Rating: 
Summary: A great resource for any shooter!
Review: This is a wonderful book to just sit and read for pleasure as well as being a great reference resource. The history of each cartridge is discussed, as well as the author's personal thoughts on each cartridge. The author is a clear, concise writer without being dull, and the range of cartridges covered is very complete. I have used it often. I am currently reading Peter Hathaway Capstick's book, "Death in the Long Grass", which tells of his African hunting experiences. Capstick mentions several dangerous game cartridges, such as the .375 H&H Magnum and the .470 Nitro Express. I looked both up in this book and read about their histories. One very cool thing about the book is that each cartridge is pictured actual size. These big game cartridges are as big as cigars and go about 300 to 400 grain in weight (compared to one of my favorite cartridges, 30-30 win, which is usually about 150 grain). Included in the book are obsolete cartridges and those fascinating wildcat cartridges, such as the author's own creation, called the "thermos bottle" which must be seen to be believed. If firearm cartridges interest you for any reason you should have this book.
Rating: 
Summary: Disappointing writing
Review: While the comprehensive collection of data and photographs is commendable, Mr. Barnes and the editors opinionated and frequently incorrect writing is entirely innappropriate for what is essentially a collection of factual information. Two examples will suffice: His caption, on page 14, 'It does not make sense to be overgunned' is contradicted by much experience and the published work of his assitant editor, Ray Ordorica. It is indicative of too much bench shooting experience and frankly, cliche American rifle wisdom, that simply does not bear repeating even in the carefully guised form in which it is poured. There are thoughtful gunners and writers who see every reason to get comfortable shooting larger caliber weapons at North American and certainly African game. They deserve better than being branded as having 'no sense.' The paragraph under the ten gauge, page 402, is pure hogs wallow. It makes me wonder if he has ever put 50 rounds through a 3-1/2 inch magnum 12 gauge over under? There are myriad reasons to prefer the larger bored and heavier ten gauges to an over loaded twelve gauge. Pattern consistency and recoil reduction being but a few. What were the editors thinking? Did they? Perhaps now that Barnes has long passed the new Editors can clean up that sort of misplaced drivel and stick to what the book does well. FACTS Borrow a copy from the library for reference or you can buy mine.
Rating:
Summary: Very Good ! ! !
Review: Wonderfull book very well illustrated and explained ! practical and usefull to any gun owner or enthusiastic.
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