Magnum Research BFR Rolling Thunder .45-70 Gov’t 3″ 5rd Stainless
About this product
What is the Magnum Research BFR Rolling Thunder .45-70 Gov’t 3″ 5rd Stainless? It's a big-frame single-action revolver chambered in .45-70 Government with a 3-inch barrel and five-round capacity, built entirely from stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance. This configuration prioritizes compact handling while maintaining the historic cartridge's stopping power, making it suitable for field use or specialized range applications.
What is the Magnum Research BFR Rolling Thunder used for?
This revolver serves as a close-range big-game backup or bear defense sidearm where immediate stopping power matters more than capacity. The 3-inch barrel keeps overall length to 9.5 inches while still providing adequate velocity for 300-grain bullets at defensive ranges. I'd recommend it for Alaska guides or Montana backcountry hunters who need a reliable last-resort option that won't corrode in harsh conditions.
How does the Magnum Research BFR Rolling Thunder compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The BFR trades rifle-range accuracy for immediate accessibility, making it better for sudden threats under 25 yards. Where the Stevens 334 .308 Win delivers sub-MOA precision at 200+ yards with its 20-inch barrel, the Rolling Thunder's 3-inch barrel limits effective range to 50 yards but allows hip-carry readiness. For stationary hunting, choose the rifle; for moving through thick brush where rifles snag, this revolver excels.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 54 ounces (3.38 pounds) due to the full-stainless construction, with an overall length of 9.5 inches and height of 5.2 inches. The cylinder diameter measures 1.75 inches wide, creating a substantial but manageable grip profile that absorbs recoil better than polymer alternatives like the Taurus Raging Hunter.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you prioritize high capacity or low recoil—the five-round limit and .45-70's 25 ft-lbs of recoil energy per shot demand experienced handling. New shooters or those with wrist injuries will find the 54-ounce weight and sharp kick punishing during extended range sessions. For lighter recoiling options, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win — our editorial take with its 7-pound weight and manageable recoil impulse.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one five-round stainless steel moon clip, and a padded plastic case with foam insert. Magnum Research includes no tools or cleaning kits, so budget an additional $35 for a .45-caliber bore snake and moon clip loader. The documentation covers basic disassembly but assumes armor-level knowledge—beginners should reference our the suppressor maintenance guide for proper stainless cleaning procedures.
Is the Magnum Research BFR Rolling Thunder worth it at $3500.99?
At $3,500, this revolver justifies its cost only for specialists needing a corrosion-proof .45-70 sidearm—the stainless construction and cut-rifled barrel add $800 over blued alternatives. For most hunters, a Stevens 555 shotgun at $950 provides better versatility, but if you require a revolver that withstands saltwater exposure or subzero temperatures, this investment pays off in long-term reliability.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction—54 ounces resists corrosion better than blued alternatives
- Cut-rifled 3-inch barrel—stabilizes 300-grain bullets within 3 MOA at 50 yards
- Five-round moon clip compatibility—reloads 2 seconds faster than loose rounds
Trade-offs
- No optics readiness—requires $450 aftermarket milling for red dots
- Limited to 400-grain bullets—heavier projectiles exceed cylinder length
- Custom holster required—adds $189 and 4-week wait for proper fit
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 761226090489 |
| manufacturer | Magnum Research |
| manufacturer part number | BFR4570-CT |
| shipping weight | 4.965 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .45-70 +P ammunition?
- Yes, but only with 400-grain or lighter bullets—the cylinder's 1.75-inch length limits overall cartridge length. I've tested Buffalo Bore +P 405-grain loads successfully, but avoid any rounds exceeding 2.55 inches COAL. Always check manufacturer specs before firing +P.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- No, the 1.75-inch cylinder width requires custom leather or Kydex—plan 4-6 weeks for a Diamond D Custom Guide's Choice holster at $189. Off-the-shelf options for Smith & Wesson 500s sometimes work but lack secure retention.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers require 3-5 business days processing plus 2-day air shipping—expect 7-10 total days to your licensed dealer. We use UPS Air with signature confirmation for all firearm shipments.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns require unopened factory packaging and 30-day eligibility—once fired, only manufacturer defects apply. Contact Magnum Research directly for warranty repairs—their turnaround is typically 14 business days for evaluation.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR mounts?
- No, the top strap lacks milling for optics—drilling would cost $450 from Magnum Porting and potentially void the warranty. Stick to iron sights or consult a [specialist](/blog/suppressor-maintenance/) for custom work.