20 Facts The Complete Guide To 50 Cal Bullet Length

Nellie Bly

2 min read

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17-07-2025

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The .50 Browning Machine Gun (.50 BMG) cartridge, a powerhouse in the world of firearms, is known for its impressive stopping power and long range. But what about the bullet itself? Understanding the length of a .50 BMG bullet is crucial for understanding its ballistics and applications. This guide delves into 20 key facts surrounding .50 BMG bullet length, demystifying this aspect of the cartridge.

Understanding .50 BMG Bullet Length: Key Considerations

Before we dive into the facts, it's essential to understand that bullet length isn't a single, fixed measurement. Several factors influence the length, including:

• Bullet type: Full metal jacket (FMJ), boat-tail, hollow point, and others all have different lengths.
• Manufacturer: Slight variations exist between manufacturers.
• Specific design: Even within a bullet type, minor design differences can affect length.

Therefore, the figures below should be viewed as approximate averages rather than absolute values.

20 Facts About .50 BMG Bullet Length

1. Average Length: A typical .50 BMG bullet ranges from 1.34 inches to 1.5 inches in length.

2. Significant Variation: The length variation can exceed 0.16 inches, depending on the bullet type and manufacturer.

3. Relationship to Caliber: The bullet's length is significantly longer than its caliber (0.50 inches or 12.7 mm).

4. Boat-Tail Bullets: Boat-tail bullets, designed for enhanced aerodynamic performance and longer range, tend to be slightly longer.

5. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Bullets: FMJ bullets typically fall within the lower end of the length range.

6. Hollow Point Bullets: Hollow point bullets often have shorter lengths due to the cavity at the tip.

7. Impact on Ballistics: Bullet length significantly impacts its ballistic coefficient, affecting accuracy and range.

8. Longer Bullets, Higher BC: Generally, longer bullets tend to have a higher ballistic coefficient.

9. Higher BC, Flatter Trajectory: A higher ballistic coefficient results in a flatter trajectory over longer distances.

10. Measurement Methods: Bullet length is typically measured from the base to the tip.

11. Tolerance: Manufacturers maintain tight tolerances to ensure consistent performance and safe operation.

12. Accuracy Considerations: Slight variations in bullet length can influence accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.

13. Influence of Ogive: The ogive (the curved portion of the bullet) also affects the overall length.

14. Role of the Jacket: The thickness and material of the bullet jacket play a minor role in the final length.

15. Effect of the Core: The material and density of the bullet core also influence the overall length.

16. Loading Data: Always consult the loading data provided by the ammunition manufacturer.

17. Importance of Consistency: Consistency in bullet length is crucial for reliable and accurate shooting.

18. Measuring Tools: Caliper is a common and accurate tool for measuring bullet length.

19. Beyond Length: Weight Matters: Along with length, bullet weight is another critical factor in ballistics.

20. Further Research: For detailed information on specific bullet types and their dimensions, refer to the manufacturer's specifications.

Conclusion

Understanding the length of a .50 BMG bullet, and its influence on ballistics, is essential for anyone working with this powerful cartridge. While the exact length varies, this guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the key factors affecting it and its impact on performance. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult reliable sources for accurate information.