[Jeff Higgins]

Yeah, just look at the sheer size of that .500 S&W - absolutely useless as a "sidearm". No way on earth a guy could carry that on his hip. Lots of folks actually put slings on those and carry them like a rifle. At that point, just what exactly is the point?

Here is the .475 Linebaugh in a practical carrying size revolver. Magnum Research uses the Ruger Super Blackhawk platform to build these. I sent a Ruger Bisley to Hamilton Bowen and had him build one many years ago. The Bisley style grip helps keep it from tearing up your hand, or ringing your funny bone every time you pull the trigger. Still, though, take a look at that recoil. That's why Bowen recommended I wear a bicycle helmet the first time I tried it. After a bit of practice, you learn to let it go back over your weak shoulder. In the end, I just couldn't justify a need for this kind of power.