.470 Turnbull

.470 Turnbull (Rifle Issue #242 – January 2009)

The .470 Turnbull is a modern proprietary big-bore cartridge developed by Doug Turnbull in the late 2000s, specifically for use in lever-action rifles such as the Marlin Model 1895. As detailed in Rifle Issue No. 242 (January 2009), the cartridge was designed to provide increased power and bullet diameter over traditional lever-action cartridges like the .45-70 Government, while maintaining reliable function within the constraints of existing rifle actions. It represents a contemporary approach to large-caliber lever-gun performance, combining modern materials and design with classic rifle platforms.

The .470 Turnbull is derived from modified .50 Alaskan or similar large-capacity brass, necked to accept .475-inch bullets. This design allows the cartridge to take advantage of widely available bullet options originally developed for cartridges such as the .470 Nitro Express. The case is dimensioned to function within the overall length limitations of the Marlin 1895 action, making it a shortened and optimized configuration intended specifically for lever-action feeding and cycling. Typical load data from Rifle Issue No. 242 indicates bullet weights ranging from approximately 350 to 450 grains, with velocities generally in the range of 1,700 to over 2,000 feet per second depending on the load and bullet type. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Performance of the .470 Turnbull is centered on delivering substantial frontal area and energy in a compact, repeating rifle. Compared to the .45-70 Government, it offers a larger bullet diameter and increased striking power, particularly when using modern high-pressure loadings. This makes it suitable for large North American game and capable of handling the heaviest animals when loaded appropriately. As noted in Rifle Issue No. 242, the cartridge provides a significant increase in terminal performance while still operating within pressure limits appropriate for modernized lever-action rifles. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Because of its intended use, bullet selection plays a critical role in the cartridge’s effectiveness. Solid bullets are well suited for maximum penetration, while softpoint and controlled-expansion bullets provide increased tissue damage for hunting applications. Recoil is substantial, reflecting the cartridge’s large bullet diameter and energy levels, though it remains manageable in properly configured rifles. Conversions to .470 Turnbull typically involve rebarreling or rebore work, along with action tuning to ensure reliable feeding and safe operation.

The .470 Turnbull remains a niche cartridge, primarily appealing to enthusiasts of large-bore lever-action rifles and those seeking increased performance from classic platforms. As documented in Rifle Issue No. 242 (January 2009), it represents a modern interpretation of traditional big-game cartridges, combining increased caliber and power with the practicality and familiarity of lever-action rifles.

Source: (Rifle Issue #242 – January, 2009)