HOP Blog
50 Action Express: Handheld Artillery
Jun
TL;DR
50 Action Express (50 AE) is one of the most powerful semi-automatic handgun cartridges available. Developed in the late 1980s, it’s known for its massive energy and iconic use in the Desert Eagle pistol. With muzzle energy over 1,200 ft/lbs, it’s ideal for handgun hunting, silhouette shooting, and backcountry protection. HOP Munitions’ 300-grain JHP load brings serious power in an accurate and cost-effective package.
What Is 50 Action Express?
The .50 Action Express, or 50 AE, is a large-caliber pistol cartridge designed in 1988 by Evan Whildin of Action Arms. Unlike traditional revolver magnums, this round was specifically designed for semi-automatic pistols, offering serious stopping power in a reliable platform.
While most calibers over .50 inches are heavily restricted under the National Firearms Act (NFA), the 50 AE is exempt due to its sporting application, making it one of the few high-powered handgun cartridges legally available without special licensing.
Designed for Semi-Autos, Not Revolvers
Prior to the 50 AE, heavy-hitting handgun rounds like the .44 Magnum were designed primarily for revolvers. Semi-automatic handguns couldn’t reliably cycle those large rimmed cartridges. The 50 AE changed that, offering a rimless, high-pressure design suitable for use in semi-autos like the Desert Eagle, AMT Automag V, and LAR Grizzly.
The Desert Eagle chambered in 50 AE remains the gold standard and the most recognized platform for this caliber.
50 Action Express Ammo Specs (HOP Munitions)
HOP Munitions 50 AE Ammo provides a powerful and accurate solution for shooters seeking to experience the full capability of this cartridge without compromising precision or affordability.
Specs:
- Caliber: 50 Action Express
- Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
- Bullet Weight: 300 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,250 FPS
- Muzzle Energy: 1,214 ft/lbs
- Rounds per Box: 20
This load is ideal for hunting, target shooting, or just showing off at the range. The copper-plated JHP design offers controlled expansion and reliable feeding in high-performance handguns like the Desert Eagle.
50 AE vs .44 Magnum: Big-Bore Showdown
Let’s compare these two heavyweights:
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft/lbs) |
| .44 Magnum | 300-grain | 1,250 | 1,041 |
| .50 Action Express | 300-grain | 1,250 | 1,214 |
The difference isn’t just in energy—it’s also in bullet diameter and terminal performance. The 50 AE uses a .500″ bullet versus the .429″ diameter of the .44 Magnum. That larger diameter and heavier mass translate into deeper penetration and more force on target.
While recoil is more pronounced with the 50 AE, firearms like the Desert Eagle use a gas-operated system that helps absorb some of that kick, making it surprisingly shootable for its size.
What is 50 AE Ammo Good For?
50 AE is not your everyday carry round, but it does serve specific and impressive roles:
Hunting – Capable of ethically taking hogs, deer, and large predators Silhouette competition – Accurate out to 100+ yards Backcountry defense – A serious deterrent against bears or other threats
Self-defense – Excessive recoil and overpenetration Concealed carry – Firearms chambered in 50 AE are too large and heavy
Its performance, paired with a powerful load like HOP Munitions’ 300-grain JHP, makes it a serious tool for those who want maximum energy and effective terminal ballistics.
Affordable Big-Bore Shooting with HOP Munitions
Let’s be real—big-bore ammo isn’t cheap. But HOP Munitions is changing that.
Their 50 AE load strikes a rare balance between affordability and performance, using copper-plated jacketed hollow points to ensure both clean shooting and consistent terminal results.
Whether you’re out hunting, competing, or just having fun at the range, this load helps you get more out of every magazine, without burning through your wallet.
Its impressive accuracy is sure to leave a lasting impression, although it does require steady hands to handle its power effectively.
What truly sets this load apart from many other commercially available options is the exceptional power and consistency that HOP Munitions delivers.
With a well-established jacketed hollow point design and unbeatable value, it is unequivocally the best choice for those in search of high-quality .50 Action Express ammunition.
Final Thoughts
The 50 Action Express isn’t subtle—and that’s the point. Whether you’re clearing steel targets at 100 yards, taking down game in the field, or just enjoying the fireball at the range, this cartridge offers a shooting experience few others can match.
With HOP Munitions’ 300-grain JHP load, you’re getting dependable performance, clean operation, and serious stopping power—all from a name that understands what big-bore shooters really need.
FAQ: 50 Action Express
Q: What is 50 Action Express?
A: A powerful .50-caliber handgun cartridge designed for semi-automatic pistols, best known for its use in the Desert Eagle.
Q: What guns use .50 AE?
A: Mainly the Desert Eagle Mark XIX, along with a few discontinued or custom models like the AMT Automag V and LAR Grizzly.
Q: Is 50 AE stronger than .44 Magnum?
A: Yes. It fires a heavier bullet and produces more muzzle energy, making it more effective for hunting and long-range handgun shooting.
Q: What’s a good use case for 50 AE?
A: Hunting, silhouette shooting, and backcountry defense. It’s not ideal for concealed carry or home defense due to size and recoil.
