50 BMG vs .338 Lapua vs 20mm – Which One is Right for You?
50 BMG vs .338 Lapua vs 20mm – Which One is Right for You?
Before we compare these calibers, make sure to check our state-by-state guide on .50 BMG legality.
Introduction
When it comes to extreme long-range shooting, three calibers often come up in discussion: 50 BMG, .338 Lapua, and 20mm. Each of these rounds has unique strengths, making them ideal for different applications. Whether you're a precision shooter, a military enthusiast, or a hunter, understanding the differences between these powerhouse calibers will help you choose the right one for your needs.
This guide will compare the ballistics, use cases, costs, and effectiveness of these calibers to help you make an informed decision.
Ballistic Comparison
One of the biggest factors when choosing a caliber is its ballistics – including bullet weight, velocity, effective range, and energy at long distances.
50 BMG Ballistics
- Bullet weight: 650-750 grains
- Muzzle velocity: ~2,800 ft/s
- Effective range: Over 1 mile
- Energy at 1,000 yards: ~4,000 ft-lbs
- Common Use: Military sniping, anti-material, extreme long-range shooting
.338 Lapua Ballistics
- Bullet weight: 250-300 grains
- Muzzle velocity: ~3,000 ft/s
- Effective range: ~1,500 yards
- Energy at 1,000 yards: ~1,500 ft-lbs
- Common Use: Precision long-range shooting, military sniping, hunting
20mm Ballistics
- Bullet weight: ~1,500-2,000 grains
- Muzzle velocity: ~3,300 ft/s
- Effective range: ~2 miles
- Energy at 1,000 yards: ~15,000 ft-lbs
- Common Use: Anti-material, vehicle/aircraft destruction, military applications
Use Cases – Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right caliber depends on how you plan to use it. Each of these rounds is designed for specific applications.
Best for Long-Range Precision Shooting – .338 Lapua
- Ideal for snipers and long-range shooters who need accuracy.
- Lighter recoil than 50 BMG.
- More affordable ammo and rifles compared to 50 BMG.
Best for Military and Extreme Range – 50 BMG
- Used by military forces for long-range sniping and anti-material purposes.
- Offers incredible stopping power and penetration.
- Capable of taking down targets over a mile away.
Best for Anti-Material and High-Energy Applications – 20mm
- Extremely powerful, designed for aircraft, vehicles, and armor penetration.
- Not practical for personal use due to size, weight, and cost.
- Requires specialized firearms and is often military-restricted.
Hunting with These Calibers
Many shooters ask if these calibers are suitable for hunting. Here's a breakdown:
- .338 Lapua – Great for hunting large game like elk and moose at long ranges.
- 50 BMG – Possible but not ideal for hunting due to excessive power and potential overpenetration.
- 20mm – Overkill for hunting; not practical or legal for game hunting.
Cost and Availability
Cost is a major consideration when choosing a caliber. Here's a breakdown:
| Caliber | Cost per Round | Rifle Cost | Ammo Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 BMG | ~$5-$8 | $3,000-$10,000 | Readily available |
| .338 Lapua | ~$3-$5 | $2,500-$6,000 | Readily available |
| 20mm | $$$ | $10,000+ | Extremely rare |
- .338 Lapua is the most affordable option for long-range shooters.
- 50 BMG is expensive but powerful.
- 20mm is impractical for most civilians due to extreme costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which caliber has the best accuracy at long range?
- .338 Lapua is the most accurate for precision shooting due to its manageable recoil and high ballistic coefficient.
- 50 BMG is extremely powerful but harder to control for precision shooting.
- 20mm is built for destruction, not precision.
What’s the most powerful round out of the three?
- 20mm wins by a massive margin in terms of energy and impact force.
- 50 BMG comes next, delivering massive stopping power.
- .338 Lapua is powerful but designed more for accuracy than brute force.
Which round has the highest penetration power?
- 20mm penetrates almost anything, including armored vehicles.
- 50 BMG can pierce body armor, vehicles, and hardened targets.
- .338 Lapua is effective against soft targets and light barriers.
Can civilians own 20mm rifles?
- In most places, no. 20mm rifles are classified as destructive devices under U.S. federal law.
- 50 BMG and .338 Lapua are legal in most states.
Conclusion
Each of these calibers serves a different purpose:
- Choose .338 Lapua if you want affordable, accurate, long-range shooting.
- Go for 50 BMG if you need military-grade stopping power and extreme range.
- 20mm is for military and extreme specialty applications – not for civilian use.
No matter which caliber you prefer, be sure to check local laws before purchasing. If you're looking for a high-quality .50 BMG rifle, visit Noreen Firearms for top-tier long-range precision firearms!