10 Best 50 BMG Rifles in 2026

Last updated March 12th 2026

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Image	Rifle	Action	Weight	Price	Details
	Barrett M107A1 Best Overall Semi-Auto	Semi-Auto	28.7 lbs	~$12,000	Check Price
	Accuracy International AXSA Best Precision Bolt Action	Bolt-Action	27 lbs	~$12,500	Check Price
	Barrett M82A1 Best Classic Semi-Auto	Semi-Auto	30.9 lbs	~$9,500	Check Price
	Cadex Defense Tremor Best Long Range Competition	Bolt-Action	26 lbs	~$7,500	Check Price
	Barrett M99 Best Single-Shot Value	Bolt-Action Single-Shot	25 lbs	~$4,500	Check Price

10 Best 50 BMG Rifles in 2026

I remember the first time I squeezed the trigger on a 50 BMG. It was a Barrett M82A1 at a long range event in Nevada, and even with the massive muzzle brake doing its job, I felt it in my chest. Nothing else in the firearms world hits quite like the 50 Browning Machine Gun cartridge.

The 50 BMG was developed by John Browning near the end of World War I, and over a century later it remains the gold standard for extreme long range shooting. With effective ranges past 2,000 yards and energy figures that dwarf everything else on the civilian market, these rifles occupy a category all their own.

I’ve spent years shooting, testing, and comparing the best 50 BMG rifles available to civilians. Some cost as much as a used car. Others are surprisingly affordable for what you get. In this guide, I’ll break down the 10 best options on the market right now, covering everything from the legendary Barrett semi-autos to budget-friendly single-shots that still let you touch targets at a mile.

A quick note before we start: 50 BMG rifles are banned in California, and some states have additional restrictions. Not every range allows them either, so check your local laws and range rules before you buy. Also be ready for ammo costs. You’re looking at $3 to $8 per round for surplus and match-grade respectively.

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1. Barrett M107A1 – Best Overall Semi-Auto

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Semi-Auto, Recoil-Operated
• Barrel Length: 20″ or 29″
• Overall Length: 48-57″
• Weight: 28.7 lbs
• Capacity: 10+1
• MSRP: ~$12,000

Barrett M107A1 Rating
Accuracy	4.5 / 5
Build Quality	5 / 5
Value	3.5 / 5
Ergonomics	4 / 5
Recoil Management	4.5 / 5
Overall	4.3 / 5

The Barrett M107A1 is the current top of the line from the company that put 50 BMG rifles in civilian hands. I’ve fired both the 20-inch CQB version and the full-length 29-inch, and the difference Barrett achieved with the M107A1 over the older M82 is immediately noticeable. The titanium barrel key and lighter receiver shave real weight off the platform without sacrificing anything.

Barrett’s short-recoil operating system does a remarkable job of taming the 50 BMG’s energy. The massive muzzle brake vents gas sideways and the recoiling barrel assembly spreads the impulse over enough time that it feels more like a firm push than a violent kick. I’ve shot strings of 10 rounds without feeling beaten up, which is saying something for a cartridge that generates over 13,000 ft-lbs of energy.

Accuracy from the M107A1 is impressive for a semi-auto of this caliber. With good match ammo, I’ve consistently held 1.5 to 2 MOA groups at 1,000 yards. That’s not benchrest precision, but for a semi-auto 50 BMG it’s excellent. The 10-round magazine gives you follow-up capability that bolt guns simply can’t match.

At around $12,000, the M107A1 is a serious investment. But if you want the best semi-automatic 50 BMG on the planet, this is it. Barrett’s warranty and customer service are outstanding, and parts availability is better than any other 50 BMG platform. This is the rifle militaries around the world rely on, and for good reason.

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2. Accuracy International AXSA – Best Precision Bolt Action

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action
• Barrel Length: 27″
• Overall Length: 55.7″
• Weight: 27 lbs
• Capacity: 5+1
• MSRP: ~$12,500

Accuracy International AXSA Rating
Accuracy	5 / 5
Build Quality	5 / 5
Value	3 / 5
Ergonomics	4.5 / 5
Recoil Management	4 / 5
Overall	4.3 / 5

If pure accuracy is your priority and budget is secondary, the Accuracy International AXSA is the finest bolt-action 50 BMG you can buy. AI has been building precision rifles for military and law enforcement for decades, and their engineering shows in every detail of this platform. I shot one at a precision rifle event in 2024 and it was genuinely humbling how well this thing groups.

The AXSA uses AI’s proven chassis system with a side-folding stock that actually makes this beast somewhat portable. The 27-inch barrel is a good compromise between velocity and manageability. Bolt throw is smooth and precise with none of the gritty feel you get from lesser 50 BMG bolt guns. The 5-round detachable magazine feeds reliably every time.

Where the AXSA really separates itself is on paper. With quality match ammunition, this rifle will consistently shoot sub-MOA groups at extended ranges. That’s extraordinary for a 50 BMG. Most 50 BMG rifles are 1.5 to 2 MOA guns on a good day, but the AXSA regularly beats that by a wide margin.

The price is steep at around $12,500, and finding one in stock can require patience. But for ELR (extreme long range) competitors and serious precision shooters, the AXSA delivers accuracy that justifies every dollar. This is what you buy when you want to hit targets at distances other rifles can’t reach.

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3. Barrett M82A1 – Best Classic Semi-Auto

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Semi-Auto, Recoil-Operated
• Barrel Length: 20″ or 29″
• Overall Length: 48-57″
• Weight: 30.9 lbs
• Capacity: 10+1
• MSRP: ~$9,500

Barrett M82A1 Rating
Accuracy	4 / 5
Build Quality	5 / 5
Value	3.5 / 5
Ergonomics	3.5 / 5
Recoil Management	4.5 / 5
Overall	4.1 / 5

The Barrett M82A1 is the rifle that started it all. Ronnie Barrett designed the original M82 in the early 1980s, and it went on to become the most recognized 50 BMG rifle in the world. The M82A1 is the refined production version that’s been in military service since the Gulf War, and it remains a fantastic platform for civilian shooters who want semi-auto 50 BMG capability without paying the M107A1 premium.

I’ve put more rounds through an M82A1 than any other 50 BMG on this list. The recoil system works identically to the M107A1, using a short-recoil operating system combined with that trademark arrowhead muzzle brake. Felt recoil is surprisingly manageable for such a powerful cartridge. The biggest difference from the M107A1 is weight. The M82A1 uses more steel in its construction, pushing it to just under 31 pounds unloaded.

Accuracy is solid at 1.5 to 2 MOA with match ammo, which is about what you should expect from a semi-auto 50. The chrome-lined barrel is built to last thousands of rounds. Parts and accessories are widely available since the M82A1 has been in production for so long. You’ll find everything from spare bolt assemblies to upgraded bipods without any trouble.

At around $9,500, the M82A1 saves you a meaningful chunk of change compared to the M107A1. If the extra 2 pounds of weight doesn’t bother you and you can live without the titanium upgrades, the M82A1 delivers the same core experience. It’s the rifle that movies, video games, and the military made famous, and it still earns its place near the top of any 50 BMG list.

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4. Cadex Defense Tremor – Best Long Range Competition

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action
• Barrel Length: 29″
• Overall Length: 56″
• Weight: 26 lbs
• Capacity: 5+1
• MSRP: ~$7,500

Cadex Defense Tremor Rating
Accuracy	4.5 / 5
Build Quality	4.5 / 5
Value	4 / 5
Ergonomics	4.5 / 5
Recoil Management	4 / 5
Overall	4.3 / 5

The Cadex Defense Tremor is a rifle built by competitive shooters for competitive shooters. Cadex is a Canadian company that’s earned a serious reputation in the ELR (extreme long range) community, and the Tremor is their flagship 50 BMG platform. If you plan to compete in 50 BMG matches or shoot steel past a mile, this rifle deserves your attention.

What sets the Tremor apart is the Cadex chassis system. The stock is fully adjustable for length of pull, cheek height, and cant. The grip angle can be tuned to your preference. Combined with the hydraulic recoil buffer built into the stock, the whole package feels like it was custom-fit to you. I’ve shot Cadex rifles at two separate long range events and the ergonomics are noticeably better than most 50 BMG platforms.

The 29-inch barrel delivers full 50 BMG velocity and the bolt action is smooth with consistent lockup. Accuracy is in the sub-MOA to 1 MOA range with quality match ammunition, which puts it among the most accurate 50 BMG rifles available. The effective muzzle brake works well, though you’ll still feel the push from 14,000 ft-lbs of energy.

At $7,500, the Tremor is not cheap, but it’s meaningfully less expensive than the AI AXSA while delivering comparable accuracy. For shooters focused on ELR competition or precision long range work, the Cadex Tremor is one of the best values in the high-end 50 BMG bolt action category.

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5. Barrett M99 – Best Single-Shot Value

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action, Single-Shot
• Barrel Length: 32″
• Overall Length: 50″
• Weight: 25 lbs
• Capacity: 1
• MSRP: ~$4,500

Barrett M99 Rating
Accuracy	4.5 / 5
Build Quality	5 / 5
Value	4 / 5
Ergonomics	3.5 / 5
Recoil Management	3.5 / 5
Overall	4.1 / 5

The Barrett M99 proves you don’t need to spend five figures to get the Barrett name on a 50 BMG. This single-shot bolt action uses a bullpup configuration that keeps the overall length to just 50 inches despite packing a 32-inch barrel. That extra barrel length squeezes every bit of velocity from the cartridge, and the result is a rifle that shoots remarkably well.

I’ve always appreciated the M99’s simplicity. There’s no magazine, no semi-auto mechanism, just a solid bolt action with a single chamber. You load one round, close the bolt, fire, extract, and repeat. That simplicity translates to reliability and accuracy. With the long 32-inch barrel and match ammo, the M99 will hold 1 MOA or better all day long.

The tradeoff with a single-shot is obvious: your rate of fire is slow. But for most 50 BMG shooting, that hardly matters. You’re not doing rapid fire drills with a 50. You’re carefully placing shots on distant steel or testing your skills at extreme range. One round at a time is fine for that. Plus, loading one at a time keeps your ammo budget in check.

At around $4,500, the M99 is the most affordable Barrett 50 BMG by a wide margin. You still get Barrett’s build quality, their warranty, and parts support. If you want the Barrett experience without the Barrett semi-auto price tag, the M99 is the smart play.

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6. Armalite AR-50A1 – Best Budget Bolt Action

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action, Single-Shot
• Barrel Length: 30″
• Overall Length: 59.5″
• Weight: 33.2 lbs
• Capacity: 1
• MSRP: ~$3,500

Armalite AR-50A1 Rating
Accuracy	4 / 5
Build Quality	4 / 5
Value	4.5 / 5
Ergonomics	3 / 5
Recoil Management	4 / 5
Overall	3.9 / 5

The Armalite AR-50A1 has been a favorite of budget-conscious 50 BMG shooters for years, and it’s easy to see why. At around $3,500, it’s one of the least expensive ways to get into 50 BMG shooting from a reputable manufacturer. Armalite has been making firearms since the 1950s, and the AR-50A1 carries that heritage forward.

The first thing you’ll notice about the AR-50A1 is the weight. At 33.2 pounds, this is a seriously heavy rifle. But that weight works in your favor behind the trigger. Combined with the efficient muzzle brake and the V-shaped stock that drops recoil straight back into your shoulder, the AR-50A1 is one of the most comfortable 50 BMG rifles to shoot. I’ve let first-time 50 BMG shooters start with the AR-50A1 and they were always surprised at how manageable it felt.

The 30-inch National Match barrel is chrome-moly steel with a fluted profile. Accuracy is solid in the 1 to 1.5 MOA range with good ammo. The octagonal receiver is machined from a solid billet and the bolt locks up tight with three lugs. It’s a well-built rifle that punches above its price point.

The AR-50A1 is a single-shot design, so you won’t be doing any rapid fire. The overall length of nearly 60 inches also makes it a handful to transport. But if you want to shoot 50 BMG without breaking the bank, and you don’t mind a heavy gun that stays at the range, the AR-50A1 is an excellent choice.

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7. McMillan TAC-50 – Best Military Sniper Rifle

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action
• Barrel Length: 29″
• Overall Length: 57″
• Weight: 26 lbs
• Capacity: 5+1
• MSRP: ~$9,000
• Notable: Holds the longest confirmed sniper kill record (3,540 meters)

McMillan TAC-50 Rating
Accuracy	5 / 5
Build Quality	5 / 5
Value	3.5 / 5
Ergonomics	4 / 5
Recoil Management	4 / 5
Overall	4.3 / 5

The McMillan TAC-50 holds a distinction no other rifle on this list can claim: it’s responsible for the longest confirmed sniper kill in history. In 2017, a Canadian special forces operator used a TAC-50 to make a confirmed hit at 3,540 meters in Iraq. That’s over two miles. The bullet was in the air for nearly 10 seconds. That single shot cemented the TAC-50’s place in firearms history.

McMillan has been building precision fiberglass stocks and rifles in Phoenix, Arizona for decades. The TAC-50 uses their signature fiberglass stock that’s nearly indestructible. It won’t warp, swell, or shift zero in extreme temperatures or humidity. The 29-inch match barrel is free-floated and the action is hand-fitted for maximum precision.

I had the opportunity to shoot a TAC-50 at a military open day event, and the accuracy was everything you’d expect from a rifle with that pedigree. The bolt is smooth, the trigger is excellent, and the 5-round detachable magazine feeds cleanly. With quality match ammo, sub-MOA groups are achievable, which is remarkable for a 50 BMG.

The TAC-50 runs about $9,000 and can be harder to find than Barrett models since McMillan produces in smaller quantities. But for shooters who want a combat-proven 50 BMG bolt gun with a record-setting reputation, the TAC-50 is in a class of its own. It’s the rifle that answered the question of just how far a 50 BMG can reach.

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8. Serbu BFG-50A – Best Semi-Auto on a Budget

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Semi-Auto
• Barrel Length: 29.5″
• Overall Length: 50″
• Weight: 23 lbs
• Capacity: 10+1
• MSRP: ~$7,500

Serbu BFG-50A Rating
Accuracy	3.5 / 5
Build Quality	3.5 / 5
Value	4.5 / 5
Ergonomics	3.5 / 5
Recoil Management	4 / 5
Overall	3.8 / 5

If you want semi-auto 50 BMG capability without paying Barrett prices, the Serbu BFG-50A is the answer. Mark Serbu has been building 50 BMG rifles in Tampa, Florida since the 1990s, and the BFG-50A is his semi-automatic offering. At around $7,500, it costs roughly half what a Barrett M107A1 runs, and it still puts 50 BMG rounds downrange as fast as you can pull the trigger.

The BFG-50A is also the lightest rifle on this entire list at just 23 pounds. That’s impressive for a semi-auto 50 BMG. The gas-operated system cycles reliably with most commercial and surplus 50 BMG ammunition. The 10-round magazine is compatible with standard Barrett magazines, which is a nice touch for parts availability.

Where the BFG-50A gives up ground to Barrett is in fit, finish, and precision. The overall build quality is good but not quite at Barrett’s level. Accuracy runs around 2 MOA with match ammo, which is adequate for most 50 BMG shooting but not quite as tight as the Barrett semi-autos. The trigger is serviceable but won’t impress precision shooters.

For the money, though, the Serbu BFG-50A is a fantastic value. You get semi-auto fire, 10-round capacity, manageable weight, and the visceral experience of shooting 50 BMG. If you’re buying a 50 BMG to have fun at the range rather than win precision competitions, the BFG-50A delivers that experience at a price that’s actually somewhat reasonable for this category.

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9. Noreen ULR – Best Lightweight 50 BMG

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action, Single-Shot
• Barrel Length: 34″
• Overall Length: 58″
• Weight: 32 lbs
• Capacity: 1
• MSRP: ~$3,000

Noreen ULR Rating
Accuracy	4 / 5
Build Quality	3.5 / 5
Value	5 / 5
Ergonomics	3 / 5
Recoil Management	3 / 5
Overall	3.7 / 5

The Noreen ULR (Ultra Long Range) comes from a small, family-owned company in Belgrade, Montana. At around $3,000, it’s one of the most affordable 50 BMG rifles you can buy from any manufacturer. Noreen has built a loyal following among budget-minded long range shooters, and the ULR is their flagship product.

The 34-inch barrel is the longest on this list, and that extra length pays dividends in muzzle velocity. You’re getting every foot-per-second the 50 BMG cartridge can deliver. The barrel is button-rifled and the action is solid. With decent match ammo, the ULR will hold 1 to 1.5 MOA groups, which is competitive with rifles costing twice as much.

The ULR is a single-shot bolt action with a pretty straightforward design. The stock is functional rather than fancy. The muzzle brake works well enough, though the rifle still kicks with authority given the single-shot design. At 32 pounds, it’s on the heavier side despite the name suggesting otherwise. The “Ultra Long Range” refers to capability, not portability.

What I appreciate about the Noreen ULR is that it gets you into 50 BMG shooting for the price of a mid-tier hunting rifle. The accuracy is there, the build quality is solid, and Noreen stands behind their products. If you’ve been curious about 50 BMG but couldn’t justify the price of a Barrett, the ULR makes the dream accessible.

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10. Bushmaster BA50 – Most Affordable Entry Point

• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Action: Bolt-Action
• Barrel Length: 30″
• Overall Length: 58″
• Weight: 30 lbs
• Capacity: 10+1
• MSRP: ~$2,500

Bushmaster BA50 Rating
Accuracy	3.5 / 5
Build Quality	3.5 / 5
Value	5 / 5
Ergonomics	3.5 / 5
Recoil Management	3.5 / 5
Overall	3.8 / 5

The Bushmaster BA50 is the cheapest way to get into 50 BMG shooting from a name-brand manufacturer. At around $2,500, it undercuts nearly everything else on this list by a significant margin. For shooters who want the 50 BMG experience without investing the price of a used car, the BA50 opens the door.

What makes the BA50 stand out at this price point is the 10-round detachable magazine. Most sub-$4,000 fifty BMG rifles are single-shots, but the BA50 gives you a proper magazine-fed bolt action. That means faster follow-up shots and a more enjoyable shooting experience. The bolt cycles smoothly enough and the magazine feeds reliably in my experience.

The 30-inch barrel delivers solid velocity and the manganese phosphate finish holds up well. Accuracy is in the 2 MOA range with commercial ammo, which is perfectly fine for ringing steel at long range. The Picatinny rail on top accepts any standard scope mount. At 30 pounds, the weight helps manage recoil and keeps the rifle planted during firing.

The BA50 isn’t going to win any precision competitions, and the fit and finish reflects the price point. But as a gateway into 50 BMG ownership, it’s hard to argue with. You get a functional, reliable 50 BMG bolt gun with magazine capacity for less than what many people pay for a custom hunting rifle. If you’ve always wanted a fifty and price was the barrier, the BA50 removes that excuse.

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50 BMG Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider

Buying a 50 BMG rifle is not like buying any other firearm. The costs, logistics, and shooting requirements are all on a different scale. Here’s what you need to think about before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

Semi-Auto vs. Bolt Action

This is the biggest decision you’ll make. Semi-auto 50 BMG rifles like the Barrett M107A1 and Serbu BFG-50A let you fire follow-up shots quickly and absorb some recoil through the cycling action. They’re more fun to shoot and more forgiving of technique. The downside is cost. Semi-auto 50 BMG rifles start around $7,500 and go well past $12,000.

Bolt-action rifles are generally more accurate and less expensive. Single-shot bolt actions like the Barrett M99, Armalite AR-50A1, and Noreen ULR can be had for $3,000 to $4,500. Magazine-fed bolt guns like the McMillan TAC-50 and Cadex Tremor split the difference on cost while offering repeat-shot capability. For pure accuracy at extreme range, bolt actions have the edge.

Barrel Length

The 50 BMG cartridge benefits from longer barrels more than most cartridges. You’ll see barrel lengths from 20 inches (Barrett’s CQB model) up to 34 inches (Noreen ULR). Longer barrels mean higher muzzle velocity, which translates to flatter trajectories and more energy at distance. A 29 to 32 inch barrel is the sweet spot for most shooters, balancing velocity with overall rifle length.

Weight

Every rifle on this list weighs between 23 and 33 pounds. That’s before optics, bipod, and ammunition. Weight is your friend behind the trigger because it absorbs recoil, but it’s your enemy everywhere else. Consider how you’ll transport the rifle and where you’ll shoot it. If you’re hauling it any distance, lighter is better. If it lives on a bench at your local range, weight matters less.

Ammo Cost

This is where 50 BMG ownership really adds up. Surplus ball ammo runs $3 to $4 per round. Match-grade ammunition from companies like Hornady and Barrett costs $5 to $8 per round. A 20-round box of match ammo can easily cost $100 or more. If you plan to shoot regularly, budget accordingly. Some shooters reload 50 BMG to bring costs down, but the equipment for reloading this cartridge is specialized and expensive itself.

Legal Considerations

The 50 BMG is banned outright in California under the .50 Caliber BMG Regulation Act of 2004. Washington, D.C. also prohibits it. Some other states have restrictions on certain features that may affect which models you can buy. Always check your state and local laws before purchasing. Beyond legality, you’ll need to find a range that allows 50 BMG. Many indoor ranges and even some outdoor ranges don’t permit it due to backstop requirements and noise.

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Best 50 BMG Scopes

A 50 BMG rifle is only as good as the glass on top. These rifles are built to shoot at extreme distances, and cheap optics will be the weakest link in your system. Plan to spend at least $1,000 on a scope, and realistically $2,000 to $4,000 for glass that matches the rifle’s capability.

You need a scope with enough elevation adjustment to dial for extreme range. Look for at least 80 to 100 MOA of total elevation travel. A first focal plane reticle with a Christmas tree or Horus-style pattern makes holdovers at distance much easier. Magnification should go to at least 25x, with many ELR shooters preferring 40x or higher for target identification at a mile and beyond.

Some popular choices for 50 BMG rifles include the Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56, the Schmidt and Bender 5-45×56 PM II, and the Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35×56. All of these offer the elevation travel, optical clarity, and durability needed for 50 BMG work. The Nightforce ATACR is probably the most popular option I’ve seen at ELR events.

One critical detail: make sure your scope is rated for the recoil of a 50 BMG. Not all scopes can handle the repeated shock. Stick with proven brands that are specifically rated for heavy recoil applications. A scope failure at the range is frustrating. A scope failure after you’ve spent $5 per trigger pull is expensive.

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50 BMG Rifles FAQ

Is it legal to own a 50 BMG rifle?

Yes, 50 BMG rifles are legal to own in most US states. The major exception is California, which banned 50 BMG rifles in 2004. Washington, D.C. also prohibits them. In all other states, 50 BMG rifles are treated the same as any other centerfire rifle under federal law. You must be 18 or older to purchase one from a private seller, or 21 to buy from a licensed dealer in most cases. Always verify your specific state and local laws before purchasing.

How far can a 50 BMG shoot?

The 50 BMG has a maximum effective range of approximately 2,000 yards for most shooters, though the cartridge remains supersonic past 2,500 yards. The longest confirmed sniper kill was made with a McMillan TAC-50 at 3,540 meters (3,871 yards), which is over two miles. For civilian shooters, consistently hitting targets at 1,500 to 2,000 yards is achievable with quality equipment and practice.

How much does 50 BMG ammo cost?

Surplus and ball 50 BMG ammunition costs roughly $3 to $4 per round. Match-grade ammunition from companies like Hornady A-MAX or Barrett branded loads runs $5 to $8 per round. A typical range session of 20 to 40 rounds will cost between $60 and $320 depending on ammo choice. Some shooters reload 50 BMG to reduce costs, but the reloading equipment requires a significant upfront investment.

Semi-auto vs. bolt action: which is better for 50 BMG?

It depends on your priorities. Semi-auto rifles like the Barrett M107A1 offer faster follow-up shots, better recoil management (the cycling action absorbs some energy), and a more fun shooting experience. Bolt-action rifles are typically more accurate, lighter, and less expensive. For precision work and competition, bolt action is preferred. For recreational shooting and general use, semi-auto is hard to beat if your budget allows it.

What is the best budget 50 BMG rifle?

The Bushmaster BA50 at around $2,500 is the most affordable option, and it includes a 10-round magazine. The Noreen ULR at $3,000 offers excellent accuracy from its 34-inch barrel. The Armalite AR-50A1 at $3,500 is a proven platform with solid build quality. All three are single-shot or bolt-action designs. If you want a budget semi-auto, the Serbu BFG-50A at $7,500 is the least expensive semi-auto 50 BMG available.

Can you hunt with a 50 BMG?

While the 50 BMG is certainly powerful enough for any game animal in North America, it’s wildly impractical for hunting. The rifles weigh 25 to 33 pounds, are 4 to 5 feet long, and the cartridge produces extreme noise and concussion. Most hunting regulations don’t specifically prohibit 50 BMG, but some states have restrictions. The 50 BMG is primarily a target shooting, ELR competition, and recreational cartridge for civilian use.

What scope do I need for a 50 BMG rifle?

You need a scope with at least 80 to 100 MOA of total elevation travel, first focal plane reticle, and magnification reaching 25x or higher. Budget at least $1,000, though $2,000 to $4,000 is more realistic for glass that matches the rifle’s capability. Popular choices include the Nightforce ATACR, Schmidt and Bender PM II, and Leupold Mark 5HD. Make sure the scope is rated for heavy magnum recoil.

How long do 50 BMG barrels last?

A quality 50 BMG barrel will typically last 2,000 to 5,000 rounds depending on the barrel steel, how hot you shoot, and how well you maintain it. Chrome-lined barrels like those on Barrett rifles tend to last longer. Given that most 50 BMG owners shoot 100 to 200 rounds per year, a barrel can easily last a decade or more of regular use. Barrel replacement is available from most manufacturers, though it’s not cheap for a cartridge this size.

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