Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For handgun hunters working heavy cover or backup defense against dangerous game, 500 S&W Magnum ammo loaded with the Lehigh Xtreme Penetrator represents a shift from traditional expanding projectiles to controlled, straight-line penetration. Underwood loads this 420-grain solid copper bullet to 1650 feet per second, producing 2539 foot-pounds of muzzle energy — sufficient to punch through shoulder bone, dense muscle, and heavy hide without deflection. The fluted nose design differs from conventional hollow points: instead of expansion, the geometry channels hydraulic pressure radially outward as the bullet advances, creating a permanent wound channel that exceeds the projectile’s diameter while maintaining structural integrity through barriers. This is not a plinking round. It is a tool for situations where penetration depth and barrier-blind performance matter more than surface expansion.
Performance at a Glance
Underwood machines each Lehigh Xtreme Penetrator from solid copper bar stock, CNC-milling the flutes to exact depth and angle. The lead-free construction eliminates fragmentation on impact with bone or intermediate barriers — the bullet that enters is the bullet that exits, minus velocity. At 420 grains and a sectional density of 0.24, the projectile carries sufficient mass to resist yaw through angled tissue planes. Nickel-plated brass cases reduce tarnish during field carry and simplify reloading; boxer primers and flash-suppressed powder support low-light use without vision compromise.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 500 S&W Magnum |
| Bullet weight | 420 grains |
| Bullet type | Lehigh Xtreme Penetrator (fluted, solid copper) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1650 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 2539 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Lead-free | Yes |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting, dangerous game backup |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammo |
Underwood’s load development for the 500 S&W Magnum prioritizes consistent ignition and pressure curves across temperature extremes. The Xtreme Penetrator’s blunt nose profile feeds reliably from revolver cylinders without hang-up on chamber throats. For hunters working hogs, bear, or elk at close range, the combination of sectional density and monolithic construction ensures the bullet reaches vitals even after traversing shoulder structure. Browse our full selection of 500 S&W ammo for expanding and barrier-blind options across multiple grain weights.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 21 years old for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify your firearm is chambered for 500 S&W Magnum before loading. Do not use this ammunition in firearms chambered for other cartridges, even if the round physically fits the cylinder.
- This product contains materials known to the State of California to cause reproductive harm. Lead-free bullets eliminate lead exposure during handling and post-impact cleanup, but always wash hands after range sessions and follow all manufacturer storage guidelines.
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