The Ultimate Handgun Caliber: 10mm vs .460 Rowland

In the world of handgun calibers, two significant contenders stand out: the 10mm and the .460 Rowland. For years, the 10mm has been favored by both enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize localized ammunition availability. However, the .460 Rowland has recently emerged as a powerful challenger, offering superior performance and versatility in certain scenarios. This article delves into the key differences and performance metrics of these two renowned calibers.

Understanding the 10mm

The 10mm chambered handgun is a respected round, often recommended for those who depend on the availability of ammunition in local stores. Many shooters opt for mail-order ammunition to ensure availability, particularly during times when local sales or specific offerings are lacking.

When properly optimized, the 10mm can deliver impressive power, with top loads achieving energy levels of around 500 to 600 foot-pounds. However, performance can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific load chosen. Prestigious companies like Underwood have consistently provided top-tier 10mm ammunition.

.460 Rowland: A New Breed of Caliber

The.460 Rowland is a relatively new addition to the world of handgun calibers, specifically in the category of wildcat cartridges. Despite being a wildcat, it has managed to gain recognition with factory ammunition, load data, and even occasional offerings from renowned custom manufacturers. One of its key advantages lies in its easy conversion to existing firearms, making it a practical choice for many shooters.

Compared to the 10mm, the.460 Rowland offers a significant energy output, with factory ammunition delivering over 1300 foot-pounds of energy. Underwood's 255 grain ammunition, for instance, demonstrates a remarkable performance, delivering 1384 feet-per-second (fps) and 1085 foot-pounds of energy.

Performance Reliability and Practicality

The 10mm, with its high 500 to low 600 foot-pounds of energy, is a reliable choice for those requiring a potent yet manageable caliber. The 10mm's performance is particularly impressive when using a Glock 20 or G40 with 16 rounds of 800 foot-pounds of energy. This combination can deliver a substantial amount of power, making it an excellent choice for those facing dangerous situations.

On the other hand, the.460 Rowland offers a more powerful and versatile option. With over 1300 foot-pounds of energy, it surpasses even the.44 Magnum when fired from a 6-inch barrel. This level of power can prove invaluable in scenarios where maximum stopping power is required, such as encountering a charging bear or other dangerous threats.

Conclusion

Both the 10mm and the.460 Rowland offer unique advantages and are suited to different scenarios. The 10mm shines when reliability and ease of mail-order ammunition are paramount, while the.460 Rowland excels when maximum energy and versatility are critical.

If you're in the market for a powerful and versatile handgun caliber, both the 10mm and the.460 Rowland are excellent choices, each offering their own set of advantages. Whichever you choose, understanding the key differences in performance and reliability will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.