500 Magnum vs Ruger .454: The Beast Killers ! weaponseducation

Published on November 28, 2012
Duration: 15:02

This video provides an expert-level comparison of two formidable revolvers: the Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum ES and the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan. The host, demonstrating high authority and extensive range experience, details their specifications, weights, and ammunition. The S&W 500 Magnum ES, a discontinued model, is shown to be heavier and produces significant muzzle blast, while the Ruger Alaskan offers a more compact yet potent .454 Casull option. The review emphasizes their suitability for extreme self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum ES and Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan are powerful revolvers compared for extreme defense. The S&W 500 Magnum ES (3.4 lbs) offers immense power in a discontinued package, while the Ruger Alaskan (2.1 lbs) provides potent .454 Casull/.45 Colt capability in a more compact design. Both are considered 'beast killers' for large threats.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Scenarios
  2. 01:15Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum ES
  3. 02:08Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan
  4. 02:39Ammunition Comparison
  5. 04:52Weight and Size Comparison
  6. 07:47Indoor Range Testing
  7. 10:00Frame Size Comparison
  8. 11:00Outdoor Range Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum ES and the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan?

The S&W 500 Magnum ES is a heavier, discontinued revolver chambered in .500 S&W Magnum, known for extreme power. The Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan is a more compact .454 Casull revolver that can also fire .45 Long Colt, offering significant power in a more manageable package.

Which revolver is better for bear defense, the S&W 500 Magnum or the Ruger .454 Casull?

Both are considered capable 'beast killers.' The .500 S&W Magnum offers more raw power and energy, potentially providing a greater one-shot stop capability against the largest threats. The .454 Casull is still highly effective and more manageable for recoil.

What is the weight difference between the S&W 500 Magnum ES and the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan?

The Smith & Wesson 500 Magnum ES weighs approximately 3.4 lbs, while the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan is significantly lighter, weighing around 2.1 lbs. This difference impacts handling and perceived recoil.

Can the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan fire .45 ACP ammunition?

No, the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan is chambered for .454 Casull and .45 Long Colt. It cannot safely fire .45 ACP ammunition, which operates at much lower pressures and has different dimensions.

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