The Magnum Research BFR .500 JRH 5.5″ Bisley Stainless is a purpose-built big-bore single-action revolver that delivers serious horsepower in a compact package. Chambered in the potent .500 JRH cartridge, this five-shot bruiser is machined from solid stainless steel in the USA, with a 5.5″ barrel, Bisley-style white polymer grips, and a brushed finish that shrugs off the elements. It ships with a Weaver scope base and is drilled and tapped for optics—ready to tame the recoil and punch tight groups at the range or in the field.
| Manufacturer | Magnum Research |
|---|---|
| Model | BFR .500 JRH 5.5″ Bisley Stainless |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and cylinder |
| Compatibility | .500 JRH ammunition only |
| Finish | Brushed stainless |
| Weight | Approx. 3.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Bisley Grip Frame – Why it matters: Lowers bore axis and spreads recoil across the palm, making hot .500 JRH loads more controllable than standard plow-handle grips.
- 5.5″ Barrel with Full Underlug – Why it matters: Balances muzzle weight for steady offhand shooting while keeping overall length manageable for field carry or holster use.
- Five-Shot Cylinder – Why it matters: Allows thicker chamber walls to handle high-pressure .500 JRH loads safely, with minimal cylinder gap for consistent velocity.
- Drilled and Tapped for Optics – Why it matters: Ships with a Weaver-style scope base, so you can mount a red dot or scope without gunsmithing—critical for precise shot placement at extended ranges.
- Brushed Stainless Finish – Why it matters: Resists rust and corrosion in wet or humid conditions, and the matte texture reduces glare in bright light during hunting or competition.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the handgun hunter who wants a compact yet powerful big-bore platform, the collector who appreciates American-made stainless craftsmanship, and the silhouette shooter who demands repeatable accuracy from a five-shot cylinder. If you’ve outgrown .44 Magnum and want something with real authority in a packable package, this BFR is your ticket.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Rugged stainless construction with a proven single-action trigger that breaks clean and crisp out of the box.
- Pro: Optics-ready design saves you time and money on aftermarket milling or drilling.
- Con: The white polymer Bisley grips can feel slick with sweaty or gloved hands—many owners swap to textured rubber or custom wood grips for better purchase.
Comparison
| Feature | Magnum Research BFR .500 JRH | Ruger Super Redhawk .454 Casull | Freedom Arms Model 83 .500 Wyoming Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .500 JRH | .454 Casull | .500 Wyoming Express |
| Barrel Length | 5.5″ | 7.5″ | 6″ |
| Capacity | 5 shots | 6 shots | 5 shots |
| Finish | Brushed stainless | Satin stainless | Brushed or polished stainless |
| Optics Ready | Yes (Weaver base included) | No (drilled and tapped optional) | No (custom order only) |
| MSRP | $1,574.22 | $1,499 | $2,650+ |
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on this BFR?
Per Magnum Research specs, the 5.5″ barrel uses a 1:24″ twist rate, optimized for heavy .500 JRH bullets from 300 to 440 grains.
Can I shoot .500 S&W Magnum through this revolver?
No. The .500 JRH is a shorter, lower-pressure cartridge designed specifically for the BFR frame. Do not attempt to chamber .500 S&W Magnum—case length and pressure differ significantly.
Does it come with a case or cleaning kit?
It ships in a padded hard case with a cable lock, owner’s manual, and the Weaver scope base. No cleaning kit is included.
What holster fits this 5.5″ Bisley model?
Most custom leather makers (e.g., Simply Rugged, Diamond D) offer holsters for the BFR with 5.5″ barrel and Bisley profile. Check for models specifically listing the BFR stainless Bisley.
Ready to add the Magnum Research BFR .500 JRH 5.5″ Bisley Stainless to your collection? This is a limited-production run from one of the most respected names in American revolver manufacturing. Over 60% of BFR owners report using them for handgun hunting within the first year (2023 NRA member survey). Don’t wait—these move fast at gun shows and online.
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Explore more: Revolvers | Single-Action Revolvers | Big Bore Handguns
Last updated: April 2026




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