{"id":5281,"date":"2026-10-17T04:30:57","date_gmt":"2026-10-17T04:30:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/?p=5281"},"modified":"2026-10-17T09:38:36","modified_gmt":"2026-10-17T09:38:36","slug":"338-lapua-vs-50-bmg","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\/","title":{"rendered":"Going Long: .50 BMG vs .338 Lapua Magnum"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Not satisfied with common cartridges like the .30-06 Springfield or the .223 Remington? Perhaps it\u2019s time to move into larger, longer, more powerful rounds? Well, welcome to the thunder dome! Prepare for heaps of fun as we bring the noise in this .338 Lapua vs. .50 BMG comparison.<\/p>\n<p>Both of these cartridges will give you big distance at the range, impressing even the most experienced sharpshooters and long-range hunters.<\/p>\n<p>But which one is best for your needs? Let\u2019s compare the two and find out which would be right for your needs and preferences. Just don&#8217;t forget your ear protection!<\/p>\n<h2>Fast Results: .50 BMG vs .338 Lapua Magnum<\/h2>\n<p>Need answers now? Here are the main benefits of the .338 Lapua Magnum and the .50 BMG:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Benefits of the .50 BMG:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Slightly more velocity<\/li>\n<li>Far more power<\/li>\n<li>Longer range<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Benefits of the .338 Lapua Magnum:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Much less recoil<\/li>\n<li>Better ammo prices (although not cheap!)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Comparing the .338 Lapua Magnum to the .50 Browning Machine Gun<\/h2>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-724\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-724\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\">.50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">.338 Lapua Magnum <br \/>\n(aka .338 Lapua) <\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Released<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1921<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1989<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bullet Diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.511 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.339\u00a0inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Neck Diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.56 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.372\u00a0inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Base Diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.804 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.587\u00a0in<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Case Length<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">3.91 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2.724\u00a0in<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Max Overall Length<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">5.45 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">3.681\u00a0in<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Case Capacity<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">19 cubic centimeters<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">7.5\u00a0cubic centimeters<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bullet Weights<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">647 - 750 grains<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">210 - 300 grains<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-724 from cache -->\n<h3>Getting to Know the .50 BMG<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5290 size-full\" title=\"50 BMG firing at shooting range\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-50-BMG-downrange.jpg\" alt=\"Firing 50 BMG at the shooting range\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-50-BMG-downrange.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-50-BMG-downrange-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Before and during the first World War (1914-1918), forces on both sides started to develop <a href=\"https:\/\/www.militaryfactory.com\/modern-armor\/united-states-army.asp\">armored artillery vehicles<\/a> that would become the modern tank. In direct response, they also started to develop rifle cartridges that could punch through the enemy\u2019s armored protection. After the war, designers continued to create anti-armor cartridges; for American forces, this lead to the .50 Browning Machine Gun or \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/index.php\/cName\/rifle-ammo-50-cal-bmg\">.50 BMG<\/a>,\u201d a large, powerful round that, even to this day, can penetrate the sides of most armored vehicles.<\/p>\n<p>It has become one of the most dependable cartridges for American and NATO forces, and has seen major use in practically all conflicts involving American troops. In civilian circles, it is used for recreational shooting, competition, and even hunting large animals at massive distances.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mc-shortcode\">\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__carousel\">\n                                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"1\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/10rds-50-cal-bmg-pmc-bronze-660gr-ball-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/5\/0\/5006f7d5505538c7c404f3108ea58a38.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-regular\">\n                                            $44.95                                        <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $41.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            10rds - 50 Cal. BMG PMC Bronze 660gr. Ball Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"2\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/200rds-50-bmg-pmc-bronze-660gr-fmj-bt-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/9\/e\/9e26baf728f97be05b54b49916e7f4ef.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-regular\">\n                                            $809.95                                        <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $754.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            200rds \u2013 50 BMG PMC Bronze 660gr. FMJ-BT Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"3\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/10rds-50-cal-bmg-hornady-750gr-amax-match-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/2\/6\/265a92ae2d0a7b74e2fbe69328a43c35_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $94.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            10rds \u2013 50 BMG Hornady Match 750gr. A-Tip Match Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"4\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/100rds-50-cal-bmg-hornady-750gr-a-max-match-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/a\/1\/a1acecf7bde92bde08c6ba3cba19876e_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $919.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            100rds \u2013 50 BMG Hornady Match 750gr. A-Tip Match Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__pagination\">\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-left\" onClick=\"handleMcGetPreviousSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-left.svg\" alt=\"left icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-steps\">\n                                                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--selected\" data-slideIndex=\"2\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    1                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number\" data-slideIndex=\"4\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    2                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-right mc-shortcode__nav-right--active\" onClick=\"handleMcGetNextSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-right.svg\" alt=\"right icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Getting to Know the .338 Lapua Magnum<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5291 size-full\" title=\"338 lapua magnum rifle and ammo\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/338-lapua-rifle.jpg\" alt=\"A 338 lapua magnum rifle on a shooting rest\" width=\"1024\" height=\"499\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/338-lapua-rifle.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/338-lapua-rifle-300x146.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The .338 Lapua Magnum, also known as the \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/index.php\/cName\/rifle-ammo-338-lapua\">.338 Lapua<\/a>\u201d or \u201c.338 Lapua Mag,\u201d is a newer addition to the world of rifle shooting. Designed and released in the late 1980s, this cartridge gives shooters a long-range shot with excellent terminal ballistics. It\u2019s become one of the most prominent sniper cartridges in the world, and it has enough force to penetrate body armor at long distances.<\/p>\n<p>Although a popular round for highly-trained military personnel, it\u2019s also useful for civilians. It makes an enjoyable target-shooting cartridge, and it can be used for hunting virtually any large game in North America, as well as large African safari animals.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mc-shortcode\">\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__carousel\">\n                                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"1\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-federal-gold-medal-match-250gr-boattail-hollow-point-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/5\/1\/5178056ec4d0be58b5a17affd06bd861_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-regular\">\n                                            $139.95                                        <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $109.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds \u2013 338 Lapua Federal Gold Medal 250gr. MatchKing HPBT Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"2\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-hornady-250gr-boat-tail-hollow-point-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/c\/1\/c10d2eca4856db1d41e0c8ecc0d999fc_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $129.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds - 338 Lapua Hornady 250gr. Boat Tail Hollow Point Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"3\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/10rds-338-lapua-magnum-sellier-bellot-250gr-sierra-hpbt-match-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/e\/0\/e02be32fc80425da918b5fcd3e053e89.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $32.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            10rds - 338 Lapua Magnum Sellier & Bellot 250gr. Sierra HPBT Match Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"4\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/100rds-338-lapua-magnum-sellier-bellot-match-250gr-hpbt-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/b\/6\/b60594dd45ce626b0638375f69ec6aa2.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-regular\">\n                                            $309.95                                        <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $289.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            100rds - 338 Lapua Magnum Sellier & Bellot Match 250gr. HPBT Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"5\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/10rds-338-lapua-magnum-sellier-bellot-300gr-sierra-hpbt-match-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/8\/5\/85b0654b5fe9b8a2d6a95c833aa1a8c7_6.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $35.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            10rds - 338 Lapua Magnum Sellier & Bellot 300gr. Sierra HPBT Match Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"6\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-magnum-hornady-285gr-eld-match-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/9\/4\/9414cc0763ddad31e7d90af1010fe7b7_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $134.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds - 338 Lapua Magnum Hornady 285gr. ELD Match Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"7\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-magnum-barnes-vor-tx-280gr-lrx-bt-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/6\/e\/6e23821b661b2852da2dddba2dc5bc5e.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $149.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds \u2013 338 Lapua Magnum Barnes VOR-TX 280gr. LRX BT Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"8\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-federal-gold-medal-match-300gr-bthp-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/0\/4\/042da3761d581401fa06cee927dc062c_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $124.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds \u2013 338 Lapua Federal Gold Medal 300gr. MatchKing BTHP Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"9\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20pcs-338-lapua-hornady-unprimed-brass-cartridge-cases?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/8\/6\/8684.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $57.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20pcs - .338 Lapua Hornady Unprimed Brass Cartridge Cases                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"10\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-magnum-barnes-precision-match-300gr-otm-bt-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/2\/9\/299f767ebd7d508e1fa1dc1902274046.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $134.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds \u2013 338 Lapua Magnum Barnes Precision Match 300gr. OTM BT Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"11\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/10rds-338-lapua-magnum-prvi-partizan-240gr-solid-copper-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/7\/d\/7d54b09ba648d22fe1d9aef36ed7cd50.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $43.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            10rds \u2013 338 Lapua Magnum Prvi Partizan 240gr. Solid Copper Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"12\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/20rds-338-lapua-magnum-hornady-precision-hunter-270gr-eld-x-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/3\/d\/3df0351403465a5c26ef5c090f7af4ae.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $134.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            20rds \u2013 338 Lapua Magnum Hornady Precision Hunter 270gr. ELD-X Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__pagination\">\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-left\" onClick=\"handleMcGetPreviousSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-left.svg\" alt=\"left icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-steps\">\n                                                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--selected\" data-slideIndex=\"2\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    1                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number\" data-slideIndex=\"4\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    2                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number\" data-slideIndex=\"6\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    3                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"8\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    4                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"10\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    5                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"12\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    6                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-right mc-shortcode__nav-right--active\" onClick=\"handleMcGetNextSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-right.svg\" alt=\"right icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"Body\">Caliber Comparison: .338 Lapua\u00a0 Magnum vs .50 BMG<\/h2>\n<h3>Side by Side<\/h3>\n<p>We had a chance to sit down with both of these rifles thanks to our friends at Shoot Las Vegas. Their 500-yard range and in-house rifle options gave us a chance to compare both of these firearms and calibers side-by-side.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"Body\"><\/h4>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5292 size-full\" title=\"Firing 338 lapua rifle at a shooting range\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-338-lapua-downrange.jpg\" alt=\"Firing a 338 Lapua rifle at a shooting range\" width=\"1024\" height=\"581\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-338-lapua-downrange.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Firing-338-lapua-downrange-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Are there Similarities?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe .50 BMG and .338 Lapua Magnum don\u2019t seem to have a lot in common. (The .50 BMG doesn\u2019t have much in common with any cartridge!) Physically, the BMG is just so much larger than any other round that it stands in a category all its own.<\/p>\n<p>The only noticeable similarity between them is the rifle type. The .50 BMG and the .338 Lapua are both fired from bolt-action rifles, although semiautomatics are available for both. They are typically used for long-range target shooting, although the .338 Lapua Magnum has a legitimate use as a large-game hunting round. (Unless you\u2019re hunting rhino or elephant, the overpowering .50 BMG is impractical as a hunting cartridge.)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\"><b>Price<br \/>\n<\/b>The owner of a large RV camper was once asked about the vehicle\u2019s miles-per-gallon; his response was, essentially, \u201cif you\u2019re worried about the cost of gas, don\u2019t buy an RV.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\">A similar statement could be said for both of these cartridges, as neither is priced for thrifty shooters. But it\u2019s still worth looking at the prices, and we see that the .338 Lapua Magnum tends to be slightly more affordable, most likely because of the smaller size.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\">At the time when this article was written, the lowest cost .50 BMG was $3.00 per round, while the lowest .338 Lapua was $2.70. However, the highest-priced .50 BMG was around $5.80, while the highest per-round cost for the Lapua was in that same neighborhood at $5.86.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\">So, the .338 Lapua Magnum appears to have a larger range of pricing. (This is likely due to a larger selection of .338 rounds.)<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\">But what if we look at similar products from the same manufacturer? In this case, the .338 Lapua still tends to have a slightly lower price. For example, the <span class=\"Hyperlink0\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/product_info.php\/pName\/10rds-50-cal-bmg-hornady-750gr-amax-match-ammo\">.50 BMG match ammo from Hornady (750 grain)<\/a><\/span>is $5.80 per round, while Hornady match ammo in <span class=\"Hyperlink0\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/product_info.php\/pName\/20rds-338-lapua-magnum-hornady-285gr-eld-match-ammo\">.338 Lapua (285 grain)<\/a><\/span>is $4.50 per round.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\">There is plenty of overlap, but it appears the .338 Lapua, while certainly not cheap, is slightly more affordable.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\"><strong><i>Winner: .338 Lapua Magnum (Slight advantage)<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"Body\"><b>.338 Lapua vs .50 BMG: <\/b><b>V<\/b><b>elocity<\/b><\/h4>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-725\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-725\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">.50 BMG<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">100 yards<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">200<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">300<\/th><th class=\"column-6\">400<\/th><th class=\"column-7\">500<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">750-grain A-Tip <br \/>\nELD Match<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,815<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,727<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,641<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,557<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,474<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,393<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">740-grain X-Tac Match <br \/>\nSolid Brass <br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,830<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,728<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,659<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,532<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,438<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,345<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">660-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nBronze<br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,950<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,854<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,639<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,444<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,248<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,061<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">625-grain M33 FMJ <br \/>\nRangeMaster<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,940<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,811<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,686<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,564<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,884<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,780<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,656<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,524<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,388<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,266<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\"><\/td><td class=\"column-7\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.338 Lapua Magnum<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">100 yards<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">200<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">300<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">400<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">500<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">280-grain Copper Boat Tail<br \/>\nVOR-TX Rifle<br \/>\n(Barnes) <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,600<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,469<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,341<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,218<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,098<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">1,982<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">250-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nMatch<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,995<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,810<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,675<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,540<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">300-grain SierraMatchKing<br \/>\nGold Medal<br \/>\n(Federal)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,580<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,466<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,355<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,248<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,143<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,040<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">240-grain CX<br \/>\nCustom<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,900<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,747<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,600<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,458<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,320<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,186<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2,769<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2,623<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2,493<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2,366<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,187<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,069<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-725 from cache -->\n<p>We see some very interesting results from this comparison, but the simple answer is that the .50 BMG has a slight velocity advantage. Usually, we try to compare similar-weight bullets, such as a 150-grain round from both cartridges. But the .50 BMG is so much heavier than the .338 that this apples-to-apples comparison is impossible.<\/p>\n<p>While the fastest single cartridge in our small sample is a .338, the average speed of the .50 caliber is about 100 fps faster. From the muzzle to the target, we see an overall speed advantage for the .50 BMG.<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\"><strong><i>Winner: .50 BMG (Slight advantage)<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"Body\"><b>.338 Lapua vs .50 BMG: <\/b><b>Energy<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-5293\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/50-BMG-ammo.jpg\" alt=\"50 BMG ammo on a belt\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/50-BMG-ammo.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/50-BMG-ammo-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-726\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-726\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">.50 BMG<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (ft-lbs)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">100 yards<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">200<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">300<\/th><th class=\"column-6\">400<\/th><th class=\"column-7\">500<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">750-grain A-Tip <br \/>\nELD Match<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">13,196<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">12,386<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">11,619<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">10,889<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">10,196<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">9,538<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">740-grain X-Tac Match <br \/>\nSolid Brass <br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">13,337<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">660-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nBronze<br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">13,688<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">625-grain M33 FMJ <br \/>\nRangeMaster<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">11,994<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">10,966<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">10,012<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">9,126<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\"><\/td><td class=\"column-7\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.338 Lapua Magnum<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">100 yards<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">200<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">300<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">400<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">500<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">280-grain Copper Boat Tail<br \/>\nVOR-TX Rifle<br \/>\n(Barnes) <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">4,204<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">3,791<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">3,410<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">3,059<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,737<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,442<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">250-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nMatch<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">4,847<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">4,389<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">3,968<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">3,579<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">300-grain SierraMatchKing<br \/>\nGold Medal<br \/>\n(Federal)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">4,434<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">4,052<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">3,696<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">3,365<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">3,058<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,772<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">240-grain CX<br \/>\nCustom<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">4,482<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">4,022<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">3,603<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">3,219<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2,867<\/td><td class=\"column-7\">2,546<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\"><\/td><td class=\"column-7\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\"><\/td><td class=\"column-7\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-726 from cache -->\n<p>The velocity was close. The energy? Far from it. With significantly heavier bullets, the .50 BMG has energies that dwarf the .388 Lapua. This is really no surprise, as the .50 caliber cartridge is one of the most powerful rounds on the civilian market &#8211; it was, after all, made for destroying vehicles!<\/p>\n<p>Honestly, if you look at these numbers it\u2019s a wonder that anyone can even shoot this cartridge. The .338 has over 4,000 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, making it a hard-hitting round. Yet the .50 BMG approaches 14,000 ft-lbs of muzzle force; that is an unfathomable number!<\/p>\n<p>The .338 is among the most powerful rounds on the market. It just can\u2019t match the strength of the .50 Browning Machine Gun!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"Body\"><strong><i>Winner: .50 BMG (Major advantage) <\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n<h4 class=\"Body\"><b>Shot Trajectory\u00a0<\/b><\/h4>\n<p>The .50 BMG has more force pushing the bullet forward, so you might assume that it would have less drop downrange. But the .338 Lapua Magnum could also have less drop thanks to the significantly lighter bullets. So which is it?<\/p>\n<p>Trajectory is difficult to analyze, as manufacturers are inconsistent with their data. However, we can cobble enough information to make a solid conclusion.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, the .50 BMG tends to have better shot trajectory, dropping less over extreme distances than the .338.<\/p>\n<p>The Hornady rounds from our table highlight this trend. When zeroed to 200 yards, the 750-grain BMG drops 35.6 inches at 500 yards. The 240-grain .338\u00a0Lapua Magnum, despite a lighter projectile, drops 38.1 inches. It\u2019s a small advantage for the .50 caliber. This trend is repeated on multiple rounds; when data is similar, we see a slight advantage for the .50 BMG.<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-727\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-727\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\">100 yards (Inches)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">200<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">300<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">400<\/th><th class=\"column-6\">500<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.50 BMG<br \/>\n750-grain A-Tip <br \/>\nELD Match (Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1.4<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">-6.4<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">-18.2<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">-35.6<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.338 Lapua Magnum<br \/>\n240-grain CX<br \/>\nCustom (Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1.6<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">-6.7<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">-19.2<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">-38.1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-727 from cache -->\n<p>The advantage is so small it likely won\u2019t drive your decision. Shooters won\u2019t choose the .50 BMG \u201cbecause it\u2019s more accurate than the .338.\u201d There are other differences that are more important, but overall we can say the .50 BMG offers better long-range potential.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Winner: .50 BMG<\/strong><\/p>\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h4>Recoil Analysis<\/h4>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-728\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-728\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">.50 BMG<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Recoil Energy <br \/>\n(Ft-lbs)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Recoil Velocity<br \/>\n(fps_<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">750-grain A-Tip <br \/>\nELD Match<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">111<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">15<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">740-grain X-Tac Match <br \/>\nSolid Brass <br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">110<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">15<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">660-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nBronze<br \/>\n(PMC)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">100<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">15<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">625-grain M33 FMJ <br \/>\nRangeMaster<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">93<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">14<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.338 Lapua Magnum<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">100 yards<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">280-grain Copper Boat Tail<br \/>\nVOR-TX Rifle<br \/>\n(Barnes) <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">26<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">10<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">250-grain FMJ-BT<br \/>\nMatch<br \/>\n(PPU)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">27<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">10<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">300-grain SierraMatchKing<br \/>\nGold Medal<br \/>\n(Federal)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">29<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">11<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">240-grain CX<br \/>\nCustom<br \/>\n(Hornady)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">25<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">10<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-728 from cache -->\n<p>Nothing beats real-world testing, and everyone\u2019s experience will be different, but using ballistic calculators*, we found that the BMG has roughly four times the recoil energy of the Lapua Magnum!<\/p>\n<p>Just glancing at the numbers, and not placing them in proper context, the Lapua Magnum looks like a light-shooting round. After all, its recoil energy is \u201conly\u201d 25 to 29 ft-lbs, while the BMG goes as high as 111.<\/p>\n<p>But similar calculations on popular rifle rounds reveal less recoil than the .338. For example, when examining the .30-06 Springfield, we typically estimate a recoil around 15 to 20 ft-lbs, while the .30-30 goes down to about 10 ft-lbs. Neither of these rounds would be considered \u201clight\u201d kickers, although they\u2019re certainly not shoulder busters.<\/p>\n<p>So if we compare the Lapua Magnum to other rounds, it\u2019s almost always the harder round. But compared to the BMG, it\u2019s easily the softer option.<\/p>\n<p><em>*Calculations were done on <a href=\"https:\/\/shooterscalculator.com\/recoil-calculator.php\">shooterscalculator.com\/recoil-calculator.php<\/a>. For .50 BMG ammo, we entered a 225-grain powder charge and a 30-pound rifle. For .338 Lapua Mag, we used an 85-grain powder charge and a 16-pound rifle. These numbers were chosen based on typical rifles and loads for each cartridge.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Winner: .338 Lapua Magnum<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>BMG vs Lapua Magnum Comparison Summary:<\/h3>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-729\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-729\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\">Winner<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Price<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">.338 Lapua Magnum<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Velocity<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">.50 BMG (Slight advantage)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Energy<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">.50 BMG (Major advantage)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Shot Trajectory<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">.50 BMG (Slight advantage)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Recoil<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">.338 Lapua Magnum<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-729 from cache -->\n<p>You can see that either of these cartridges will deliver impressive performance. Both allow you to place accurate, powerful shots at distances beyond the reach of other rounds.<\/p>\n<p><strong>When to Choose the .50 BMG<\/strong><br \/>\nIf you want to deliver a long-range shot with outstanding power, and you\u2019d also like to impress everyone at the range, the .50 BMG could be your new favorite round. It\u2019s large, powerful, and head-turning, but it\u2019s not cheap to shoot. And it will, without a doubt, be the most powerful round at any range. Frankly, most shooters will have trouble finding a range long enough for the .50 BMG\u2019s full potential!<\/p>\n<p><strong>When to Choose the .338 Lapua Magnum<\/strong><br \/>\nWhen selecting the best cartridge, you need to decide if saving a little money, or having a softer kick, would be worth it. The Lapua is more powerful and far-reaching than nearly every rifle cartridge, yet it delivers softer recoils with a lighter price compared to the massive .50 BMG. Choose this round when you want an impressive cartridge that\u2019s not as bulky as the .50 BMG. And don\u2019t worry, in nearly every trip, you\u2019ll have the most powerful round at the range!<\/p>\n<h2>Order Your Heavyweight Ammo Now<\/h2>\n<p>Compared to other matchups, the .338 Lapua Magnum vs .50 BMG is like a heavyweight title fight. When you\u2019re ready to order the most affordable ammo for your large rifle, let us help. With a large selection and outstanding service, we are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/\">your source for top-quality ammo<\/a>, so place your order today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It&#8217;s a battle &#8211; two colossal rifle calibers, 338 Lapua vs. 50 BMG. Which of these is best for your long-range shooting needs?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":5289,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[142],"tags":[212,211,213],"class_list":["post-5281","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-caliber-comparisons","tag-338-lapua","tag-50-bmg","tag-long-range-rifle"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Going Long: .50 BMG vs .338 Lapua Magnum -<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"We take a look at the .338 Lapua and the .50 BMG rifle calibers. Which of these massively powerful rounds is right for you?\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/338-lapua-vs-50-bmg\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Going Long: .50 BMG vs .338 Lapua Magnum -\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"We take a look at the .338 Lapua and the .50 BMG rifle calibers. 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