How many 500 Mag shooters still out there

John Ross · #51 02-08-2011, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Edwards

I'm really interested in the 300 grain Hornady load you spoke of, I assume you're referring to the LEVERevolution bullet, where did you get the data for that load as even the Hornady manual doesn't have a load for that bullet?

Also, I noticed that none of my reloading books that show pressure, have loads that are anywhere close to the SAAMI maximum. Are these X frame revolvers up to taking the heavier loads more in the way that people would put together a big load in .44 and then have to use a T/C to shoot it?

More info! (I used the exclamation point to show my excitement). Thanks for the help.

Yes it was the LeverEvolution bullet.

I have access to pressure barrels and testing equipment. I hesitate to publish some of my data as there are a lot of people out there who will use my data without the requisite knowledge of OALs and the concept of NET case capacity.

The X-Frame 500 is designed to take 60,000 PSI on a regular basis (this is SAAMI spec for the 500) and this is much more than is safe in a Contender firing a case of that diameter (fine with a .223). If you want a .500 S&W rifle, I recommend a custom Encore or Ruger #1.

Edwards · #52 02-08-2011, 01:34 PM

No, I'm just interested in the revolver, but I don't like the idea of buying a revolver and being stuck using only moderate loads like many suggest should be done in a 29/629, I don't mean exceeding SAAMI specs, but people tend to think that shooting many hot .44 mag loads will tear up a Smith, I was trying to judge whether the same will happen with the X frames.

On a side note, is it possible to simulate pressure data via software in some fashion without actually testing?

DonD · #53 02-08-2011, 05:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Edwards

Also, I noticed that none of my reloading books that show pressure, have loads that are anywhere close to the SAAMI maximum. Are these X frame revolvers up to taking the heavier loads more in the way that people would put together a big load in .44 and then have to use a T/C to shoot it? Both of these questions I ask because I'm very interested in a high speed load ala 200 grain 460, but my manuals don't get very close to that except for the Lyman that has max loads just over 2K FPS in a 275 grain Barnes.

Just go to Hodgdon's website, they have pressure data for starting and max loads.

The X Frame is very strong, a S&W engineer I communicate with says that they have never tested one to destruction but his estimates are for pressures you don't even want to consider. Even at pressures well below SAAMI limits, it is a massively powerful handgun. Don