Quick Look

The .50 BMG bullet was developed during World War I for the Browning .50 caliber machine gun. Designed for extreme long-range power and armor penetration, it remains a top choice for heavy machine guns, sniper rifles, and anti-materiel roles worldwide.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Exceptional long-range accuracy and power
• Superior armor penetration capabilities
• Reliable in extreme environmental conditions
• Widely supported by military-grade firearms
• Strong aftermarket availability for reloaders

Key Variants

.50 BMG M33

Standard ball cartridge favored for general purpose machine guns and sniper applications.

.50 BMG M8 API

Armor-piercing incendiary round designed for penetrating armored targets and vehicles.

.50 BMG M20 API-T

Armor-piercing incendiary tracer round used to engage fast-moving armored threats effectively.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.50 BMG Bullet	20mm Cannon	12.7x108mm
Caliber	.50 inch (12.7mm)	20mm	12.7mm
Typical Muzzle Velocity (fps)	2,800	2,700	2,600
Penetration	Effective on light armor	Effective against vehicles	Effective on light armor
Typical Weight (grains)	650-750	1000+ (shell)	750-800
Notable Pro	Widely adopted and reliable	Higher explosive effect	Common in Eastern bloc arms
Notable Con	Heavy recoil and weight	Limited availability civilian	Less common in Western markets

Best Use Cases

• Anti-materiel long-range shooting
• Military and law enforcement heavy weapons
• Far-range target engagement
• Vehicle and light armor disabling
• Sniper operations in extreme conditions

FAQs

Can I use .50 BMG bullets in civilian firearms?

Yes, but only in rifles chambered for .50 BMG, such as the Barrett M82. These rifles are legal in many states but may require permits.

What is the effective range of a .50 BMG bullet?

The effective range typically exceeds 1,500 yards depending on the firearm and conditions.

How does .50 BMG compare to other large calibers?

It delivers superior armor penetration and long-range performance compared to most heavy machine gun calibers.