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.500 Linebaugh
.500 Linebaugh
.500 Linebaugh
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.500 Linebaugh
TypeHandgun cartridge
Place of originUnited States
Production history
DesignerJohn Linebaugh
Designed1986
Variants.500 Linebaugh Long or .500 Linebaugh Maximum
Specifications
Parent case.348 Winchester
Case typeRimmed, straight
Bullet diameter.510 in (13.0 mm)
Neck diameter.540 in (13.7 mm)
Base diameter.553 in (14.0 mm)
Rim diameter.610 in (15.5 mm)
Rim thickness.065 in (1.7 mm)
Case length1.405 in (35.7 mm)
Overall length1.755 in (44.6 mm)
Primer typeLarge rifle
Ballistic performance
Bullet mass/type Velocity Energy
435 gr (28 g) L.B.T-L.F.N Buffalo Bore 1,300 ft/s (400 m/s) 1,632 ft⋅lbf (2,213 J)
525 gr (34 g) L.B.T-L.F.N Buffalo Bore 1,100 ft/s (340 m/s) 1,410 ft⋅lbf (1,910 J)
Source: http://www.buffalobore.com

The .500 Linebaugh (13x35mmR) is a .50 caliber handgun cartridge designed for use in revolvers.[1]

History

[edit]

Inspired by the existing .50 WT Super cartridge devised by Neil Wheeler and Bill Topping of Sandy, Utah, John Linebaugh developed the .500 Linebaugh cartridge in 1986.[2] Linebaugh was then known for converting six-shot .45 Colt revolvers to five-shot configuration, which allowed the use of higher-pressure ammunition than would be safe in many existing firearms chambered for the cartridge. While this venture was a success, Linebaugh was intrigued by Wheeler and Topping's work, and decided to pursue a .50 caliber handgun cartridge of his own.[1]

The cartridge case itself was designed by cutting off the .348 Winchester case to 1.405 in (35.7 mm), opening the case mouth to accept a .510 caliber (12.95 mm) bullet, and reaming the inside of the case. The first revolvers converted to use the .500 Linebaugh were the Ruger Bisley and the Seville revolvers. Due to the demise of the Seville revolvers in the early 1990s, most subsequent conversions have been carried out on revolvers based on the Ruger Bisley frame.[3]

It was when the supply of .348 Winchester cases started running out that John Linebaugh began working on the .475 Linebaugh, which could be formed from the more available .45-70 Government cases. When the Winchester Model 71 was reintroduced in the .348 Winchester, the ability to form .500 Linebaugh cases again became feasible.[1] Today, Starline and Buffalo Bore offer .500 Linebaugh cases which are not dependent on the supply of .348 Winchester cases.

Cartridge design and specifications

[edit]

The .500 Linebaugh is a proprietary cartridge and thus has not been adopted by mainline firearms manufacturers. Currently the only firearm manufacturer that produces a revolver for this cartridge is Magnum Research (owned by Kahr Firearms Group), in the BFR product line. Prior to January 2019, the only alternative was to have a gunsmith such as John Linebaugh of Linebaugh Custom Six guns or Hamilton Bowen of Bowen Classic Arms convert pre-existing revolvers such as the Ruger Blackhawk and Bisley to fire the cartridge. Bowen is known to have converted the Ruger Redhawk double-action revolver for use with this cartridge.

.500 Linebaugh Cartridge Schematic

Due to the proprietary status of the cartridge neither the CIP nor SAAMI have published official specifications for the cartridge. As is the case, there can be some variations from gunsmith to gunsmith. No pressure standard has been published for the cartridge but according to Linebaugh, pressure levels between 30,000 psi (210 MPa) and 35,000 psi (240 MPa) are considered safe in the converted revolvers.

The cartridge uses .510 in (12.95 mm) diameter jacketed bullets or .511-.512 in (12.98-13.01 mm) lead bullets.

Sporting usage

[edit]

The .500 Linebaugh was designed as a hunting cartridge. It was designed to fire a 440 gr (29 g) bullet at 1,300 ft/s (400 m/s).[4] This particular loading generates 1,650 ft⋅lbf (2,240 J) of energy making this one of the most powerful handgun cartridges put into production. In terms of energy, this is comparable to the .454 Casull cartridge. However, the .500 Linebaugh provides a larger diameter, heavier bullet with a greater sectional density than the .454 Casull. As a hunting cartridge it is capable of taking any North American game animals and most African game species.[1]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

.500 Linebaugh

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The .500 Linebaugh is a high-powered, large-caliber cartridge developed by custom John Linebaugh (1955–2023) in , designed primarily for use in single-action revolvers and renowned for its exceptional in . Based on a shortened rifle case measuring approximately 1.405 inches in length, it fires bullets of .510 to .512 inches in diameter, typically weighing 350 to 525 grains, at velocities ranging from 950 to 1,550 feet per second, generating muzzle energies up to 1,867 foot-pounds. This cartridge emerged from Linebaugh's efforts to enhance the revolver by converting it to a stronger five-shot configuration, allowing for greater power without excessive pressure, and it remains one of the most potent production revolver rounds available today. Linebaugh's development of the .500 Linebaugh was influenced by big-bore pioneers like and John "Pondoro" Taylor, emphasizing deep penetration and large wound channels over high velocity for dangerous game such as bears, , and African plains animals. The cartridge uses a rim diameter of .610 inches and is chambered in custom or factory revolvers like the , which features a 5.5-inch barrel with a 1:15-inch right-hand twist for optimal bullet stabilization. Typical loads include 435-grain lead flat-nose bullets at 1,300 fps for maximum energy (1,632 ft-lbs) on game up to 2,000 pounds, or lighter 350-grain jacketed hollow-points at 1,550 fps for controlled expansion on medium big game with 18-22 inches of penetration. Heavier 525-grain bullets achieve 1,100 fps and 1,410 ft-lbs, prioritizing straight-line penetration for the largest threats. Despite its effectiveness, the .500 Linebaugh produces severe and muzzle blast, limiting its appeal to experienced shooters, and it is produced in limited quantities by ammunition manufacturers like Buffalo Bore, with brass available from reformed cases or factory production by Starline and others as of 2025. Custom gunsmiths such as Linebaugh, Hamilton Bowen, and David Tubb have fitted it to and Bisley frames, making it a favorite among hunters seeking revolver-based alternatives to rifles for extreme conditions. Compared to the related (derived from .45-70 brass), the .500 offers a wider for better tissue disruption at similar moderate pressures, around half those of some magnum loads, ensuring reliability in heavy-frame handguns.

History and Development

Origins and Invention

John Linebaugh, a custom gunsmith based in Cody, Wyoming, gained prominence in the 1980s for his innovative work on big-bore handgun cartridges, driven by a passion for maximizing revolver power while maintaining reliability. Born in Missouri in 1955, Linebaugh had relocated to Wyoming by 1976, where he honed his skills in custom firearm modifications, particularly for hunting applications that demanded superior stopping power. Linebaugh passed away on March 19, 2023, at his home in Clark, Wyoming. His focus on enhancing cartridge performance stemmed from the limitations of existing magnum rounds, inspiring him to push the boundaries of handgun ballistics. In 1986, Linebaugh developed the .500 Linebaugh cartridge through meticulous experimentation, starting with conversions of .45 Colt six-shot revolvers into five-shot configurations to provide additional steel support around the larger chambers and prevent frame stress under high pressures. This approach allowed the use of more robust cylinders capable of handling the increased dimensions and loads without requiring entirely new frame designs. The parent case for the .500 Linebaugh was derived from shortened and reformed rifle brass, which was necked down to a .510-inch bullet diameter to optimize case capacity and enhance overall strength for high-pressure applications. This design choice leveraged the rimmed structure of the for reliable extraction in revolvers while providing sufficient volume for heavy powder charges. Linebaugh's primary motivation was to engineer a revolver cartridge that surpassed the in raw power, tailored for where deep penetration and massive energy transfer were essential against large animals. The cartridge was optimized for cast lead bullets in the 410- to 440-grain range, delivering authoritative performance from single-action revolvers. Early prototyping included extensive trials with both jacketed and lead projectiles, achieving muzzle velocities up to approximately 1,300 feet per second when fired from 7.5-inch barrels, confirming the cartridge's potential for extreme . These tests validated the design's safety and efficacy, marking a significant advancement in big-bore revolver technology.

Evolution and Commercialization

The .500 Linebaugh emerged as a in 1986, handloaded by enthusiasts using modified brass, but transitioned to limited commercial availability in the late 1990s when Buffalo Bore Ammunition became the first manufacturer to offer factory-loaded rounds in 1997. This marked a pivotal shift from purely custom reloading to accessible , enabling broader experimentation among big-bore shooters despite the cartridge's demanding and power. Grizzly Cartridge later joined as another boutique producer, further solidifying its niche commercial presence. Handgun hunting enthusiasts played a key role in promoting the .500 Linebaugh, highlighting its potential for ethical big-game harvests through specialized publications, forums, and organizations focused on revolver-based . Custom gunsmiths like John Linebaugh and Hamilton Bowen advanced its adoption by converting popular platforms, such as double-action and Blackhawk single-action revolvers, into five-shot configurations optimized for the cartridge's dimensions and pressures. These modifications, often involving rebarreling and cylinder work, became the standard for early users seeking reliable performance. A major milestone arrived in 2019 with the introduction of the , the first factory revolver chambered specifically for the .500 Linebaugh, offering a robust single-action without the need for custom alterations. However, reluctance from major manufacturers persisted due to the cartridge's specialized market and intense , which limited mass production and kept reliance on skilled gunsmiths for most firearms. By the mid-2020s, the .500 Linebaugh maintained interest within the single-action community, supported by the BFR's availability and aftermarket components such as reloading dies from Lee Precision and cast bullets from Bullet Company. This has fostered use among dedicated shooters, though it remains a option rather than a mainstream .

Design and Specifications

Cartridge Construction

The .500 Linebaugh cartridge is constructed from high-quality brass cases reformed from rifle brass, which are cut down, resized, and fitted with a large rifle primer pocket; headstamps are typically marked ".500 Linebaugh" on commercial brass from manufacturers like Starline or Buffalo Bore, though custom or early cases may be unmarked. Key dimensions include an overall cartridge length of approximately 1.755 inches, a case length of 1.405 inches, a rim diameter of 0.610 inches, and a base diameter of 0.553 inches, with the neck measuring 0.540 inches in diameter. The bullet diameter is 0.510 inches, allowing for a range of projectiles from 350 to 600 grains, though common choices include 440-grain cast lead bullets for general use or 400-grain jacketed bullets for hunting applications. The case employs a near-straight-walled with a subtle bottleneck at the and to promote reliable feeding in cylinders, featuring a neck wall thickness of about 0.020 inches to safely contain operating up to 35,000–40,000 psi in non-SAAMI-standardized loads. As a without official SAAMI specifications, pressure limits should follow or manufacturer recommendations for safe use in custom . Visually, the rimmed case resembles a shortened .45-70 Government cartridge but is specifically engineered for the demands of handgun pressures and single-action revolver operation, providing robust headspacing and extraction.

Ballistic Performance

The .500 Linebaugh cartridge delivers substantial ballistic performance, characterized by high muzzle energies suitable for big-game applications. Representative standard loads include a 435-grain LBT-LFN bullet achieving 1,300 fps from a typical revolver barrel, producing approximately 1,632 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. High-performance loads push a 400-grain jacketed hollow-point to 1,400 fps, yielding 1,741 ft-lbs of energy, while reduced-recoil options, such as a 435-grain LBT-LFN at 950 fps, generate 871 ft-lbs for practice or lighter shooting. Heavier bullets, like 525-grain LBT-LFN at 1,100 fps, provide 1,410 ft-lbs, balancing penetration with manageable recoil.
Bullet Weight (gr)TypeVelocity (fps)Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs)Notes
435LBT-LFN1,3001,632Standard heavy load for dangerous game
400JHP1,4001,741High-velocity expanding option
435LBT-LFN950871Low-recoil practice load
525LBT-LFN1,1001,410Heavy bullet for deep penetration
The cartridge's remains relatively flat out to 100 yards, with a typical 2-3 inch drop at 150 yards when zeroed at 50 yards, supporting an effective range up to 150 yards with appropriate . Operating pressures range from 33,000 to 36,000 psi, allowing safe use in strong custom revolvers. energy is approximately 37-47 ft-lbs in 4-5 pound revolvers, comparable to light cartridges, with felt impulse moderated by the gun's weight and grip design. Performance varies with barrel length, where shorter 5-inch barrels may yield 100-200 fps less than 10-inch ones due to incomplete powder burn, emphasizing the benefits of longer barrels for maximum energy. Bullet type significantly influences : jacketed hollow-points promote rapid expansion for vital damage on medium game, while hardcast lead bullets prioritize straight-line penetration for larger or thick-skinned animals. The cartridge's robust case dimensions enable these velocities and energies without excessive pressure.

Firearms and Ammunition

Compatible Revolvers

The .500 Linebaugh cartridge, with its .510-inch diameter, requires revolvers featuring oversized cylinders—typically measuring around 1.75 inches in diameter—to accommodate the large projectiles while maintaining structural integrity under high pressures up to 36,000 psi. These cylinders are often five-shot designs with counterbored chambers to provide reliable rim support for the cartridge's .348 Winchester-based case, preventing excessive headspace issues common in rimmed rounds. Heavy-duty frames, such as those derived from Ruger or custom builds, are essential to absorb the significant generated by 400- to 500-grain at velocities exceeding 1,200 fps. Custom conversions dominate the landscape for .500 Linebaugh revolvers, with pioneering gunsmith John Linebaugh specializing in modifications to Ruger single-action platforms like the Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk. Linebaugh's approach involved reworking the cylinder to a five-shot configuration, counterboring the chambers for enhanced rim seating, and fitting extended barrels (often 5 to 7.5 inches) to optimize the cartridge's performance in a packable handgun. His Cody, Wyoming-based shop produced these as semi-custom pieces, emphasizing precision tuning for accuracy and recoil management, with examples weighing 3 to 4 pounds in stainless steel. Contemporary gunsmiths, including Linebaugh's successor Dustin Linebaugh and Hamilton Bowen, continue this tradition, converting Ruger Bisley Vaquero or New Model Blackhawk frames to .500 Linebaugh specifications, often adding custom engraving and grips for improved handling. Among factory-produced options, the (Biggest Finest Revolver) stands out as the primary accessible platform, introduced in 2019 as a single-action chambered specifically for the .500 Linebaugh. Available in barrel lengths of 5, 6.5, and 7.5 inches, the BFR features a robust 17-4 , a 1:15-inch right-hand twist rate for stabilizing heavy bullets, and weighs approximately 3.46 pounds unloaded, making it suitable for field carry despite the cartridge's power. The five-round cylinder is designed with the same counterbored chambers as custom builds, ensuring compatibility and safety. offered limited runs of its Model 83 single-action in .500 Linebaugh during the 1990s and early , utilizing a premium frame with adjustable sights and barrels up to 7.5 inches, though production has since shifted to related calibers like the . Other adaptations include rare gunsmith conversions of double-action revolvers, such as the , where specialists like Jack Huntington rechamber the and barrel to handle .500 Linebaugh loads, often requiring frame reinforcements to manage the oversized .510-inch bullets and . Aftermarket for X-Frame revolvers have been attempted but remain exceptionally uncommon due to dimensional mismatches with the cartridge's rim and length, limiting practicality compared to single-action platforms. As of 2025, .500 Linebaugh revolvers remain primarily custom or semi-custom offerings, with the serving as the most readily available factory model, typically priced at $1,500 or more depending on configuration and dealer. Custom conversions from shops like Bowen Classic Arms or Linebaugh Custom Sixguns command premiums of $2,000 to $4,000, reflecting the specialized craftsmanship involved.

Reloading Practices

Reloading .500 Linebaugh ammunition requires careful preparation. As of 2025, purpose-built is available from manufacturers such as Starline, which can be used directly without forming. Alternatively, cases can be trimmed to a of 1.4 inches before fire-forming to achieve the straight-walled configuration. Fire-forming is accomplished by loading the trimmed cases with low-pressure dummy rounds, often patterned after specifications, and firing them to expand the case body and neck properly. Annealing the case necks periodically during resizing helps maintain flexibility and prevents cracking from work-hardening, particularly important given the cartridge's high operating pressures. Powder selection for full-power loads typically involves 28 to 35 grains of H110 or equivalent slow-burning powders like Lil'Gun when paired with 410- to 450-grain bullets, delivering velocities suitable for big-game applications while staying within safe pressure limits of around 35,000 psi. For reduced-pressure practice or training loads, powders such as Alliant Unique at 12 to 14 grains or IMR Trail Boss provide manageable with similar heavy bullets, allowing shooters to develop proficiency without excessive strain on the . Bullets are seated to an overall cartridge length () of approximately 1.610 inches for 440-grain projectiles to ensure reliable feeding in revolvers, with lead bullets requiring gas checks to minimize barrel leading from the high velocities involved. Dedicated die sets from manufacturers like Lee Precision or RCBS are essential for sizing, expanding, seating, and crimping, and a robust single-stage press such as the RCBS Rock Chucker is advised to handle the significant forces generated during full-length resizing and forming. Safety is paramount in .500 Linebaugh reloading due to its origins and potential for high pressures; reloaders must use a case gauge after trimming and resizing to verify dimensions and prevent chambering issues from over-length cases. Loads should always begin 10% below published maximums and be incrementally worked up while monitoring for signs of case separation or excessive head expansion, using a to confirm velocities align with expected pressure levels. While commercial offers a convenient alternative for those not , custom loads enable optimization for specific firearms and uses.

Applications and Usage

Hunting Applications

The .500 Linebaugh cartridge finds primary application in handgun hunting for North American big game, including deer, black bear, and , particularly at close ranges under 100 yards where its substantial stopping power ensures ethical harvests. Hunters favor it for its ability to deliver deep penetration and rapid energy transfer in thick cover or limited-visibility scenarios, making it suitable for dense brush hunts. Bullet selection plays a key role in optimizing performance for specific game; deep-penetrating 440-grain wide flat nose (WFN) or long flat nose (LFN) cast bullets are preferred for bears to achieve straight-line penetration through heavy bone and muscle, while 400-grain jacketed (JHP) bullets promote controlled expansion for deer, promoting quick, humane kills without excessive meat damage. Field reports highlight its effectiveness, with hunters achieving one-shot stops on feral hogs, black bears, and even a moose using 440-grain flat-nose loads in revolvers like the , demonstrating reliable performance in real-world close-quarters encounters. Legally, the .500 Linebaugh is permitted for handgun seasons in numerous U.S. states, as its loads typically generate over 1,000 ft-lbs of —exceeding minimum requirements in many jurisdictions for big game like deer and . Hunters should always verify current state-specific regulations, as requirements can change. This compliance allows its use during dedicated pistol seasons for species including and black bear. As a compact alternative to , the .500 Linebaugh excels in , offering ease of trail carry in single-action revolvers that balance power with portability for extended pursuits on foot. , while stout, can be managed in heavy setups for accurate shot placement.

Target and Recreational Shooting

The .500 Linebaugh cartridge finds application in target shooting disciplines such as handgun metallic silhouette, where it is recognized by the International Handgun Metallic Silhouette Shooting Association (IHMSA) as an eligible caliber for big-bore competitions. In these events, shooters typically employ reduced-power loads to prioritize accuracy and controllability over maximum velocity, allowing the heavy bullets to knock down steel targets at distances up to 200 meters while managing the cartridge's inherent . For instance, loads featuring 300-grain bullets at approximately 900 feet per second enable precise shot placement without excessive muzzle flip, making the round suitable for silhouette matches that demand consistent performance from experienced competitors. Recreational shooting with the .500 Linebaugh appeals primarily to seasoned enthusiasts seeking the visceral thrill of a powerful , often for sessions at ranges extending to 200 yards. The cartridge's robust supports versatile load development, where lighter charges provide enjoyable practice without the punishing of full-power configurations, fostering improved marksmanship and confidence among users tolerant of its magnum characteristics. Custom grips, such as Bisley-style designs, enhance control during these casual outings by distributing recoil forces more evenly across the shooter's hand, reducing fatigue during extended sessions. Load tuning for recreational purposes emphasizes reduced velocities to minimize wear and shooter discomfort, with examples including 14 grains of Alliant Unique behind a 367-grain achieving around 980 feet per second—delivering comparable to a full-power while maintaining sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards. Similarly, combinations of 20 grains of Unique with 350-grain bullets can reach 1,000 feet per second, offering a balanced option for that extends brass life and avoids over-stressing the firearm's components. These tuned loads highlight the cartridge's adaptability for non-competitive fun, prioritizing enjoyment over . The .500 Linebaugh features prominently in IHMSA-sanctioned events, where it contributes to aggregate scores in big-bore categories alongside other potent rounds. Participants often pair it with aftermarket grips tailored for enhanced , aiding in the precise offhand shots required to topple rams, chickens, pigs, and turkeys at varying distances. However, its high component costs—stemming from specialty brass, bullets, and powders—combined with substantial even in reduced configurations, make it less accessible for novices, positioning it as a choice for skilled marksmen already versed in big-bore handling.

Variants and Comparisons

The .475 Linebaugh, introduced in 1988 by gunsmith John Linebaugh, serves as a foundational related cartridge in his lineup of big-bore revolver rounds. Developed from a shortened parent case to a length of 1.4 inches, it features a .475-inch and is designed for heavy projectiles, such as 420-grain bullets achieving velocities exceeding 1,200 feet per second when loaded with 26 grains of Alliant 2400 powder. This configuration delivers substantial energy for big-game applications while producing noticeably less than the .500 Linebaugh due to its smaller bore and optimized case capacity, making it a more versatile "step-down" option for shooters seeking power without excessive kick. Linebaugh's adaptation of the for use resulted in the .44 Linebaugh, a that bridges rifle-level performance with practicality. Formed by trimming .444 Marlin cases to approximately 1.6 inches and the larger-diameter brass to match specifications, it enables the use of 300-grain or heavier .44-caliber bullets at velocities around 1,400 feet per second in custom s, offering a balance of increased case capacity over standard loads and reliable feeding in single-action frames. This design emphasizes moderate velocities with heavy projectiles to enhance penetration in hunting scenarios, distinguishing it as a -optimized of the original . The .500 JRH represents a shorter variant within the broader influence of Linebaugh's big-bore philosophy, though directly developed by Jack Huntington as a compact of the . With a case length of about 1.395 inches—trimmed to fit smaller frames like the —it maintains similar to the .500 Linebaugh, propelling 440-grain hard-cast bullets at around 975 feet per second from a 5.5-inch barrel, albeit with reduced capacity that limits overall compared to longer cases. This configuration prioritizes usability in more portable handguns while preserving the heavy-bullet emphasis central to Linebaugh's designs. The .500 Linebaugh Maximum (also known as .500 Linebaugh Long) is an extended variant developed by Linebaugh using a lengthened case (approximately 2.15 inches) formed from brass. It supports higher velocities in large-frame single-action revolvers, such as 400-grain bullets at 1,600 feet per second, generating up to 2,300 foot-pounds of for enhanced performance on extreme big game, while maintaining the focus on deep penetration with heavy projectiles. These cartridges share core traits as wildcats tailored for reliability, focusing on heavy s (typically 400 grains or more) at moderate velocities to maximize penetration and energy transfer without excessive pressure spikes, all derived from robust parent cases like the .45-70 or to ensure rimmed, extractor-friendly performance in single-action s. Linebaugh's suite of designs has left a lasting legacy on modern big-bore development, inspiring cartridges that prioritize ethical hunting power in compact platforms; notably, the has gained broader commercial availability, with manufacturers like Buffalo Bore offering factory-loaded in multiple bullet weights for greater accessibility.

Comparisons to Other Calibers

The .500 Linebaugh (typical 440-grain bullet at 1,300 fps from a 5.5-inch barrel, ~1,650 ft-lbs) delivers slightly less than the 's standard 300-grain loads (~1,650-1,800 ft-lbs at 1,600-1,650 fps), but offers superior penetration and momentum due to its heavier .510-inch bullet and higher , making it preferable for large, thick-skinned . The .500 requires reinforced single-action frames to handle its loads safely at conservative pressures around 35,000 psi, while the SAAMI-standardized .454 Casull operates at up to 65,000 psi in stronger, more widely available firearms, including double-actions. The .454 remains more common due to broader factory support, offering milder that is often described as manageable in standard double-action revolvers, while the .500's heavier slug-like projectile generates sharper, more intense kick. In comparison to the , the .500 Linebaugh provides similar overall power levels, with muzzle energies around 1,800 ft-lbs for heavy bullets, but excels in single-action revolvers due to its shorter case length and compatibility with traditional frames like the . The S&W variant, with its longer case, supports higher velocities in semi-automatic designs and factory loads up to 2,300 ft-lbs, though it incurs higher costs for brass and components, making the Linebaugh more economical for reloaders who can form cases from parent brass. Reloading the .500 Linebaugh is generally cheaper and simpler for enthusiasts, as it avoids the S&W's proprietary rim dimensions and allows for custom tuning in single-actions without excessive frame stress. The .500 Linebaugh edges out the in bullet weight and penetration potential, propelling 440-grain cast bullets for deep tissue damage in scenarios, while the .460 typically uses 300-grain projectiles at higher velocities around 1,800 fps for a of about 2,100 ft-lbs. The .460 benefits from superior factory ammunition availability and versatility, including lighter loads down to .45 Colt compatibility, but lacks the .500's raw for large-game . As a , the .500 Linebaugh requires custom reamers, dies, and gunsmithing for optimal performance, contrasting with the SAAMI-standardized , .500 S&W, and .460 S&W, which offer off-the-shelf components and broader commercial support. This custom nature enhances practicality for dedicated reloaders seeking tailored loads at lower long-term costs, but limits accessibility for casual shooters reliant on ammo. The .500 Linebaugh occupies a niche as one of the most powerful handgun cartridges relative to its compact size, surpassing .44 Magnum derivatives in raw energy and penetration while fitting standard single-action frames, though its extreme recoil confines it to specialized applications rather than versatile use.

References

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  43. https://hodgdonpowderco.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/WesternPowdersHandloadingGuide8.0_WEB-1.pdf
  44. https://www.americanhunter.org/content/first-look-magnum-research-bfr-500-linebaugh/
  45. https://www.buffaloboreoutdoors.com/reviews-1/handguns-for-outdoor-defense-against-animals
  46. https://www.ihmsa.org/uploads/3/4/4/0/34407353/august_ihmsa_2014.pdf
  47. https://americanhandgunner.com/handguns/sixgunner-the-sixguns-of-hamilton-bowen/
  48. https://gundigest.com/handguns/hunting-guns/how-to-manage-big-bore-revolver-recoil
  49. https://gundigest.com/gear-ammo/ammunition/big-game-medicine-475s-revolvers
  50. https://www.rugerforum.com/threads/44-linebaugh-long.223505/
  51. https://gunsmagazine.com/guns/monster-maximum-magnum/
  52. https://www.ariaballisticengineering.org/product/500-sw-special-500-jrh
  53. https://americanhandgunner.com/handguns/a-bfr-500-jrh-50ae-big-hole-story/
  54. https://www.buffalobore.com/index.php?l=product_list&c=33
  55. http://www.ballistics101.com/454_casull.php
  56. https://www.shootersforum.com/threads/500-vs-454-recoil.16633/
  57. https://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66396
  58. https://chuckhawks.com/compared_460_500.htm
  59. https://www.shootersforum.com/threads/are-there-any-significant-differences-between-500-we-500.50712/
  60. https://www.buffalobore.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=126
  61. https://www.foundryoutdoors.com/blogs/caliber-ballistics-comparison/460-s-w-magnum-vs-500-s-w-magnum-ammo-comparison-ballistics-info-chart
  62. https://www.1911forum.com/threads/460-vs-500.316079/
  63. https://ultimatereloader.com/2025/03/26/wildcat-loading-off-the-shelf-without-custom-dies/
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