500 S&w ammo Archives

The .500 S&W Magnum is one of the most powerful handgun cartridges ever produced, known for its stopping power and large size. Developed by Smith & Wesson in collaboration with Cor-Bon in 2003, it was introduced with the Smith & Wesson Model 500 revolver. Here’s an overview of the key features of the .500 S&W ammo:

1. Cartridge Specifications:

Bullet Diameter: .500 inches (12.7 mm)
Case Length: 1.625 inches (41.3 mm)
Overall Length: 2.30 inches (58.4 mm)
Maximum Pressure: 60,000 psi
Rim Diameter: .556 inches (14.1 mm)
Bullet Weights: Ranges from 275 grains to over 700 grains, allowing for a variety of uses.

2. Performance and Power:

The .500 S&W Magnum is known for its tremendous energy and stopping power, producing muzzle energies in the range of 2,300 to 3,000 ft-lbs.
With bullet velocities ranging from 1,200 to 2,200 fps, it can deliver significant force over both short and long ranges.
Some loads can reach over 2,800 ft-lbs of energy, which is far greater than most standard handgun calibers.
It can be used for extreme hunting applications, including dangerous game like bears, moose, and large boars, or even for personal protection against such animals.

3. Ammo Variants:

Lightweight Loads (275-350 grains): These loads are often designed for high velocity and better penetration. They are generally easier to handle in terms of recoil.
Heavyweight Loads (400-500+ grains): The heavier loads are slower but designed to hit with more devastating force. They are ideal for large game hunting.
Specialty Loads: There are also specialized loads available, including hard cast bullets for deep penetration and jacketed hollow points for maximum expansion.

4. Recoil and Handgun Handling:

Due to its immense power, the .500 S&W Magnum has a notoriously heavy recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters. It requires practice and familiarity to handle well.
Firearms chambered in .500 S&W Magnum are typically large, heavy revolvers, often weighing more than 5 pounds to help mitigate the significant recoil.
Muzzle brakes and compensators are often used on firearms to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise.

5. Usage:

Big Game Hunting: The .500 S&W Magnum is often used by hunters for large game and dangerous game animals, especially where long-range shots are not practical.
Survival & Defense: It’s also carried by some as a backcountry survival handgun for defense against large predators, such as bears, in wilderness areas.
Range Shooting: While it’s not typically a cartridge for casual plinking due to cost and recoil, it can be shot recreationally by those looking for the thrill of firing an extremely powerful handgun.

6. Availability and Cost:

The cost of .500 S&W Magnum ammo tends to be high, with a single round often priced between $2 to $5 or more, depending on the load and manufacturer.
Manufacturers: Several companies produce .500 S&W ammo, including Hornady, Federal, Underwood, Buffalo Bore, and Winchester, providing various loads to suit different needs.

Conclusion:

The .500 S&W Magnum is a specialized cartridge designed for those who need extreme power, whether for big game hunting or protection against large predators. Its combination of massive bullet size, high velocities, and tremendous energy make it one of the most formidable handgun cartridges available. However, its heavy recoil and cost make it a cartridge best suited for experienced shooters with specific needs.