S&W 500 500SW 8.38″ AS 5-SHOT – HI-VIZ STAINLESS RUBBER

Chambered in 500 S&W Magnum, the Smith & Wesson Model 500 with an 8.38-inch barrel is a purpose-built X-Frame revolver for hunters, handgun silhouette competitors, and serious range shooters who want maximum downrange performance. TacticCAL carries it as a DOJ Roster listed handgun for California buyers.

Choosing the X-Frame: Who Actually Buys the Model 500 and Why

This revolver is not a general-purpose purchase. Buyers are typically handgun hunters pursuing large or dangerous game, long-range metallic silhouette competitors, or collectors building around the 500 S&W Magnum chambering. The 8.38-inch stainless barrel and 72.5-ounce weight are assets in those roles — the mass absorbs recoil and the barrel length extracts velocity. The Hi-Viz red dot front sight and adjustable rear sight let you dial in point of impact for specific loads rather than guessing. The rubber grip and drilled-and-tapped frame round out a platform that's ready for a Crimson Trace or optic mount without additional machining. If you're buying your first revolver, this is not the starting point — but if you know exactly why you want it, TacticCAL can walk you through the DROS process same day. More on DOJ Roster certified handguns at TacticCAL.

Frequently asked questions

Is the S&W Model 500 163501 legal to purchase in California?

Yes. This specific SKU is listed on the California DOJ Approved Handgun Roster, making it a straightforward retail purchase at TacticCAL. No special exemption or law enforcement status is required.

What's a practical use for the 10-day wait period after submitting DROS for this revolver?

Source 500 S&W Magnum ammunition — it's not always on shelves, so ordering ahead makes sense. Also plan your transport: California law requires a locked container. If you're mounting an optic on the drilled-and-tapped frame, identify compatible mounts and rings before pickup.

At 72.5 ounces, how practical is this revolver for field carry during a hunt?

It's a significant carry weight. Most buyers use a dedicated chest holster — Galco makes chest rigs sized for large-frame revolvers. For extended backcountry use, a padded holster system distributes the load better than a hip rig at this weight class.

Where can I ship an online gun order near San Jose?

TacticCAL Gun Store in Sunnyvale receives online firearm orders for buyers throughout the South Bay, including San Jose, Santa Clara, and the surrounding Bay Area.

Does TacticCAL help with CA compliant firearms?

Yes — TacticCAL specializes in California-compliant handguns from the DOJ Roster and PC §32100 exempt single-action revolvers.

Can I transfer ammo through an FFL in Sunnyvale?

Yes — TacticCAL processes ammunition shipments from online sellers under California's ammunition eligibility check requirements. Find more at gun store San Mateo.

TacticCAL Gun Store Sunnyvale CA is your Bay Area FFL transfer dealer for California compliant handguns — same-day DROS Sunnyvale processing for Gilroy and South Bay buyers.