Best Outdoor Handguns · #9
BFR .45-70
Magnum Research
Reader rating
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A rifle cartridge in a revolver. Absurd, effective, and startlingly accurate.
Pros
- Unmatched raw power in a handgun platform for dangerous game
- Exceptional build quality and robust stainless steel construction
- Surprisingly good accuracy for a revolver of its caliber
- Devastating terminal performance on large animals
- Virtually indestructible durability for harsh environments
Cons
- Extremely heavy, limiting carry options and comfort
- Substantial recoil requires experienced shooter handling
- Slow to reload with its single-action design
- Not suitable for self-defense against human threats due to overpenetration
Best uses
- Big game hunting
- Backcountry bear defense
- Wilderness protection
- Collectors of unique firearms
Specifications
- Maker
- Magnum Research
- Model
- BFR
- Caliber
- .45-70 Government
- Capacity
- 5 rounds
- Action
- Single-Action
- Material
- Stainless Steel
Pricing
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Best for
Big game hunting, Backcountry bear defense, Wilderness protection, Collectors of unique firearms
Where to buy the BFR .45-70
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The Magnum Research BFR in .45-70 isn't a handgun for everyone, or even most people. It's a niche tool designed for a specific kind of outdoor enthusiast: the one who demands immense power in a handgun platform. This isn't a carry gun for casual hikes; it's a dedicated hunting or wilderness defense tool, particularly suited for areas with large, dangerous game. Its reputation precedes it, often eliciting strong reactions from those who've experienced its recoil or simply admire its sheer audacity. Magnum Research built the BFR to handle cartridges typically reserved for rifles, and the .45-70 Government chambering exemplifies this philosophy. What sets the BFR apart is its unflinching commitment to raw power and robust construction. Magnum Research didn't try to make it lightweight or compact; they focused on building a revolver that could reliably withstand the pressure of a rifle cartridge and deliver that energy downrange with precision. This focus results in a heavy, substantial firearm that inspires confidence in its durability, even if it tests the limits of what many consider a 'handgun.' Understanding its purpose is key to appreciating its design and performance.
Who It's Really For
This BFR is for the serious big-game hunter or the wilderness explorer who frequently operates in areas where large, aggressive animals like grizzlies or moose are a genuine threat. It's not a general-purpose sidearm; it's a primary hunting tool or a dedicated backup for dangerous encounters. If you're looking for a comfortable plinker or a concealed carry piece, look elsewhere. This revolver demands respect, deliberate handling, and a clear understanding of its immense power. It's an experienced shooter's handgun, not one for novices, particularly in this potent chambering.
Materials and Construction
Magnum Research builds the BFR to be exceptionally strong, and it shows in every aspect of its construction. The frame, cylinder, and barrel are all crafted from solid stainless steel, designed to withstand the tremendous pressures generated by rifle-caliber cartridges. The fit and finish are utilitarian, favoring strength and function over aesthetics, which is entirely appropriate for its role. This is a gun built to endure harsh conditions and considerable recoil without faltering, a testament to its robust engineering and material choices. There are no delicate parts; everything is overbuilt.
Real-World Performance
In the field, the .45-70 BFR delivers exactly what it promises: devastating power. Recoil is substantial, as expected, but manageable for experienced shooters with proper technique and a firm grip. Accuracy is surprisingly good, often rivaling some lever-action rifles at handgun ranges, largely due to the fixed cylinder and barrel design. The heavy frame helps absorb some of the kick, contributing to better follow-up shots than one might anticipate. Terminal performance on game is exceptional, with energy transfer that is truly authoritative. It's a reliable performer when you need to put down a threat quickly and effectively.
Weight and Packability
Weighing in at around 4.7 pounds, depending on barrel length, the BFR is a heavy handgun. This isn't a minor detail; it significantly impacts how and where it can be carried. It's too heavy for comfortable belt carry for extended periods for most people, and a chest or strong shoulder holster is often the preferred method. It's certainly not 'packable' in the sense of being discreet or space-saving. This weight is a direct trade-off for its immense power and recoil mitigation, reinforcing its role as a specialized tool rather than an everyday companion.
Durability
Durability is a non-issue with the BFR. Its solid stainless steel construction and robust design mean it's built like a tank. It can withstand significant abuse, harsh weather, and thousands of rounds of heavy recoil without showing signs of wear or failure. This revolver is designed for hard use in challenging environments, and it lives up to that expectation. Maintenance is straightforward, and the single-action mechanism, while slower, is inherently reliable and less prone to issues than more complex designs. This is a firearm that will likely outlast its owner with proper care.
Comparable Alternatives
When considering alternatives, few handguns truly occupy the same space as the .45-70 BFR. The Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan in .454 Casull offers similar power but in a more compact package with a double-action trigger. Other large-caliber single-action revolvers from custom shops might come close in power, but often at a significantly higher price point. For raw power in a production handgun, the BFR is in a league of its own, particularly in the rifle-caliber chamberings. Most comparisons would lead back to large-bore rifle platforms, highlighting its unique position in the market.
How we chose
We started with a long list of best outdoor handguns that people actually buy, cut anything that could not clear our baseline for durability and field performance, then ranked the 10 that were left against the same criteria. Rankings are editorial. No brand pays for placement, and affiliate links never move a pick up or down.
- Real-world durability
- How the material, stitching, or steel holds up after a season of hard use — not how it looks new.
- Performance in bad conditions
- Wind, rain, cold, and grit are the test. Anything that only works on a nice day gets marked down.
- Weight and packability
- Every ounce has to earn its place in the pack, but not at the cost of something that fails in the field.
- Ease of use
- Setup, adjustment, and maintenance with cold hands, in the dark, without the manual.
- Value at its price point
- Compared against the closest competitors in the same tier, not against cheaper gear in a different class.
- Repairability and support
- Field-fixable design, available parts, and a warranty the maker actually honors.
BFR .45-70 — frequently asked questions
- Is the BFR .45-70 worth it?
- We rank it #9 in Best Outdoor Handguns. A rifle cartridge in a revolver. Absurd, effective, and startlingly accurate.
- What is the BFR .45-70 best for?
- Best for big game hunting, backcountry bear defense, wilderness protection and collectors of unique firearms. Standouts: unmatched raw power in a handgun platform for dangerous game and exceptional build quality and robust stainless steel construction.
- What are the downsides of the BFR .45-70?
- Extremely heavy, limiting carry options and comfort, Substantial recoil requires experienced shooter handling and Slow to reload with its single-action design.
- What are the key specs of the BFR .45-70?
- Maker: Magnum Research · Model: BFR · Caliber: .45-70 Government · Capacity: 5 rounds · Action: Single-Action
- Who It's Really For?
- This BFR is for the serious big-game hunter or the wilderness explorer who frequently operates in areas where large, aggressive animals like grizzlies or moose are a genuine threat. It's not a general-purpose sidearm; it's a primary hunting tool or a dedicated backup for dangerous encounters.
- Materials and Construction — what should I know about the BFR .45-70?
- Magnum Research builds the BFR to be exceptionally strong, and it shows in every aspect of its construction. The frame, cylinder, and barrel are all crafted from solid stainless steel, designed to withstand the tremendous pressures generated by rifle-caliber cartridges.
Compare side by side
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