The 50 AE: The Hard-Hitting Handgun Round You Need to Know About

AMMO² Staff

• 3 min read
The 50 AE: The Hard-Hitting Handgun Round You Need to Know About
50 AE - a POWERFUL handgun cartridge

The 50 Action Express (50 AE), developed in 1988 by Evan Whildin of Action Arms Ltd., was designed to provide extreme stopping power in a semi-automatic handgun. It is most famously chambered in the Desert Eagle, an iconic and powerful firearm that has made its mark in both real-world applications and pop culture. With muzzle energy ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 ft-lb, the 50 AE is a powerful round for hunting and backcountry protection, though its heavy recoil and high ammunition cost make it less practical for everyday self-defense. Despite these limitations, the 50 AE remains a favorite among gun enthusiasts and collectors, offering unparalleled firepower and a unique shooting experience.

When it comes to sheer power in a semi-automatic handgun, few cartridges command as much respect as the 50 Action Express (50 AE). This high-caliber round is synonymous with raw firepower, making it a favorite among big-bore enthusiasts, hunters, and those looking for the ultimate stopping power. But what exactly makes the 50 AE such a legendary round? Let’s take a closer look.

Historical Background of the 50 AE

The 50 Action Express (50 AE) was developed in 1988 by Evan Whildin of Action Arms Ltd. with the intent of creating a powerful semi-automatic pistol cartridge. It was designed to bring a new level of firepower to handguns, particularly for use in law enforcement, military applications, and handgun hunting.

At the time of its creation, few semi-automatic pistols could handle the sheer power of a .50 caliber round. The Desert Eagle, produced by Magnum Research Inc., became the primary firearm chambered for the 50 AE, cementing its place in history. Initially, the cartridge was designed with a rebated rim to allow it to function within standard-sized handgun frames while still delivering incredible ballistic performance.

While the round saw limited adoption outside of sporting and recreational shooting circles, it quickly became an icon in the world of firearms, appearing in movies, video games, and pop culture as the ultimate high-power handgun cartridge.

What is the 50 Action Express?

The 50 AE (50 Action Express) was developed to provide the highest level of stopping power in a semi-automatic handgun. The goal was to bridge the gap between handgun and rifle power, providing a level of ballistic performance that surpassed most traditional handgun rounds.

50 AE Ballistics and Performance

The 50 AE is no ordinary pistol cartridge. It features a .500-inch bullet diameter, making it one of the largest and most powerful handgun rounds commercially available. Here are some key ballistic figures:

  • Bullet Weights: Typically 300 to 325 grains
  • Muzzle Velocity: Around 1,400 – 1,600 feet per second (fps)
  • Muzzle Energy: Roughly 1,400 – 1,800 foot-pounds (ft-lb)

With these numbers, the 50 AE delivers massive kinetic energy, capable of taking down large game and penetrating tough barriers with ease. This kind of firepower, however, comes at the cost of heavy recoil and high ammunition costs.

Best Uses for the 50 AE Handgun Round

While the 50 AE pistol is not a standard choice for self-defense due to its recoil and overpenetration concerns, it does have several practical applications:

  • Hunting with 50 AE: The 50 AE is powerful enough to take down medium to large game, making it a viable option for handgun hunters.
  • Backcountry Protection: In areas where dangerous wildlife is a concern, carrying a Desert Eagle 50 AE loaded with 50 AE ammo can offer significant stopping power.
  • Recreational Shooting: Many firearms enthusiasts enjoy shooting the 50 AE handgun purely for the experience. The recoil and blast make it a thrilling round to fire.
  • Collecting and Customization: The Desert Eagle chambered in 50 AE is a collector’s favorite, often adorned with custom finishes and engravings.

Downsides of the 50 AE

While the 50 Action Express (50 AE) is an impressive round, it’s not without its downsides:

  • Heavy Recoil: This cartridge generates significant recoil, making rapid follow-up shots difficult.
  • High Cost of 50 AE Ammo: Ammunition prices for the 50 AE are steep compared to standard pistol calibers.
  • Firearm Weight: The Desert Eagle 50 AE pistol, the primary firearm chambered for .50 AE, is large and heavy, making it impractical for everyday carry.

The 50 Action Express is a legendary cartridge that has earned its place among the most powerful handgun rounds ever made. Whether for hunting, backcountry protection, or recreational shooting, the 50 AE delivers unmatched power in a semi-automatic platform. While it’s not a round for everyone, those who appreciate big-bore firepower will find the 50 AE to be an exhilarating choice.

Don't miss out! 50 AE ammo is available to add to your AmmoSquared stockpile for a limited time—March 2025 only! Want to add it to your stockpile? Read the FAQ's to find out how.

References and Citations:

  • Magnum Research Inc., Desert Eagle Official Specifications, Retrieved from https://www.magnumresearch.com
  • SAAMI, Ballistics Standards for 50 AE, Retrieved from https://saami.org
  • Popular Mechanics, "The Power and Legacy of the Desert Eagle," Published 2023The 50 AE: The Hard-Hitting Handgun Round You Need to Know About