Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum Ammunition Review
As an avid shooter, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and high-quality ammunition, and that’s why I was excited to try out the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and providing an overall assessment of its performance.
Initial Impression
When I first received the packaging, I was impressed by the appearance and presentation of the product. The box was well-printed, with clear labeling and a sturdy design. The contents, including 20 rounds of ammunition, were neatly packaged in a reenforced pellet carrier, which added an extra layer of protection and organization.
Performance
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a look at the key statistics for this ammunition:
- Caliber: 500 S&W Magnum
- Bullet weight: 300 grains
- Muzzle velocity: 1,450 feet per second
- Muzzle energy: 2,500 foot-pounds
- Effective range: 125 yards
In terms of performance, the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum exceeded my expectations. The 300-grain FTX (Full-Tank eXpanding) bullet performed flawlessly, delivering impressive horsepower and accuracy. Even at longer ranges, the bullet maintained a reassuring level of precision, making it an excellent choice for precision shooting and hunting.
Accuracy and Dispersion
When it comes to accuracy, the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum was a standout. The dispersion pattern was remarkably tight, with most shots clustering within a 1-inch circle at 25 yards. This level of accuracy can be attributed to Hornady’s commitment to precision manufacturing and the excellent quality of the ammunition components.
Expansion and Expansion
The Full-Tank eXpanding (FTX) bullet is designed to expand rapidly upon impact, creating a large wound channel and increased terminal performance. In my testing, I was impressed by the bullet’s ability to expand and fragment consistently, delivering a devastating impact on soft targets. This is particularly important for hunting and self-defense applications, where maximum stopping power is essential.
Consistency and Reliability
Another key aspect of any ammunition is consistency and reliability. The Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum performed admirably in this regard, with every round exhibiting consistent performance and minimal deviation from the expected trajectory. This level of consistency is crucial for reliability and overall shooting satisfaction.
Cons
- Higher price point: As with many premium products, the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum comes at a higher price point, making it less accessible to some shooters.
- Limited availability: Due to its unique caliber, this ammunition may not be widely available in all regions or retailers.
- Caliber-specific: The Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum is designed specifically for use in 500 S&W Magnum revolvers, limiting its versatility for other firearms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum is an exceptional choice for those seeking high-performance ammunition for their 500 S&W Magnum revolver. With its impressive accuracy, reliability, and expansion capabilities, it’s an excellent option for both hunting and self-defense. While it may have some limitations, such as a higher price point and limited availability, the benefits of this ammunition far outweigh any drawbacks.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- High-quality components and manufacturing
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Reliable performance
- Devastating expansion and terminal performance
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited availability
- Caliber-specific design
- Not suitable for all firearms
I’m happy to have had the opportunity to review the Hornady Custom 500 S&W Magnum and would highly recommend it to those in the market for premium ammunition for their 500 S&W Magnum revolver.
