What’s the fastest handgun that can drop a bear with one shot? Spoiler: it’s not your typical revolver or semi-auto. We’re diving into the wild world of single-shot handguns—those one-and-done beasts that pack a serious punch.
When we say “fastest,” we’re talking muzzle velocity, and “high-caliber” means .40 and up. Today, we’ll break down the top contenders and crown a champ. Ready? Let’s roll!
Why Single-Shot Handguns Matter
Single-shot handguns are a bit of a niche vibe. They’re not for rapid-fire action—they’re about precision, power, and keeping things simple. You load one round, take your shot, and reload. That’s it.
But here’s the cool part: because they’re built tough and don’t need to cycle rounds, they can handle monster cartridges that’d make a semi-auto cry.
- Why they rock: They’re perfect for big-game hunting or showing off at the range.
- Big perk: They can fire rifle rounds like .45-70 or crazy pistol rounds like .460 S&W.
- Who loves ‘em: Hunters, target shooters, and folks who geek out over extreme firepower.
So, let’s zero in on speed and caliber to find the fastest high-caliber single-shot out there.
Defining the high caliber Contenders
Thompson/Center Contender & Encore
These bad boys kicked off the interchangeable-barrel game years ago, and they’re still legends. The Contender’s solid, but the Encore takes it up a notch with beefier construction. They can swap barrels to shoot just about anything, but two high-caliber options stand out:
- .45-70 Government: An old-school rifle round hitting 1,800–2,000 fps with a 300-grain bullet (Hornady’s got some sweet data).
- .460 S&W Magnum: A modern monster pushing 2,300–2,400 fps with a 200-grain slug (S&W’s specs).
Why they’re in the running: insane versatility and raw power from a single shot.
Magnum Research BFR
The Big Frame Revolver (BFR) lives up to its name. It’s usually a revolver, but you can get it in single-shot setups. It’s built like a tank for massive rounds:
- .45-70 Government: Same as above, around 2,000 fps with a 300-grain bullet.
- .450 Marlin: A newer beast hitting 2,100 fps with a 350-grain slug (Federal Premium’s take).
Why it’s here: It’s a rugged, no-nonsense option for big-bore fans.
Honorable Mention – Remington XP-100
Quick shoutout to the XP-100, a bolt-action pistol. Its .221 Fireball screams at 2,700 fps with a 50-grain bullet (Remington’s legacy). But at .224 inches, it’s not “high-caliber,” so it’s sitting this one out.
Breaking Down hand gun Speed and Power
Let’s put these in a table to see what’s what (assuming 14–15-inch barrels for consistency):
| Handgun Model | Caliber | Bullet Weight | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy | Barrel Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T/C Encore | .460 S&W Magnum | 200 gr | 2,400 fps | ~2,800 ft-lbs | 15″ |
| T/C Encore | .45-70 Gov | 300 gr | 2,000 fps | ~2,000 ft-lbs | 14″ |
| BFR | .450 Marlin | 350 gr | 2,100 fps | ~2,200 ft-lbs | 14″ |
What’s the deal? Lighter bullets (like .460’s 200-grain) fly faster, while heavier ones (like .45-70’s 300-grain) hit harder energy-wise. Barrel length matters too—longer tubes squeeze out more speed. The .460 S&W jumps ahead with its high-pressure design, topping out at 2,400 fps.
The Winner – T/C Encore in .460 S&W Magnum
Drumroll, please! The Thompson/Center Encore chambered in .460 S&W Magnum takes the crown as the fastest high-caliber single-shot handgun.
Here’s why:
- Speed: Hits 2,400 fps with a 200-grain, .452-inch bullet (Ballistics by the Inch).
- Edge: Beats .45-70’s 2,000 fps and .450 Marlin’s 2,100 fps in similar setups.
- Balance: High velocity, legit caliber size, and real-world usability.
With a 15-inch barrel, it churns out 2,800 ft-lbs of energy. It’s a speed demon built for power—perfect for bragging rights or taking down big game.
Practical Considerations
This thing’s a beast, but it’s not all sunshine:
- Pros: Unmatched speed and power. Ideal for hunting or flexing at the range.
- Cons: Recoil’s a kicker, ammo ain’t cheap, and you’re stuck with one shot.
- Who’s it for: Hunters chasing elk or bear, or enthusiasts who love the extreme.
Want more energy over speed? The .45-70 or .450 Marlin might be your jam. They’re slower but pack a heavier punch.
FAQ – Your high caliber Questions Answered
What’s the recoil like on the .460 S&W?
It’s a beast! Think of it like a mule kick to the wrist—manageable with practice, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. A good grip and maybe a padded glove help.
Is it legal for hunting?
Yup, in most places! The .460 S&W meets minimum caliber and energy regs for big game in many states. Check your local laws, though—some spots have barrel length rules.
Can I afford the ammo?
It’s pricey—think $2–$3 per round for factory loads. Handloading can cut costs if you’re into that, but it’s still a premium ticket for this kind of power.
Why not just get a revolver?
Revolvers are sweet for follow-up shots, but single-shots like the Encore can handle crazier calibers and longer barrels for max velocity. It’s a trade-off: speed vs. capacity.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—the T/C Encore in .460 S&W Magnum is the fastest high-caliber single-shot handgun around, clocking in at 2,400 fps with a .452-inch bullet. It’s a wild ride for anyone bold enough to pull the trigger. If you prefer something a bit more modern, check out our Husky Armory’s Geisler frames.
Have you shot a .460 S&W? Next time, we’ll see if a revolver can top this velocity. Stay tuned!
