Choosing the Right Gun: SW 500 or Desert Eagle 50AE

When it comes to revolvers or semi-automatics, two models in particular stand out: the Smith Wesson Model 500 (SW 500) and the Desert Eagle 50AE. Both are powerful, but each serves different purposes and may not be suitable for beginners or those seeking a practical hunting or self-defense weapon.

Defining Your Purpose

Before deciding on the SW 500 or Desert Eagle 50AE, it's essential to define your purpose. Some common purposes include hunting, self-defense, and even self-aggrandizement or bragging rights. However, it's important to note that owning such weapons for the latter purposes is generally not advisable.

If you're a beginner, the Desert Eagle in .357 Magnum might be a safer option due to the reduced recoil. For more experienced shooters, the Desert Eagle in .50AE is a true overkill, but it’s a matter of personal preference and ability.

Evaluation of the SW 500 and Desert Eagle 50AE

If you can only choose one, the SW 500 is often considered a more versatile hunting revolver. It offers a balance of power and accuracy, making it suitable for various game sizes. On the other hand, the Desert Eagle is often seen as a highly unique, stylish, and powerful semi-automatic pistol. Its signature design and chambering in .50 AE make it a sought-after firearm among collectors and experienced shooters.

Practical Considerations

The ideal gun is one you can shoot well and are comfortable with. Here are some practical questions to consider:

Purpose: Is it for hunting, self-defense, or simply to own and possibly show off? Recoil: Can you handle the recoil of the Desert Eagle .50AE? A hit with a .38 is generally better than a miss with a .50. Practice: Do you have the time and resources to practice consistently with such high-recoil firearms? Legality: Are you old enough and legally allowed to own such firearms? Adaptability: Can you stay on target and provide follow-up shots with either weapon, especially if injured? Convenience: Can you shoot accurately with either weapon using your off-hand, and from inconvenient positions?

Many people buy such firearms due to brand loyalty, false notions, or peer pressure. However, after purchase, they often find that these guns are more trouble than they're worth and end up in the gun safe.

A More Balanced Choice

If you must have only one handgun, a .357 Magnum might be the best choice. It offers a wide range of ammunition options, from standard .38 Special to high-performance cartridges, allowing you to upgrade as you gain experience. This versatile caliber is also widely used in long arms, making it a safer and more practical choice.

Furthermore, owning a .357 Magnum won't make you appear "under-gunned" to others, as it’s a respected and effective choice for both hunting and self-defense.

For those seeking a more detailed exploration of self-defense and the history of firearms, further reading can be found in the book “The Best Caliber Wars: A History of Self-defense Ballistics” by James M Volo.