Description
The 500 S&W Magnum Two Tone 8.37 in. is a modern revolver chambered for the massive .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, featuring a stainless steel frame with a black cylinder and barrel shroud. It’s built on Smith & Wesson’s X-Frame, designed from the ground up to handle the extreme pressures of this caliber, offering a blend of raw power and surprisingly manageable recoil in a robust, no-nonsense package.
Key Features
- Chambered in the formidable .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum.
- Two-tone stainless and black finish for a distinctive look.
- 8.37-inch barrel to maximize velocity and aid in recoil management.
- Built on the massive, purpose-designed X-Frame.
- Compensated barrel to help mitigate muzzle rise.
- Hogue Sorbothane grips for superior recoil absorption.
Specs & Details
| Caliber | .500 S&W Magnum |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 8.37 inches |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Overall Length | Approx. 15 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 72 oz. (unloaded) |
Look, this isn’t a range toy you’ll put a thousand rounds through in an afternoon. I’ve put a couple of cylinders of various loads through this model, and it demands respect. The heft of that 72-ounce frame soaks up a lot of the bite, and the compensator really does work to keep the muzzle down. The trigger, both in single and double action, is surprisingly smooth for a factory offering on a gun this size. It’s drop-in ready for its intended purpose—no gunsmithing required to go from the case to the backcountry. At a price of $1016.49, you’re investing in a purpose-built tool with serious engineering behind it.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the hunter pursuing large, dangerous game where stopping power is non-negotiable. It’s also for the serious handgun enthusiast who appreciates the pinnacle of modern revolver cartridge development and wants the most powerful production handgun available. If you handload, the .500 S&W platform offers an incredible canvas for experimentation. It’s not a concealed carry piece or a plinker; it’s a specialist’s instrument.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Unmatched stopping power in a production handgun. The X-Frame is incredibly strong. The two-tone finish is both attractive and functional, with the stainless frame being easy to maintain. Recoil, while substantial, is more of a big push than a sharp snap due to the weight and design. The Hogue grips are excellent.
Cons: Ammunition is expensive and can be hard to find locally. The sheer size and weight make it a dedicated field gun, not an everyday carry. That said, the five-round capacity is standard for the caliber but a reminder that each shot must count. It’s a handful, literally and figuratively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of recoil should I expect?
A: It’s significant, but manageable with proper technique. The gun’s mass and compensator transform what could be a punishing experience into a stout, controlled push. It’s more of a shove than a snap. Using lighter factory loads or developing mild handloads can make practice much more pleasant.
Q: Is this suitable for bear defense?
A: Absolutely. The .500 S&W Magnum, with appropriate hard-cast or monolithic bullet loads, is considered one of the most effective handgun cartridges for stopping large bears. The 8.37-inch barrel helps achieve the velocities needed for deep penetration. It’s a top-tier choice for Alaskan guides or anyone in big bear country.
Q: Can I use .500 Special ammunition in it?
A: Yes, you can. The .500 S&W Magnum chamber will safely fire the shorter, lower-recoil .500 Special rounds. This is a great way to introduce new shooters to the platform or for extended practice sessions without the full-power punishment. Think of it like shooting .38 Special in a .357 Magnum.
This 500 S&W Magnum Two Tone 8.37 in. is a statement piece that backs up its looks with earth-moving performance. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, requiring an FFL transfer for firearm purchases. If your needs call for the absolute maximum in handgun power, this Smith & Wesson is the benchmark.
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