The search for handgun power has been as old as revolvers themselves. For some, it’s about possessing the ultimate last-ditch defense against wild predators. For others, it’s just the fun of carrying a sidearm that’s equal to punching a rifle. But what does “power” really mean in a handgun? Technically speaking, it’s quantified in terms of chamber pressure (psi), muzzle energy, and bullet weight. In the real world, however, it’s all about how that power is delivered—and if you’re capable of managing the recoil that comes with it. Below is a countdown of seven of the most powerful handguns available today, and what sets each of them apart as a legend in its own right.
7. Magnum Research Desert Eagle, .50 Action Express
The Desert Eagle is the monarch of the oversized semi-autos, and the .50 Action Express is the crown jewel of that design. This semi-automatic can launch a 300-grain bullet at approximately 1,475 feet per second with rifle-like levels of energy.
It runs at approximately 35,000 psi, the most powerful semi-auto cartridge available. Although there are higher-pressure handguns, few exceed the sheer bulk and raw power of the .50 AE. It’s large, flashy, and powerful—just don’t plan on concealing it under your shirt.
6. Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan, .480 Ruger
Released in 2003, the .480 Ruger was the biggest caliber production revolver cartridge on the market. The Super Redhawk Alaskan, with its tiny 2.5-inch barrel, was designed for close encounters of the fateful kind with ferocious wildlife. With a 410-grain bullet traveling at around 1,200 fps, it makes approximately 1,310 foot-pounds of energy at 48,000 psi. It combines formidable stopping power with recoil that’s still gentle, making it an excellent option for hunters seeking power without torturing their hands.
5. Freedom Arms Model 83, .475 Linebaugh
The .475 Linebaugh is a heavy hitter to be taken seriously, usually loaded to about 50,000 psi. Its muzzle energy is not quite that of the .44 Magnum, but it compensates for this with heavier bullets and penetrating depth.
The Freedom Arms Model 83 is considered by many to be the finest revolver made for this round, strong and accurate enough to handle it. Hunters pursuing big or dangerous game commonly use the .475 for its combination of brute strength and dependability.
4. Smith & Wesson Model 29, .44 Remington Magnum
Dirty Harry made the .44 Magnum one of the most iconic revolver cartridges ever produced. The Model 29 can launch a 304-grain bullet at around 1,325 fps, delivering around 1,188 foot-pounds of energy at 36,000 psi. It’s no longer the strongest available, but it’s still one of the best-balanced and most efficient large-bore revolvers ever constructed. Its recoil is strong but not uncontrollable, and it’s been used successfully on everything from whitetail to cape buffalo.
3. Ruger Super Redhawk, .454 Casull
This is where it gets serious. The .454 Casull, properly launched in the early 1980s, operates at a whopping 65,000 psi—nearly twice that of the .44 Magnum. In the Ruger Super Redhawk, it can launch a 325-grain bullet at 1,525 fps, transferring approximately 1,678 foot-pounds of energy. It’s popular for its deep penetration and flatter trajectory and is a favorite among serious hunters. Just be prepared—its recoil is not for the weak of heart.
2. Smith & Wesson Model S&W500, .500 S&W Magnum
Smith & Wesson designed the .500 S&W Magnum to win back the “most powerful handgun” banner, and they accomplished it. This revolver sends a 440-grain bullet downrange at 1,325 fps, which generates more than 1,700 foot-pounds of power at 60,000 psi. It can drop any terrestrial animal, and it’s a favorite among those seeking unbeatable stopping power. The recoil is brutal, and at as much as 166 decibels, it’s blindingly loud without hearing protection.
1. Smith & Wesson Model 460, .460 S&W Magnum
At the pinnacle is the Smith & Wesson Model 460, a revolver that pairs intense pressure with scorching velocity. As with the .454 Casull, it operates at 65,000 psi, but it shoots a 260-grain bullet at a mind-boggling 1,900 fps—generating up to 2,200 foot-pounds of force. It’s the quickest production revolver available in the world, and its flat trajectory makes it useful at ranges at which most handguns are powerless. It’s a real powerhouse and an engineering marvel.
The handgun power race has delivered some gag-inducing guns. But as most experienced shooters note, greater power isn’t always best. A .44 Magnum or even a heavily loaded .45 Colt can get most jobs done with less noise and recoil. Ultimately, the best handgun is the one you can shoot well, because even the most powerful bullet is of no use if you can’t put it where it will do the most good.