The .500 S&W Magnum: A Powerful Legacy in Handgun Cartridges
The .500 S&W Magnum, also known as the 12.7×41mmSR, is a revolutionary .50 caliber semi-rimmed revolver cartridge. Developed by Cor-Bon in collaboration with the Smith & Wesson “X-Gun” engineering team, this cartridge made its debut in February 2003 during the SHOT Show. Aimed at being the most powerful handgun cartridge ever created, the .500 S&W Magnum was designed for use in the robust Smith & Wesson Model 500 X-frame revolver, with the capability to take down any North American game species.
History of the Cartridge
Smith & Wesson has a storied history in the development of powerful handgun cartridges, including the iconic .357 S&W Magnum and the .44 Remington Magnum. However, by 1960, the .44 Magnum was outdone by the more potent .454 Casull. In 1971, a surge in demand for the Model 29 revolver chambered in .44 Magnum boosted sales, largely fueled by its prominent role in the film “Dirty Harry.” The introduction of the .500 S&W Magnum allowed Smith & Wesson to reclaim its title of “most powerful handgun,” driving further sales and interest in their products.
The journey to the .500 S&W Magnum began when S&W product manager Herb Belin proposed the idea of a more powerful cartridge to the sales team, leading to development approval from then-president Bob Scott. Collaborating with Cor-Bon and a dedicated engineering team, the Model 500 revolver and .500 S&W Magnum cartridge were introduced to the public in early 2003. This new cartridge was designed from the ground up to surpass any previous production handgun cartridge in power.
Design and Specifications
The .500 S&W Magnum is a semi-rimmed cartridge optimized for revolvers, allowing smoother and more reliable cycling through tubular magazines. Despite its semi-rimmed design, it struggles to cycle through box magazines due to potential locking issues in the extractor groove. The cartridge features a bullet diameter of 0.500 inches (12.7 mm), ensuring compliance with regulations to avoid being classified as a destructive device.
Boasting a maximum working pressure of 60,000 psi (4,100 bar), most factory ammunition is limited to 50,000 psi (3,400 bar) to facilitate easier extraction of fired cases. The Smith & Wesson Model 500 revolver is built to endure significant pressures, with regular proof-load testing conducted at 20% above standard pressure levels.
Performance Metrics
Upon its introduction, the .500 S&W Magnum was hailed as the most powerful handgun cartridge in existence, capable of delivering impressive muzzle energy. Manufacturers like Cor-Bon offer a variety of loads, including options like a 325-grain bullet at 1,800 ft/s and a 440-grain bullet at 1,625 ft/s. In comparison, the newer .460 S&W Magnum cartridge delivers slightly lower velocities but also serves as a competent competitor in the realm of powerful handgun cartridges.
With bullet weights ranging from 265 grains to a staggering 740 grains, the .500 S&W Magnum caters to a variety of shooting applications, from big game hunting to defensive purposes. For instance, the heaviest bullets, developed by Tazza Bullets, mimic the performance of a .50 BMG projectile, producing significant muzzle energy exceeding 2,000 ft·lbf.
Sporting Applications
Originally conceived for hunting, the .500 S&W Magnum excels in taking down large game, including Alaskan brown bears, American bison, and even dangerous African species like elephants and buffalo. Its high sectional density and availability of heavy bullets make it a formidable choice for hunting thick-skinned game.
In North America, the cartridge has gained traction among hunters targeting species such as moose, elk, and feral hogs. Its versatility allows for the use of lighter bullets for smaller game while heavy bullets are effective for larger, dangerous game. Smith & Wesson markets the Model 500 revolver as “A Hunting Handgun For Any Game Animal Walking,” highlighting its capability.
Firearms and Compatibility
The .500 S&W Magnum is compatible with a range of firearms, including various revolvers and single-shot rifles like the Thompson-Center Encore. Notably, Big Horn Armory has developed the Model 89 carbine and rifle, offering hunters and shooters a unique platform chambered for this powerful cartridge.
Smith & Wesson has even released shorter-barreled versions of the Model 500, including the lighter-weight 2.75-inch-barrel variant designed for easier handling in survival and defensive situations. With advancements in ammunition technology, options such as Cor-Bon’s .500 S&W Special provide a lower recoil alternative while maintaining compatibility with the original .500 S&W Magnum firearms.
Conclusion
The .500 S&W Magnum stands as a testament to firearm engineering, offering unparalleled power and versatility for hunters and enthusiasts alike. Its legacy continues to influence the development of high-performance handgun cartridges, solidifying its place in the annals of handgun history. Whether utilized for hunting, defense, or competitive shooting, the .500 S&W Magnum delivers an experience unlike any other.