Ultra, At one time I was interested in going the .416 route, in a 1885 Winchester, but have since curtailed my excitement for the project. But anything you would read on the 416 should equal that of a .409. But why a 409? A 416 is the way to go, not much advantage at all with a 409, bullet selection being the most critical. It would be like choosing a .348 for a custom rifle over a .358.
But, I like you, like being a little different albiet, not that extreme. If you would like to read an article on the .416-300, the fouling Shot, a publication from The Cast Bullet Association has such an article from a fellow not unlike you and I, Journal No. 175, May/June 2005. They have a website where you can purchace back issues. Of course it is with cast bullets but one can adapt.
The author used a Montana Rifle Co. action with a Pac-Nor Barrel. Called the recoil "a stout shove" utilizing a 350 grain cast bullet at 2150 to 2300fps.
One disadvantage I saw for my own 416 in the 1885 was that I could ,at the time" have purchaced it in the 405 WCF. But the advantage, going to the .416, would have been bullet selection, and probably more importantly, having a wildcat cartridge not many had. Good Luck on your quest. CRASH87
