Shooting 500 Magnum with No Barrel

Published on October 3, 2020
Duration: 10:30

This guide details the experimental procedure of firing a Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum revolver with its barrel intentionally removed, as demonstrated by Edwin Sarkissian. The process involves securing the firearm in a shooting rest, using a remote trigger for safety, and firing specialized high-pressure ammunition. The experiment highlights the unpredictable nature of ballistics without a barrel and the potential for significant firearm damage, particularly to the cylinder and frame, when using heavy loads.

Quick Summary

Firing a .500 Magnum revolver without a barrel is an extreme experiment. It results in an unstable projectile due to lack of rifling. Safety is paramount, requiring a remote trigger and a secure shooting rest. Heavy loads can cause significant firearm damage, such as a stuck cylinder, as demonstrated with Underwood Ammo's 700-grain rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Concept
  2. 01:15Ammunition Selection
  3. 02:13Safety Setup
  4. 03:42First Shot: Extreme Penetrator
  5. 05:06Second Shot: 700-Grain Round
  6. 08:46Conclusion and Sponsorship

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when you fire a .500 Magnum revolver without a barrel?

Firing a .500 Magnum without a barrel causes the bullet to lack stabilization, resulting in an erratic flight path. The initial shot with Underwood Ammo's Extreme Penetrator showed the barrel threads remained intact, but a heavier 700-grain round caused the cylinder to jam, indicating potential frame damage.

What safety precautions are necessary for firing a gun without a barrel?

Extreme safety measures are crucial. This includes using a robust shooting rest like the Caldwell Lead Sled, securing the firearm firmly, and employing a remote trigger system to fire the weapon from a significant distance due to unpredictable blast and projectile behavior.

What types of ammunition were used in the barrel-less .500 Magnum test?

The test utilized two types of Underwood Ammo: the Extreme Penetrator, rated at 1650 fps, and a massive 700-grain lead round, rated at 1200 fps. The 700-grain round was noted to fill the entire cylinder.

Can a Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum be fired without a barrel?

Yes, a Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum can be fired without a barrel, but it is highly experimental and dangerous. While the firearm may function, heavy loads can cause significant stress, leading to malfunctions like a stuck cylinder or potential frame damage.

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