Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
At 700 grains and 1200 feet per second, this 500 S&W Magnum ammo generates 2239 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle — making it one of the hardest-hitting handgun cartridges available for dangerous game and woods protection. The hard cast flat nose bullet maintains a nose-forward attitude through dense tissue, maximizing penetration on large-bodied animals including wild hogs and black bears. Each round is loaded into nickel-plated brass with non-corrosive Boxer primers, shipped 20 rounds per box.
Built for the Box
The 700-grain projectile features Black Cherry polymer coating — a thermally stable compound that resists weathering, chemical degradation, and high-pressure conditions inside the bore. This coating prevents lead-to-bore contact, eliminating the fouling common with bare cast bullets and allowing safe function in revolvers with polygonal rifling. Flash-suppressed powder preserves night vision during low-light encounters. Underwood manufactures this ammunition in the United States using nickel-plated cases that handloaders can resize and reload for multiple firings.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 500 S&W Magnum |
| Bullet weight | 700 Grains |
| Bullet type | Flat Nose (Hard Cast, Black Cherry Coating) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1200 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle energy | 2239 Foot Pounds |
| Rounds/box | 20 Round |
| Case | Nickel Plated |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Country of Origin | United States of America |
Underwood field-tests this ammunition using real-world firearms before release. The nickel-plated case resists corrosion in humid environments and simplifies extraction after firing. For more hunting and defense loads in this platform, see our full 500 S&W ammo selection.
At the Range
Expect substantial recoil when firing 700-grain loads from any 500 S&W revolver. In barrels shorter than 4 inches, the manufacturer recommends loading only one or two cartridges at a time — the recoil impulse can loosen crimps on unfired rounds and allow projectiles to creep forward in the cylinder. Full cylinder loads are safe in longer barrels where the additional weight dampens felt recoil. Store unfired ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users. This ammunition contains lead and is subject to California Proposition 65 warnings.
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.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Never rely solely on a mechanical safety. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- This ammunition contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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