The Smith & Wesson Model 500 is a double-action big-bore revolver chambered in .500 S&W Mag with an 8.375-inch barrel fitted with a muzzle compensator. This engraved example has a satin stainless finish and holds 5 rounds in the cylinder. It is built for shooters who want heavy recoil control alongside adjustable sighting. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Smith & Wesson 
• Model: 500 
• Caliber: .500 S&W Mag 
• Action: Double-action revolver 
• Capacity: 5 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 8.375 inches 
• Finish: Engraved, satin stainless steel 
   

Detailed Features 

• The 8.375-inch barrel includes a factory muzzle compensator to help manage recoil and muzzle rise from the .500 S&W Mag round. 
• A Hogue Sorbothane recoil-absorbing grip is fitted to improve comfort under heavy recoil. 
• Front interchangeable black-blade and micrometer-click rear black-blade sights allow windage and elevation adjustment. 
• An internal lock built into the receiver adds a factory security option. 
• The satin stainless finish carries factory engraving for a distinct appearance.

Owners of the Model 500 in .500 S&W Mag describe it as a serious piece of engineering, with build quality and cylinder lockup usually drawing praise. Reliability comments are generally positive, though a few owners mention that heavy magnum loads take a toll on the gun and on the shooter over an extended range session.

In terms of handling, the Hogue Sorbothane grip and compensated barrel are frequently credited with making the .500 S&W Mag recoil more manageable than expected for a caliber this size, though it is still described as a lot of gun for a new shooter. The adjustable sights are appreciated for allowing a precise zero.

On value, the Model 500 is seen as a premium revolver rather than an everyday range gun, and the engraved finish adds to that impression. Aftermarket support for holsters and grips is more limited than for smaller-caliber revolvers, which some owners mention as a downside of choosing such a large-caliber platform.