The .500 S&W handgun is designed for more than self-defense. It is also an excellent hunting platform, capable of taking down big game at far greater distances than many smaller caliber handguns. However, if you are going to enjoy the .500 S&W to its fullest extent you need a scope. Here we'll cover our picks for the best 500 S&W scopes.
The Best .500 S&W Scopes
Here are our top optic picks for the S&W .500.
1. LEUPOLD FX-II 4x28mm Handgun Scope
Leupold enjoys a long and well-deserved reputation for producing some of the highest quality, best-performing optics. The Leupold FX-II scope is no exception.
This Leupold is a 4x fixed magnification scope. However, users should not let the lack of adjustable power be a deterrence. The 4x power of the Leupold FX-II allows large-caliber handgun shooters a near-perfect combination. The lower 4x power allows accurate shooting of closer or moving targets while also providing the power needed to extend the range of your 500 S&W.
Leupold has also included features to make this scope one of the best for large-caliber handguns. The Superfast Focus Eyepieces with a lockable fast-focus feature allow for ease of use even when the perfect eye relief is not achieved. The 1/4 MOA, with adjustment with a single finger click, permits fast adjustment for precious hits. Finally, the 1-inch diameter tube is constructed from 6061-T aircraft aluminum for the highest durability. It is also capable of being mounted with some of the most common scopes, saving money for the shooter.
Whether you are a hunter or range shoot, if you want to take advantage of the S&W 500 extended range the Leupold FX-II will get the job done.
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A manufacturer has to have a lot of confidence in their product to name it "Elite". Few could back up such a claim, but Bushnell has proven it a wise and accurate branding.
The first thing you look for in a large caliber handgun scope is durability. When you are shooting something as powerful as the 500 there is a tremendous level of recoil. Without a solid base, your scope will not last more than a couple of shots. Bushnell addressed this by starting with a hammer forged 30mm Magnum recoil-proof tube, a design that was tested with over 1,000 rounds of .375 H&H.
But you are getting far more than a heavy-duty scope. You are also getting a scope that will bring your shooting to a new level. The Multi-X reticle features 1/4 MOA and a power range of 2x-6x. The Rainguard water-repellant lens cause condensation to bead and run to the outer edges for an unobstructed view. Multiple lens coatings and a dry-nitrogen construction provide a waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof design that will withstand the abuse the field is sure to provide.
Because Bushnell designed this scope specifically for handguns you will also see some features designed to overcome the problems faced when mounting a rifle scope on a large caliber handgun. The 20" eye relief allows for use with a more natural stance while the 100-yard F.O.V. (10' at 2x and 4' at 6x) makes this scope practical for hunting applications.
Bushnell has brought big-caliber handgun owners the big league scope they have been seeking. Perfect for hunting and the range.
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Hunters and competitive shooters know that sometimes it is not about range but precision. The perfect shot is the difference between a trophy or a filled tag and going home empty-handed. This is why a red dot can be the perfect addition to any 500.
Ultra-Dot may be unknown to many of you, but it is well known to those who make shooting their business. Visit any NRA Bullseye match and more than a few shooters will be outfitted with one.
The Match Dot II is a purpose-built optic designed for moderate to close range engagements and rugged enough to withstand the rigors of large caliber handguns including your favorite 500. Features include a 2, 4, 6, or 8 MOA reticle that can be switched on the go; a bullet drop compensating system that allows you to adjust elevation in the field, and a sight extension that cuts down glare and increases visibility in bright conditions.
Whether the trophy you are hunting is big game or your next championship, the Match Dot II by Ultra-Dot will allow you and Smith Wesson 500 to achieve your dreams. It is the perfect scope to allow you to make the perfect shot when everything is on the line.
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Aimpoint is one of the most trusted names in firearms optics. This is a company that has proven to be one of the leaders among those who make a living in shooting sports, people who depend on their equipment every day.
The 9000SC is specifically designed for use with shorter action rifles, semi-automatic firearms, and magnum handguns. The reticle features two aiming dot sizes (2 or 4 MOA), visibility of 0.1 to 55000 lx, and a 23mm aperture with unlimited eye relief. The tube is constructed of high-strength aluminum with a matte black anodized finish and weighs only 7.4 ounces. The unit is powered by a single 3v 2L76 lithium battery with a 50000 hr. life.
Each 9000SC is constructed to withstand the rigors of everyday use under the most extreme conditions. They can withstand shock, wide fluctuation in temperatures, and even being submerged to 15ft. All lens surfaces receive a multi-layer treatment to protect from damage and prevent glare.
If you are searching for a scope that will allow you to achieve the most from your 500, the Aimpoint 9000SC needs to be near the top of your list. Not only is it built by one of the most trusted names in the industry, but it is also built to withstand the abuse common to both the field and large-caliber firearms. Take your shooting to the next level with an Aimpoint.
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No review of the best S&W 500 scope would be complete with an entry by Burris. Not only is Burris a well-regarded scope manufacturer, but they also offer several models designed specifically for handguns. When it comes to outfitting your 500 our choice is the Burris 2-7x32 mm Scope.
This particular model incorporates all the features you are looking for in a large caliber handgun scope. This scope has a large field of view, well designed for use when managing a heavy handgun. The Ballistic Plex Reticle with built-in notches for easier adjustment in the field. Thanks to the Posilock system your turrets will not lose zero, even with the heavy recoil of the 500. The nitrogen-sealed body protects against rain and fog for trouble-free use in the field. Finally, the matte black finish reduces glare and hides your location from keen-eyed prey.
It is hard to find a better scope than a Burris and even harder to find a better S&W 500 scope than this one.
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How to Choose the Right .500 S&W Scope
Before buying a scope for your .500 S&W, it is important to understand what features you need to look for.
1. Durability
Any hunting scope needs to be durable and capable of handling a certain amount of abuse. After all, even the most cared for firearm is going to encounter harsh elements and the possibility for damage when taken into the field.
You need to look for a scope that is resistant to fog, water, and temperature changes. You also want a finish that is resistant to scratches, on both the exterior and lens. But, when mounted on a large caliber frame (such as the S&W 500), you also need one that can withstand extreme recoil.
Overall construction, materials, and durability is a major consideration. Saving a few bucks on quality will come back to bite you when the cheaper scope needs to be replaced far sooner than anticipated.
Look for a scope specifically designed for high-caliber handguns. A growing number of manufacturers are designing scopes capable of, or specifically designed for, the .500 S&W.
2. Size
Although you will be mounting this scope on a large caliber frame you do not want to necessarily go with the largest scope available. A scope that is too large will not only make your S&W 500 more cumbersome, it is unlikely going to provide the proper eye relief.
The average S&W .500 weighs between 3 1/2 and 5 pounds. Adding a scope that is too heavy can make this difficult to carry and even harder to maneuver when taking a shot at a moving animal. The same can be said for overall length.
3. Tube Diameter
The standard scope has a tube diameter of 30mm. This is nearly ideal for providing the light transmission needed for low light conditions while also providing a clear sight picture. Depending on the specific conditions you will face you can adjust this up or down slightly, but even a few millimeters can make the scope useless in a hunting application.
4. Magnification
There are three key features to consider when it comes to magnification - power, clarity, and ease of use. A good scope for the S&W .500 will provide the best balance of each.
Power
In most cases, you will want a scope that has variable power that's suitable for the longest range you expect to shoot but can be adjusted down for closer shots. 4x maximum power is generally suitable for up to 100 yards.
Clarity
As you add power you risk losing clarity, especially around the edges of your lens. This will reduce your field of vision and reduce your hunting success. The better the lens quality the more clarity they will provide as the power is increased.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is something that many shooters overlook. You can have the best scope on the market, but if you can not make the necessary adjustments in the field it is nothing more than extra weight. Look for controls that can be adjusted quickly, preferably without a tool, can be used with gloves on and that stay locked in place under heavy recoil.
In Summary
When Smith & Wesson introduced the .500 S&W they altered the large-caliber handgun market. This beast is the biggest production handgun available and offers an unprecedented advantage when it comes to both power and range. By combining the Smith & Wesson .500 with quality optics the shooter can have many of the advantages of a rifle in a smaller, more compact package.
Of course, the heavy recoil of the S&W 500 proved equally destructive to scopes as it did the intended targets. The S&W 500 requires a scope that was built to provide both the desired features and the necessary strength.
Any of the optics discussed above will allow the hunter to take any North American big game species at a comfortable range. They are all worthy of being considered the best 500 S&W scopes. However, our choice for the Best Smith & Wesson .500 scope is the Leupold FX-II 4x28mm Scope.
Leupold is a well-respected manufacturer and the FX-II 4x28mm is an example of why. It is specifically built to handle heavy recoil, includes all the features needed on a S&W 500 scope. While it does not offer the adjustable magnification of other scopes, what it does provide is well suited for most handgun applications, including hunting or target shooting. You can shoot with this scope for years to come without worry.