Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector: A Comprehensive Review of the Ultimate Hunting Revolver
The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector is a specialized variant of the renowned S&W 500 revolver, designed in collaboration with Michael Waddell, a celebrated figure in the hunting world. This behemoth of a handgun is engineered for one primary purpose: to deliver bone-crushing power and stopping capability for hunting large and dangerous game. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector, examining why it holds a unique place in the world of hunting revolvers.
Overview of the Smith & Wesson 500 Series
Before diving into the specifics of the Bone Collector edition, it’s essential to understand the foundation it’s built upon: the Smith & Wesson 500 series. Introduced in 2003, the S&W 500 was created to be the most powerful production handgun in the world. Chambered in the massive .500 S&W Magnum cartridge, it delivers unparalleled energy and recoil. The series is built on S&W’s X-Frame, the largest frame they produce, to handle the immense pressures generated by the cartridge.
The S&W 500 series is not just about raw power; it’s also about control and safety. The revolvers feature a robust construction, effective recoil management systems, and various safety mechanisms to ensure responsible use. Over the years, the S&W 500 has gained a reputation as a reliable and capable tool for hunting, bear defense, and extreme shooting sports.
Features of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector
The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector distinguishes itself from the standard S&W 500 models through a combination of aesthetic and functional enhancements tailored for hunting applications. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
Distinctive Finish
The Bone Collector edition typically features a unique finish, often a two-tone design with a combination of matte black and stainless steel. This finish not only enhances the revolver’s appearance but also provides increased resistance to corrosion and wear, crucial for use in harsh outdoor environments. The Bone Collector logo is prominently displayed on the frame, adding to its distinctive look.
Custom Grips
Ergonomics are paramount when dealing with a handgun of this caliber. The Bone Collector edition comes equipped with custom grips designed to provide a secure and comfortable hold, even under heavy recoil. These grips are often made from synthetic materials that offer excellent grip in wet or dry conditions, and they are shaped to minimize felt recoil and improve control.
Muzzle Brake
A well-designed muzzle brake is essential for managing the recoil of the .500 S&W Magnum. The Bone Collector typically features a ported muzzle brake that redirects gases upward and to the sides, reducing muzzle rise and felt recoil. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, especially when hunting dangerous game.
Adjustable Sights
Accurate sighting is critical for ethical hunting. The Bone Collector is equipped with adjustable sights, allowing the user to fine-tune the point of impact for different ammunition types and distances. The rear sight is typically adjustable for both windage and elevation, while the front sight is often a high-visibility design for quick target acquisition.
Performance and Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector is renowned for its exceptional performance and accuracy, especially considering the challenges posed by the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. Here’s an overview of its key performance aspects:
Power and Ballistics
The .500 S&W Magnum is one of the most powerful handgun cartridges ever developed. It delivers energy levels that rival some rifle cartridges, making it suitable for taking down large and dangerous game at moderate ranges. The cartridge is available in a variety of bullet weights and configurations, allowing hunters to choose the optimal load for their specific needs.
Ballistically, the .500 S&W Magnum can launch a 350-grain bullet at over 1900 feet per second, generating over 3,500 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. Heavier bullets, such as 700-grain loads, can deliver even more energy, making the S&W 500 Bone Collector a formidable hunting tool.
Recoil Management
Managing the recoil of the .500 S&W Magnum is a significant challenge. The Bone Collector incorporates several features to mitigate recoil, including the aforementioned muzzle brake, custom grips, and the sheer weight of the revolver itself. The X-Frame absorbs a significant amount of recoil, and the grips are designed to distribute the remaining force evenly across the hand.
However, even with these features, the recoil of the S&W 500 Bone Collector is substantial. It requires proper technique and practice to master, and it is not a suitable handgun for novice shooters. Experienced shooters, however, can learn to manage the recoil effectively and achieve excellent accuracy.
Accuracy
Despite its power, the S&W 500 Bone Collector is capable of surprising accuracy. With proper technique and ammunition selection, it can consistently deliver tight groups at 50 yards or more. The adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing, and the heavy barrel provides stability and reduces vibration during firing.
The accuracy of the Bone Collector is also influenced by the shooter’s ability to control recoil. Proper grip, stance, and trigger control are essential for maximizing accuracy. Practice with reduced-power loads can help shooters develop these skills before moving on to full-power .500 S&W Magnum ammunition.
Applications of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector
The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector is primarily designed for hunting large and dangerous game. Here are some of its key applications:
Hunting Large Game
The .500 S&W Magnum cartridge is capable of taking down a wide range of large game animals, including deer, elk, moose, and even bear. The Bone Collector provides the power and accuracy needed to make ethical and effective shots at moderate ranges. Its compact size and relative portability make it a viable option for hunting in dense forests or rugged terrain.
Bear Defense
In areas where bears are a threat, the S&W 500 Bone Collector can serve as a last-resort defense weapon. The .500 S&W Magnum cartridge delivers enough energy to stop a charging bear, providing a crucial advantage in a life-threatening situation. However, it’s important to note that bear defense requires proper training and practice, and the Bone Collector should only be used as a last resort.
Extreme Shooting Sports
The S&W 500 Bone Collector is also popular among extreme shooting sports enthusiasts. Its power and accuracy make it a challenging and rewarding handgun to shoot in competitions and recreational settings. Some shooters even use it for long-range target shooting, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with a handgun.
Pros and Cons of the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector
Like any firearm, the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary of its pros and cons:
Pros
- Unparalleled Power: The .500 S&W Magnum cartridge delivers exceptional energy and stopping power.
- Excellent Accuracy: Capable of delivering tight groups at moderate ranges with proper technique.
- Durable Construction: Built on S&W’s X-Frame for maximum strength and reliability.
- Custom Features: Enhanced grips, muzzle brake, and adjustable sights for improved performance.
- Distinctive Appearance: Unique finish and Bone Collector logo for a personalized look.
Cons
- Heavy Recoil: The .500 S&W Magnum cartridge generates significant recoil, requiring proper technique and practice.
- High Cost: The Bone Collector is a premium handgun with a relatively high price tag.
- Ammunition Cost: .500 S&W Magnum ammunition is expensive compared to other handgun cartridges.
- Not for Novices: The Bone Collector is not a suitable handgun for inexperienced shooters due to its power and recoil.
- Weight and Size: The X-Frame is large and heavy, making the Bone Collector less concealable and more difficult to carry.
Alternatives to the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector
While the S&W 500 Bone Collector is a top-tier hunting revolver, there are several alternatives to consider, depending on your specific needs and preferences:
- Smith & Wesson 460 XVR: Chambered in the .460 S&W Magnum, the 460 XVR offers similar performance to the S&W 500 but with slightly less recoil. It can also chamber .454 Casull and .45 Colt cartridges, providing greater versatility.
- Taurus Raging Bull: The Taurus Raging Bull is a more affordable alternative to the S&W 500, chambered in .454 Casull and .480 Ruger. It features a ported barrel and cushioned grips for recoil management.
- Magnum Research BFR: The Magnum Research BFR (Biggest Finest Revolver) is a custom-built revolver available in a variety of calibers, including .45-70 and .500 Linebaugh. It offers exceptional accuracy and power but comes at a premium price.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector is a specialized hunting revolver designed for those who demand maximum power and performance. Its distinctive features, durable construction, and exceptional accuracy make it a formidable tool for taking down large and dangerous game. However, its heavy recoil, high cost, and specialized nature mean that it’s not for everyone. If you’re an experienced shooter looking for the ultimate hunting handgun, the S&W 500 Bone Collector is definitely worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase the Smith & Wesson 500 Bone Collector depends on your individual needs, preferences, and shooting experience. If you’re looking for a powerful and accurate hunting revolver that can handle the most challenging game, the Bone Collector is an excellent choice. However, if you’re new to shooting or prefer a more manageable handgun, there are other options that may be better suited to your needs.
Before purchasing any firearm, it’s essential to research local laws and regulations and to seek proper training in safe gun handling and shooting techniques. Responsible gun ownership is paramount, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety at all times.
