Barnes Buster Hunting Bullets Handguns & Lever Rifles .500 S&W .500" 400 Gr
The Barnes Buster .500 S&W 400 grain hunting bullet is purpose-built for serious handgun and lever rifle hunters pursuing large, dangerous game. These fully cast bullets combine a thick copper jacket with a heavy lead core to deliver the penetration and weight retention needed for elk, moose, bear, and other big game at hunting ranges. If you're loading for a .500 S&W Magnum revolver or other big-bore handgun cartridge, the Buster is engineered to go deep and hit hard without deflection or failure.
What sets the Buster apart is its construction. The heavy, solid build means less expansion and more straight-line penetration—qualities that matter when you're facing an animal that can fight back. Unlike conventional hunting bullets that shed weight on impact, the Buster is designed to maintain its integrity through bone and heavy muscle, giving you the bone-crushing force and pass-through capability that makes the difference in the field.
Barnes bullets are loaded ammunition components favored by handloaders who demand consistency and reliability. These are cast bullets ready for your reloading press, letting you build loads tailored to your specific firearm and hunting situation. Whether you're a dedicated .500 S&W hunter or running a custom lever rifle in a big-bore cartridge, the Buster delivers the performance and durability you need for ethical, effective big game hunting.
Key Features
- Thick copper jacket for durability and corrosion resistance
- Heavy lead core for deep penetration and weight retention
- Fully cast construction ready for handloading
- Straight-line flight without deflection
- Designed for large, dangerous game hunting
- 400 grain weight optimized for .500 S&W Magnum and similar cartridges
Specifications
| Caliber | .500 S&W |
| Bullet Diameter | .500" |
| Weight | 400 grains |
| Type | Cast bullet with copper jacket |
| Intended Use | Handgun and lever rifle hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions
What cartridges can I load these bullets into?
These .500" diameter, 400 grain bullets are designed for .500 S&W Magnum and similar large-bore handgun cartridges. They can also be used in lever rifle cartridges that accept .500" diameter projectiles. Always verify compatibility with your specific firearm and ammunition reloading references before loading.
Are these bullets suitable for big game hunting?
Yes. The Barnes Buster is specifically engineered for hunting large, dangerous game including bear, moose, elk, and other big game. The heavy weight, thick jacket, and heavy core provide the penetration and weight retention needed for ethical, effective hunting of large animals.
Do I need to be a reloader to use these bullets?
Yes, these are cast bullet components intended for handloaders. You will need reloading equipment, brass, powder, and primers to assemble finished cartridges. If you're new to reloading, consult published reloading manuals for safe load data specific to your firearm and bullet.
How do these bullets compare to other big-bore hunting bullets?
The Buster is designed to prioritize straight-line penetration and weight retention over rapid expansion. The heavy, solid construction resists deflection and deformation, delivering consistent deep penetration through heavy bone and muscle—qualities critical in hunting large, potentially dangerous game.

