S&W 500's only

[Smoky Mountain Red]

This topic is about the S&W 500 mag only.
Lets try not to get off subject with comparisons of other calibers please. Other guns are fine.

My first question is about reloading.

Does anyone have some loads worked up that will allow the use of military surplus powders?

I cast my own custom bullets for the odd calibers and am currently working with several .500 bullets.

The .501 rnfp bore rider in 330gr with a gas check seems to show promise. I would like to find a cheaper powder to go along with my affordable bullets so I can shoot more.

Next what final size seems to shoot the best? .500, .501 and .502 in the S&W?

Thanks, and I'll wait for the results.

-SM Red

[Redhawk1]

I have found .500 to work the best. I have not tried any surplus powder. I only use W296 or Lil-gun. Have fun and let us know what you come up with.  

[Smoky Mountain Red]

I have been using Hodgdon 4227 with a magnum primer and it works great. The burn is quite good.
I'm looking at trying a heavier bullet and some IMR 5010 or Accurate 4350. Has anyone tried the slow powders yet?

SMR