Description
The Bergara B-14 HMR in .450 Bushmaster offers a distinct combination of precision rifle design and heavy-hitting straight-wall cartridge performance, making it a practical choice for deer hunters in states with restricted rifle calibers and for shooters who value consistent accuracy at moderate ranges. As a licensed FFL retailer serving U.S. customers, we recognize the growing demand for rifles that bridge the gap between long-range precision platforms and the legal requirements of specific hunting zones. This model provides a reliable, well-engineered solution for those who need a .450 Bushmaster rifle with the ergonomics and build quality of a dedicated precision rig.
Product Overview and Target Audience
The Bergara B-14 HMR (Hunting & Match Rifle) chambered in .450 Bushmaster is a bolt-action rifle built on Bergara’s proprietary B-14 action, which uses a Remington 700-style footprint. It is designed for shooters who require a rifle capable of delivering consistent sub-MOA accuracy with a cartridge known for its flat trajectory within 250 yards and significant energy transfer on game. This rifle is suited for hunters pursuing white-tailed deer, black bear, or hogs in states like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Iowa where straight-wall cartridges are mandated. It also appeals to target shooters who want a heavy-recoiling platform for practice or competition in disciplines like Heavy Metal division matches, where .450 Bushmaster is a legal option. While not intended for concealed carry or home defense due to its size and weight, it serves as a dedicated field and range tool for those who prioritize terminal performance and reliability over portability.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .450 Bushmaster
- Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds (detachable box magazine)
- Barrel Length: 20 inches
- Barrel Profile: Heavy, threaded (5/8×24 TPI) with capped muzzle
- Action: Bergara B-14 (Remington 700 pattern)
- Stock: Molded mini-chassis stock, gray/black finish
- Overall Length: Approximately 40.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 9.2 pounds (unloaded)
- Sights: None (drilled and tapped for scope bases; includes 0 MOA rail)
- Trigger: Bergara Performance Trigger (adjustable, 2.5–3.5 lbs factory setting)
- Safety: Two-position tang safety
- Finish: Cerakote barrel and action (graphite black)
- Stock Features: Adjustable cheek riser, length-of-pull spacers, QD sling swivel studs
Feature Deep-Dive
The B-14 action is the cornerstone of this rifle’s performance. Bergara cold-hammers their barrels and then machines the action from a single piece of 4140 steel, ensuring a precise bolt-to-barrel fit. The action features a coned bolt nose and a Sako-style extractor, which promotes smooth feeding and reliable extraction with the rimmed .450 Bushmaster cartridge. This design reduces the likelihood of rim shear or case damage during cycling, a known concern with some .450 Bushmaster bolt guns. The bolt lift is consistent and the two-lug design offers a 90-degree throw, which is familiar to anyone accustomed to Remington 700-based rifles.
The 20-inch heavy barrel is threaded 5/8×24 TPI and comes with a thread protector cap. This allows the direct mounting of muzzle brakes, suppressors, or compensators without requiring a gunsmith. The barrel is free-floated along its entire length, with the stock forend channel providing clearance to prevent pressure points that could affect accuracy. Bergara’s barrel steel is vacuum-blasted and coated with Cerakote for corrosion resistance, which is particularly relevant for hunters who operate in wet or humid conditions. The 1:24 twist rate is optimized for the .450 Bushmaster’s typical bullet weights (250 to 300 grains), stabilizing common factory loads effectively.
The molded mini-chassis stock is a key differentiator from traditional bedding blocks or full-length aluminum chassis. It incorporates an aluminum bedding block that interfaces with the action and magazine well, providing a rigid foundation while keeping overall weight manageable. The stock is constructed from reinforced polymer with a textured grip surface and a flat forend that works well with barricades or shooting bags. The adjustable cheek riser uses a simple thumbwheel mechanism, and the length of pull can be modified by inserting or removing spacers between the stock and recoil pad. The gray/black color scheme is subdued and functional, reducing glare in the field.
Bergara’s Performance Trigger is a two-stage design that breaks cleanly with minimal overtravel. The factory setting is 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, but it can be adjusted by a qualified gunsmith within a safe range. The trigger shoe has a flat profile with serrations, offering a consistent finger placement point. The two-position tang safety is located at the rear of the bolt shroud, allowing for silent operation when loading or unloading. In the rear position, the safety blocks the sear and trigger, while the forward position allows the bolt to be cycled with the safety engaged, a feature useful for unloading the chamber without risking a discharge.
The detachable box magazine is a polymer unit with a steel feed lip insert, designed to handle the rimmed .450 Bushmaster case without rim lock. It holds five rounds and features a push-button release located at the front of the trigger guard. The magazine is single-stack, which aids in reliable feeding and allows for easy loading by hand. The release is ambidextrous in function, though the button is positioned on the right side of the stock. The magazine sits flush with the stock bottom, preventing snagging on brush or gear.
The receiver is drilled and tapped for Remington 700 scope bases, and the rifle ships with a 0 MOA Picatinny rail installed. This rail is machined from 6061 aluminum and is torqued to spec, providing a solid mounting platform for optics. The receiver also has a bolt release button on the left side, which allows the bolt to be removed without pulling the trigger. The entire metal surface, including the bolt body and handle, is treated with a matte Cerakote finish that reduces glare and protects against the elements.
Ideal Use Cases
Hunting: The .450 Bushmaster is a legitimate choice for deer and medium game at ranges up to 250 yards. The 20-inch barrel provides sufficient velocity for expanding bullets to perform, and the rifle’s weight helps manage recoil for quick follow-up shots. The threaded barrel accommodates suppressors for hearing-safe hunting in states that permit them.
Target Shooting: The B-14 HMR’s heavy barrel and adjustable stock make it a stable platform for range practice. The trigger and action support consistent shot placement, and the .450 Bushmaster cartridge offers a distinct recoil impulse that can help shooters train for heavier calibers.
Competition: In disciplines like NRA High Power or local precision rifle matches that allow straight-wall calibers, this rifle can be competitive. The mini-chassis stock provides the adjustability needed for prone or positional shooting, and the detachable magazine enables faster reloads than fixed-magazine designs.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: This rifle is designed for SAAMI-spec .450 Bushmaster ammunition. Factory loads from Hornady, Federal, Winchester, and Remington are recommended. Handloaders should use .452-inch diameter bullets and adhere to published load data. Do not use .45 ACP or .454 Casull ammunition in this rifle.
- Magazines: Use only Bergara factory magazines for the B-14 HMR in .450 Bushmaster. Magazines from other manufacturers may not feed reliably due to differences in feed lip geometry.
- Optics and Accessories: The rifle accepts Remington 700 short-action scope bases. Rings should be medium or high height to accommodate objective lenses up to 50mm. The threaded barrel accepts standard 5/8×24 muzzle devices. Slings with QD swivels (push-button type) can be attached to the stock studs.
- Holsters and Concealed Carry: Not applicable. This is a full-size rifle and is not designed for holster carry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
A: No. Under federal law, this rifle must be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state of residence. We will ship only to the FFL you provide during checkout. You must coordinate with that dealer to complete the transfer and any required background check. We do not ship to P.O. boxes for firearms.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work for this rifle?
A: After placing your order, provide us with your chosen FFL dealer’s name and contact information. Your dealer must send us a copy of their current license. Once we verify the license, we ship the rifle to them. You then visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass the NICS background check (or comply with your state’s additional requirements) before taking possession. Transfer fees are set by the receiving dealer and are not included in our pricing.
Q: What types of .450 Bushmaster ammunition are compatible?
A: This rifle is compatible with all SAAMI-spec .450 Bushmaster ammunition using .452-inch diameter bullets. Common factory loads include 250-grain FTX, 260-grain AccuBond, and 300-grain JHP. We recommend using ammunition with a muzzle velocity between 1900 and 2200 fps for optimal accuracy. Avoid using reloaded ammunition from unknown sources, as improperly loaded rounds can cause pressure issues.
Q: What warranty covers this rifle?
A: Bergara provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This covers the barrel, action, stock, and trigger mechanism. The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper ammunition, aftermarket modifications, or normal wear. If you experience a defect, contact Bergara directly with proof of purchase to arrange service. We also accept returns within 30 days for inspection if the rifle has not been fired, subject to a 15% restocking fee.
Q: What is your return policy for this rifle?
A: We accept returns on unfired, undamaged rifles within 30 days of delivery. The rifle must be returned in its original packaging with all accessories. A 15% restocking fee applies. Firearms that have been fired, modified, or show signs of use cannot be returned. If the rifle arrives damaged or defective, contact us immediately for a replacement or refund. We do not cover shipping costs for returns unless the error is on our part.
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