500 S&W Magnum Ammo For Sale

The .500 S&W Magnum is the heavyweight champion of production handgun
cartridges — a massive, hard-hitting round designed to take any game animal on
earth and stand as the ultimate big-bore revolver cartridge. Built for the
biggest game, the toughest bear country, and shooters who demand maximum power,
the .500 S&W delivers energy that rivals rifle cartridges from a handgun. At
Trigger Ammo Store, we carry .500 S&W Magnum ammunition for hunters and big-bore
enthusiasts who want the most powerful loads available.

What Is the 500 S&W Magnum?

Introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2003 alongside the massive X-Frame revolver,
the .500 S&W Magnum was created to be the most powerful production handgun
cartridge in the world. It fires an enormous .500-caliber bullet at high velocity,
generating tremendous energy and penetration — enough to take the largest and most
dangerous game animals on the planet. It remains the benchmark for big-bore
handgun power, a cartridge built for those who want no compromise in handgun
stopping power.

What Is 500 S&W Good For?

Big & Dangerous Game Hunting

The .500 S&W can ethically take virtually any game animal, from elk and moose
to the largest, most dangerous game — a true handgun-hunting powerhouse.

Bear Defense

For backcountry and big-bear country, heavy hard-cast .500 S&W loads offer the
deepest penetration and maximum authority available in a handgun.

Big-Bore Enthusiasts

For shooters who simply want the most powerful production handgun cartridge,
the .500 S&W is the ultimate expression of big-bore performance.

Types of 500 S&W Ammo We Carry

Soft Point & JHP Hunting

Expanding bullets for big-game hunting where controlled expansion is wanted.

Hard-Cast & Deep-Penetrating

Heavy, flat-nose hard-cast bullets for maximum penetration on the largest game
and serious bear defense.

Reduced-Recoil & Range Loads

Lighter “lite” loads, where available, let shooters practice with this powerful
cartridge more comfortably before stepping up to full-power ammo.

Common 500 S&W Bullet Weights

The .500 S&W Magnum is loaded with very heavy bullets. Common weights run from
about 300 grain up through 350, 400, 440, and 500
grain and beyond. Lighter 300–350 grain loads offer
higher velocity and flatter trajectory for hunting, while heavy
400–500+ grain hard-cast bullets deliver the deepest penetration
for the largest, toughest game and dangerous-game defense.

Top 500 S&W Ammo Brands

We stock .500 S&W Magnum ammunition from the manufacturers big-bore shooters
trust, including Hornady, Federal, Buffalo Bore, Underwood, and other specialty
makers. From hunting JHP and soft-point loads to heavy hard-cast bear medicine,
you’ll find quality options for this powerful caliber — which can be hard to find
fully stocked elsewhere.

Availability & Buying Tips

As a specialty big-bore caliber, .500 S&W ammo is produced in smaller runs and
tends to be expensive per round, given its enormous bullets and niche production.
It can also sell out before hunting season. It pays to buy when you see your
preferred load in stock — pick up enough for sight-in and your hunt from the same
lot, and set a stock alert so you’re never caught short.

Recoil & Shooting Notes

Make no mistake: the .500 S&W Magnum produces heavy recoil — among the most of
any production handgun cartridge. It demands a proper grip, stance, and respect,
and the heavy X-Frame revolvers it’s chambered in help manage it. Many shooters
start with reduced-recoil loads to build familiarity. A muzzle brake (where
equipped) and a firm two-handed hold make full-power loads more manageable. This
is a serious cartridge for serious purposes.

Shipping & Compliance

Orders ship quickly with secure, age-verified delivery in compliance with all
applicable federal, state, and local laws. By placing an order you confirm you are
at least 21 years of age (handgun ammunition) and that it is legal for you to
purchase and receive ammunition at your delivery address. Some states and
localities restrict ammunition shipments — please review your local regulations
before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 500 S&W the most powerful handgun cartridge?

The .500 S&W Magnum is among the most powerful production handgun cartridges in
the world, generating rifle-like energy. It was specifically designed to claim
that title and remains a benchmark for big-bore handgun power.

Is 500 S&W good for bear defense?

Yes — heavy hard-cast .500 S&W loads offer the deepest penetration and maximum
authority available in a handgun, making it a top choice for the most serious bear
country.

Do you sell 500 S&W ammo in bulk?

When available, yes — though this premium big-bore caliber is typically sold in
standard box quantities. Check our listings for current stock and pricing.