The Future of Big-Bore Firearms: Trends We Want to See

Written by Ashley Burgess Gall, Laura Burgess Marketing, on behalf of Big Horn Armory

At Big Horn Armory, we’re always thinking about the future of big-bore firearms—where the industry is headed, what innovations are on the horizon, and, most importantly, what trends should gain traction. While many firearm trends today focus on lightweight materials, modularity, and smart optics, we believe there are key opportunities that directly impact big-bore rifles and their role in the hunting and shooting world. Here are three major trends we’d like to see take hold.

1. Expanding the Understanding of Big Bore Cartridges for Hunting

Big bore rifles have traditionally been associated with hunting large, tough, and dangerous game—think bears, buffalo, and other animals requiring significant stopping power. However, big-bore cartridges are just as effective for deer, antelope, and other North American game. A 460 S&W Magnum or .500 Auto Max isn’t just for taking down a Cape buffalo; it can be a highly effective and ethical choice for smaller game, offering quick, clean kills with minimal suffering.

A broader acceptance of big bore calibers for all types of hunting would not only validate their effectiveness but also expand their market. Many hunters stick with traditional mid-sized calibers like .308 or .30-06 because of longstanding habits rather than performance-based decisions. The hunting community should recognize that big bore rounds, when used properly, provide an excellent balance of power, accuracy, and humane efficiency.

2. The Potential for a Box Magazine-Fed Lever Gun

Lever-action rifles have long been synonymous with tubular magazines, but that may be changing. Recently, American Rifleman featured a box magazine-fed lever gun, an innovation that could bridge the gap between lever guns and modern semi-autos.

At Big Horn Armory, we see this as an exciting potential development. A box magazine-fed lever-action rifle, possibly built on an AR-10 platform, could offer the best of both worlds—classic lever-action operation with the rapid reload capabilities of a detachable box magazine. This could be especially beneficial for hunters who need quick follow-up shots or those using specialty big-bore cartridges.

Developing such a rifle would be relatively straightforward, as an AR-10 lower provides an ideal foundation. A rugged, modernized lever gun that accepts box magazines could open up a whole new market segment and provide customers with a firearm that blends tradition with modern functionality.

3. Riding the Lever-Action Resurgence

Lever-action rifles are experiencing a major resurgence. Long seen as a relic of the past, lever guns are now being rediscovered by hunters, sport shooters, and even tactical operators. More companies are investing in new lever-action models, adding tactical features such as rails, adjustable stocks, and suppressor-ready barrels.

Big Horn Armory has always been at the forefront of big-bore lever-action rifles, and we intend to ride this trend while maintaining our commitment to premium craftsmanship. Our Model 89 and Model 90 rifles are already leading the charge, but we see room for further innovation. Whether it’s integrating modern materials, optimizing ergonomics, or refining our proprietary big bore calibers, we believe the future of lever guns is bright—and we’re excited to be part of it.

Looking Ahead

The big-bore firearm industry is evolving, and while we respect modern trends in firearm technology, we believe the future lies in making big-bore rifles more versatile, accessible, and appreciated. Whether through increasing awareness of their hunting applications, exploring box magazine-fed designs, or capitalizing on the growing lever-action movement, we’re committed to pushing big-bore firearms forward.

At Big Horn Armory, we don’t just follow trends—we create them. Stay tuned for more innovations as we continue to refine and expand the world of big-bore rifles.

About Big Horn Armory:

Big Horn Armory was founded in 2008 with the expressed intention of designing a Browning-type lever-action gun chambered in 500 Smith & Wesson Magnum. The Big Horn Armory Model 89, made in America, closely follows the work of John Browning with refinements courtesy of modern metallurgy and machining capabilities. The first rifles began shipping in September of 2012 and since then, BHA has added to their big bore lineup with a Model 90 Carbine in 460 S&W, the Model 90A in 454 Casull, the Model 90B in .45 Colt, the Model 89A in 500 Linebaugh and the Model 89B in .475 Linebaugh. In 2017, Big Horn Armory took a departure from its lever-action series and developed the AR500 Auto Max, the most powerful short-range, semi-auto based on an AR .308 platform.