Is the barrel on the .500 S&W Handi any heavier than say the .30-30 Handi? It appears that both take the same forend, but I am curious about the muzzle diameter, specifically whether or not it is the same between the two.
I have been thinking (uh-oh) 'bout fitting a walnut Gunstocks Inc Mannlicher forend and buttstock (with recoil pad!) to a .500 to add a bit of weight. Not sure if the Gunstocks Mannlicher forend will be big enough to fit to the .500 at the muzzle.
I used to shoot a .50-70 Sharps carbine quite a bit, and was thinking about just loading the .500 with Holy Black and cast slugs for a sort of modern take on the .50 Government.
Too far out? I have no real need for .500 S&W ballistics and recoil in a Handi, but thought it would make a very nice,
comfortable short range deer popper with black powder.
There is a Ruger No. One 450/400 3" in the safe, so I have horsepower on tap around here if it is needed!

Otony