Extreme Firepower in a Familiar Platform

The Big Horn Armory AR500 stands out in the AR rifle category by offering a level of power not typically associated with the platform. Chambered in .500 Auto Max—a cartridge developed specifically for this firearm—the AR500 blends traditional AR handling with a high-energy, big-bore capability that expands its potential use cases.

A Different Take on the AR Platform

While the AR-15 and AR-10 platforms have long supported a range of calibers, few options match the energy delivered by the AR500. Rather than adapt an existing round, Big Horn Armory engineered the .500 Auto Max, a rimless version of the well-known .500 S&W Magnum, to feed reliably in a semi-automatic system. The result is a firearm capable of delivering large-caliber performance in a familiar and modular package.

The .500 Auto Max Cartridge

The .500 Auto Max is a versatile cartridge capable of supporting a wide range of bullet weights and styles. Commercially available loads typically range from 350 to 600 grains, while handloaders can experiment with bullets from 275 to 700 grains. These can include jacketed hollow points, monolithic solids, and hardcast projectiles, among others. This diversity gives the AR500 the flexibility to be configured for a variety of roles—from large game hunting to specific defensive applications.

Despite the size of the cartridge, the rifle remains manageable in terms of weight and recoil mitigation, thanks in part to its design features.

Notable Features and Construction

The AR500 is built with durability and modularity in mind. Key components include:

• Caliber: .500 Auto Max

• Barrel: 18” with a 1:24 twist, threaded with a muzzle brake

• Trigger: Rise Armament Rave 140 single-stage match trigger with a 3.5 lb pull

• Receiver Materials: 7075 aluminum, hard anodized

• Finish: Hunter Black Nitride on stainless steel components

• Handguard: M-LOK compatible free float

• Stock: Adjustable

• Magazine Capacity: 7-round standard or 4-round option

• Weight: 9 lbs

• MSRP: $2,399.00

The AR500 also includes integral sling swivel mounts, recessed crown for barrel protection, and compatibility with standard AR-pattern accessories. It is also offered in a braced-pistol variant for users seeking a more compact configuration.

Application and Use Cases

The AR500’s high-energy cartridge and semi-automatic operation open up a number of possibilities. It may appeal to those involved in large game hunting, remote property defense, or enthusiasts looking for a unique addition to their collection. The ability to tailor loads for specific needs makes it a highly configurable platform, and its familiar controls reduce the learning curve for users already accustomed to AR-style rifles.

Conclusion

The Big Horn Armory AR500 offers a distinct take on the AR platform by pairing it with the custom .500 Auto Max cartridge. Its combination of powerful performance, modular design, and cartridge versatility positions it as a viable option for users seeking more capability from a semi-automatic rifle. As with any specialized firearm, its value lies in its fit for the specific roles and preferences of the individual user.