HAND CANNONS! Which makes more sense, 460 or 500 S&W?

Published on December 2, 2022
Duration: 21:47

This guide, drawing on the expertise of a seasoned firearms reviewer, details critical safety and handling techniques for powerful magnum revolvers like the Smith & Wesson 500 and 460 S&W Magnum. It emphasizes understanding extreme recoil, preventing common injuries like flame cutting, and managing the firearm's behavior during firing. Proper technique is crucial for safe and effective use of these 'hand cannons'.

Quick Summary

The .500 S&W Magnum delivers maximum power, while the .460 S&W Magnum offers less recoil and the unique ability to safely fire .45 Colt and .454 Casull. Both are powerful 'hand cannons' requiring advanced handling skills and strict safety adherence, particularly regarding recoil management and avoiding cylinder gap injuries.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Magnum Hand Cannons
  2. 01:41History of the S&W 500 and X-Frame
  3. 03:11Development of the 460 S&W
  4. 05:51Ballistics and Performance Comparison
  5. 08:46Safety and Handling Risks
  6. 10:30Versatility of the 460 S&W
  7. 12:47Shooting Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the .460 S&W Magnum and .500 S&W Magnum?

The .500 S&W Magnum is the more powerful cartridge, offering greater energy for large game. The .460 S&W Magnum provides significantly less recoil and greater versatility, as it can safely fire .45 Colt and .454 Casull rounds, making it more manageable for practice and general use.

What safety precautions are essential when handling magnum revolvers like the S&W 500 or 460?

Essential safety includes keeping fingers away from the cylinder gap to prevent severe burns from 'flame cutting,' understanding and managing extreme recoil to maintain control, and being aware of the potential for unintentional 'double-taps' due to recoil.

Can the .460 S&W Magnum fire other calibers?

Yes, a significant advantage of the .460 S&W Magnum is its ability to safely chamber and fire lower-power cartridges like .45 Colt and .454 Casull. This allows shooters to practice with less recoil and expense before using full-power .460 loads.

Which magnum revolver is better for hunting large game?

For hunting the largest and most dangerous game, the .500 S&W Magnum is generally considered superior due to its higher energy and bullet weight potential. However, the .460 S&W Magnum can also be effective with appropriate bullet selection and shot placement.

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