Raptor Shooting Systems has announced the release of the new 45 Raptor cartridge. Essentially an evolution of the 460 S&W Magnum, the 45 Raptor mimics the case length and body dimensions of that cartridge while modifying the rimmed cartridge case into a rimless cartridge to match the specifications of the .308 Winchester.
The 45 Raptor, designed for the LR308, AR-10 and other 308 AR platforms, can shoot 160 to 325-grain bullets out of a 16-inch barrel 3/4-24 threaded for muzzle brakes and suppressors. A 160-grain Barnes TAC-XP bullet delivers 2950-3000 fps, while the 325-grain Barnes Buster bullet delivers 2100-2150 fps. In addition, this cartridge can operate out to 200 yards while staying “within 3 inches of the point of aim keeping within a 6 inch diameter vital area without hold over or sight adjustment,” the FAQ states.
As Gunsholstersandgear.com points out, these cartridges can be handloaded using a .308 Win shellholder and .460 S&W Magnum dies. Load data, powders and bullets intended for use with the .460 Magnum will also work for the 45 Raptor without having to be modified.
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The 45 Raptor was designed to minimize the need for non-standard rifle components. This cartridge requires only a new barrel and a modified magazine. It accepts all AR-10A / LR308 upper receivers, bolts, bolt carriers, buffers, buffer springs, stocks, gas blocks, barrel nuts, hand guards and lower receivers without modification.
According to the website, the 45 Raptor — designed for hunting medium to large game animal in North America — is able to use:
- 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum load data that has been pressure tested, validated and published by Hodgdon, Accurate Arms, Western Powder and other companies that list maximum chamber pressures keeping within a limit of 62,000 PSI – the SAAMI Maximum Average Pressure of the 308 Winchester which the larger AR series of rifles is engineered for.
- 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum reloading die sets with the only exception being the use of a 308 Winchester shell holder. Currently, Hornady, RCBS, Redding, Lee and Lyman offer 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum reloading die sets as standard products.
- 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum bullets. Hornady, Speer, Sierra, Barnes, Nosler and Swift all make bullets suitable for the 45 RAPTOR
For more information about the 45 Raptor cartridge, please visit http://www.45raptor.com
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