The ArmaLite AR50A1 is a seductive rifle, to say the least. One of those exclusive models chambered in .50 BMG, and surprisingly competitively priced, it promises top-tier long-range performance and firepower, and it delivers.
But before you shell out the dough and buy one, here are a few things you should know.
There Is a Repeater Version Available
The classic AR50A1 is a single-shot rifle. Not a big deal with a cartridge like this as you’ll probably want a break after firing to manually unload and load the thing, but just so you know, there is a repeater available, which comes with a 5-round magazine.
It Comes with a GG&G Bipod
This rifle is heavy so you’ll need a bipod, you just won’t have to buy one as it comes with a GG&G Bipod that offers stability on effectively any terrain.
Ammo Is Not Going to Be Cheap
Even cheap .50 BMG is not cheap. On the low end of the spectrum expect to pay at least 5 dollars per pull of the trigger, if not considerably more.
Buzz Is Positive
Among those that have fired an AR50A1, or even ostensibly own one, buzz is overwhelmingly positive.
Shooters commented on the smoothness of the action and the quality of the trigger. At this price point you would expect a crisp trigger, but shooters also remark that the trigger is easy enough to swap out for an upgrade if you want.
Shooters also loved the muzzle brake that comes with the rifle. One even noted that the muzzle brake on his reduced felt recoil to less than his .308. Might be a tall tale, but you can see SnipersHide.com and judge for yourself.
It Comes with a Muzzle Brake (But You’ll Still Want to Be Ready for the Muzzle Blast)
Funny thing about the .50 BMG is, it’s not the recoil that’ll get you, it’s the muzzle blast. The ArmaLite AR50A1 comes with a reinforced muzzle brake and the rifle itself weighs more than 30 pounds.
Between the two of those things, the platform is pretty well equipped to soak up recoil. It’s the muzzle blast you need to be ready for – make sure there are no bystanders close to the sides of you when firing – stay well behind the rifle.
.50 BMG Is Fun to Shoot, but Honestly Not the Best Long-Range Cartridge
Here’s the cold, hard, truth. While .50 BMG is often touted as an effective long-range cartridge, it really isn’t.
What the .50 BMG is designed for is anti-materiel. That is, stopping vehicles. The bullets are insanely heavy and can inflict serious damage on structures, controls, and engines. Where the .50 BMG shines is in energy retention at great distances. That’s what makes it great.
If all you want is a cartridge that is accurate at long ranges, there might be a better option out there.
Still Set on an ArmaLite AR50A1? Here’s Where to Get One
Either way, none of this is to discourage you from getting an AR50A1. It’s just to make sure you know what you’re getting before you do. It is a large investment, after all, and the ammo prices mean you’d better be serious about it.
If you’re interested in learning more about the AR50A1 (or are ready to buy one) visit B&B Firearms. Contact their customer service if you have any questions and they’ll be ready with an answer.
