hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting. Its high kinetic energy and flat trajectory make it suitable for hunting larger game, while its manageable recoil and accuracy make it a popular choice for competitive shooters. Additionally, the cartridge's unique design and ballistic performance have made it a favorite among collectors and firearms enthusiasts.
Wildey Magnum Image Gallery
What is the muzzle velocity of the 475 Wildey Magnum?
+The muzzle velocity of the 475 Wildey Magnum is approximately 1,300 feet per second (ft/s).
Is the 475 Wildey Magnum suitable for hunting large game?
+Yes, the 475 Wildey Magnum is suitable for hunting large game, such as elk and bear, due to its high kinetic energy and flat trajectory.
Can the 475 Wildey Magnum be used for self-defense?
+Yes, the 475 Wildey Magnum can be used for self-defense, but it is essential to consider the cartridge's power and potential for over-penetration.
In conclusion, the 475 Wildey Magnum is a unique and powerful cartridge with a rich history and diverse applications. Whether you're a firearms enthusiast, collector, or shooter, this cartridge is sure to capture your attention. Share your thoughts and experiences with the 475 Wildey Magnum in the comments below.