lomgevity of the .500's

[dubber123]

I read a couple of older posts that claimed to have "shot loose" a few  Handies.  I believe that the .500 will prove to be the hardest on guns. (large case head area, high pressure, heavy bullets).  Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

[McLernon]

I have to believe NEF engineers have worked the numbers and concluded that the caliber is OK. Having said this I would be inclined to load it on the light side. Only time will tell. Did the gun come with any loading restrictions like we have for the 45-70?

Mc

[dubber123]

I haven't got one yet, so I don't know.  I assume it's believed to be OK with SAAMI spec ammo, and some factory loads are very powerful, thats why I asked.  And I'm sorry for spelling longevity with an "M".!

[moxgrove]

I really think your tolerance would be more of a limiting factor than the strength of the rifle. Of course staying away from top loads would help. I believe the Handi will hold up just as well as the Smih revolver.

[dubber123]

Moxgrove, my brothers .500 Smith broke in about 200 rounds, so I hope thats not a good comparison!