The Smith & Wesson PC Model 500 .500 S&W Magnum 7.5″ Stainless 5rd is a Performance Center-tuned X-frame revolver built for handgun hunters who need maximum power and precision. It pairs a 7.5-inch ported barrel with a muzzle brake, adjustable sights, and a slicked-up action to deliver controllable .500 Magnum performance. This isn’t a range toy—it’s a tool for taking big game at practical distances, with fit and finish that reflect Performance Center standards.
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson (Performance Center) |
|---|---|
| Model | PC Model 500 |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and barrel |
| Compatibility | .500 S&W Magnum ammunition |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | Approx. 72 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Performance Center–Tuned Action – Why it matters: The trigger break is smoother and lighter than a standard 500, giving you better control during heavy recoil and more consistent shot placement in the field.
- 7.5″ Stainless Barrel with Muzzle Brake – Why it matters: The ported barrel and integrated brake reduce muzzle rise by an estimated 30%, letting you stay on target for follow-up shots without fighting the gun.
- Adjustable Rear Sight – Why it matters: You can dial in elevation and windage for specific loads or distances, critical when you’re hunting at 50–100 yards with a handgun.
- 5-Round Capacity – Why it matters: Five rounds of .500 S&W Magnum give you enough firepower for a clean kill on large game while keeping the cylinder compact enough for holster carry in a chest rig.
- X-Frame Build – Why it matters: The oversized frame absorbs the .500 Magnum’s recoil impulse, and the 7.5″ barrel balances the gun for off-hand shooting without being unwieldy in a pack.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the handgun hunter who needs one-shot-stop power on bear, elk, or moose. It’s also for the EDC enthusiast who keeps a big-bore wheelgun as a backup in bear country—think Alaska or Montana guides. If you’re building a serious outdoor kit and want a revolver that won’t flinch at hard-cast lead loads, this is the one.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Performance Center action is noticeably smoother than standard 500s—lighter trigger, less stacking.
- Pro: Muzzle brake actually works; you can shoot full-power loads one-handed if needed (not recommended, but possible).
- Pro: Adjustable sights let you zero for specific ammo, unlike fixed-sight big bores.
- Con: Weight (72 oz unloaded) makes it a dedicated belt or chest rig gun—not a pocket or IWB option.
- Con: Ammo cost and availability; .500 S&W Magnum runs $2–$3 per round, so practice sessions add up fast.
Comparison: Smith & Wesson PC 500 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Smith & Wesson PC 500 | Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan .454 Casull | Magnum Research BFR .500 S&W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .500 S&W Magnum | .454 Casull | .500 S&W Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 7.5″ | 2.5″ | 7.5″ |
| Weight | 72 oz | 42 oz | 68 oz |
| Action | Performance Center tuned | Standard DA/SA | Single-action only |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 6 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Recoil Management | Muzzle brake + ported barrel | No brake | No brake |
| Price | ~$1,914 | ~$1,100 | ~$1,500 |
The Ruger Alaskan is lighter and cheaper but doesn’t tame recoil like the PC 500’s brake. The BFR is a solid single-action alternative but lacks the Performance Center’s double-action trigger work. For hunting where you need fast follow-ups, the PC 500’s tuned action and brake give it an edge.
FAQ
Is the Smith & Wesson PC 500 suitable for everyday carry?
Not for typical concealed carry—it’s too large and heavy. But if you’re in bear country and carry in a chest holster or pack, it works as a defensive backup. Most owners use it as a hunting sidearm.
What kind of accuracy can I expect with the 7.5″ barrel?
With the adjustable sights and a solid rest, expect 2–3 inch groups at 50 yards using quality hunting ammo. The longer barrel gives better velocity and sight radius than snub-nose .500s.
Does the muzzle brake reduce recoil significantly?
Yes—the brake and ported barrel cut felt recoil by roughly 30% compared to a non-ported .500. It’s still a handful, but you can shoot 20–30 rounds in a session without flinching.
Can I shoot .500 Special or .500 Magnum loads in this revolver?
Yes, it chambers .500 S&W Magnum and .500 S&W Special. The Special loads are milder for practice, while Magnum loads are for hunting. Always check the barrel markings.
Ready to Add the Smith & Wesson PC 500 to Your Kit?
This revolver is built for serious hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who want the most powerful production handgun on the market, with Performance Center reliability. Click ‘Add to Cart’ to secure yours—stock on these is limited, and they move fast.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1–2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
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Last updated: April 2026









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