Description

Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander ammunition pairs the 500 S&W Magnum with a 275 grain Barnes Expander bullet for handgun hunting. Federal lists a muzzle velocity of about 1660 feet per second from a 8.4 inch vented test barrel, which works out to roughly 1683 foot-pounds of energy by standard calculation. Each box holds 20 rounds.
- All-Copper Performance for Handgun Hunters
- Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander Specifications
- Handgun Hunting Tips
All-Copper Performance for Handgun Hunters
The Barnes Expander is an all-copper bullet. With no lead core to separate from a jacket, it is designed to hold its weight as it expands. Federal lists 100 percent weight retention for this load, which supports deep, straight penetration on game.
A copper bullet that keeps its weight also keeps its momentum. That matters with a handgun, where velocities are lower than with a rifle and every bit of penetration counts.
Federal pairs the bullet with quality components for reliable expansion and the accuracy you need to place a careful shot. Because it is lead-free, this load can also be a good fit in areas that limit lead ammunition.
Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander Specifications
These figures follow Federal’s published data for item P500XB1. Federal’s product page lists UPC 029465098360, which matches this listing.
- Brand: Federal Premium
- Product line: Barnes Expander
- Manufacturer item number: P500XB1
- Caliber: 500 S&W Magnum
- Bullet: 275 grain Barnes Expander (all copper)
- Muzzle velocity: about 1660 fps (8.4 inch vented test barrel)
- Muzzle energy: about 1683 ft-lbs (standard calculation)
- Usage: big game hunting
- Rounds per box: 20
Handgun Hunting Tips
Use Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander ammo only in firearms chambered for 500 S&W Magnum.
Practice from field positions and rests you will use in the woods, such as shooting sticks, a tree or a pack.
Keep shots within the range where you can hold every round in a small group on the vital area.
Velocity from your handgun will vary with barrel length, so confirm your zero and point of impact with this exact load.
Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander ammo is a lead-free choice for handgun hunters going after elk, moose, bear and other large game.
The 500 S and W Magnum is one of the most powerful production revolver cartridges. A 275 grain all-copper Barnes Expander keeps Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander ammo moving fast for a big bore, while its copper construction is built to hold together on large, tough animals.
Shot placement matters even more with a handgun than with a rifle. Wait for a broadside or slightly quartering-away animal, and aim for the heart and lungs. A well-placed shot with Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander ammunition gives the bullet the best chance to do its job.
After the shot, mark where the animal was standing and give it time before you follow up. Handgun hunters often take shots at close range in thick cover, so a careful, patient follow-up makes recovery easier.
Clean your revolver or pistol after each hunt, paying attention to the cylinder face and forcing cone, where powder residue builds up with heavy loads.
Handgun hunting rewards practice. Spend time at the range with Federal 500 SW 275gr Barnes Expander rounds until you can place every shot on a paper plate at your planned distance, from the same positions you will hunt from. Recoil from a powerful revolver is real, so build up gradually and use quality hearing protection.
Store your hunting ammunition in a cool, dry place in its original box, and buy enough from one lot to sight in and still have plenty for the season.
Need a 500 revolver to go with it? See the Smith and Wesson 500 Magnum 8-3/8 inch hunting revolver, or read more on Federal’s Barnes Expander 500 Magnum page.








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