The .50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG) cartridge is one of the most powerful firearms rounds in the world. Initially designed for military use, it has found a place in civilian applications, ranging from long-range shooting competitions to big game hunting. This article delves into the nuances of .50 BMG ammo, exploring its history, specifications, ballistics, and best uses while comparing it to other calibers, such as the .338 Lapua Magnum. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the world of .50 BMG, this guide will provide comprehensive insights into this formidable cartridge.

Best 50 BMG Ammo

There are quite a few options out there when it comes to .50 BMG ammo. We narrowed our list down to six optimal choices, which include the following:

Ammo Inc. 660 Grain FMJ (Range)

Ammo Inc.’s 660-grain FMJ projectiles have brass casings and non-corrosive primers. They are best suited for use at the range and cost roughly $6 per round. That price range keeps them among the most affordable .50 Cal options.

Ammo Inc.’s cartridges boast 2,900 feet per second of muzzle velocity and pack a huge punch. They are a good, reliable option that will cycle reliably through any 50-caliber rifle. 

Federal 660 Grain FMJ (Range)

Federal notes that this .50 BMG cartridge is loaded to meet M33 specifications. It also features non-corrosive primers and an annealed brass casing. It delivers 2,940 FPS of muzzle velocity and 12,666 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.

Marksmanship skills can be honed efficiently with this FMJ cartridge. It delivers 660gr of powerful impact against targets at great distances. It’s a great option for high-volume shooters who spend their days at the range.

PMC 660 Grain FMJ (Range)

PMC also makes a 660-grain FMJ projectile for the .50 BMG. This cartridge features non-corrosive primers and a brass casing. It delivers 2,950 FPS of muzzle velocity and 12,752 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.

As expected, these projectiles maintain most of their power and momentum to 500 yards. PMC’s ballistics data shows that the projectiles maintain a velocity over 2,000 FPS at 500 yards. 

PPU 725 Grain Solid Brass (Match)

Designed for precision shooting, PPU’s Match Line lives up to the hype. It’s the result of special production and control processes that demand very tight tolerances. It delivers 2,624 FPS of muzzle velocity and 11,083 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.

To qualify for Match Line, these 725-grain projectiles go through rigorous testing. Only the best materials and powders are used during the manufacturing process. Expect 1 MOA accuracy, or better, when sighting in with this ammo at 100 yards.

Hornady 750 Grain A-Max (Match)

Hornady’s massive 750-grain A-Max .50 BMG bullets are ideal for precision shooting. The projectiles have a patented Heat Shield tip to optimize performance and accuracy.

A-Max cartridges produce 13,196 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and a muzzle velocity of 2815 FPS. At the 400-yard mark, the projectiles maintain over 10,000 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and nearly 2,500 FPS of velocity. If you are looking for a precision round, these are it. 

PMC 740 Grain Solid Brass (Match)

PMC 740-grain cartridges feature a solid brass projectile that can punch a hole through even the toughest targets. These cartridges produce 13,337 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and leave the muzzle at 2,830 feet per second.

PMC brass solids are one of the most potent and hard-hitting .50 BMG rounds on the market. They maintain 2,345 FPS at 500 yards and punch through just about anything you have in your sights.

.50 BMG Ammo Specs

The .50 BMG cartridge’s main characteristic is its massive size and power. Its bullet diameter of .510 inches and case length of 3.91 inches make it one of the largest and most powerful rounds available for shoulder-fired rifles. The cartridge typically houses a bullet weighing between 600 and 800 grains, with some specialized variants exceeding 900 grains.

The propellant in .50 BMG cartridges is designed to deliver high muzzle velocities, often exceeding 2,800 feet per second (fps). This results in a muzzle energy surpassing 13,000 foot-pounds, providing the force to achieve results beyond 1,000 yards. The combination of a heavy bullet, high velocity, and significant energy makes the .50 BMG a formidable round for the most challenging targets.

 338 Lapua VS 50 BMG

Regarding ballistics, the .50 BMG stands out for its exceptional long-range performance. The round is known for maintaining supersonic speeds at distances exceeding 1,500 yards, ensuring accuracy and impact even at extreme ranges. The ballistic coefficient (BC) of .50 BMG bullets is typically high, with values ranging from 0.6 to 1.0, depending on the bullet design. This high BC allows the bullet to cut through the air with minimal drag, reducing the effects of wind and gravity over long distances.

Compared to the .338 Lapua Magnum, another popular long-range cartridge, the .50 BMG offers greater energy and terminal ballistics. While the .338 Lapua is highly regarded for its precision and is often used by military snipers, the .50 BMG outperforms it in terms of sheer power and range. The .338 Lapua’s bullet weights typically range between 250 and 300 grains, and its muzzle energy hovers around 4,700 foot-pounds—less than half of what the .50 BMG can deliver. However, the .338 Lapua is more manageable regarding recoil and rifle weight, making it a preferred choice for some long-range shooters.

Weighing .50 BMG Ammo’s Pros & Cons

The .50 BMG cartridge has excellent power and long-range capabilities, but shooters must also consider certain drawbacks.

Pros:

Exceptional Power: The .50 BMG is one of the most hard-hitting cartridges available. It’s capable of delivering devastating energy at long distances.

Long-Range Accuracy: With the right rifle and optics, the .50 BMG can consistently hit targets beyond 1,500 yards. This makes it ideal for long-range shooting.

Versatility: The .50 BMG can be used for various applications, including military, law enforcement, hunting, and competitive shooting.

Penetration: The cartridge’s ability to penetrate armor and barriers makes it a valuable tool in tactical situations.

Cons:

Recoil: The .50 BMG’s immense power results in significant recoil, which can be challenging to manage, especially for less experienced shooters.

Cost: Ammunition and rifles chambered in .50 BMG are expensive, making it a considerable investment for shooters.

Weight: Rifles chambered in .50 BMG are typically heavy and cumbersome. This limits their portability and ease of use in the field.

Range Limitations: While the .50 BMG excels at long ranges, it is overkill for short to medium-range shooting, where smaller calibers might be more practical.

Optimal Applications: Where .50 BMG Ammo Shines

The .50 BMG cartridge is best utilized in situations that require long-range precision and high-impact energy. Here are some of the ideal applications for this formidable round:

Long-Range Shooting Competitions: The .50 BMG’s ability to maintain accuracy and energy over extreme distances makes it a popular choice in long-range shooting competitions. Shooters in events like the King of 2 Miles or F-Class competitions often favor this caliber.

Military and Tactical Use: The .50 BMG’s military origins testify to its effectiveness in tactical scenarios. It is commonly used in anti-materiel roles to disable vehicles, radar installations, or other strategic targets from a distance.

Big Game Hunting: In some regions, the .50 BMG is used for big game hunting. It’s especially good for species like bison or elk, where long-range shots and high-impact energy ensure a humane kill.

Law Enforcement: Certain law enforcement agencies use the .50 BMG. It’s ideal for situations that require neutralizing threats behind barriers or at distance, like hostage rescue operations or anti-terrorism.

While the .50 BMG is not a cartridge for everyday use, it excels in scenarios where its unique attributes shine.

Origins & Evolution: Best 50 BMG Ammo

John Browning, a renowned firearms designer, developed the .50 BMG cartridge in the late 1910s, and the U.S. military officially adopted it in 1921. Initially, it was an anti-aircraft and anti-vehicle round, delivering unparalleled power and penetration capabilities. The cartridge’s design came from the .30-06 Springfield. Yet it had significantly larger dimensions to accommodate a heavier bullet and more propellant, resulting in its iconic 12.7×99mm size.

Over the decades, .50 BMG ammo has seen extensive use in various conflicts, proving its effectiveness against various targets. Its ability to penetrate armor, disable vehicles, and reach targets at extreme distances has made it a staple in military arsenals worldwide. In recent years, the .50 BMG has transitioned from purely military use to civilian applications. This is particularly true in long-range precision shooting, where its accuracy and power are unmatched.

The .50 BMG’s Place In Modern Firearms

The .50 BMG is more than just a powerful cartridge. It symbolizes precision, innovation, and firepower. From its origins on the battlefield to its current role in competitive shooting and beyond, the .50 BMG has become one of the most respected rounds in the firearms world. While it may not be the most practical choice for every shooter, those who appreciate its capabilities understand its advantages.

Are you considering adding a .50 BMG rifle to your arsenal? Understanding the cartridge’s history, specifications, and applications is essential for anyone exploring the best ammunition options. With the right knowledge and preparation, .50 BMG ammo can be a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled shooter. With the correct setup, it can deliver precision and impact at distances few other calibers can match.