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.458 Cal 405gr BCB Coated Bullet – Bullet Corp

WARNING: All technical data in this publication, especially for handloading, reflects the limited experience of individuals using specific tools, products, equipment, and components under controlled conditions. Bullet Corp (Pty) Ltd has not independently verified these results and disclaims all liability for any injuries, damages, or consequences arising from the use of this data.


When designing the .458 Cal 405gr BCB Coated Bullet, our goal was to create a cost-effective, high-performance .458 caliber bullet suitable for a wide range of rifles—not just smaller calibers like the .45-70 but also high-pressure rifles such as the .458 Win Mag and .458 Lott.


To achieve this, we optimized the bullet hardness and profile so that it could:

  • Group effectively in lower-pressure rifles like the .45-70

  • Withstand the higher pressures generated in rifles chambered for .458 Lott


Testing Platforms


For real-world testing, we used:

  • Marlin Model 1895 in .45-70 Govt, equipped with a 4-MOA Red Dot sight

  • .458 Lott Sabi Rifle


Testing Objectives


  1. Feeding & Cycling: Ensure the bullet profile allows reliable cycling in lever-action rifles (critical for Marlin 1895). COL must remain under 2.550 inches (64.77 mm) for smooth feeding from a tubular magazine.

  2. Accuracy at Lower Speeds: Check grouping performance in lower-velocity rifles like the .45-70.

  3. Pressure Handling: Confirm bullet integrity under high-pressure loads in rifles like the .458 Lott.


Case Overall Length (COL)


  • Marlin 1895 (.45-70): The bullet works perfectly at a COL of 2.450–2.550 inches (62.23–64.77 mm), leaving ~0.7 mm between the case mouth and the bullet tip. Cartridges fed 100% reliably from the tubular magazine.

  • .458 Lott: Reliable cycling achieved at a COL of 90 mm, with no feeding issues or bullet deformation.


Velocity & Accuracy


.45-70 Testing:

  • Case: Hornady

  • Bullet: .458 Cal 405gr BCB Coated

  • Primer: Magtech

  • Powder: S321

  • Charge: 46 gr

  • Average Velocity: 1,512 fps (conservative test load)


Even at this conservative load, the bullets grouped reliably at 25–50 meters. With proper load development, velocities of 1,750–1,800 fps are achievable for lever-action rifles.


.458 Lott Testing:

  • Case: Unknown

  • Bullet: .458 Cal 405gr BCB Coated

  • Primer: CCI 250

  • Powder: S335

  • Charge: 69 gr

  • Velocity: 2,200–2,300 fps (We recommend 1800fps)


Twelve shots were fired at 50 meters, with no signs of bullet tumbling or barrel leading. This proves that the BCB Coated 405gr bullet can handle the high pressures of larger .458 calibers while maintaining excellent grouping potential at 100 meters or more with proper load development.


Why the BCB Coating Matters


Our Bullet Corp Bullet Coating (BCB) offers significant advantages:

  • Self-Drying, No Residue – clean handling

  • Smoke-Free Firing – less barrel fouling and no odor

  • Thermally Stable & Weather Resistant – consistent performance in any climate

  • High Mechanical & Tensile Strength – maintains shape under high pressures

  • Self-Lubricating – smooth feeding in semi-auto and lever-action rifles

  • Flame Retardant & Abrasion Resistant – maintains integrity over multiple reloads


Conclusion: The .458 Cal 405gr BCB Coated Bullet is versatile, reliable, and built to withstand a wide range of pressures. From lever-action hunting rifles to high-pressure magnum rifles, it delivers consistent feeding, grouping, and performance, making it an ideal choice for serious shooters and reloaders.


Testing Credits:


  • .45-70: Coen van der Merwe, Neo-C OM&T cc

  • .458 Lott: Francois P. Vd Walt, Classic Arms

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