500 S&W AND BULK 500 S&W AMMO

About 500 S&W Ammo

The 500 S&W Magnum is one of the most powerful handgun cartridges ever developed, engineered for maximum stopping power and versatility.

Introduced in 2003 by Smith & Wesson in partnership with Cor-Bon Ammunition, it was created to give hunters and outdoorsmen a revolver cartridge capable of taking down the world’s most dangerous game.

Originally chambered for the Smith & Wesson Model 500, the 500 S&W Magnum round quickly gained a reputation for its devastating terminal ballistics and versatility in the field.

It is available in a wide range of bullet weights, typically from 275 grains for flatter trajectories and faster velocities, up to 700 grains for extreme penetration and energy transfer.

Popular options include 300 gr JHP for general hunting, 350 gr JSP for large game, and 500–700 gr hard-cast loads for dangerous game defense.

Several top ammunition manufacturers produce high-quality .500 S&W Magnum ammo, including Hornady, Federal Premium, Buffalo Bore, HSM, and Winchester.

These offerings range from premium hunting loads with expanding bullets for rapid energy transfer to hard-cast flat nose rounds for deep penetration in heavy-boned game.

Its introduction revolutionized handgun hunting, allowing sportsmen to pursue animals once thought exclusive to large-caliber rifles.

Today, the .500 S&W Magnum stands as a benchmark in handgun performance, combining unmatched power with modern ballistic innovation.

Common .500 S&W Ammunition Types

The .500 S&W Magnum offers a wide range of ammunition types to suit different shooting applications, from hunting the largest game on earth to specialized defensive loads.

Here are the most common variations you’ll find:

Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)

Designed for controlled expansion on impact, JHP rounds are ideal for hunting large game where rapid energy transfer is essential.
Popular in weights like 300–350 grains, they offer a balance between velocity and stopping power.

Jacketed Soft Point (JSP)

JSP ammunition features a partially exposed lead tip, promoting deeper penetration while still expanding in soft tissue.
It’s commonly used for medium-to-large game hunting and is available in grain weights such as 325–440 grains.

Hard-Cast Lead Flat Nose (LFN)

Favored for dangerous game defense, hard-cast loads are designed for maximum penetration through thick hide and bone.
These heavy loads, often 500–700 grains, are essential for protection in bear country or extreme hunting scenarios.

Polymer-Tipped Hunting Loads

Using an aerodynamic polymer tip for improved ballistic performance, these rounds deliver flat trajectories and controlled expansion.
Ideal for hunters pursuing large game at longer distances.

Reduced-Recoil Loads

While still powerful, reduced-recoil 500 S&W ammunition offers less punishing recoil for target practice or extended shooting sessions.
These typically use lighter projectiles, such as 275–300 grain bullets, to make shooting more manageable.

Specialty Loads

Manufacturers also produce specialty rounds, such as monolithic copper solids for deep penetration, or frangible bullets for steel target shooting where ricochet reduction is important.

Popular Uses for 500 S&W Ammo

From extreme hunting to specialized defense, here are the most common uses for this legendary caliber:

Big Game Hunting

With its massive energy and deep penetration, 500 S&W Magnum ammunition is a top choice for hunting large and tough game such as moose, elk, and wild boar. Heavy grain bullets deliver exceptional knockdown power at close to medium ranges.

Dangerous Game Defense

In bear country or other high-risk environments, hard-cast and solid bullet loads in .500 S&W are relied upon for their ability to punch through thick hide and bone, making them ideal for defense against grizzly bears, bison, or other dangerous wildlife.

Long-Range Handgun Shooting

While primarily a close-range powerhouse, certain polymer-tipped and aerodynamic hunting loads allow shooters to stretch the range of the .500 S&W Magnum for precision shots on large game.

Specialized Handgun Hunting Competitions

The cartridge’s incredible ballistic performance makes it a favorite in big-bore handgun competitions where accuracy, recoil management, and raw power are put to the test.

Wildlife Management

Professional guides and wildlife officers often use 500 S&W Magnum ammo in situations where immediate stopping power is necessary for controlling aggressive or dangerous animals.

Target Shooting & Recreational Use

While not for the faint of heart, experienced shooters enjoy using the .500 S&W Magnum for recreational shooting, pushing their limits and enjoying the challenge of controlling one of the world’s most powerful revolver rounds.

500 S&W Ammunition Features

Below are the most common features that make this cartridge one of the most capable big-bore handgun rounds in the world:

Heavy Grain Weights

Typically ranging from 275 grains to over 700 grains, 500 S&W Magnum ammo offers unparalleled energy delivery, with heavier bullets designed for maximum penetration and stopping power on large and dangerous game.

High Muzzle Energy

Capable of producing over 2,500 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, this cartridge delivers some of the most devastating impact potential of any commercially available handgun round.

Diverse Bullet Designs

Available in a wide range of projectile types, including Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP), Soft Point (SP), Flat Nose, and Hard-Cast Lead, allowing shooters to select the perfect load for hunting, defense, or range use.

Reinforced Brass Casings

Most .500 S&W Magnum cartridges use extra-strong, reloadable brass cases engineered to handle the extreme chamber pressures of this powerful round.

Optimized for Revolver Platforms

Specifically designed for large-frame revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Model 500, these cartridges are built to function flawlessly in heavy-duty, big-bore firearms.

High-Performance Hunting Loads

Premium hunting loads often feature bonded bullets or solid copper projectiles to maintain weight retention, penetrate deeply, and expand reliably on impact.

Specialty Loads for Reduced Recoil

While most loads deliver maximum power, there are also lighter recoil options for shooters seeking improved control and comfort without sacrificing performance for certain applications.

500 S&W Ammo FAQs

Question: What is 500 S&W Magnum ammo?
Answer: The .500 S&W Magnum is one of the most powerful handgun cartridges in the world, developed by Smith & Wesson in collaboration with Cor-Bon in 2003. It was designed for maximum stopping power, making it a top choice for hunting large and dangerous game, as well as for extreme handgun performance enthusiasts.

Question: Is .500 S&W Magnum ammo the same as 500 S&W ammo or S&W 500 ammo?
Answer: Yes, .500 S&W ammo, 500 S&W ammo, S&W 500 ammo, and 500 S&W Magnum ammo all refer to the same cartridge. The different names are simply variations in how shooters and retailers describe it.

Question: What is the typical grain weight for .500 S&W Magnum ammunition?
Answer: .500 S&W Magnum ammo comes in a variety of bullet weights, typically ranging from 275 grains for lighter, faster loads to 700 grains for maximum penetration and power. Popular options include 350gr, 400gr, and 500gr bullets for different hunting and target needs.

Question: What is 500 S&W Magnum ammo used for?
Answer: This ammunition is primarily used for:

Big game hunting (bear, moose, bison, etc.)
Dangerous game defense
Extreme long-range handgun shooting
Recreational big-bore target shooting

Question: Which firearms use 500 S&W Magnum ammo?
Answer: The most famous firearm chambered for this round is the Smith & Wesson Model 500 revolver, though other large-frame revolvers and specialty firearms are also available from brands like Magnum Research and custom builders.

Question: Is .500 S&W Magnum ammo good for self-defense?
Answer: While technically capable, .500 S&W ammunition is generally considered excessive for personal defense due to its extreme recoil, over-penetration risk, and cost. It is far better suited for hunting or protection against large predators.

Question: Where can I buy 500 S&W Magnum ammo for sale?
Answer: You can find 500 S&W Magnum ammo for sale from most major ammunition retailers, both online and in-store. Popular brands include Hornady, Federal Premium, Buffalo Bore, and Underwood Ammo. Availability may vary, so checking current stock and sales regularly is recommended.