Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver

In 2003 the gunsmiths and engineers at Smith & Wesson wanted to deliver maximum power for serious handgun hunters. The power they sought required an entirely new frame, the massive “X-Frame™,” and was the basis for the new Model S&W500™, the most powerful production revolver in the world. This ushered in the era of the “big gun” and was only the beginning.

Most Powerful Production Revolver in the World Today
Massive .500 S&W Magnum® Cartridge with 2600 ft/lb. Muzzle Energy
A Hunting Handgun For Any Game Animal Walking
Recoil Tamed with Effective Muzzle Compensator
Internal Lock
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: S&W500™
Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum®
Capacity: 5 Rounds
Barrel Length: 8.38” / 21.3 cm
Front Sight: Interchangeable
Rear Sight: Adjustable
Grip: Synthetic
Action: Single/Double Action
Frame Size: Extra Large – Exposed Hammer
Finish: Satin Stainless
Overall Length: 15” / 38.1 cm
Material: Stainless Steel Frame Stainless Steel Cylinder
Weight Empty: 71.9 oz / 2 034.4 g
Purpose: Handgun Hunting

For ultimate power and velocity, there’s nothing even close to an X-Frame model handgun.

Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver — The Pinnacle of Handgun Power

The Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver is widely recognized as one of the most powerful production revolvers ever built. Engineered by Smith & Wesson, it is chambered for the massive .500 S&W Magnum, a round designed to push the boundaries of handgun performance for hunting and specialized field use.

At TASTYTSUNAMI, this listing is optimized for high-intent search terms such as “smith & wesson model 500 magnum revolver,” “smith & wesson model 500 double action revolver,” and “smith & wesson model 500 magnum 4 inch revolver.” This is not a concealed carry firearm. It is a purpose-built powerhouse designed for hunting, protection in extreme environments, and recoil-resistant shooting enthusiasts.

The X-Frame: Built for Extreme Pressure

Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver

The Model 500 is built on Smith & Wesson’s X-Frame—the largest revolver frame the company has ever produced.

Key design strengths:

Reinforced stainless steel construction
Oversized cylinder to handle extreme pressure
Reinforced top strap for structural integrity
Engineered recoil management geometry

This frame exists for one reason: to safely contain the immense energy of the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge.

Unmatched Power in a Handgun Platform

The .500 S&W Magnum is not an incremental upgrade—it is a leap in handgun ballistics.

Typical performance characteristics:

Extremely high muzzle energy
Large-diameter heavy projectiles
Designed for large game hunting
Effective at extended handgun ranges

This is why searches like “smith & wesson 500 magnum revolvers” and “smith & wesson model 500 magnum revolver with compensator” remain popular among hunters and enthusiasts.

Compensated and Braked Variants

Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver

Many configurations include a factory compensator or muzzle brake system. These features help manage recoil by redirecting gas pressure upward and rearward.

Benefits include:

Reduced muzzle rise
Improved follow-up shot control
Better stability during heavy loads
Enhanced shooting comfort

Without compensation, recoil is still manageable but extremely stout—this is a true magnum powerhouse.

4-Inch Barrel Configuration: Compact Power

The smith & wesson model 500 magnum 4 inch revolver variant compresses extreme power into a shorter platform.

Advantages:

Improved portability in field holsters
Easier maneuverability in tight environments
Still retains full magnum performance
Heavier recoil impulse due to shorter barrel

This configuration is popular among experienced shooters who want maximum power in a more compact revolver footprint.

Double-Action Operation

The Model 500 operates as a double-action revolver, allowing:

Rapid firing without manual cocking
Single-action precision option when needed
Strong lockup for extreme pressure loads
Smooth cylinder indexing despite large size

The trigger is intentionally heavy and deliberate—this is a design choice for safety and control.

Recoil: A Defining Experience

Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver

Recoil from the Model 500 is often described as:

Heavy but manageable with proper technique
More of a strong push than a snap
Dependent on load selection and barrel length

Proper stance and grip are essential. This is not a casual range revolver—it is a specialized magnum platform.

Intended Use: Hunting and Specialized Defense

The Model 500 is designed primarily for:

Big-game handgun hunting (bear, boar, elk in certain regions)
Backcountry defense in wilderness environments
Metallic silhouette shooting
Firearm enthusiasts seeking extreme-performance revolvers

It is not intended for concealed carry or casual recreational shooting.

Accuracy Potential

Despite its power, the Model 500 is capable of strong accuracy when properly controlled.

Contributors include:

Heavy barrel mass reducing vibration
Adjustable sights for precise zero
Consistent cylinder lockup
High-quality barrel machining

With proper ammunition and technique, it performs impressively at extended handgun distances.

Build Quality and Durability

The stainless steel construction ensures:

Resistance to corrosion in harsh environments
Structural integrity under repeated magnum loads
Long service life with proper maintenance

This is a revolver built for decades of heavy use.

Maintenance Considerations

Due to powerful cartridge use:

Regular cleaning of cylinder chambers is essential
Barrel and forcing cone inspection is recommended
Lubrication of moving parts ensures smooth operation
Muzzle brake ports should be kept free of fouling

Serial Numbers and Model Identification

Searches like “smith and wesson revolver serial numbers” and “smith and wesson revolver models list” reflect collector and ownership interest in Smith & Wesson’s long production history.

The Model 500 is part of the modern X-Frame family and stands at the top of Smith & Wesson’s revolver engineering evolution.

Typical Specifications

Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
Action: Double-action revolver
Frame: X-Frame stainless steel
Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel: Available in multiple lengths (including 4-inch variant)
Sights: Adjustable rear, high-visibility front
Optional: Compensator / muzzle brake models

Why Enthusiasts Choose the Model 500

Common reasons include:

Extreme handgun power
Hunting capability for large game
Engineering novelty and prestige
Recoil challenge and shooting experience

It is often regarded as a “bucket list” revolver.

Integration

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The TASTYTSUNAMI Perspective

At TASTYTSUNAMI, the Smith & Wesson Model 500 represents the absolute upper tier of revolver engineering. It is a specialist tool built for shooters who want maximum handgun performance without compromise.

Final Thoughts

The Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver is not defined by convenience or concealability—it is defined by power, engineering, and purpose. Whether used for hunting or as a statement piece in a serious collection, it remains one of the most iconic and formidable revolvers ever produced.

For those researching “smith & wesson model 500 magnum revolver review” or comparing large-frame magnum handguns, this model stands alone at the top of the performance spectrum.

smith & wesson 500 magnum revolvers

Smith & Wesson Model 500 Magnum Revolver with Compensator