- California versions
- 7
- Caliber
- .500 S&W Magnum
- MSRP
- $1,299–$1,989
- Barrel lengths
- 3.5", 4", 6.5", 7.5"
Is the Smith & Wesson Model 500 legal in California?
Yes. 7 versions of the Smith & Wesson Model 500 are on the California DOJ Roster of Handguns Certified for Sale as of October 27, 2026, so California dealers can sell those exact versions new. Only the specific versions listed on this page are certified: a different finish, barrel length or caliber that is not listed is off-roster and can only be bought through a private party transfer at a licensed dealer.
See all 7 California versions ↓ Shop the Smith & Wesson Model 500 on Guns.com → Compare models →
Smith & Wesson Model 500 versions on the California roster
| Photo | Version | Caliber | Barrel | Capacity | MSRP | Guns.com |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
.500 Interchangeable Compensator SKU 163501A | .500 S&W Magnum | 8.375" | 5 | $1699 | $1,477.99 · Buy → |
 |
500 (Satin Stainless) SKU 163565 | .500 S&W Magnum | 6.5" | 5 | $1299 | Search → |
 |
500 Hunter (Matte Silver) SKU 170299A | .500 S&W Magnum | 7.5" | 5 | $1989 | $1,758.99 · Buy → |
 |
500 Hunter SKU 170231A | .500 S&W Magnum | 10.5" | 5 | $1,559 | $1,673.99 · Buy → |
 |
500 SKU 163500A | .500 S&W Magnum | 8.375" | 5 | $1629 | $1,426.99 · Buy → |
 |
M500 SKU 163504A | .500 S&W Magnum | 4" | 5 | $1699 | $1,518.99 · Buy → |
|
PC M500 S&W Hi Viz Fiber Optic SKU 11623 | .500 S&W Magnum | 3.5" | 5 | $1299 | Search → |
Tap a version for full specs, AB 1127 status and where to buy it in California. Guns.com ships to your local California FFL; prices change often, so confirm on Guns.com. Guns.com links are affiliate links that help support this site.
About the Smith & Wesson Model 500
The Smith & Wesson Model 500 is a large-frame, double-action/single-action revolver manufactured by Smith & Wesson and chambered in .500 S&W Magnum. It is built on S&W's massive X-Frame and is designed primarily for handgun hunting and protection in bear country.
How the California versions differ
- Barrel length: Options range from a compact 3.5" (PC M500) and 4" (M500) up to 6.5", 7.5", 8.375", and 10.5" (500 Hunter), offering a wide spread between portability and ballistic performance.
- Finish: Versions include standard stainless, satin stainless (163565), and matte silver (500 Hunter 170299A), giving buyers some aesthetic choice.
- Compensator: The SKU 163501A includes an interchangeable compensator to help manage the heavy recoil of the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge.
- Sights: The PC M500 (SKU 11623) features a Hi-Viz fiber optic front sight, while other models use standard pinned or ramp-style front sights.
- Performance Center: The PC M500 (SKU 11623) is built by Smith & Wesson's Performance Center, indicating enhanced factory tuning and fitment compared to the standard production models.
Who it suits
The Model 500 family is best suited for handgun hunters pursuing large or dangerous game and outdoorsmen seeking maximum stopping power in a revolver platform.
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