.500 S&W Magnum
An event, not a range gun — ammo runs several dollars a round and the recoil is a bucket-list experience most people check once.
Family
Handgun
Introduced
2003
Origin
Smith & Wesson and Cor-Bon, USA
History
Smith & Wesson and Cor-Bon launched the .500 S&W Magnum in 2003 with the massive X-frame Model 500, deliberately reclaiming the 'most powerful production revolver cartridge' title. It was built for handgun hunting of the largest game and for shooters who simply wanted the top of the chart. It remains the ceiling of mainstream revolver power.
What it's used for
Iconic platforms
Smith & Wesson Model 500 X-frame and a handful of single-shot hunting pistols and big-bore lever guns.
Common load types
Jacketed soft point, bonded hollow point, and hard-cast heavyweights, plus reduced 'shootable' practice loads.
Reference only — not loading data, not ballistics advice, and KitID links to no ammunition sellers. Know your local law before you buy anything that goes bang.