The 50 BEOWULF

Published on January 18, 2023
Duration: 12:06

The .50 Beowulf cartridge, developed by Alexander Arms, offers significant stopping power on an AR-15 platform. Despite its large caliber, it uses standard AR-15 lower receivers and magazines, with modifications primarily to the barrel and bolt. Testing reveals substantial recoil, comparable to a .45-70, and impressive energy transfer, demonstrated by its destructive effect on targets and ballistic gel.

Quick Summary

The .50 Beowulf is a powerful big-bore rifle cartridge developed by Alexander Arms, built on the AR-15 platform. It offers significant stopping power with substantial recoil, comparable to a .45-70, and delivers over 2,800 ft-lbs of energy at close range.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 50 Beowulf Cartridge
  2. 01:18Alexander Arms AR-15 Platform Rifle
  3. 02:18Recoil and First Shooting Impressions
  4. 03:46Ballistics and Steel Target Impact
  5. 04:58Destructive Testing: Pudding & Soda Bottles
  6. 08:05Chronograph Velocity Testing
  7. 09:21Ballistic Gel Test Results

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the .50 Beowulf cartridge?

The .50 Beowulf is a large-bore rifle cartridge developed by Alexander Arms in 2001. It's based on the .50 Action Express but designed for rifles, offering significant power comparable to a .45-70 Government, suitable for hunting and tactical applications.

Can the .50 Beowulf be used in an AR-15?

Yes, Alexander Arms builds .50 Beowulf rifles on the AR-15 platform. They utilize standard AR-15 lower receivers and can even use standard 5.56 magazines, which typically hold 10 rounds of .50 Beowulf.

How much recoil does the .50 Beowulf have?

The recoil is substantial, described as significantly more powerful than a .308 Winchester and closer to a .45-70 Government. While not painful, it provides a very stout kick that lets the shooter know they are firing a powerful round.

What are the ballistic capabilities of the .50 Beowulf?

It's a short-range caliber, dropping about 50 inches at 300 yards. However, it delivers over 2,800 foot-pounds of kinetic energy at close range and demonstrates impressive destructive power and wound cavity potential in testing.

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