View source for .50 BMG

{{Short description|Rifle cartridge designed by John Moses Browning}}
{{Infobox Firearm Cartridge
| name = .50 BMG
| image = Rifle cartridge comparison.jpg
| caption = From left: .50 BMG, [[.300 Winchester Magnum|.300 Win Mag]], [[.308 Winchester]], [[7.62×39mm]], [[5.56×45mm NATO]], [[.22 long rifle]]
| origin = United States
| type = [[Heavy machine gun]]<br />[[Anti-materiel rifle]]<!-- "Materiel" with an "e" is a technical term referring to military equipment. It is NOT misspelled! -->
<!-- Service history -->
| service = 1921–present
| used_by = [[NATO]]
| wars = [[World War II]]<br />[[Korean War]]<br />[[Vietnam War]]<br />[[Cambodian Civil War]]<br />[[War on drugs]]<br />[[Falklands War]]<br />[[Gulf War|Persian Gulf War]]<br />[[The Troubles]]<br />[[War on Terror|Global War on Terrorism]]<br />[[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)]]<br />[[Iraq War]]<br />[[Colombian conflict]]<br/>[[Mexican drug war]]<br />[[Sri Lanka Civil War]]<br />[[Syrian Civil War]]<br />[[War in Iraq (2013–2017)]]<br />[[Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)]]<br />[[Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen]] <br />[[Saudi–Yemeni border conflict (2015–present)]]  <br />[[Russian invasion of Ukraine]]
<!-- Production history -->
| designer = Winchester Repeating Arms Co. and Frankford Arsenal
<!-- Specifications -->
| is_SI_specs =
| dim_round = 2
| case_type = Rimless, bottleneck
| bullet = 0.511
| land = 0.498
| neck = 0.560
| shoulder = 0.714
| base = 0.804
| rim_dia = 0.804
| rim_thick = 0.089
| case_length = 3.910
| length = 5.450
| case_capacity=292.80
| rifling =
| primer = <nowiki>#</nowiki>35 Arsenal Primer
| max_pressure = 54923
| pressure_method = TM43-0001-27
| max_pressure2 = 60481
| pressure_method2 = EPVAT
| max_pressure3 = 53664
| pressure_method3 = C.I.P.
| max_cup =
<!-- Ballistic performance -->
| is_SI_ballistics =
| bw1 = 647
| btype1 = Speer
| vel1 = 3044
| en1 = 13310
| bw2 = 655
| btype2 = ADI
| vel2 = 3029
| en2 = 13350
| bw3 = 700
| btype3 = Barnes
| vel3 = 2978
| en3 = 13971
| bw4 = 750
| btype4 = Hornady
| vel4 = 2820
| en4 = 13241
| ref4 = <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hornady.com/store/50-BMG-750-gr-A-MAX-Match/ | title=50 BMG 750 gr A-MAX Match | publisher=[[Hornady]] | access-date=October 8, 2016 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161015053752/http://www.hornady.com/store/50-BMG-750-gr-A-MAX-Match | archive-date=October 15, 2016 | df=mdy-all }}</ref>
| bw5 = 800
| btype5 = Barnes
| vel5 = 2895
| en5 = 14895
| test_barrel_length = {{cvt|45|in|m}}
| balsrc = [http://ammoguide.com/ Ammoguide.com] <ref name="C.I.P. TDCC">{{cite web|url=http://www.cip-bobp.org/homologation/uploads/tdcc/tab-i/50-browning-en.pdf|title=C.I.P. TDCC sheet 50 Browning|access-date=January 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329092154/http://www.cip-bobp.org/homologation/uploads/tdcc/tab-i/50-browning-en.pdf|archive-date=March 29, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2022}}

The '''.50 BMG''' ('''.50 Browning Machine Gun'''), also known as '''12.7×99mm NATO''', and designated as the '''50 Browning''' by the [[C.I.P.]],<ref name="C.I.P. TDCC"/> is a [[12mm caliber|{{cvt|.50|in|mm|1}} caliber]] [[cartridge (firearms)|cartridge]] developed for the [[M2 Browning]] [[heavy machine gun]] in the late 1910s, entering official service in 1921. Under [[STANAG#Partial list|STANAG 4383]], it is a standard service [[Cartridge (firearms)|cartridge]] for [[NATO]] forces. The cartridge itself has been made in many variants: multiple generations of regular [[full metal jacket bullet|ball]], [[tracer ammunition|tracer]], [[armor-piercing bullet|armor-piercing]] (AP), [[Incendiary ammunition|incendiary]], and [[Sabot (firearms)|sabot]]ed [[Sub-caliber ammunition|sub-caliber]] [[Saboted light armor penetrator|penetrator rounds]]. The rounds intended for [[machine gun]]s are made into a continuous [[belt (firearms)|ammunition belt]] using metallic links.

The .50 BMG cartridge is also used in [[anti-materiel rifle]]s. A wide variety of ammunition is available, and the availability of [[match grade]] ammunition has increased the usefulness of .50 caliber rifles by allowing more accurate fire than lower-quality rounds.<ref name="Sweeney2015">{{cite book|last=Sweeney|first=Patrick|title=Gun Digest Book of Suppressors|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9nr5CgAAQBAJ&pg=PA177|date=December 21, 2015|publisher=F+W Media|location=Iola, Wisconsin|isbn=978-1-4402-4540-4|page=177}}</ref>

==History==
In response to the need for new anti-aircraft weaponry during [[World War I]], [[John Browning]] developed the .50 BMG. He wanted the round to be used in a [[machine gun]] based on a scaled-up version of the [[M1917 Browning machine gun|M1917 Browning]].<ref name="Skinner2013">{{cite book|last=Skinner|first=Stan|title=Shooter's Bible Guide to Extreme Iron|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZQYHBAAAQBAJ&pg=PT172|date=November 20, 2013|publisher=Skyhorse Publishing Company, Incorporated|isbn=978-1-62873-538-3|page=172}}</ref>

The development of the .50 BMG round is sometimes confused with the German [[13.2&nbsp;mm TuF]], which was developed by Germany for an [[anti-tank rifle]] to combat [[British heavy tanks of World War I|British tanks during World War I]] and against aircraft.  According to ''[[American Rifleman]]'': "Actually, the Browning .50 originated in the Great War. American interest in an armor-piercing cartridge was influenced by the marginal French {{convert|11|mm|abbr=on}} design, prompting U.S. Army Ordnance officers to consult Browning. They wanted a heavy projectile at {{convert|2700|ft/s|abbr=on}}, but the ammunition did not exist. Browning pondered the situation and, according to his son John, replied, 'Well, the cartridge sounds pretty good to start. You make up some cartridges and we'll do some shooting.'"<ref name="AR50">Barrett Tillman, American Rifleman, February 23, 2017, https://www.americanrifleman.org/articles/2017/2/23/the-50-cal-browning-machine-gun-the-gun-that-won-the-war/ {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617193304/https://www.americanrifleman.org/articles/2017/2/23/the-50-cal-browning-machine-gun-the-gun-that-won-the-war/ |date=June 17, 2018 }}</ref>

The ''American Rifleman'' further explains that development was "[r]eputedly influenced by Germany's 13.2x92 mm SR (.525 in) anti-tank rifle" and that then "Ordnance contracted with Winchester to design a .50-cal. cartridge. Subsequently, Frankford Arsenal took over from Winchester, producing the historic .50 BMG (12.7×99 mm) cartridge. The Army then returned to John Browning for the actual gun. Teamed with Colt, he produced prototypes ready for testing and, ironically, completed them by Nov. 11, 1918—the Great War's end."<ref name="AR50"/>

The round was put into use in the [[M1921 Browning machine gun]]. This gun was later developed into the M2HB Browning, which, with its .50 caliber armor-piercing cartridges, went on to function as an anti-aircraft and anti-vehicular machine gun, capable of penetrating {{convert|0.9|inch|mm}} of face-hardened armor steel plate at {{convert|200|meters|yards}},<ref>{{cite web |title=MCWP 3-15.1 Machine Guns and Machine Gunnery |url=https://archive.org/details/milmanual-mcwp-3-15.1-machine-guns-and-machine-gunnery/page/n183/mode/2up |website=archive.org |publisher=US Marine Corps}}</ref> {{convert|1|inch|mm}} of [[rolled homogeneous armor]] at the same range,<ref>{{cite web |title=Browning Machine Gun Caliber .50 HB, M2 |url=https://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM23-65C2%2802%29.pdf |website=bits.de |publisher=Headquarters Department of the Army |access-date=April 15, 2020 |archive-date=August 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819212746/https://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM23-65C2%2802%29.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> and {{convert|0.75|inch|mm}} at {{convert|547|yards|meters}}.<ref>Barnes, Frank C., ''Cartridges of the World'', U.S. Army .50 BMG Cartridge Specifications, DBI Books (1989), {{ISBN|978-0-87349-033-7}}, p. 432.</ref>

During World War II the .50 BMG was primarily used in the M2 Browning machine gun, in both its "light barrel" aircraft mount version and the "heavy barrel" (HB) version on ground vehicles, for anti-aircraft purposes. An upgraded variant of the M2 Browning HB machine gun used during World War II is still in use today. Since the mid-1950s, some armored personnel carriers and utility vehicles have been made to withstand 12.7&nbsp;mm machine gun fire, restricting the destructive capability of the M2. It still has more penetrating power than lighter weapons such as [[general-purpose machine gun]]s, though it is significantly heavier and more cumbersome to transport. Its range and accuracy, however, are superior to [[light machine gun]]s when fixed on tripods, and it has not been replaced as the standard caliber for Western vehicle-mounted machine guns (Soviet and CIS armored vehicles mount [[12.7×108mm]] [[NSV (machine gun)|NSVs]], which have similar dimensions to .50 BMGs).

Decades later, the .50 BMG was chambered in high-powered rifles as well.<ref name="Skinner2013"/> The [[Barrett M82]] rifle was developed during the 1980s and, along with later variants, has upgraded the anti-[[materiel]] power of the military sniper.<ref name="Skinner2013"/>

==Typical uses==
The primary military use of this round is in the M2 Browning machine gun and anti-materiel rifles such as the Barrett M82.<ref>{{Cite book |last=McNab |first=Chris |title=The Barrett Rifle: Sniping and Anti-materiel Rifles in the War on Terror |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing |year=2016 |isbn=9781472811028}}</ref>

The [[United States Coast Guard|U.S. Coast Guard]] uses .50 BMG rifles onboard [[Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron|armed helicopters]] to disable the engines on boats during interdictions. Similarly, .50 BMG weapons have attracted attention from law enforcement agencies; they have been adopted by the [[New York City Police Department]] as well as the [[Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (Pennsylvania)|Pittsburgh Police]]. A .50 BMG round can effectively disable a vehicle when fired into the [[engine block]]. A .50 BMG round will penetrate most commercial brick walls and concrete [[cinder blocks]].<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aX05bSn59uo |title=50 BMG vs Concrete Wall |date=2017-12-14 |last=Kentucky Ballistics |access-date=2025-02-19 |via=YouTube}}</ref>

The .50 BMG round was used as a sniper round as early as the [[Korean War]].<ref name="Senich1993">{{cite book|last=Senich|first=Peter R.|title=U.S. Marine Corps Scout-sniper: World War II and Korea|year=1993|publisher=Paladin Press|location=Boulder|isbn=978-0-87364-710-6|pages=225–227}}</ref> The former record for a confirmed long-distance kill was set by U.S. Marine sniper [[Carlos Hathcock]] in 1967 during the [[Vietnam War]], at a distance of {{convert|2090|meters|yd mi}};<ref>{{cite book|last=Henderson|first=Charles|title=Silent Warrior|edition=2003|year=2003|page=[https://archive.org/details/silentwarrior00char/page/181 181]|publisher=[[Berkley Books]]|isbn=978-0-425-18864-4|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/silentwarrior00char/page/181}}</ref> Hathcock used the .50 BMG in an M2 machine gun equipped with a telescopic sight. This weapon was used by other snipers, and eventually purpose-built sniper rifles were developed specifically for this round.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Walter |first=John |title=The Sniper Encyclopaedia: An A-Z Guide to World Sniping |year=2019 |language=en-US}}</ref>

In June 2017, a [[McMillan TAC-50]] was used by a sniper with Canada's [[Joint Task Force 2]] to kill an Islamic State insurgent in Iraq, setting the new [[longest recorded sniper kills|world record for the longest confirmed kill]] shot in military history at {{convert|3540|meters|yards miles}}.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canadian-elite-special-forces-sniper-sets-record-breaking-kill-shot-in-iraq/article35415651/|title=Canadian elite special forces sniper makes record-breaking kill shot in Iraq|last=FIFE|first=ROBERT|date=June 21, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2017|language=en-ca|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117152742/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canadian-elite-special-forces-sniper-sets-record-breaking-kill-shot-in-iraq/article35415651/|archive-date=November 17, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Before that, [[Craig Harrison (sniper)|a British sniper in Afghanistan]] held the record at {{convert|2,475|meters|yards miles}} using an [[Accuracy International AWM]] L115A3 long-range rifle chambered for [[.338 Lapua Magnum]] (8.58×70&nbsp;mm) rounds.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/afghanistan/article7113916.ece | title=Hotshot sniper in one-and-a-half mile double kill | last=Smith | first=Michael | work=The Sunday Times | location=UK | date=May 2, 2010 | access-date=August 27, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528030419/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/afghanistan/article7113916.ece | archive-date=May 28, 2010 | url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/2010/05/03/2010-05-03_british_sniper_craig_harrison_the_silent_assassin_breaks_record_kills_target_fro.html |title=British sniper Craig Harrison (The Silent Assassin) breaks record, kills target from 1.5&nbsp;miles away | last=Sheridan | first=Michael |work=Daily News |location=New York |date=May 3, 2010 |access-date=August 27, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101018213332/http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/2010/05/03/2010-05-03_british_sniper_craig_harrison_the_silent_assassin_breaks_record_kills_target_fro.html| archive-date=October 18, 2010<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref>

In addition to long-range and anti-materiel, the U.S. military uses .50 BMG weapons to detonate [[unexploded ordnance]] from a safe distance. It can disable most unarmored and lightly armored vehicles.<ref name="Cutshaw2011">{{cite book|last=Cutshaw|first=Charles Q.|title=Tactical Small Arms of the 21st Century: A Complete Guide to Small Arms From Around the World |date=February 28, 2011|publisher=Gun Digest Books|location=Iola|isbn=978-1-4402-2709-7|pages=322–323}}</ref>

Some civilians use .50 caliber rifles for long-range target shooting: the US-based Fifty Caliber Shooters Association holds .50 BMG shooting matches.<ref>[https://www.1moa.org/ Fifty Caliber Shooters Association], Accessed: December 10, 2022</ref>

==Cartridge dimensions==
{| class=floatright
|-
|[[File:50 bmg 12.7x99.svg|thumb|right|upright|12.7×99mm NATO cartridge dimensions in inches]]
|[[File:12.7 x 99mm NATO dimensions converted to millimeters.png|thumb|upright|12.7 x 99mm NATO dimensions converted to millimeters]]
|}
The .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO) cartridge has a capacity of {{convert|290|gr|abbr=on}}. The round is a scaled-up version of the [[.30-06 Springfield]]{{citation needed|date=November 2024}} but uses a case wall with a long taper to facilitate feeding and extraction in various weapons.

The common [[rifling]] [[twist rate]] for this cartridge is 1 in {{convert|15|in|abbr=on}}, with eight lands and grooves. The [[Percussion cap|primer type]] specified for this ammunition is a boxer primer that has a single centralized ignition point (US and NATO countries).<ref>[http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2008Intl/Arvidsson.pdf NATO Infantry Weapons Standardization,  Per G. Arvidsson, ChairmanWeapons & Sensors Working GroupLand Capability Group 1 - Dismounted Soldier NATO Army Armaments Group] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121201183951/http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2008Intl/Arvidsson.pdf |date=December 1, 2012 }}</ref> However, some other countries produce the ammunition with Berdan primers that have two flash holes.

The average chamber pressure in this round as listed in TM43-0001-27,<ref name="auto">{{cite web | url=http://www.dtic.mil/dticasd/sbir/sbir032/a044a.pdf | title=Army Ammunition Data Sheets for Small Caliber Ammunition | publisher=Defense Technical Information Center | page=150 | date=April 1994 | access-date=August 27, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071202134237/http://www.dtic.mil/dticasd/sbir/sbir032/a044a.pdf | archive-date=December 2, 2007 | url-status=dead }}</ref> the U.S. Army Ammunition Data Sheets&nbsp;—&nbsp;Small Caliber Ammunition, not including plastic practice, short cased spotter, or proof/test loads, is {{convert|54923|psi|abbr=on}}. The proof/test pressure is listed as {{convert|65000|psi|abbr=on}}.

==Power==

A common method for understanding the actual power of a cartridge is comparison of [[muzzle energy|muzzle energies]]. The [[.30-06 Springfield]], the standard caliber for American soldiers in both World Wars and a popular caliber amongst American hunters for medium to large game animals, can produce muzzle energies between {{convert|2,000|and|3,000|ftlbf|sigfig=1|lk=in}}. The .50 BMG round can produce between {{convert|10,000|and|15,000|ftlbf}}, depending on its powder and bullet type, as well as the weapon it is fired from. Due to the high [[ballistic coefficient]] of the bullet, the .50 BMG's trajectory also suffers less "drift" from crosswinds than smaller and lighter calibers, making the .50 BMG a good choice for high-powered sniper rifles.<ref name="Michaelis2000">{{cite book|last=Michaelis|first=Dean|title=The Complete .50-caliber Sniper Course: Hard-Target Interdiction|date=March 1, 2000|publisher=Paladin Press|location=Boulder, Colorado|isbn=978-1-58160-068-1|pages=26–34}}</ref>

== Military cartridge types ==
[[File:50BMG Rounds.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|Left to right, rear: 
{{legend striped|lightgray|green|green/gray tip [[Raufoss Mk 211]] HEIAP (high-explosive incendiary armor-piercing)}} 
{{legend striped|yellow|red|yellow/red tip (M48 spotter)}}
{{legend|silver|silver tip (M8 armor-piercing incendiary)}}
{{legend|steelblue|light blue tip (M20 incendiary)}}
{{legend|black|black tip (M2 armor piercing)}}
{{Legend striped|red|silver|silver tip/red sabot (M962 SLAP-T)}}
{{legend striped|#CC9900|silver|silver tip/amber sabot (M903 SLAP)}}
{{legend|red|red tip (M17 tracer)}}
{{legend|#B87333|unpainted copper (M33 ball)}}
Front row are [[5.56×45mm NATO]] and [[.500 S&W Magnum]], for size comparison]]

[[File:12.7×99mm NATO(1).jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|.50 BMG rounds and projectiles. Left to right: {{unbulleted list|
| M2 ball
| M1 tracer
| M2 armor piercing
| M17 tracer
| M8 armor piercing incendiary
| M20 armor piercing incendiary tracer
| M1 incendiary
| M903 SLAP
| M962 SLAP-T
| XM156 spotter tracer}}]]

The .50 BMG cartridge is also produced commercially in a wide range of specifications, including armor-piercing, tracing, and incendiary:<ref name="auto"/>

; Cartridge, caliber .50, tracer, M1
: This tracer is used for observing fire, signaling, target designation, and incendiary purposes. This bullet has a red tip.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, incendiary, M1
: This cartridge is used against unarmored, flammable targets. The incendiary bullet has a light blue tip
; Cartridge, caliber .50, ball, M2
: This cartridge is used against personnel and unarmored targets. This bullet has an unpainted tip.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing (AP), M2
: This cartridge is used against lightly armored vehicles, protective shelters, and personnel, and can be identified by its black tip.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing incendiary (API), M8
: This cartridge is used, in place of the armor-piercing round, against armored, flammable targets. The bullet has a silver tip.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, tracer, M10
: Tracer for observing fire, signaling, target designation, and incendiary purposes. Designed to be less intense than the M1 tracer, the M10 has an orange tip.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, tracer, M17
: Tracer for observing fire, signaling, target designation, and incendiary purposes. Can be fired from the [[M82 Barrett rifle|M82/M107]] series of rifles.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing incendiary tracer (API-T), M20
: This cartridge is used in place of the armor-piercing round against armored, flammable targets, with a tracer element for observation purposes. It is effectively a variant of the M8 armor-piercing incendiary with the added tracer element. Can be fired from the M82/M107 series of rifles. This bullet has a red tip with a ring of aluminum paint.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, tracer, headlight, M21
: Tracer for use in observing fire during air-to-air combat. Designed to be more visible, the M21 is three times more brilliant than the M1 tracer.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, incendiary, M23
: This cartridge is used against unarmored, flammable targets. The tip of the bullet is painted blue with a light blue ring.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, ball, M33
: This cartridge is used against personnel and unarmored targets. Can be fired from the M82/M107 series of rifles.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, saboted light armor penetrator (SLAP), M903
: This cartridge has a 355 – 360 gr (23.00 – 23.33&nbsp;g) heavy metal (tungsten) penetrator that is sabot-launched at a muzzle velocity of 4,000&nbsp;ft/s (1,219&nbsp;m/s). The 0.50 in (12.7&nbsp;mm) diameter sabot is designed to separate after leaving the muzzle, releasing the 0.30 in (7.62&nbsp;mm) penetrator. The sabot is injection molded of special high strength plastic and is reinforced with an aluminum insert in the base section. The cartridge is identified by an amber sabot (Ultem 1000). Used only in the M2 series of machine guns. This round can penetrate 0.75 in (19&nbsp;mm) of steel armor at {{convert|1500|yards|meters}}.<ref name="photobucket">{{cite web|url=http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo255/FEDE_EL_SOMALI/1-15.jpg|title=albums/oo255/FEDE_EL_SOMALI/1-15|publisher=i381.photobucket.com|access-date=July 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140806085116/http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo255/FEDE_EL_SOMALI/1-15.jpg|archive-date=August 6, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>
; Cartridge, caliber .50, saboted light armor penetrator tracer (SLAP-T), M962
: Like the M903, this is a SLAP round, with the only difference being that the M962 also has a tracer element for observing fire, target designation, and incendiary purposes. It has a red plastic sabot for identification and is used only in the M2 series of machine guns.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, ball, XM1022
: A long-range match cartridge specifically designed for long-range work using the M107 rifle.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, M1022 long-range sniper
: The .50 caliber M1022 has an olive-green bullet coating with no tip ID coloration. The projectile is of standard ball design. It is designed for long-range sniper training and tactical use against targets that do not require armor-piercing or incendiary effects. It exhibits superior long-range accuracy and is trajectory matched to MK211 grade A. The M1022 is ideal for use in all .50 caliber bolt-action and semi-automatic sniper rifles.<ref name="atk.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.atk.com/ammo_PDFs/smallcaliber.pdf |title=Small Caliber Ammunition |publisher=ATK |access-date=August 27, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070824081519/http://www.atk.com/ammo_PDFs/smallcaliber.pdf |archive-date=August 24, 2007 |url-status=live }}</ref> The bullet remains supersonic from {{convert|1500|m|yd|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|1600|m|yd|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>[http://www.quarry.nildram.co.uk/Long%20Range%20Sniping.htm Cartridges for Long-Range Sniping Rifles by Anthony G Williams] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130314044046/http://www.quarry.nildram.co.uk/Long%20Range%20Sniping.htm |date=March 14, 2013 }}</ref>
[[Image:Raufoss NM140 MP (en).svg|thumb|Raufoss Mk 211 Mod 0 HEIAP projectile]]
; Cartridge, caliber .50, high-explosive incendiary armor-piercing (HEIAP), Mk 211 Mod 0
: A "combined effects" cartridge, the [[Raufoss Mk 211]] Mod 0 HEIAP cartridge contains a .30 caliber tungsten penetrator, zirconium powder, and Composition A explosive. It can be used in any .50 caliber weapon in the US inventory with the exception of the [[M85 machine gun]]. The cartridge is identified by a green tip with a gray ring.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing incendiary dim tracer (API-DT), Mk 257
: The .50 caliber Mk 257 API-DT has a purple bullet tip. The bullet has a hardened steel core and incendiary tip. It is used in the M2, M3, and M85. Dim tracer reduces the possibility of the weapon being located during night fire and is visible only with night-vision devices.<ref name="atk.com" />
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing (AP), Mk 263 Mod 2
: The .50 caliber Mk 263 has a black tip. The bullet has a hardened steel core and features double valleys to reduce bearing surface thereby decreasing friction and increasing stability. It is used in the M2, M3, and M85.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing incendiary tracer (API-T), Mk 300 Mod 0
: as with the Mk 211 Mod 0, but with a tracer component. This cartridge likely can be used in any .50 caliber weapon in the US inventory with the exception of the M85 machine gun, as with the Mk 211 Mod 0.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, armor-piercing explosive incendiary (APEI), Mk 169 Mod 2
: This cartridge is used against hardened targets such as bunkers, for suppressive fire against lightly armored vehicles, and ground and aerial threat suppression. It is generally fired either from pilot-aimed aircraft-mounted guns or anti-aircraft platforms, both produced by [[FN Herstal]].<ref>{{cite web |title=12.7x99mm |url=https://fnherstal.com/en/defence/ammunition/127x99mm/ |website=FN HERSTAL |access-date=23 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221123160045/https://fnherstal.com/en/defence/ammunition/127x99mm/ |archive-date=23 November 2022}}</ref> It is identified by a gray over yellow tip.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.igman.co.ba/ammunition.htm#10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080325084040/http://www.igman.co.ba/ammunition.htm|url-status=dead|title=Igman Ammunition Cal. 12.7 x 99&nbsp;mm, APEI, M 02|archive-date=March 25, 2008}}</ref> A tracer variant of it also exists.
; Cartridge, caliber .50, ball, Mk 323 Mod 0
: Created by the [[Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division]], this cartridge uses M33 ball projectiles in [[polymer-cased ammunition|polymer cases]] instead of brass. It has a clear polymer case, with a standard brass head fused at the bottom. The Mk 323 can be fired from M2HB/M2A1 machine guns and GAU-21/A aircraft guns with the same performance. It gives a 25 percent weight saving over brass-cased ammunition allowing 40 percent more ammunition to be carried for the same weight. The Mk 323's polymer casing is applied to tracer, AP, API, and SLAP projectiles.<ref>[http://kitup.military.com/2011/09/crane-using-lightweight-50-cal-ammo.html Crane Using Lightweight .50 Cal Ammo] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921053332/http://kitup.military.com/2011/09/crane-using-lightweight-50-cal-ammo.html |date=September 21, 2013 }} - Kitup. Military.com, September 11, 2011.</ref><ref name="dtic">{{cite web|url=http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2012armaments/Wednesday13983stoll.pdf|date=May 21, 2012|title=Advancements in Lightweight .50 Caliber Ammunition|author=Jarod Stoll and Kathryn Hunt|access-date=July 28, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719181537/http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2012armaments/Wednesday13983stoll.pdf|archive-date=July 19, 2013}}</ref>

[[DARPA]] (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) contracted with Teledyne Scientific Company to develop the [[EXACTO]] program, including a .50-caliber guided bullet. Videos published by DARPA show the guided bullet diverting to strike a moving target.<ref>{{cite web |last=Cox |first=Matthew |url=http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/12/15/dod-wants-bullet-that-can-change-direction-after-being-fired.html |title=DoD Wants Bullet That Can Change Direction After Being Fired |publisher=Military.com |date=December 15, 2014 |access-date=April 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422101545/http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/12/15/dod-wants-bullet-that-can-change-direction-after-being-fired.html |archive-date=April 22, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://armyrecognition.com/weapons_defence_industry_military_technology_uk/exacto_guided_bullet_demonstrates_repeatable_performance_against_moving_targets_2904152.html |title=EXACTO Guided bullet demonstrates repeatable performance against moving targets 2904152 &#124; weapons defence industry military technology UK &#124; analyse focus army defence military industry army |publisher=Armyrecognition.com |date=April 29, 2015 |access-date=April 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150912011504/http://armyrecognition.com/weapons_defence_industry_military_technology_uk/exacto_guided_bullet_demonstrates_repeatable_performance_against_moving_targets_2904152.html |archive-date=September 12, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2015-04-27 |title=EXACTO Guided Bullet Demonstrates Repeatable Performance against Moving Targets |publisher=Darpa.mil |date=April 27, 2015 |access-date=April 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422125546/http://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2015-04-27 |archive-date=April 22, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoOaJclkSZg |title=EXACTO Live-Fire Tests, February 2015 |publisher=DARPAtv |date=April 27, 2015 |access-date=September 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004060458/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoOaJclkSZg |archive-date=October 4, 2017 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Belt links==
Three distinct and non-compatible metallic links have been used for .50 BMG cartridge [[Belt (firearms)|belts]]. The M2 and M9 links, "pull-out" designs, are used in the Browning M2 and M3 machine guns.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.arex.si/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/link_M9_12.7mm_R1.pdf |title=Metal link M9 for cal. 12.7×99mm Technical data |access-date=September 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181223035224/http://www.arex.si/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/link_M9_12.7mm_R1.pdf |archive-date=December 23, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=msoIAQAAIAAJ&q=m2+link+.50&pg=PA9 |title=Technical Manual Small-Arms Ammunition, TM9-1990, U.S. War Department|access-date=February 20, 2020 |date=May 23, 1942 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210106201533/https://books.google.com/books?id=msoIAQAAIAAJ&q=m2+link+.50&pg=PA9 |archive-date=January 6, 2021 }}</ref> The M15-series metal "push-through" links were used in the [[M85 machine gun]]. Pull-out cloth belts were also used at one time but have been obsolete since 1945.
<gallery mode="packed" heights="160">
File:M2 M9 links.gif| M2 and M9 links
File:M15A2 link.gif| M15A2 link
File:Defense.gov photo essay 120814-F-QT695-001.jpg|M9 links in use
</gallery>

==Legal issues==
===United Kingdom===
Within the United Kingdom, it is legal to own a bolt action .50 BMG rifle with a section 1 [[Firearms policy in the United Kingdom|Firearms Certificate]].<ref name="fcsa.">{{cite web|url=http://www.fcsa.co.uk|title=Home|publisher=Fifty Calibre Shooters Association UK|access-date=July 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140818200126/http://www.fcsa.co.uk/|archive-date=August 18, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Applications requesting firearms in this caliber are assessed by the same criteria as smaller calibers; with the applicant having to prove they have a valid reason for owning such a weapon.<ref name="gov">{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/262215/Guidance_on_Firearms_Licensing_Law_v6_Nov_2013.pdf|date=June 2014|title=Guide on firearms licensing law|author=Home Office|access-date=July 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221031617/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/262215/Guidance_on_Firearms_Licensing_Law_v6_Nov_2013.pdf|archive-date=December 21, 2013|url-status=live}}{{page needed|date=November 2017}}</ref>

===United States===
The specified maximum diameter of an unfired .50 BMG bullet is {{convert|0.510|in|mm|adj=on}}; while this appears to be over the .50 inch (12.7&nbsp;mm) maximum allowed for non-sporting Title I firearms under the U.S. [[National Firearms Act]], the barrel of a .50 BMG rifle is only .50 inch (12.7&nbsp;mm) across the [[rifling]] lands and slightly larger in the grooves. The oversized bullet is formed to the bore size upon firing, forming a tight seal and engaging the rifling. Subject to political controversy due to the great power of the cartridge (it is the most powerful commonly available cartridge not considered a [[destructive device]] under the National Firearms Act), it remains popular among long-range shooters for its accuracy and [[external ballistics]]. While the .50 BMG round is able to deliver accurate shot placement (if [[match grade]] ammunition is used) at ranges over {{convert|1000|yd|adj=on}}, smaller-caliber rifles produce better scores and tighter groups in {{convert|1000|yd|adj=on}} competitions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gunweek.com/2006/feature0420.html |title=SHOT Show 2006 New Rifles, Shotguns, Pistols Offer Enhanced Performance |author=GunWeek.com |access-date=April 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080521043310/http://www.gunweek.com/2006/feature0420.html |archive-date=May 21, 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

A 1999 [[United States Justice Department|Justice Department]] [[Office of Special Investigations (United States Department of Justice)|Office of Special Investigations]] briefing on .50 caliber rifle crime identified several instances of the .50 BMG being involved in criminal activities. None of the cited cases has confirmed domestic violent criminal use of a .50 BMG firearm, and a majority of the domestic cases were possession charges.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.gao.gov/products/OSI-99-15R |title=Weaponry: .50 Caliber Rifle Crime," GAO Office of Special Investigations letter |issue=OSI-99-15R |author=General Accounting Office |date=August 4, 1999 |access-date=February 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120111191722/http://www.gao.gov/products/OSI-99-15R |archive-date=January 11, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the United States, [[Washington, D.C.]] disallows registration of .50 BMG rifles, thus rendering civilian possession unlawful.<ref name="atf.">{{cite web|url=https://www.atf.gov/file/117186/download|title=District of Columbia Code|publisher=ATF|access-date=October 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004185640/https://www.atf.gov/file/117186/download|archive-date=October 4, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=Giffords_50cal_2018>{{cite web |url=https://lawcenter.giffords.org/gun-laws/policy-areas/hardware-ammunition/machine-guns-50-caliber/ |title=Machine Guns & 50-Caliber |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2018 |website=lawcenter.giffords.org |publisher=Giffords Law Center |access-date=October 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006035032/https://lawcenter.giffords.org/gun-laws/policy-areas/hardware-ammunition/machine-guns-50-caliber/ |archive-date=October 6, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[California]] prohibits the private purchase of a rifle capable of firing the .50 BMG through the [[.50 Caliber BMG Regulation Act of 2004]].<ref name="ca_legis.">{{cite web|url=http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=200320040AB50|title=Assembly Bill No. 50|publisher=CA Legislature|access-date=October 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004230108/http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=200320040AB50|archive-date=October 4, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Connecticut]] specifically bans the [[Barrett M82|Barrett 82A1]] .50 BMG rifle.<ref name="ct_ga.">{{cite web|url=https://www.cga.ct.gov/2017/pub/chap_943.htm|title=Chapter 943 Offenses Against Public Peace and Safety|publisher=Connecticut General Assembly|access-date=October 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004230120/https://www.cga.ct.gov/2017/pub/chap_943.htm|archive-date=October 4, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, .50 BMG rifles registered prior to the enacted bans remain lawful to possess in California<ref name=Giffords_50cal_2018/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.shouselaw.com/are-50-bmg-rifles-legal-in-california |title=Are .50 BMG rifles legal in California? |last=Shouse |first=Neil |date=July 17, 2017 |website=shouselaw.com |publisher=Shouse California Law Group |access-date=October 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006000203/https://www.shouselaw.com/are-50-bmg-rifles-legal-in-california |archive-date=October 6, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> and Connecticut.<ref name=Giffords_50cal_2018/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ct.gov/despp/cwp/view.asp?a=4213&q=494616 |title=Special Licensing and Firearms |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=September 6, 2018 |website=ct.gov |publisher=Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection |access-date=October 5, 2018 |quote=...any person who has a Certificate of Possession issued by the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit may possess the Assault Weapon listed on their certificate.... a Certificate of Possession must be obtained prior to January 1, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180203092746/http://www.ct.gov/despp/cwp/view.asp?a=4213&q=494616 |archive-date=February 3, 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In [[Illinois]], it is legal to possess a .50 caliber rifle only if it was acquired by January 10, 2023, and it was registered with the state police by January 1, 2024.<ref>{{cite web |first=Meredith |last=Howard |date=January 12, 2023 |url=https://www.bnd.com/news/state/illinois/article271046422.html |title=How Will Illinois Law Banning Some Firearms Affect Gun Owners? Answers to Top Questions |work=Belleville News-Democrat |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111203626/https://www.bnd.com/news/state/illinois/article271046422.html |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |url-status=live |access-date=January 14, 2023}}</ref> [[Maryland]] imposes additional regulations on the sale and transfer of .50 BMG rifles and other weapons classed as "regulated firearms", and limits purchases of any firearm within this class to one per month, but does not impose registration requirements or any form of categorical ban.<ref name=Giffords_50cal_2018/>

Contrary to a persistent misconception within the [[United States Armed Forces]], using .50 BMG directly against enemy personnel is not prohibited by the [[laws of war]].<ref>{{cite journal | url = http://www.mca-marines.org/gazette/killing-myth | title = Killing A Myth | last1 = Parks | first1 = Maj W. Hays |date=January 1988 | journal = [[Marine Corps Gazette]] | access-date =February 20, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140228114414/http://www.mca-marines.org/gazette/killing-myth | archive-date = February 28, 2014 | url-status = dead | df = mdy-all }}</ref> Writing for the ''[[Marine Corps Gazette]]'', Major Hays Parks states: "No treaty language exists (either generally or specifically) to support a limitation on [the use of .50 BMG] against personnel, and its widespread, longstanding use in this role suggests that such antipersonnel employment is the customary practice of nations." Parks theorizes that the misconception originated in historical doctrine discouraging the use of the M8C [[spotting rifle]]—an integral .50-caliber aiming aid for the [[M40 recoilless rifle]]—in the antipersonnel role. This limitation was entirely tactical in nature and was intended to hide the vulnerable M40 and its crew from the enemy until the main [[anti-tank]] gun was ready for firing; however, Parks concludes that some U.S. troops assumed the existence of a legal limitation on the use of .50-caliber projectiles more generally.

==Partial list of .50 BMG firearms==
{{div col|colwidth=40em}}

===Carbines===
* [[Barrett Firearms Company|Barrett]] [[Barrett M82|M82]]CQ (a carbine version of the M82A3)

===Rifles===
{{div col|colwidth=20em}}
* [[Accuracy International AS50]]
* [[Accuracy International AW50]]
* [[Accuracy International AX50]]
* [[ArmaLite AR-50]]
* [[Arms Tech Limited|Arms Tech Ltd.]] TTR-50<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.armstechltd.com/products.php?id=ttr-50_rifle |title=Arms Tech Ltd. TTR-50 |access-date=October 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103214900/http://www.armstechltd.com/products.php?id=ttr-50_rifle |archive-date=November 3, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* [[Barrett M82|Barrett M82/M107]]
* [[Barrett M95]]
* [[Barrett M99]]
* [[Bushmaster BA50 Rifle|Bushmaster BA50]]
* [[Cadex Defence]] CDX-50 Tremor
* [[Desert Tech HTI]]
* [[DSR-50]]
* [[Gepárd anti-materiel rifle]]
* [[McMillan TAC-50]]
* [[OM 50 Nemesis]]<ref>{{cite web |author=Chris L. Movigliatti |url=http://www.amsd.ch |title=A.M.S.D. Sa |publisher=Amsd.ch |access-date=August 27, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100913231638/http://www.amsd.ch/| archive-date= September 13, 2010<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref>
* [[PGM Hécate II]]
* [[Pindad SPR-2]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://pindad.com/spr-2-kal-12-7-mm | access-date=February 14, 2022|title=SPR-2 Kal. 12.7 mm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210427120910/https://pindad.com/spr-2-kal-12-7-mm|archive-date=April 27, 2021}}</ref>
* [[Ramo M600]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.securityarms.com/20010315/galleryfiles/2500/2540.htm |title=RAMO DEFENCE M650 and M600 |publisher=Securityarms.com |access-date=August 27, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100905151948/http://www.securityarms.com/20010315/galleryfiles/2500/2540.htm| archive-date= September 5, 2010<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref>
* [[Robar RC-50]]
* [[Snipex M]]
* [[Snipex Rhino Hunter]]
* [[Steyr HS .50]]
* [[WKW Wilk]]
* [[Zastava M93 Black Arrow]]
{{div col end}}

===Machine guns===
* [[GAU-19]]
* [[M2 Browning#AN/M3, GAU-21/A, and M3P|GAU-21 FN M3M]]
* [[M1921 Browning machine gun]]
* [[M2 Browning|M2 Browning machine gun]]
* [[M85 machine gun]]
* [[MAC-58]] - only built as prototype
* [[Rolls-Royce Experimental Machine Gun]] - only built as prototype
* [[STK 50MG]]
* [[XM218]]
* [[XM312]]
* [[XM806|XM806 (LW50)]]
* [[Kord machine gun]] - export variant
* [[NSV machine gun]] - export variant of the original West Kazakhstan Machine Building Company NSV machine gun
* [[NSV machine gun#Variants|WKM-B]] - Polish version of the NSV machine gun
* [[NSV machine gun#Variants|Zastava M87]] - Serbian export variant of the NSV machine gun

===Pistols===
*[[Triple Action Thunder]]

===Chain gun===
*[[Profense PF 50]]{{div col end}}

==See also==
{{Commons and category|.50 BMG}}
* [[.50 Caliber BMG Regulation Act of 2004]]
* [[.50 caliber handguns]]
* [[.510 DTC EUROP]]
* [[.510 Whisper]]
* [[12&nbsp;mm caliber]]
* [[12.7 × 108 mm]] (Russian equivalent)
* [[14.5 × 114 mm]]
* [[Gun laws in the United States (by state)]]
* [[List of firearms]]
* [[List of rifle cartridges]]
* [[NATO EPVAT testing]]
* [[Table of handgun and rifle cartridges]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{John Browning}}
{{.30-03 Springfield}}
{{WWIIUSInfWeaponsNav}}
{{WW2 Brit Comm infantry guns}}
{{WWIIChineseInfantryWeapons}}
{{ModernUSInfWeaponsNav}}
{{ModernUKInfWeaponsNav}}
{{ModernAUSInfWeaponsNav}}
{{Current French infantry weapons}}
{{Current Indian infantry weapons}}

[[Category:Pistol and rifle cartridges|50 BMG]]
[[Category:Military cartridges|50 BMG]]
[[Category:Anti-materiel cartridges|12.7x99mm]]
[[Category:NATO cartridges]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1921]]
[[Category:Winchester Repeating Arms Company cartridges]]