This may not be popular here; but as the owner/operator of both a short action bolt gun (sold) and a M82 (current), Ive always wondered why they are thought of as long range paper punches. I have no problem if thats what you want and in fact its commendable if you are interested in making one hole groups. I started out that way; but have little interest in doing that anymore. In fact my M82 has a EOTech red dot mounted on it.

For me a 50BMG is just another item on the work bench. Its a specialized tool; but one that few others can duplicate. Its not about long range; but stopping hard targets up close. All you have to do is read what the Cartels are doing with home made and actual military armored vehicles. Thats where a "hard hitter" comes into play, as a direct fire anti-vehicle weapon for defense of a strong point.

As restrictive as the gun laws are here in the UK, the .50 BMG is legal...for punching paper. It is considered a target rifle only here

The 50 BMG is a great example of the more is better philosophy. Paper, fur or harder targets... whatever... it's just another gun with a big smile factor.

I consider mine a hunting rifle. Coyotes, jackrabbits, pronghorn and several bison have been taken with mine. It isn't very good for overnight pack hunts though.

To be clear I have no problem with using them for paper targets; I just think too many of "us" owners are afraid to admit the other side.

not sure what you mean by "the other side"

as previously mentioned, a 50BMG is a bigger hammer.

It has more uses than just punching paper. But then again, what weapon does not?

quote:

Originally posted by low_tech:
not sure what you mean by "the other side"......

I just think too many of "US" in the fifty caliber family are afraid to admit they are weapons and think that by stressing they are target rifles, that no one will want to ban them. That didnt work in California and it wont work any place else. Its the same logic espoused by duck hunters who say my shotgun is good cause its got a long barrel; but that one is bad cus its ugly and meant to hurt people...

As for me I have a M82. Its a weapon. Ive never hurt anyone with it; but owning it is a statement of personal freedom.

The PH I hunted with in '09 came to visit me this January and on his and his wife's bucket list was to shoot the big .50. Fortunately for him, mine crossed that wish off the list. and the smiles and shaking hands from the rush afterward were worth the rounds I will write off as another part of his tip. the other side came up in our conversation. There is definitely an "other side"!

I have plans to whack a Moose and some bears with mine. Just need the right venue for the proper set-up. Many places I hunt have great visibility and a short walk from the airplane. It's the potential meat packing route that needs very careful consideration.