To get the output to match the trajectory from my Omega, I have to enter a BC of .17 for the 200 SW (way lower than any value I find anywhere, BCs are so useless in real life).

However, in a fair comparison (same gun, same day, same chrono) the BC for the .458 325gr FTX has to be .21. So it's way higher than the 200SW.

Nice report!

Those FTX's look like they have a lot of potential. That is some pretty good shooting at 300 yards for the first time- I'm sure you'll be able to get it dialed in even better as time goes on.

Does Hornady supply a chart stating the velocities that FTX is rated for? I just wonder if at 300 yards will the velocity be high enough to ensure expansion? Just a thought.... Otherwise, looks awesome! Personally I would think the recoil to be a bit more than I would like to shoot on a regular basis (130 grains powder, 325 grain bullet), but if you're comfortable with it, great.

I just don't have your shooting skill Spaniel. Personally, I would BRAG about a 6" 300 yard group with a muzzle loader.

I have not seen what they claim to be the appropriate expansion velocity range. I am quite sure that whatever it is, I'm probably slow by 300 yards. However a deer with a .458" hole through its lungs won't really know the bullet under-expanded. I'm not very concerned about it with such large diameter bullets. I've shot a couple deer at 300+ with the 200gr SW, with its corresponding low velocity and likely suboptimal expansion, and the results were quite satisfactory I just don't trust it much further on basic principle.

ETA:
Since they are designed for "long range" in lever guns, I'm going to guess they are also designed to have a relatively generous low end expansion limit too.

As for recoil yes, it is not nearly as pleasant as the 200gr load I'm used to. However it is also no worse than my 300WM which I spend a ton of time shooting last year, so I am fine with it.

Don't sell yourself short, I'm guessing you don't have the benefit of a fully bedded, floated and accurized gun with a tactical scope to be trying it either! Part skill, part equipment...

Supposedly they tried to design to work well from 1500 to 2300 fps, double crimp and the inter lock is supposed to control all that; we will see. If they shoot good for me I will see how they do on some wild hogs this spring. Lee

That's true. ThoughI put my hunting gun to bed in my truck every night at camp, I know the barrel won't float(overturned canoe).