The .50 (long range anti-material solutions)

[waffenmacht]

This is a new rifle so I don't have a ton of data to share yet. But we have added a .50 cal Armalite bolt gun to the inventory.  Its currently undergoing testing, and will get upgrades as we become more familiar with the platform. As of right now it is an Armalite AR-50A1-L with custom kydex cheek rest allowing use by both left and right handed shooters.  Cerakoted FDE and has an SWFA 10 power Mil-rad scope (this is getting replaced with a Nightforce and Barret BORS soon). We are currently firing M33 ball (660 grain), but will be adding multiple type of ammo to the inventory as it arrives.  Although visually imposing; this thing is really a kitten.  Recoil is similar to a 308, very tame.  This is due to the heavy weight of the weapon (about 35 pounds) and the huge brake hanging off the end of the barrel.  The concussion on the other hand is brutal.... again due to the freaking brake.  We are getting 1 inch groups at 100 yards, and will be stretching the legs on the range as time permits.   This outing we put about 50 rounds through it in about an hour.  Now to get UW Gear to produce a 50 cal chest rig   

[Dave R]

Very cool. Curious to hear what your ideal application for this would be.

[panzer0170]

Question; Could .338 be put to the same purpose (anti-material). What 'losses' would you see in terms of effect, other than range?

I'm thinking .338 is cheaper, and assuming it's effective range for AM is appropriate then you could, money permitting, get something dual role like the DTA offerings with a basic long rifle capability AND an AM capability in the same package.

[waffenmacht]

Apr 14, 2016 6:28:55 GMT -5 panzer0170 said:

Question; Could .338 be put to the same purpose (anti-material). What 'losses' would you see in terms of effect, other than range?

I'm thinking .338 is cheaper, and assuming it's effective range for AM is appropriate then you could, money permitting, get something dual role like the DTA offerings with a basic long rifle capability AND an AM capability in the same package.

 Comparing apples to apples the .338 is really about the same cost as the 50 in both platform and ammo cost.

Ive not seen .338 offered in AP, API, APIT, SLAP, etc....These projectiles are "anti-material", not just anti-personnel. So while the .338 is a fine choice for many long-range applications it is limited in two ways.  One, there are not many military style projectiles available. And two, while the 50 can be found in service with the US mil (think battlefield supply of ammo here), the .338 cannot, therefore resupply of ammo for such a weapon would be challenging.   So in my opinion the .338 is a better choice as an anti-personnel long range solution, but a poorer choice in the anti-material role. 

[panzer0170]

Solid analysis. I don't know much about .50 other than BMG, and at that's it's belted for MG use. I've seen .338 used against unarmoured stuff (engine block shots) but certainly never against larger/heavier armoured stuff.

Mostly I was thinking about transportability/extra functionality for weight, which is a key problem when you don't have the wonders of a logistics chain. Looks like it might just be a suck it and see

[Dave R]

Some more videos of that beast when you get a chance. Also, really digging atacs fg now.

[Erick]

The addition of a caliber that adds extra capability can be very valuable IMO.

While the tactical rifles in a proper intermediate round reigns supreme as the equipment for any infantryman adding a 50 cal to your team presents your opponents with additional tactical problems.

a) If he is unaware it will may surpise him and you may be able to shoot through what he considered cover or engage him at much greater distances than he expected causing him much disruption and extra casualties.

b) If he is aware of your heavier weapon... that is almost better ...because now he will likely deny himself the other more optimal tactical approaches and COAs due to his fear of your extra capabilities..
"Knowing has greater effect" especially impacts opponents that are structurally risk averse.

[Patriotic Sheepdog]

I have a friend that has one of these. ferret50.com He was a US mil sniper and has tested this extensively. It is not a patrol weapon so no chest rig needed, but a bandoleer may be helpful. He handloads his rounds (thats the sniper in him) and I can attest, my first three shots with this weapon, which is not set up for me was a 1.25" group at 300yds. I would think, 50 cal in a group is a plus, like other force multipliers (NODs), but you need the time and money. Of course your AO will also dictate needs.