Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum 8 3/8 inch is a powerful, long-barreled revolver designed for serious recoil management and ballistic performance. Its extended barrel aids in accuracy and velocity. Available now for $299.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum 8 3/8 inch?
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel Frame and Cylinder |
| Manufacturing | Smith & Wesson Performance Center |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
| Hardness/Quality | High-grade stainless steel construction for durability under magnum pressures |
| Compatibility | Fires .460 S&W Magnum, .454 Casull, and .45 Colt ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Standard revolver operation; requires proper training for safe handling due to recoil |
| Weight | Approximately 72.5 oz (4.53 lbs) unloaded |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 15 inches (with 8 3/8-inch barrel) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | Used, Good Condition (as inspected by FFL) |
| SKU | S&W460-8.375 |
What makes the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum 8 3/8 inch stand out?
This Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum with an 8 3/8 inch barrel is built for serious performance. The long barrel does a couple of things: it helps wring out every bit of velocity from the .460 S&W Magnum cartridge, and it also adds weight out front, which helps manage the substantial recoil. The X-Frame design is robust, built to handle the pressures of this cartridge, and it’s also capable of firing .454 Casull and .45 Colt, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios or just taming the beast a bit for practice. The included compensator helps reduce muzzle rise, making follow-up shots more manageable than you’d expect from a handgun this powerful. It’s a big gun, no doubt, but it’s designed to perform in the field, whether for hunting or defense against large, dangerous game.
Who is this revolver for?
Buy it if:
- You’re a serious handgun hunter targeting large game like deer, elk, or even bear.
- You need a powerful sidearm for protection in areas with dangerous animals.
- You appreciate the engineering of a high-performance revolver and enjoy challenging yourself with powerful cartridges.
- You’re looking for a versatile big-bore revolver that can also shoot .454 Casull and .45 Colt.
- You understand and can safely handle significant recoil.
Skip it if:
- You’re new to shooting handguns or are recoil-sensitive. Consider something like a .38 Special revolver for a softer introduction.
- You’re looking for a concealed carry weapon. This revolver is far too large for practical concealment. Look at our compact pistols.
- Your primary use is casual target shooting without a specific need for magnum power.
- You’re on a tight budget for ammunition; .460 S&W Magnum can be expensive to shoot frequently.
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
Pros ✅
- ✅ Extreme Power: Capable of taking down nearly any North American game animal with proper shot placement.
- ✅ Versatile Ammunition: Shoots .460 S&W Magnum, .454 Casull, and .45 Colt, providing options for power and practice.
- ✅ Long Sight Radius: The 8 3/8-inch barrel aids in aiming precision for longer shots.
- ✅ Recoil Management: The heavy frame and integrated compensator help mitigate felt recoil compared to what you’d expect from this cartridge.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of magnum cartridges.
- ✅ Resale Value: Performance Center S&W revolvers tend to hold their value well.
Cons ❌
- ❌ Significant Recoil: Even with the compensator, it’s a handful. Not for the faint of heart.
- ❌ Large and Heavy: This is a substantial firearm, making it less practical for general carry or extended off-hand shooting sessions.
- ❌ Ammunition Cost: .460 S&W Magnum ammunition can be pricey, which might limit practice frequency. Consider reloading or shooting more .45 Colt for practice.
How does it compare to similar revolvers?
| Feature | Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum 8 3/8 inch | Taurus Raging Hunter .460 S&W Magnum | Ruger Super Redhawk .454 Casull |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel | Alloy Frame, Steel Barrel Shroud | Stainless Steel |
| Quality | High, Performance Center tuned | Good, production grade | Very Good, robust field gun |
| Compatibility | .460 S&W, .454 Casull, .45 Colt | .460 S&W, .454 Casull, .45 Colt | .454 Casull, .45 Colt |
| Shipping | Same-day from Wichita, KS | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, built for heavy use | Good, but some components may show wear faster | Very Long, known for ruggedness |
| Price | $299.00 (Used) | ~$800-$1000 (New) | ~$1200-$1400 (New) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the effective range of the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum 8 3/8 inch?
With its long barrel and powerful cartridge, the .460 S&W Magnum can be effective out to 200 yards or more in the hands of a skilled shooter, especially with proper optics. For hunting, most shots would typically be under 100 yards to ensure ethical placement.
Can I hunt deer with the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum?
Absolutely. The .460 S&W Magnum is more than capable of taking deer, elk, and even larger game. It provides significant energy and bullet weight for clean, humane kills, provided you practice and place your shots accurately.
What kind of recoil should I expect from this revolver?
The recoil is substantial. While the weight and compensator help, it’s still a very powerful cartridge. Expect a firm shove, not a sharp crack. It’s manageable for experienced shooters, but new shooters might find it overwhelming. Start with .45 Colt or .454 Casull to get accustomed to the platform.
Is the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum good for self-defense?
For personal self-defense in an urban or suburban setting, it’s generally overkill and impractical due to its size, weight, and extreme power. For defense against large, dangerous animals in the wilderness, it is an excellent choice. For home defense, there are more suitable options that are easier to handle and less prone to over-penetration.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can buy revolvers online, including this Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum, at Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We are a licensed FFL dealer and handle all transfers according to federal and state laws. We ship to your local FFL dealer.
What’s the difference between the .460 S&W Magnum and .454 Casull?
The .460 S&W Magnum is a longer, more powerful cartridge than the .454 Casull. The .460 S&W Magnum was designed to be a flat-shooting, high-velocity cartridge, often achieving higher muzzle velocities. A firearm chambered in .460 S&W Magnum can fire .454 Casull and .45 Colt, offering backward compatibility, but a .454 Casull firearm cannot fire .460 S&W Magnum.
Does this revolver come with a scope mount?
This particular used model does not include a scope mount, but the Smith & Wesson 460 SW Magnum typically features a drilled and tapped frame, allowing for the easy installation of an aftermarket scope mount for optics. We can help you find compatible mounts if you’re looking to add a scope.
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