Description
If you've got a .500 S&W, you're already committed to something bigger. Buffalo Bore's 18B20 is built for that commitment with a 440-grain hard-cast bullet designed to go straight through what matters. The flat nose profile and gas check create predictable penetration without the unpredictability of expansion at these energy levels.
Buffalo Bore's Hard Cast 500 S&W Design
What separates hard-cast ammunition from regular lead is the alloy construction. Mixed with trace tin or antimony, these bullets resist deformation while traveling downrange, giving you consistent performance through both medium and bone. The gas check helps the bullet seat consistently in the chamber, supporting reliability across multiple shots in a heavy-recoil platform.
Ballistics and Real-World Performance
At 1625 fps from the barrel, this load produces 2579 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. That's built on field-proven power across decades of Buffalo Bore loads. The hard-cast design means minimal barrel fouling compared to pure lead, keeping your gun running clean even after regular use. Brass cases and boxer primers support reloading if that's your path, and the non-corrosive primers won't eat up your firearm from the inside out.
What to Expect
This isn't target ammunition. The 440-grain flat nose will drill straight through barriers and tissue with deep, linear penetration. Recoil is substantial and reflects the cartridge's capability. Load these in compatible heavy-frame revolvers designed for .500 S&W chambering, and you've got a tool for serious defensive or hunting applications where the caliber makes sense.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
- Bullet Weight: 440 grains
- Bullet Type: Gas-checked hard-cast lead flat nose
- Muzzle Velocity: 1625 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 2579 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Brass
- Primer Type: Boxer
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Rounds Per Case: 12 boxes (240 rounds)
- Manufacturer: Buffalo Bore Ammunition
- Model Number: 18B20
- UPC: 651815018027
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Buffalo Bore 18B20 Personal Defense ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What firearms can I use this 500 S&W ammunition in?
Buffalo Bore 18B20 ammunition is chambered for firearms designed for .500 S&W Magnum, primarily heavy-frame revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Model 500. Always verify your firearm's chamber markings before loading any ammunition. Never attempt to fire this round in firearms not specifically designed for the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge.
Why use hard-cast bullets instead of jacketed or expanding rounds?
Hard-cast flat nose bullets provide consistent straight-line penetration without expanding or deforming. This design is ideal when you need deep, reliable penetration through tough material or large game. The flat nose profile also aids in tissue crushing while the hard alloy resists barrel fouling better than pure lead ammunition.
Can I reload these brass cases?
Yes, these are boxer-primed brass cases that support reloading. However, the .500 S&W Magnum requires specialized reloading equipment and knowledge due to the cartridge's power level. Always follow published reloading data for this caliber and use proper safety procedures.
Is this ammunition suitable for personal defense?
While technically capable, the .500 S&W Magnum is generally considered excessive for conventional personal defense due to extreme recoil and over-penetration risk. This ammunition is far better suited for hunting, dangerous game defense in remote areas, or specialized applications where the cartridge's extreme power is appropriate.




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