Description
Federal built this hunting load with the same proven bonding technology used in their centerfire rifle ammunition. The electrochemically bonded lead core and copper jacket ensure the projectile holds together through impact, maximizing penetration and delivering consistent expansion without separation. This matters more than it sounds when you're hunting with a handgun where shot placement is everything.
Muzzle velocity checks in at 1450 feet per second with 1517 foot-pounds of energy. Those numbers might look tame next to some .500 loads, but that's exactly the point. Federal engineered the 325-grain bullet weight and powder charge to hit hard on game without turning every shot into a punishment session. You'll still feel this round fire, but it becomes something you can shoot accurately multiple times in a session.
Federal Fusion 500 S&W Design
The key feature is the pre-programmed nose cavity that promotes consistent controlled expansion. Because the lead core is molecularly fused to the jacket, bullet weight retention stays high through the entire wound channel. This means deeper penetration than standard soft-point designs, which makes the 325-grain Fusion suitable for medium game hunting out to realistic handgun ranges.
Reliable Brass Case Construction
Each cartridge uses new-production, non-corrosive boxer-primed brass that's reloadable. You get 20 rounds per box with consistent powder charges and primer ignition. The brass will last through several reloading cycles if that's your path, or it recycles perfectly at most ranges.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
- Bullet Weight: 325 grains
- Bullet Type: Fusion Bonded Soft Point
- Muzzle Velocity: 1450 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 1517 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Brass
- Primer Type: Boxer
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Manufacturer Part Number: F500FS2
- UPC Code: 029465061630
- Ballistic Coefficient: 0.15
- Corrosive: Non-corrosive
- Reloadable: Yes
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of .500 S&W Magnum ammunition in original Federal box
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the bonded bullet construction better for hunting?
The electrochemical bond between the lead core and copper jacket prevents separation on impact. This means the bullet stays together longer, penetrating deeper through vital organs and heavy muscle than non-bonded designs. Weight retention stays high, so you get consistent energy transfer that translates to more reliable game performance.
Is this Federal Fusion load suitable for my 8-inch barrel revolver?
Yes. The 325-grain bullet weight and 1450 fps velocity were specifically developed for short-barrel hunting revolvers. You'll get reliable performance from an 8-inch Model 500, and the moderately optimized velocity balances power with controllability better than heavier, hotter loads.
Can I reload the Federal brass cases?
Absolutely. These are boxer-primed, non-corrosive brass cases that are fully reloadable. The cases will hold up through several reloading cycles, though you should inspect them for proper sizing and primer pocket condition before reloading.
Is this Federal .500 load appropriate for deer-sized game?
Yes, it's designed specifically for medium game like deer and hogs. The 325-grain Fusion bullet delivers controlled expansion and deep penetration suitable for hunting these animals at realistic handgun ranges. The pre-programmed tip and bonded construction ensure consistent performance shot to shot.





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