Lindcott Armory Compare / 12.7x81mmSR Vickers vs .50 BMG
Cartridge comparison
12.7x81mmSR Vickers vs .50 BMG
.50 BMG is faster (3,000 vs 2,640 fps); 12.7x81mmSR Vickers carries more energy (14,518 vs 14,000 ft·lb); 12.7x81mmSR Vickers recoils less.
12.7x81mmSR Vickers →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–800 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
.50 BMG →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–800 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 12.7x81mmSR Vickers | .50 BMG | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Rifle | Rifle |
| Introduced | 1925 | 1921 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.514″ | 0.51″ |
| Case length | 3.189″ | 3.91″ |
| Velocity | 2,520–2,640 fps | 2,800–3,000 fps |
| Energy | 9,347–14,518 ft·lb | 12,000–14,000 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 45,000 psi | 55,000 psi |
| Recoil | 60–80 ft·lb | 100–200 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 800 yd | 2000 yd |
FAQs
- Is 12.7x81mmSR Vickers faster than .50 BMG?
- .50 BMG is faster — up to 3,000 fps versus 2,640 fps.
- Does 12.7x81mmSR Vickers hit harder than .50 BMG?
- 12.7x81mmSR Vickers carries more muzzle energy (14,518 vs 14,000 ft·lb).