Magnum Research BFR .45-70 7.5″ Stainless 5-Round
About this product
What is the Magnum Research BFR .45-70 7.5″ Stainless 5-Round? It's a large-frame single-action revolver chambered in .45-70 Government, specifically engineered for heavy recoiling cartridges and built with precision-cut rifling. This isn't a range toy—it's a purpose-built firearm for experienced shooters who understand both ballistics and NFA regulations. The 7.5-inch barrel and 5-round capacity reflect its design philosophy: maximum power delivery with mechanical reliability.
What is the Magnum Research BFR used for?
This revolver serves as a dedicated hunting and precision shooting platform for large game or long-range metallic targets. The .45-70 Government cartridge delivers over 2,500 foot-pounds of muzzle energy with proper handloads, making it effective against bear, moose, or bison at intermediate ranges. The drilled-and-tapped Weaver mount accepts optics up to 2.5 pounds without compromising the action timing, while the 15-inch overall length keeps it maneuverable in blinds or thick brush.
How does the Magnum Research BFR compare to the Ruger Super Redhawk?
The BFR handles higher-pressure .45-70 loads than the Ruger Super Redhawk due to its thicker cylinder walls and reinforced locking bolt system. Where the Super Redhawk tops out at 40,000 PSI for .454 Casull, the BFR's stainless steel frame sustains 50,000 PSI with modern smokeless loads—a 25% pressure advantage. However, the Ruger offers faster reloads with its swing-out cylinder versus the BFR's traditional gate-loaded design.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The BFR weighs 68.8 ounces (4.3 pounds) unloaded and measures 15 inches from muzzle to grip backstrap. The cylinder diameter is 1.87 inches—wider than most competition revolvers—while the 7.5-inch barrel features a 1:16 twist rate optimized for 300-400 grain bullets. The grip frame accommodates aftermarket panels up to 1.5 inches thick, allowing customization for hand size without modifying the factory trigger geometry.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you're new to firearms or sensitive to recoil—the .45-70 generates over 25 foot-pounds of free recoil energy with standard loads. It's also unsuitable for concealed carry due to its 15-inch length and 4.3-pound weight, unlike compact options like our Stevens 334 Rifle. Regulatory note: some states prohibit .45-70 for hunting, so verify local game laws before purchasing.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 5-round cylinder, black rubber grips, and a Factory Manual detailing headspace gauging procedures. Unlike some competitors, Magnum Research includes a torque-rated scope base mounting kit (30-35 in/lbs) but excludes bore cleaning tools—plan to add a .45 caliber rod and jag. The packaging meets ITAR requirements for interstate transport, though international buyers need separate export documentation.
Is the Magnum Research BFR worth it at $1387.99?
Absolutely, if you need a .45-70 revolver that outperforms specialty conversions. The cut-rifled barrel alone would cost $400+ aftermarket, while the drilled/tapped receiver saves $150 in gunsmithing fees. Compared to custom-built alternatives like the Linebaugh Long Cylinder models, the BFR delivers 90% of the performance at 60% of the cost. For hunters who already reload .45-70—or anyone needing a suppressor host under NFA regulations—this is tax-efficient machinery.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 50,000 PSI pressures—25% higher than Ruger Super Redhawk
- 7.5-inch cut-rifled barrel delivers 1.5 MOA accuracy with handloads
- Weaver mount pre-drilled for optics—saves $150 gunsmithing cost
- Stainless construction resists corrosion in 100% humidity environments
Trade-offs
- No factory threading—requires $200 adapter for suppressor use
- Gate loading adds 3-4 seconds per reload versus swing-out cylinders
- Rubber grips lack palm swells—aftermarket panels cost $60-120
- 68.8 oz weight causes fatigue during extended offhand shooting
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 761226028635 |
| manufacturer | Magnum Research |
| manufacturer part number | BFR45-707 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Brushed Stainless |
| barrel length | 7.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45-70 Government |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 15 |
| model | BFR |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 6.2 |
| sights | Fixed Front/Adj Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .45-70 suppressor mounting?
- Yes, but only with thread adapters—the factory barrel lacks threading. You'll need a Gunsmith Amendment to your NFA trust and a 0.578x28 TPI adapter from SilencerCo or Griffin Armament. Expect 4-6 weeks for proper threading and alignment verification by a Class 07 FFL.
- Does it fit standard .45-70 ammunition?
- It handles all SAAMI-spec .45-70 Government loads up to 2.55 inches OAL, including Buffalo Bore 405gr +P. Avoid .45-90 or .45-120 cartridges—they exceed cylinder length by 0.3 inches and risk catastrophic failure. Always verify cartridge base diameter (0.505 inches) before loading.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days via UPS 2nd Day Air, requiring adult signature and FFL confirmation. Delivery takes 2-5 days continental US, but allow 10 days for Alaska/Hawaii due to FAA hazardous materials routing. International exports require 30-60 days for Department of State DSP-5 permits.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Only for mechanical defects verified by Magnum Research—no returns for fit or recoil sensitivity. You must initiate a RMA within 14 days and ship via approved carriers (FedEx Priority Overnight). Cosmetic issues like finish scratches aren't covered unless they exceed 0.5mm depth per factory QC standards.