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Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher: An In-Depth Review of the Beast

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher. The name itself evokes a sense of power and raw force. This massive revolver, chambered in the potent .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, has earned its reputation as one of the most powerful handguns in the world. But is it just a novelty, or does it offer genuine utility and performance? This article provides an in-depth review of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher, exploring its features, performance, and intended uses.

A Brief History of the .500 S&W Magnum

Before diving into the Bone Crusher itself, it’s important to understand the cartridge that fuels it. The .500 S&W Magnum was developed in the early 2000s by Smith & Wesson and Cor-Bon Ammunition. The goal was to create a handgun cartridge capable of taking down any animal on the planet. The result was a truly massive round, dwarfing even the .44 Magnum in terms of size and power. The .500 S&W Magnum delivers staggering energy levels, making it suitable for hunting large and dangerous game.

Introducing the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is a large-frame, double-action/single-action revolver built on the company’s X-Frame. This frame is specifically designed to handle the immense pressures generated by the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. The Bone Crusher features a stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance. It is available in various barrel lengths, typically ranging from 4 to 7.5 inches. Its most notable feature is its unfluted cylinder, which contributes to the revolver’s overall weight and rugged appearance.

Key Features and Specifications

Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: Varies (typically 4-7.5 inches)
Overall Length: Varies depending on barrel length
Weight: Varies depending on barrel length (typically 4-5 pounds)
Frame Material: Stainless Steel
Cylinder Material: Stainless Steel
Grips: Synthetic, typically Hogue rubber grips for recoil absorption
Sights: Adjustable rear sight, fixed front sight (often with a high-visibility insert)
Action: Double-Action/Single-Action

Design and Construction

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is built like a tank. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the X-Frame is designed to withstand the immense pressures generated by the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. The unfluted cylinder adds to the revolver’s weight, which helps to mitigate recoil. The grips are typically made of a synthetic rubber material, such as Hogue, which provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when firing powerful rounds. The adjustable rear sight allows for precise zeroing, and the fixed front sight is often equipped with a high-visibility insert for quick target acquisition.

Handling and Recoil

Let’s be clear: the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is not for the faint of heart. Firing a .500 S&W Magnum round generates significant recoil. Proper grip and stance are essential for controlling the firearm and mitigating the effects of recoil. The weight of the revolver helps to absorb some of the recoil, but it’s still a handful. Experienced shooters can manage the recoil effectively, but novice shooters may find it challenging. It’s crucial to start with lighter loads and gradually work your way up to the full-power .500 S&W Magnum rounds.

Performance and Accuracy

Despite its powerful recoil, the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is capable of impressive accuracy. With proper technique and a steady hand, experienced shooters can achieve tight groupings at reasonable distances. The adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing, ensuring that the revolver is shooting where you aim. The long barrel (depending on the model) also contributes to accuracy by providing a longer sight radius. The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is more than just a powerful handgun; it’s a capable and accurate firearm in the right hands.

Intended Uses

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is primarily intended for hunting large and dangerous game. Its immense power makes it suitable for taking down animals such as bear, moose, and even African big game. It’s also a popular choice for handgun hunting competitions. While it can be used for self-defense, its size, weight, and recoil make it impractical for everyday carry. Some individuals may choose to carry it in areas where they are likely to encounter large predators. [See also: Best Revolvers for Self-Defense]

Ammunition Considerations

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is chambered in .500 S&W Magnum, a cartridge known for its immense power. Ammunition selection is crucial for optimal performance and safety. It’s important to use high-quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Different loads are available, ranging from lighter rounds suitable for practice to heavy, hard-cast bullets designed for hunting dangerous game. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before using any particular type of ammunition. The availability and cost of .500 S&W Magnum ammunition should also be considered, as it is typically more expensive than other handgun cartridges.

Pros and Cons of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher

Pros:

Immense power and stopping power
Durable stainless steel construction
Adjustable sights for precise zeroing
Suitable for hunting large and dangerous game
Impressive accuracy potential

Cons:

Significant recoil, challenging for novice shooters
Large size and weight, not suitable for concealed carry
Expensive ammunition
Limited capacity (5 rounds)

Alternatives to the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher

While the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is a formidable handgun, it’s not the only option for those seeking a powerful revolver. Other alternatives include:

Smith & Wesson 460 XVR: Chambered in .460 S&W Magnum, offering a flatter trajectory and slightly less recoil than the .500 S&W Magnum.
Taurus Raging Bull: Available in various calibers, including .454 Casull and .480 Ruger, offering significant power in a more affordable package.
Magnum Research BFR (Big Frame Revolver): A custom-built revolver available in a wide range of calibers, including .45-70 Government.

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher in Popular Culture

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher, due to its sheer power and intimidating presence, has made appearances in various forms of popular culture. It has been featured in movies, video games, and television shows, often portrayed as the weapon of choice for characters who need maximum firepower. Its association with hunting dangerous game also contributes to its image as a tool for those who venture into the wild and face formidable challenges. This representation in media further solidifies the Bone Crusher’s reputation as a symbol of raw power and capability. [See also: Handguns in Hollywood Movies]

Maintenance and Care

Like any firearm, the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher requires regular maintenance and care to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. After each shooting session, it’s important to clean the revolver thoroughly, removing any powder residue or fouling. Lubrication is also essential to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The .500 S&W Magnum can generate a significant amount of fouling, so using a high-quality bore cleaner is recommended. Regularly inspect the revolver for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly. Proper storage is also crucial to prevent rust and corrosion. Store the revolver in a dry, secure location, away from children and unauthorized individuals.

Conclusion: Is the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher Right for You?

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is a powerful and capable revolver that’s well-suited for hunting large and dangerous game. Its durable construction, adjustable sights, and impressive accuracy potential make it a formidable tool in the right hands. However, its significant recoil, large size, and expensive ammunition make it unsuitable for novice shooters or those seeking a concealed carry firearm. If you’re an experienced shooter looking for a handgun with maximum stopping power, the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to practice proper technique and start with lighter loads before unleashing the full potential of this beast.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your intended uses, your experience level, and your budget before making a decision. If you’re looking for a powerful and capable handgun for hunting large game or participating in handgun hunting competitions, the Bone Crusher is a top contender. But if you’re looking for a self-defense weapon or a handgun for everyday carry, there are likely better options available.

The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher is a testament to the power and ingenuity of modern firearms engineering. It’s a tool that demands respect and expertise, but in the right hands, it can be a formidable and rewarding companion. The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Crusher lives up to its name, offering unparalleled power in a handgun platform.