Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
The suppressed TAO50 builds on Auto-Ordnance’s TAO50 platform with an integral suppressor paired to a muzzle brake. The system drops standard FMJ ammunition to roughly 110 dB on a sound meter, according to Auto-Ordnance.
That reduction, combined with the brake, keeps recoil surprisingly mild for a .50 BMG rifle.
Integrally Suppressed .50 BMG Design
The barrel measures 20 inches on the suppressed model and sits partially inside the suppressor. About half the barrel extends into a large expansion chamber before the welded baffle stack continues forward.
While the suppressor looks massive, the effective baffle section adds about 12 to 15 inches past the barrel.
This was according to the rep at Range Day. The design traps gas early, reduces blast, and limits concussion at the shooter’s position. However, this is still a bolt-action 50 BMG, so have realistic expectations.
Roller-Bearing Bolt and Multi-Caliber Setup
One of the TAO50’s defining features is its patent-pending roller-bearing bolt carrier. Instead of metal-on-metal contact inside the receiver, the carrier rides on roller bearings positioned around the action. This layout reduces friction and keeps the long bolt travel smooth and consistent.
The rifle also uses a multi-caliber barrel system. Shooters can swap between .50 BMG and .460 Barrett barrels, adding flexibility without buying a second rifle. The bolt carrier’s compact design helps keep overall weight down compared to traditional .50-caliber actions.
Auto-Ordnance demonstrated the rifle shooting comfortably at distances out to 937 yards. I had the opportunity to give it a shot, and went 1/1 at that distance as well.
AR Controls and Practical Configuration
The TAO50 uses AR-style fire controls, including an AR safety and a Timney drop-in trigger built specifically for .50 BMG. It feeds from Barrett M107A1 10-round magazines, which are widely available.
This suppressed model features a folding stock with an adjustable cheek riser and buttpad. The top rail is a zero-MOA rail. Auto-Ordnance chose that setup because most owners shoot between 100 and 500 yards, not extreme long-range distances.
SEE ALSO: Ambient Arms Is Hot With Their Cold Suppressors — SHOT Show 2026
Pricing and Availability
The standard TAO50 starts at $8,699. The new integrally suppressed TAO50 comes in around $16,000. The rifle itself has been on the market for about a year and a half, while the suppressed variant was just debuted. Auto-Ordnance says suppressed models are already in stock and shipping.
For shooters looking at a suppressed .50 BMG with reduced blast, smoother bolt operation, and modular caliber options, the suppressed TAO50 offers a distinct take on the big-bore precision rifle.
Learn more HERE.
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Mitchell Graf is a dedicated hunter, competitive shooter, and firearms enthusiast. As a former instructor and president of Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team, he has a strong foundation in marksmanship and competition shooting. These days, he spends as much time as possible chasing pigs and coyotes with night vision and thermal optics.
When he’s not in the field or on the range, Mitchell works as a full-time Mechanical Engineer in the Aerospace and Defense industry and manages a part-time farming operation. Whether he’s behind a rifle, designing parts, or working the land, his drive for precision and performance remains the same.
Experience:
– Mechanical Engineer – Full-time professional in the Aerospace/Defense industry.
– Competitive Shooter & Instructor – Former President and Instructor of Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team.
– Night Vision & Thermal Hunter – Passionate about night time predator and hog hunting.
– Part-Time Farmer – Working to provide for my family, and raise food for this great nation.
That 110 decibels does sound a bit too overboard, but he writes that it comes from Auto Ordnance, not his own testing. I like the concept of this rifle, with its multi-caliber design. I don’t currently own any extreme long range, precision big-bore rifle. My plan is to get exactly what I want when I do. I’m still in the investigative phase of my search, gathering data on various rifles from mainly American builders. The .50BMG is the gold standard for me. It’s not perfect but it’s worked for 100+ years & still a contender today. Like the 1911 (and now the 2011), they wouldn’t still be as popular & as mass-produced if they didn’t work when they were needed. The CheyTac is interesting, too. I’ll look into this one more, too, including it in my search. Great write-up.
I don’t believe 110 decibels at the muzzle! That’s suppressed .22LR quiet 🤔