Quick Answer
At high altitudes, .458 Lott rounds lose kinetic energy and velocity due to thinner air, potentially affecting their lethality on larger game like buffalo.
Effect of Altitude on Bullet Kinetics
The .458 Lott is a large caliber round, but its performance at high altitudes is still impacted by the reduced air density. At 10,000 feet, a typical .458 Lott round loses about 300-400 feet per second (fps) of velocity due to the lower atmospheric pressure. This translates to a significant reduction in kinetic energy, which can compromise the round’s ability to deliver a clean, humane kill on larger game.
Hunting at High Altitudes with .458 Lott
When hunting buffalo at high altitudes, it’s essential to compensate for the reduced kinetic energy of the .458 Lott round. This can be achieved by using a heavier bullet (around 500-550 grains) or a slower-burning propellant to maintain velocity. Additionally, a well-placed shot with a larger diameter bullet can still deliver a fatal wound even at high altitudes.
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