Re: .480 Ruger
not phased out totally. Lost interest/ market when 500/460 etc came out. Also many really wanted it in a single action platform from ruger.. did not happen.
I currently own a Super redhawk with the 7.5 barrel in 480. This is my second one. First one got shot alot, barrel bobbed to 4 inches etc. This one sits in the safe, as I usually grab a semi custom 4 5/8 ruger superblackawk for all outdoors stuff.
Recoil is manageable, slightly more the 44mag, not as harsh as 454(have had 454 in same platform)
Brass is either hornady or starline, ammo is costly.
If I were to spend the money over again I would be looking at a 460 closely or a 475 line by freedom arms..
Good luck