The Bushmaster BF 450 is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in .450 Bushmaster, designed for the American hunter and shooter who needs a reliable, hard-hitting platform for medium to large game in states like Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Iowa, where straight-walled cartridges are required for deer hunting. With a 20-inch barrel and a 5-round magazine capacity, this rifle delivers controlled energy for clean, ethical shots at ranges typical of wooded or agricultural terrain. Whether you’re working a stand in the Midwest or punching paper at the range, the BF 450 offers a solid balance of power and practicality.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Bushmaster BF 450 is a purpose-built semi-automatic rifle that chambers the .450 Bushmaster cartridge, a straight-walled round originally developed for the AR-15 platform. It is intended for hunters who require a legal, effective option for deer and black bear in states with straight-wall restrictions, as well as for target shooters who appreciate the manageable recoil and flat trajectory of this caliber at moderate distances. This model is also suitable for shooters who want a dedicated rifle for range practice or as a component of a home defense setup, given its reliable semi-automatic action and substantial stopping power. It is not a lightweight for concealed carry, but it serves well for stationary or field-based roles.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .450 Bushmaster
- Action: Semi-automatic, direct impingement gas system
- Barrel Length: 20 inches
- Barrel Profile: Heavy contour, 1:24-inch twist rate
- Barrel Finish: Matte black, phosphate or nitride treatment (standard production)
- Overall Length: Approximately 38.5 inches (collapsible stock extended)
- Weight: Approximately 7.5 to 8.0 pounds (unloaded, depending on furniture)
- Capacity: 5-round magazine (factory standard)
- Sights: No iron sights included; flat-top upper receiver with Picatinny rail for optics
- Stock: Adjustable collapsible stock (Magpul or similar) with pistol grip
- Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 aluminum, Type III hardcoat anodized finish
- Muzzle: Threaded 5/8×24 for muzzle devices or suppressors
- Gas Block: Low-profile, pinned
- Trigger: Mil-spec single-stage, approximately 5.5 to 7.5 lbs pull
Feature Deep-Dive
The 20-inch barrel on the Bushmaster BF 450 is a deliberate choice for the .450 Bushmaster cartridge. This length provides sufficient dwell time for complete powder burn, which translates to consistent muzzle velocities in the 2,200 to 2,300 feet per second range with 250-grain projectiles. The heavy barrel profile helps manage heat dissipation during extended shooting sessions, reducing the likelihood of point-of-impact shift as the barrel warms. This is a practical advantage for hunters who may fire multiple sight-in shots before season or for shooters running drills at the range.
The direct impingement gas system is tuned specifically for the .450 Bushmaster’s pressure curve, which is higher than 5.56 NATO but lower than many magnum rifle cartridges. Bushmaster engineers the gas port size and buffer weight to ensure reliable cycling with a variety of factory ammunition, from 250-grain soft points to 200-grain hollow points. The 5-round magazine capacity is a factory standard, designed to comply with hunting regulations in states that limit magazine size for straight-wall cartridges. While aftermarket magazines are available, the factory magazine provides consistent feeding with the cartridge’s rimmed case design.
The flat-top receiver with a full-length Picatinny rail gives the shooter flexibility in optic selection. Whether you prefer a low-power variable scope for still-hunting or a red dot for close-range timber work, the rail provides a stable mounting platform. The lack of iron sights reduces clutter and weight, but you can add backup iron sights if desired. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum receiver is a standard choice for durability, and the Type III hardcoat anodizing resists corrosion and wear from field exposure.
The adjustable stock allows the shooter to customize length of pull for different clothing layers or shooting positions. This is particularly useful for hunters who may wear heavy jackets in cold weather. The pistol grip improves ergonomics and control, especially when using a two-point sling for carry. The threaded muzzle (5/8×24) is compatible with a range of muzzle brakes, compensators, or suppressors, though note that the .450 Bushmaster is already a relatively low-recoil cartridge for its power level, so a brake is not strictly necessary for most shooters.
Bushmaster’s quality control on this model includes a pinned low-profile gas block for secure alignment, a chrome-lined bolt carrier group for easier cleaning and durability, and a mil-spec trigger that is serviceable for hunting and general shooting. The trigger is not a match-grade unit, but it is consistent and can be upgraded if you prefer a lighter pull. The overall fit and finish are functional, with no sharp edges or gaps that compromise handling. This is a rifle built to work in the field, not to sit in a safe.
Ideal Use Cases
Hunting: The BF 450 is primarily designed for hunting medium to large game such as deer, black bear, and feral hogs. The .450 Bushmaster delivers a 250-grain bullet with energy comparable to a .45-70 Government at 150 yards, making it effective for shots inside 200 yards. The straight-wall cartridge meets legal requirements in several states, including Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Iowa, where bottleneck rifle cartridges are prohibited for deer hunting.
Range Shooting: The moderate recoil and semi-automatic action make this rifle pleasant to shoot for extended range sessions. The 20-inch barrel provides a good balance between maneuverability and sight radius, and the Picatinny rail allows easy mounting of optics for precision work. It is a practical choice for shooters who want to practice with hunting loads or simply enjoy the .450 Bushmaster’s manageable recoil.
Home Defense: While not a primary role, the BF 450 can serve as a home defense rifle due to its semi-automatic capacity and substantial terminal ballistics. The .450 Bushmaster’s heavy bullet at moderate velocity reduces the risk of overpenetration compared to lighter, faster rounds, though it is still a powerful cartridge and users should assess their living situation and backstop accordingly.
Competition: This rifle is not optimized for high-volume competition like 3-Gun, but it can be used in local matches that include a straight-wall division or for fun shoots. The 5-round magazine capacity limits its use in stages requiring high round counts, but it is suitable for single-shot or limited-round events.
Compatibility Notes
Ammunition: The .450 Bushmaster is a SAAMI-spec cartridge, and the BF 450 cycles most factory loads from brands like Hornady, Federal, Remington, and Winchester. Avoid handloads that exceed SAAMI pressure limits. Use ammunition with a bullet weight between 200 and 260 grains for reliable feeding and consistent accuracy.
Holsters: This is a long gun, not a handgun, so standard holsters do not apply. For transport, use a scabbard or gun case. For sling carry, use a two-point sling attached to the rear stock and front swivel or handguard mount.
Magazines: The rifle uses proprietary 5-round magazines designed for the .450 Bushmaster. Aftermarket options from companies like Lancer or ASC may be compatible, but test for fit and feeding before relying on them. The magazine well is standard AR-15 pattern, but the magazine itself is specific to the .450 cartridge due to the rimmed case.
Accessories: The Picatinny rail accepts standard scope rings, red dot mounts, and iron sights. The threaded muzzle accepts 5/8×24 muzzle devices. The handguard is a standard AR-15 pattern, so you can replace it with free-float or quad-rail options if desired, but ensure the gas block clearance is maintained. The stock and pistol grip are mil-spec and can be swapped for other AR-15 compatible components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle be shipped to my home in the United States?
A: Yes, we ship to all 50 states, but the firearm must be transferred through a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. We do not ship directly to residences. After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer’s information. Some states and localities have additional restrictions on .450 Bushmaster rifles, so check your local laws before ordering.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you purchase the rifle, we will ship it to the FFL dealer you provide. The dealer will process the transfer, which includes running a background check (NICS) and completing the required paperwork. You will pay the dealer a transfer fee, which varies by location (typically $25 to $75). You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun from a dealer, though some states require you to be 21. We do not release the firearm until the dealer confirms the transfer is lawful.
Q: What ammunition is compatible with the Bushmaster BF 450?
A: The rifle is designed for .450 Bushmaster ammunition that meets SAAMI specifications. It cycles factory loads from major manufacturers with bullet weights from 200 to 260 grains. We recommend using ammunition with a muzzle velocity between 1,900 and 2,300 fps for reliable function. Do not use .450 Bushmaster ammunition that is not marked as such, and avoid handloads unless you are experienced with this cartridge. The rifle is not compatible with .45 ACP, .458 SOCOM, or other similar cartridges.
Q: What warranty does Bushmaster provide for this rifle?
A: Bushmaster offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty covers the receiver, barrel, bolt, and other components, but does not cover normal wear and tear, modifications, or damage from improper ammunition. If you experience a defect, contact Bushmaster’s customer service for repair or replacement. We recommend registering your warranty with Bushmaster after purchase.
Q: What is your return policy for this firearm?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we cannot accept returns on firearms unless there is a manufacturer defect that is confirmed by Bushmaster. If the rifle is defective, we will work with you to facilitate a warranty claim. If you change your mind after purchase, we cannot accept the return, but you may be able to
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