The interest in powerful handguns has been around as long as there have been revolvers. For a few, it’s the ultimate self-defense tool against the unexpected. For others, it’s just the excitement of being able to carry a sidearm that has almost as much energy as a rifle. So what actually constitutes “power” in a handgun? On paper, it’s a matter of chamber pressure, muzzle energy, and bullet weight. In reality, it’s a matter of how well that power is transferred—and if you can live with the recoil that arrives with it. Here’s a glance at seven of the most powerful handguns in the world, and why each one is a legend.
7. Magnum Research Desert Eagle, .50 Action Express
The Desert Eagle is the undisputed monarch of giant semi-automatics, and the .50 Action Express is the crown jewel. This semi-auto can shoot a 300-grain bullet at about 1,475 feet per second, producing power that some rifles can’t match.
Operating at approximately 35,000 psi, it is the most energetic semi-auto cartridge on the market. Though some handguns are more energetic, few are as big, energetic, and imposing as the Desert Eagle. Just don’t anticipate stashing it in a jacket.
6. Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan, .480 Ruger
Released in 2003, the .480 Ruger was the biggest mass-produced revolver cartridge then available. The Super Redhawk Alaskan, featuring a short 2.5-inch barrel, was designed for up-close battles with big game. With a 410-grain bullet clocking approximately 1,200 fps, it packs about 1,310 foot-pounds of energy at 48,000 psi. It gets big stopping power without unreasonable recoil, and that makes it popular with hunters who require firepower without beating their hands into submission.
5. Freedom Arms Model 83, .475 Linebaugh
The .475 Linebaugh is not kidding around, usually carrying about 50,000 psi. Although its muzzle energy is slightly less than the .44 Magnum’s, its heavier bullet provides it with outstanding penetration and force.
The Freedom Arms Model 83 is commonly considered the most reliable revolver for this cartridge, constructed sturdy and accurate enough to safely handle it. It’s a hunter’s favorite for pursuing big or dangerous game due to its brute strength and reliability.
4. Smith & Wesson Model 29, .44 Remington Magnum
Thanks to popular culture, the .44 Magnum is among the most recognizable revolver cartridges of all time. The Model 29 can send a 304-grain bullet downrange at about 1,325 fps, generating about 1,188 foot-pounds of energy at 36,000 psi. Although no longer the most potent, it is one of the best-balanced and efficient big-bore revolvers ever produced. Its recoil is powerful but controllable, and it has been successfully used on anything from whitetail deer to cape buffalo.
3. Ruger Super Redhawk, .454 Casull
It gets real here. The .454 Casull, which was created in the early 1980s, runs at a whopping 65,000 psi—close to twice that of the .44 Magnum. In the Ruger Super Redhawk, it can propel a 325-grain bullet at 1,525 fps, generating around 1,678 foot-pounds of energy. Its flat shooting and deep penetration have made it a favorite among serious hunters. The recoil is severe, so only experienced shooters should try their hand at sustained firing.
2. Smith & Wesson Model S&W500, .500 S&W Magnum
Smith & Wesson created the .500 S&W Magnum to win back the mantle of “most powerful handgun,” and they succeeded. The revolver propels a 440-grain bullet at 1,325 fps, producing more than 1,700 foot-pounds of energy at 60,000 psi. It will stop all but the largest land animals and is a favorite among those who demand unmatched stopping power. The recoil is merciless, and at a recorded 166 decibels, it’s painfully loud without ear protection.
1. Smith & Wesson Model 460, .460 S&W Magnum
The number one spot goes to the Smith & Wesson Model 460, a revolver that combines extreme pressure with unbelievable velocity. Similar to the .454 Casull, it runs at 65,000 psi but propels a 260-grain bullet at an amazing 1,900 fps—delivering up to 2,200 foot-pounds of energy. It’s the world’s fastest production revolver, with a flat shooting trajectory that enables it to reach distances beyond what most handguns can achieve. A genuine engineering achievement and a beast in all respects.
The search for the ultimate revolver has yielded some breathtaking pieces of machinery. However, seasoned shooters tend to emphasize that brute power isn’t the only thing. A .44 Magnum or a potent .45 Colt can get the job done while making less noise and kicking back less. Ultimately, the most effective handgun is one that you’re able to get on target with, because no matter how mighty a round is, it won’t do any good if you can’t hit what you’re aiming at.