Intro
Unlock the power of the.50 BMG cartridge with our in-depth guide. Discover the dimensions and specifications of this heavy-hitting round, including case length, bullet diameter, and weight. Learn about its ballistic performance, military applications, and civilian uses, making it a must-read for shooters and enthusiasts alike.
The 50 BMG cartridge is a powerful and popular choice among shooters, particularly those who enjoy long-range shooting and hunting large game. In this article, we will delve into the dimensions and specifications of the 50 BMG cartridge, exploring its history, design, and performance characteristics.
History of the 50 BMG Cartridge
The 50 BMG cartridge has its roots in the early 20th century, when the US military was looking for a more powerful machine gun round. In the 1920s, the Winchester Repeating Arms Company developed the.50 Caliber Machine Gun Cartridge, which was later standardized as the 50 BMG. The cartridge was designed to be used in the M2 Browning machine gun, which was widely used during World War II and the Korean War.
Design and Construction
The 50 BMG cartridge is a belted, bottle-necked cartridge with a large, cylindrical case. The case is made of brass or other materials and is designed to withstand the high pressures generated by the cartridge's powerful propellant. The cartridge has a distinctive shape, with a narrow neck and a large, rounded shoulder.
Dimensions and Specifications
Here are the key dimensions and specifications of the 50 BMG cartridge:
- Case length: 5.45 inches (138.4 mm)
- Overall length: 5.8 inches (147.3 mm)
- Rim diameter: 0.75 inches (19.1 mm)
- Case diameter: 0.72 inches (18.3 mm)
- Neck diameter: 0.54 inches (13.7 mm)
- Shoulder diameter: 0.72 inches (18.3 mm)
- Base diameter: 0.75 inches (19.1 mm)
- Bullet diameter: 0.51 inches (13 mm)
- Bullet weight: 645-800 grains (41.9-51.9 grams)
- Muzzle velocity: 2,700-3,000 feet per second (823-914 meters per second)
- Muzzle energy: 11,000-13,000 foot-pounds (14,900-17,600 joules)
Performance Characteristics
The 50 BMG cartridge is known for its exceptional performance characteristics, including:
- Long-range accuracy: The 50 BMG cartridge is capable of delivering accurate shots at ranges of over 1,000 yards (914 meters).
- High muzzle velocity: The cartridge's muzzle velocity of 2,700-3,000 feet per second (823-914 meters per second) makes it suitable for long-range shooting.
- High muzzle energy: The cartridge's muzzle energy of 11,000-13,000 foot-pounds (14,900-17,600 joules) makes it suitable for hunting large game.
Uses and Applications
The 50 BMG cartridge has a variety of uses and applications, including:
- Long-range shooting: The cartridge's accuracy and range make it a popular choice among competitive shooters and hunters.
- Hunting large game: The cartridge's power and penetration make it suitable for hunting large game such as elk, moose, and bear.
- Military and law enforcement: The cartridge is used by military and law enforcement agencies for a variety of applications, including sniper rifles and machine guns.
Challenges and Considerations
While the 50 BMG cartridge is a powerful and versatile round, it also presents some challenges and considerations, including:
- Recoil: The cartridge's powerful recoil can make it difficult to control, particularly for inexperienced shooters.
- Noise: The cartridge's loud report can make it difficult to shoot in urban areas or without proper hearing protection.
- Cost: The cartridge's large size and powerful propellant make it more expensive than smaller cartridges.
Gallery of 50 BMG Cartridge Images
50 BMG Cartridge Image Gallery
What is the history of the 50 BMG cartridge?
+The 50 BMG cartridge was developed in the 1920s by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company for use in the M2 Browning machine gun.
What are the dimensions and specifications of the 50 BMG cartridge?
+The 50 BMG cartridge has a case length of 5.45 inches (138.4 mm), an overall length of 5.8 inches (147.3 mm), and a rim diameter of 0.75 inches (19.1 mm).
What are the performance characteristics of the 50 BMG cartridge?
+The 50 BMG cartridge has a muzzle velocity of 2,700-3,000 feet per second (823-914 meters per second) and a muzzle energy of 11,000-13,000 foot-pounds (14,900-17,600 joules).
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the 50 BMG cartridge's dimensions and specifications. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the 50 BMG cartridge is a powerful and versatile round that is sure to deliver impressive performance.