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500 S&W Magnum Load Data & Ballistics Calculator

Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 500 S&W Magnum with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal-ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended recipe. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.

500 S&W Magnum reference

Maximum average pressure (MAP)60,000 psi
Nominal case capacity57.0 gr H₂O
Groove / bullet diameter0.500 in (12.70 mm)

Example simulation illustrative

Bullet
Sierra 50 Caliber (.5) 400 gr JSP Sports Master
Powder
Hodgdon Lil'Gun
Charge
33 gr
Barrel
6 in

Muzzle velocity

1,260 fps

Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn-rate)

26,445 – 32,034 – 37,680 psi

nominal is 53% of the 60,000 psi maximum average pressure

Illustrative example — every figure here is an estimate and can be wrong. Always consult a current published loading manual, and never trust these numbers on their own.

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