Smith & Wesson Model 500 4″ Review

Experience the formidable Smith & Wesson Model 500 in .500 S&W Magnum, featuring a 4-inch barrel and a 5-round capacity. This powerhouse revolver, weighing 56 oz unloaded, boasts a stainless steel frame, synthetic grip, and is equipped with a red ramp front sight and adjustable rear sight, measuring approximately 10.25 inches in overall length. The Model 500 is part of Smith & Wesson’s famous X-Frame category, which was specifically designed to handle the formidable pressures generated by the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, the round for which this revolver is chambered. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel, exploring its design, performance, and applications.

S&W Model 500 4″ Specifications

• Brand: Smith & Wesson
• Model: Model 500
• Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
• Barrel Length: 4 inches
• Overall Length: 10.25 inches (approx.)
• Weight: 56 ounces (unloaded)
• Capacity: 5 rounds
• Frame Material: Stainless steel
• Grip: Synthetic
• Sights: Red ramp front sight, adjustable rear sight

Design and Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel is a sizable handgun, designed with both function and form in mind. Its stainless steel construction gives it a weight and durability necessary for handling the .500 S&W Magnum’s recoil.

This particular model, with its relatively short barrel, is designed for a balance between power and portability. Despite its shorter barrel, it doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of velocity and energy when compared to its longer-barreled counterparts.

Caliber

This cartridge sets the Smith & Wesson Model 500 apart from virtually all other revolvers. It’s designed for maximum stopping power, capable of delivering over 2,000 foot-pounds of energy, depending on the ammunition used. This makes the revolver suitable for hunting the largest game animals and for defense against dangerous predators.

Barrel Length

The choice of a 4-inch barrel is a strategic compromise between portability and performance. This barrel length helps maintain a significant portion of the .500 S&W Magnum’s ballistic capabilities while ensuring the firearm is more manageable in the field compared to versions with longer barrels.

Capacity

The cylinder holds five rounds, a common capacity for revolvers chambered in such large calibers. This capacity strikes a balance, providing significant firepower in situations where each shot counts, without overly increasing the revolver’s size or weight.

Grip

The grip is engineered to improve shooters’ comfort and control. Its synthetic material and ergonomic design help distribute the recoil over a larger area of the hand, reducing peak forces and making the shooting experience more manageable, even with the powerful .500 S&W Magnum rounds.

Construction

The use of stainless steel not only contributes to the revolver’s considerable weight, which aids in recoil management, but also ensures its durability and resistance to corrosion. This makes the Model 500 an excellent choice for use in diverse environmental conditions, from humid forests to dry deserts.

Performance

The .500 S&W Magnum cartridge is a behemoth in the realm of handgun ammunition, capable of delivering unprecedented power.

The 4-inch barrel version of the Model 500, while somewhat shorter than the more common 8.38-inch model, still delivers substantial muzzle energy, making it effective for hunting large game and for use as a backup weapon in bear country. The trade-off for this power is significant recoil, which can be challenging for even experienced shooters to manage. However, the revolver’s design incorporates features like the synthetic grip and the compensator (available on certain models) to help mitigate the felt recoil.

Pros and Cons

My Personal Maintenance Routine Smith & Wesson Model 500 4″

• Safety Check Always begin by ensuring the revolver is unloaded. Open the cylinder and visually inspect each chamber to confirm there are no cartridges present.
• Disassemble for Cleaning Refer to your Smith & Wesson Model 500 manual for instructions on disassembly. Typically, this involves opening the cylinder and removing it from the frame for easier access to all parts.
• Clean the Barrel Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel. Pass the brush through the barrel several times, then use a clean patch to remove any remaining debris and solvent. Repeat until the patch comes out clean.
• Clean the Cylinder Apply solvent to a brush and clean each chamber of the cylinder in a similar fashion to the barrel. Follow up with patches to remove any loosened debris and solvent.
• Clean the Frame and Action With a soft brush and solvent, gently clean the frame, focusing on the action and moving parts. Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any residue and solvent.
• Inspect for Wear During cleaning, inspect all components for signs of wear or damage. Pay special attention to the barrel, cylinder, and firing pin. Any irregularities should be assessed by a professional gunsmith.
• Lubricate Apply a small amount of gun oil to all moving parts, including the action, cylinder ratchet, and ejector rod. Avoid over-lubricating to prevent attracting dirt and debris.
• Reassemble Carefully reassemble the revolver, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned and functioning smoothly. Refer to the manual to confirm proper reassembly steps.
• Function Test Perform a function test to ensure the revolver operates correctly. Check the cylinder rotation, lockup, and trigger mechanism without using live ammunition. Ensure the safety mechanisms are fully operational.
• Storage Store your Smith & Wesson Model 500 in a dry, secure location. Consider using a silicone-treated gun cloth or a dehumidifier in the storage area to protect against rust and corrosion.

Safety Tips

• Always assume a firearm is loaded, even if you believe it’s not. This mindset helps prevent accidental discharges.
• The safest direction means that even if the gun were to go off, it would not cause injury or damage. This direction may change depending on your location and circumstances.
• Your finger should rest along the side of the gun’s frame or trigger guard until you are absolutely certain you want to fire. This prevents unintentional firing.
• Identifying your target and knowing what’s behind it is crucial. Bullets can penetrate targets and travel significant distances, potentially causing unintended harm.
• The Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel is extremely powerful, producing significant noise and recoil. Always wear appropriate protective gear to safeguard your hearing and vision during shooting.

Smith & Wesson Model 500 4″: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Conclusion

The Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of one of America’s oldest firearms manufacturers. It combines raw power with precision engineering to offer a revolver that is unmatched in its category. While certainly not a handgun for every shooter, its niche applications make it an invaluable tool for those who require the utmost in firepower from a portable, reliable platform. Whether for hunting, protection in the wilderness, or as a piece of a collection, the Model 500 continues to hold its place as a remarkable achievement in firearm design and capability.

FAQs

• What is the Smith & Wesson Model 500?
  The Smith & Wesson Model 500 is a high-powered revolver designed to fire the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, known for being one of the most powerful handgun cartridges in the world.
• Why is the Smith & Wesson Model 500 considered so powerful?
  It is considered powerful due to its chambering in .500 S&W Magnum, capable of delivering significant energy and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting large game and self-defense against large predators.
• Is the Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel suitable for beginners?
  Due to its significant recoil and power, it is generally not recommended for beginners. It’s better suited for experienced shooters who can handle its intensity.
• Can the Smith & Wesson Model 500 be used for hunting?
  Yes, it is highly effective for hunting large game due to its powerful cartridge and accuracy, especially with proper practice and handling.
• How often should the Smith & Wesson Model 500 be cleaned?
  It should be cleaned after each use to maintain its condition and ensure reliability. A thorough cleaning is recommended to remove powder residue and prevent corrosion.
• What type of ammunition does the Smith & Wesson Model 500 use?
  It uses .500 S&W Magnum cartridges, available in various bullet weights and designs for different purposes, including hunting and self-defense.
• Is the recoil manageable on the Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel?
  The recoil is significant due to the powerful cartridge it fires. However, its design incorporates features to help manage recoil, making it more controllable for experienced shooters.
• What are the best practices for storing the Smith & Wesson Model 500?
  Store it unloaded in a secure, dry place. Using a dehumidifier or silica gel can help prevent rust and corrosion, especially in humid environments.
• Can I customize the Smith & Wesson Model 500?
  Yes, there are customization options available, including different grips, sights, and even barrel lengths, though the 4-inch model is specific in its design.
• Where can I get professional training to safely handle the Smith & Wesson Model 500?
  Professional training can be sought at local gun ranges, through certified firearms instructors, or at specialized training facilities that offer courses in handling high-caliber revolvers.

We’re eager to connect with you! Do you own or have you ever shot a Smith & Wesson Model 500 with a 4-inch barrel! We invite you to share your personal experiences and opinions in the comments section below. Whether it’s about the revolver’s performance, handling, or any tips you’ve discovered, your insights can greatly benefit fellow enthusiasts and those considering this powerful firearm. Help others make well-informed decisions with your valuable input!