Description
The Smith & Wesson 500 SW 6.5″ Ported Half Lug Barrel, SS Frame, 5 Rd is a purpose-built, large-bore revolver chambered in the massive .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. It features a 6.5-inch barrel with a ported muzzle and a streamlined half-lug frame, all constructed from stainless steel for durability. This configuration offers a balance of formidable power and somewhat improved handling for the most potent production revolver cartridge in the world.
Key Features
- Ported 6.5″ Barrel: Muzzle ports help mitigate the legendary recoil of the .500 S&W Magnum, directing gas upward to reduce muzzle flip.
- Half-Lug Frame: The reduced steel under the barrel shaves off weight compared to full-lug models, improving balance and pointability.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Provides excellent corrosion resistance and strength, crucial for handling high-pressure loads.
- 5-Round Cylinder: The cylinder is chambered for five rounds of .500 S&W Magnum, reflecting the cartridge’s substantial size.
- Integrated Scope Mounting: The frame is drilled and tapped, ready for optic mounts—no gunsmithing required for installation.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .500 S&W Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 6.5 Inches |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Overall Length (Approx.) | 12.5 Inches |
| Weight (Approx.) | 72 oz. (4.5 lbs) |
This revolver is a serious tool built around a specific, overwhelming cartridge. The .500 S&W Magnum generates energy figures that dwarf common hunting rounds, making it capable for any game in North America and beyond. The 6.5-inch barrel length is a practical middle ground, offering better velocity than snub-nose versions while remaining more holster-friendly than the 8 3/8″ or 10.5″ models. With a price point of $1282.15, it sits in a unique value niche. You are paying for an engineered platform to handle the most powerful production revolver round, not for superfluous features. That said, the cost of ownership extends beyond the sticker price—ammunition is expensive, and you’ll want a quality holster from a brand like Diamond D Leather or Simply Rugged for safe carry.
Who This Revolver Is For
This isn’t a general-purpose sidearm. It’s for the hunter pursuing large, dangerous game like bear or buffalo where maximum stopping power is non-negotiable. It’s also for the seasoned handgun enthusiast who wants to experience the pinnacle of revolver power, or for someone in remote areas who needs a definitive last-line defense against large predators. The half-lug design and porting are concessions to shootability, but this remains a specialized, demanding firearm.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: Delivers unmatched stopping power in a revolver package. The porting and half-lug design genuinely help manage recoil compared to non-ported, full-lug versions. Stainless steel is low-maintenance and tough. The integrated mounting system means optics like a Burris or Leupold pistol scope are drop-in ready. It represents a specific kind of value—you get immense capability for your dollar.
Cons: Ammunition cost is extremely high, limiting practice. Recoil is still severe, unsuitable for novice shooters. Its size and weight make it impractical for everyday carry. Holster and accessory options are more limited than for common duty pistols. Here’s the thing—you trade practicality for pure power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this S&W 500 suitable for a first-time handgun owner?
A: Absolutely not. The .500 S&W Magnum’s recoil and report are extreme. This is a firearm for experienced shooters who understand and respect its power. Starting with a .500 is a sure path to developing a flinch and poor shooting habits.
Q: Can you shoot .500 Special ammunition in this revolver?
A: Yes, the Smith & Wesson 500 is designed to safely fire both the full-power .500 S&W Magnum and the lower-recoil .500 S&W Special cartridges. Using .500 Specials is a great way to reduce cost and recoil for practice, though they are still not cheap.
Q: What’s the main advantage of the half-lug barrel?
A: Weight reduction. A full-lug barrel adds significant mass out front, which can help with recoil but hurts balance and quick handling. The half-lug, coming in around 72 ounces, makes the revolver feel less muzzle-heavy, which many shooters prefer for carrying and off-hand shooting. It’s a practical tradeoff.
For the shooter who needs definitive power in a revolver, the Smith & Wesson 500 in this 6.5″ ported configuration offers a specific, high-value proposition. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, and an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. If your needs align with what this powerhouse delivers, you can find it available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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