Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
You need stopping power measured in thousands of foot-pounds — the Underwood 500 S&W Magnum 440 grain flat nose delivers 2579 ft-lbs at the muzzle and 1625 fps from a revolver platform. This is a hard cast, non-expanding projectile engineered for maximum penetration when you encounter hogs, black bears, or other heavy game at close range. The flat nose profile maintains nose-forward orientation through dense tissue and bone, maximizing wound channel depth. Loaded in nickel-plated brass with non-corrosive Boxer primers, this ammunition feeds reliably and resists tarnish during storage or carry in leather holsters.
Load Profile
Underwood Ammunition produces this load using flash-suppressed powder to preserve night vision during low-light encounters. The 440 grain hard cast bullet exits the barrel at 1625 fps — faster than many lighter-grain 500 S&W loads — while maintaining structural integrity on impact. Hard cast bullets smoke during firing due to manufacturing lubricant at high chamber pressures; this is normal and does not indicate a defect. The nickel-plated cases use the Ducta-Bright 7a process, which eliminates embrittlement concerns in magnum loads and supports full reloadability without cracking during deep-draw forming.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 500 S&W Magnum |
| Bullet weight | 440 grains |
| Bullet type | Flat Nose (hard cast) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1625 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 2579 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer (non-corrosive) |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting / woods defense |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammunition |
Hard cast flat nose bullets do not expand on impact — they penetrate. Where hollow points and soft points create wide wound channels through expansion, the 440 grain flat nose maintains cross-sectional area and drives deep through muscle, bone, and organ tissue. This makes it the preferred choice for hunters and guides facing dangerous game at close range or when shooting through heavy brush. For additional 500 S&W ammo options, review our full catalog of magnum revolver loads.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 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.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearm safety when handling any firearm or ammunition
- Verify current state and local laws before purchasing — some jurisdictions restrict lead-core projectiles or impose magazine/capacity limits
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm (Prop 65). Handle and store accordingly.
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