Raptor Shooting Systems has announced the release of the new 45 Raptor cartridge. Essentially an evolution of the 460 S&W Magnum, the 45 Raptor mimics the case length and body dimensions of that cartridge while modifying the rimmed cartridge case into a rimless cartridge to match the specifications of the .308 Winchester.

The 45 Raptor, designed for the LR308, AR-10 and other 308 AR platforms, can shoot 160 to 325-grain bullets out of a 16-inch barrel 3/4-24 threaded for muzzle brakes and suppressors. A 160-grain Barnes TAC-XP bullet delivers 2950-3000 fps, while the 325-grain Barnes Buster bullet delivers 2100-2150 fps. In addition, this cartridge can operate out to 200 yards while staying “within 3 inches of the point of aim keeping within a 6 inch diameter vital area without hold over or sight adjustment,” the FAQ states.

As Gunsholstersandgear.com points out, these cartridges can be handloaded using a .308 Win shellholder and .460 S&W Magnum dies. Load data, powders and bullets intended for use with the .460 Magnum will also work for the 45 Raptor without having to be modified.

The 45 Raptor was designed to minimize the need for non-standard rifle components. This cartridge requires only a new barrel and a modified magazine. It accepts all AR-10A / LR308 upper receivers, bolts, bolt carriers, buffers, buffer springs, stocks, gas blocks, barrel nuts, hand guards and lower receivers without modification.

According to the website, the 45 Raptor — designed for hunting medium to large game animal in North America — is able to use:

• 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum load data that has been pressure tested, validated and published by Hodgdon, Accurate Arms, Western Powder and other companies that list maximum chamber pressures keeping within a limit of 62,000 PSI – the SAAMI Maximum Average Pressure of the 308 Winchester which the larger AR series of rifles is engineered for.
• 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum reloading die sets with the only exception being the use of a 308 Winchester shell holder. Currently, Hornady, RCBS, Redding, Lee and Lyman offer 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum reloading die sets as standard products.
• 460 Smith & Wesson Magnum bullets. Hornady, Speer, Sierra, Barnes, Nosler and Swift all make bullets suitable for the 45 RAPTOR

For more information about the 45 Raptor cartridge, please visit http://www.45raptor.com