I Hate This 500 Magnum 🤮

Published on June 30, 2022
Duration: 22:51

This review compares the .500 S&W Magnum and the .500 S&W Special, highlighting the Special's significantly reduced recoil and energy transfer, making it a more manageable option for training or defense. While the Magnum vaporizes targets and penetrates multiple barriers, the Special offers a controlled experience with less destructive power, successfully stopped by Level 3A armor.

Quick Summary

The .500 S&W Special is a reduced-power variant of the .500 Magnum, offering significantly less recoil and energy transfer, making it suitable for training. While it can penetrate multiple water jugs, it's stopped by Level 3A armor, unlike the Magnum.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Engraved S&W 500
  2. 02:48.500 Special vs. Magnum Explained
  3. 06:19Recoil & Ballistic Testing
  4. 11:20Barrier & Armor Testing
  5. 15:54Penetration & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the .500 S&W Magnum and the .500 S&W Special?

The .500 S&W Special is a shorter, lower-recoil version of the .500 S&W Magnum. It's designed for easier shooting and target practice, similar to how the .38 Special relates to the .357 Magnum, offering significantly less power and muzzle flip.

How does the .500 S&W Special perform against body armor?

In testing, the .500 S&W Special was successfully stopped by Level 3A soft body armor. While it caused significant blunt force trauma, it did not penetrate the armor, unlike the .500 S&W Magnum.

Is the .500 S&W Magnum suitable for beginners?

No, the .500 S&W Magnum is generally not recommended for beginners due to its extreme recoil and muzzle blast. The .500 S&W Special is presented as a much more manageable alternative for new shooters.

What kind of penetration can be expected from the .500 S&W Special?

The .500 S&W Special demonstrated moderate penetration, making it through three water jugs in testing. However, it lacked the destructive energy of the .500 Magnum, which could destroy the first jug and stop in the second.

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