Author Topic: Best Pistol Caliber? (Read 853 times)

mike.peebles · « **on:** February 18, 2006, 04:50:08 AM »

I'd like use the same load in a lever action rifle and a semi-automatic pistol. I prefer the semi-automatic pistol over a revolver but so far I've only found lever action rifle loads that I can use in a revolver. Am I looking for something that doesn't exist?

I'd appreciate feedback from anyone who has experience using the same load in a handgun and a lever action rifle on what has/has not worked for you. I'll use the gun for target shooting and on an occasional deer hunt and want to use off the shelf ammo.

Thanks for your help.

Graybeard · « **Reply #1 on:** February 18, 2006, 06:46:42 AM »

I think you need to give up the quest and evaluate your logic in what you seek. Or plan to spend a bunch of money to get one custom made for you.

The .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum are made in some limited and huge semiauto handguns so that might do you if you want a Desert Eagle. I can think of no other currently chambered rounds which fit any other currently made semiautos.

I'm sure if you want it badly enough to pay for it someone would chamber a lever rifle to .40 S&W or 10MM for you and perhaps some other you have in mind. But it might be expensive as there would be some geometry changes required to get them to feed properly.

So let's examine your basis for the need for a semiauto. Care to explain it so we can better understand where you're coming from?

mike.peebles · « **Reply #2 on:** February 18, 2006, 06:29:31 PM »

Thanks for your feedback. My preference for the semi-automatic is because it can hold more rounds and the magazine for ease of loading.

corbanzo · « **Reply #3 on:** February 22, 2006, 06:07:05 AM »

Most levers will use a rimmed cartridge, while most of the popular semi autos out there use the auto rim, I'm sure it can be made to use the auto rim.... but you really dont see it. Also, levers are the old school of shooting. When you find them, they are in cartridges that have been around for years, which is what most people who shoot levers prefer. I would say it's one of those... it is possible, but it is the way it is type of thing. Could be done custom, if you are willing to throw down some bucks.

Poohgyrr · « **Reply #4 on:** February 22, 2006, 02:09:45 PM »

We have seven and eight shooters these days - .357 magnum, revolvers - from S&W. The 4" 686+ 7 shooters are often on sale around here.

I'd really suggest looking at a EMF M92 for a pistol caliber too, for what it's worth.

Otherwise, the only handy auto in a magnum caliber that I know of would be a Coonan .357 Magnum, but you have to watch and have your money ready when one pops up on the gunboards. Next would be a Grizzly 1911, I don't know how often these show up for sale.