What is 50cal?  We currently specialise in the 50BMG 12.7x99mm Browning cartridge - '50cal' being the common name, rather than the Russian counterpart 12.7x108mm or the short .50cal 'Spotter' as used on recoilless artillery, as 50BMG reloading components are the most readily available in the UK, Europe and the US.  Compared to other 12.7mm calibres the '50BMG' has the largest number of civilian users across the world. Details such as forthcoming 50BMG rifle competitions, 50BMG reloading data and retail information on rifles available to the UK shooter can also be found here.  Many of our members also own and compete at distances beyond 1000 yards with other large calibre rifles, such as .338 Lapua and now the .408 CheyTec, so even if you don't own a 50BMG rifle there is no reason why you cant join the FCSA (UK) and join in the fun and challenge of extreme range target shooting!

What are the origins?  The modern 50BMG target or sniping rifle is a development of an overgrown WWI 13mm Mauser rifle that was designed to penetrate and stop a tank with a bullet, this concept was rapidly developed up until the very early 1940s then promptly abandoned as deemed totally ineffective, however over the past 20 years we have seen rapid growth in the sport of long range target shooting by civilians. If you require more in-depth technical and historical information on rifles of a similar or larger calibre then this can  be found at http://www.antitank.co.uk although certain details such as reloading data for Historical Anti-Tank rifles is virtually non existent and reloading should only be attempted by experienced shooters who fully understand the complex science of reloading for such large calibres, bear in the mind the age of these rifles and potential risk of injury to shooter and spectator, don't ever assume that just because a modern round of ammunition happens to fit your old rifle that it'll be safe to use, modern ammunition can generate far higher pressures than the old wartime stock, it could kill you.

Where can I compete?  To those not familiar with the .50BMG calibre, the muzzle energy can be in excess of 10,000 ft/lbs depending on the loading, with a muzzle velocity usually just under 3000 ft/sec. As such the majority of UK ranges are not suitable. Click here for a list of ranges that can be attended either as a member of the FCSA (UK) or as a guest of another club.

What other competitions do we operate?  The FCSA (UK) fully appreciate that shooting nothing but 50BMG all day is too expensive for most people, and many members also own a wide variety of other calibers right down to the diminutive .22, in answer to several requests by club members we  now operate other competitions - for example a dedicated .338 competition, full bore rifle (optic) 1000 yards,  service rifle (iron sight) 500 yards and LBR 50 yards. More details to follow under the competitions link or contact the club Chairman.