Big Horn Armory, renowned for its innovative leap from big-bore lever-action rifles to semi-automatic platforms, has recently introduced the AR500 Pistol, effectively translating the unparalleled power of their AR500 Rifle into a more compact format. Chambered in the mighty .500 Auto Max cartridge, this firearm promises a new level of adaptability and potency for both hunting and defensive purposes, complementing their already impressive AR500 Rifle series.
The AR500 Pistol retains the raw power that Big Horn Armory’s AR series is known for, now in a form factor that combines rapid firing capability with the maneuverability of a semi-automatic pistol. This product represents a significant development for enthusiasts seeking formidable stopping power without the bulk of a full-sized rifle.
Described as a rimless .500 S&W Magnum, the .500 Auto Max cartridge offers a unique rimless, straight-walled case design that is optimized for AR-style firearms. This round is not only highly obtainable but also reloadable, accommodating an extensive range of bullet weights from 350 grains to a staggering 600 grains. For handloaders, options span from 275 grains to a colossal 700 grains, in almost every bullet type imaginable. The AR500 Pistol’s versatility is underscored by its capacity to handle game as diverse as prairie dogs to pachyderms and even effectively halt vehicles, hence the moniker “truck-stopping power.”
In terms of specifications, the AR500 Pistol sports a 10-inch barrel with a 1 in 24 rate of twist, a match-grade Rise Rave 140 trigger with a clean 3.5-pound pull, and a buffer tube in place of a traditional buttstock. The firearm is equipped with an M-Lok Forearm brace with Picatinny rails and sling swivels, crafted from 7075 aluminum, and completed with a Hunter Black Nitride finish on its stainless steel parts.
The AR500 Pistol’s design is not merely about power; it also focuses on shooter comfort and efficiency. With an 8.1-pound weight, it remains surprisingly manageable given its capabilities. The firearm is shipped with a standard 5-round magazine, with an option for a 9-round magazine also available, balancing firepower with practical constraints.
For tactical teams and hunters, the AR500 Pistol offers a unique solution—combining the hard-hitting performance of the .500 Auto Max round with a platform that allows for quick handling and firing in various scenarios. This power-packed, semi-automatic pistol is expected to be as much of a game-changer in the field as its predecessor, the AR500 Rifle, which had been celebrated for its massive energy delivery, albeit at a 150-yard effective range.
Relevant articles:
- Review: Big Horn Armory AR500 in .500 Auto Max, American Hunter
- The AR-500 Rifle Is Nothing Short of Killer, nationalinterest.org
- Review: Big Horn Armory AR500 in .500 Auto Max, American Hunter, Jan 7, 2019
- 500 Auto Max Pistol, Big Horn Armory