.50 Beowulf

Caliber Overview
The .50 Beowulf caliber is a powerful, straight-walled cartridge designed for superior stopping power in a compact package, making it ideal for hunting large game, self-defense, and tactical operations. Developed by Alexander Arms in the early 2000s, it was created to provide AR-15 platform users with enhanced performance over standard .223 Remington rounds. This caliber excels in short to medium-range engagements, delivering massive energy transfer that can take down big game like deer or hogs with precision, while its compatibility with modern sporting rifles appeals to both enthusiasts and professionals. At AmmoSouth, we offer a curated selection of .50 Beowulf ammunition from trusted brands, ensuring you get reliable options for your needs.
Key Specifications
The .50 Beowulf features a bullet diameter of 0.50 inches (12.7 mm), with typical grain weights ranging from 300 to 400 grains for optimal balance of velocity and impact. Muzzle velocities generally fall between 1,900 and 2,200 feet per second, generating impressive muzzle energy of 2,000 to 3,000 foot-pounds, which contributes to its formidable recoil—moderate for experienced shooters but noticeable in rapid-fire scenarios. This caliber is primarily compatible with modified AR-15 rifles, such as those from Alexander Arms, and requires a barrel and bolt specifically designed for it. AmmoSouth stocks high-quality .50 Beowulf rounds that meet these specs, ensuring compatibility and performance in various firearms setups.
Applications
.50 Beowulf ammunition shines in diverse applications, from hunting big game in dense woods to tactical and self-defense scenarios where stopping power is crucial. Its ability to deliver deep penetration makes it popular for hog hunting or protecting against larger threats, while in competition shooting, it offers an edge in accuracy-heavy events. For tactical use, law enforcement and military personnel appreciate its reliability in close-quarters combat. Whether you’re preparing for outdoor adventures or home defense, AmmoSouth provides .50 Beowulf options tailored to these purposes, helping you stay prepared and effective.
Ammunition Types
Available in various bullet types, .50 Beowulf ammunition caters to specific needs: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds for reliable penetration and practice at the range, ideal for training without over-penetration concerns; Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) for self-defense and hunting, as they expand on impact to create wider wound channels; and soft point bullets for ethical big-game hunting, providing controlled expansion and deep penetration. At AmmoSouth, we carry popular brands like Alexander Arms and Hornady, each offering these types with consistent quality to match your intended application, from target practice to field use.
Key Benefits
One of the standout advantages of .50 Beowulf is its exceptional versatility and stopping power compared to similar calibers like .308 Winchester, offering greater energy in a shorter, more maneuverable package for AR-15 users. It provides excellent accuracy at ranges up to 300 yards, affordability for regular shooting, and reduced recoil compared to larger magnum rounds, making it accessible for a wider audience. Additionally, its compatibility with common platforms enhances modularity, while AmmoSouth ensures you get premium, reliable ammunition that outperforms expectations in both accuracy and reliability, giving you a tactical edge without breaking the bank.
When you’re ready to experience the power of .50 Beowulf ammunition, browse our extensive selection at AmmoSouth.com. As your trusted retailer, we guarantee top-tier products, fast shipping, and expert advice—shop now and equip yourself with the best for your next adventure or defense needs!