Tikka T3x Varmint – Detailed Review
January 12, 2025
SIG Sauer CROSS Precision Rifle Review
January 13, 2025
Serbu BFG-50 - Detailed Review
Price Range:
$2,500 - $3,000
Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Name | Serbu Firearms |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Build Date | 2001 |
| Action | Single Shot / Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | .50 BMG (Browning Machine Gun) |
| Magazine Capacity | Single round (bolt-action), 10-round box (semi-automatic) |
| Barrel Length | 29 inches |
| Overall Length | 55 inches |
| Weight | 10.9 KG |
| Price Range | $2,500 – $3,000 |
Overview
The Serbu BFG-50 is a powerful and highly regarded .50 BMG rifle, designed for long-range precision shooting and built for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. Manufactured by Serbu Firearms in the United States, the BFG-50 has gained popularity due to its relatively low price compared to other rifles of its caliber, while still delivering impressive performance.
The rifle is available in both a single-shot and semi-automatic configuration, with the semi-automatic version using a gas-operated system to chamber the next round after each shot. The BFG-50 is designed to be compact and relatively lightweight for its caliber, making it a practical option for long-range shooters who need mobility without compromising on power.
Strength and Quality
The Serbu BFG-50 is made with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and reliability. The rifle’s design is simple yet highly effective, with attention paid to both functionality and ease of use. The components of the rifle, such as the barrel and bolt, are crafted with precision to ensure long-term performance. The rifle’s recoil system helps reduce stress on internal parts, contributing to its overall reliability.
Safety Features
The Serbu BFG-50 comes equipped with several safety features, including a manual safety to prevent accidental discharges. The design of the bolt action ensures that the firing pin is not engaged until the rifle is properly chambered, adding an extra layer of safety. Additionally, the gas-operated system in the semi-automatic version is designed to cycle only when sufficient pressure is generated, reducing the likelihood of a malfunction.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The BFG-50 is known for its excellent accuracy at long ranges, with sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) precision achievable at 1000 yards. This level of accuracy makes it a favorite among long-range shooters.
- Effective Range: The BFG-50 is effective at distances up to 1500 yards or more, depending on environmental factors and ammunition used.
- Recoil: Given the .50 BMG caliber, the recoil is substantial but manageable, especially when shooting from a prone or supported position. The rifle’s weight helps absorb much of the recoil.
- Strength: The BFG-50 is designed to withstand the immense pressures associated with firing the .50 BMG cartridge. The rifle’s steel construction and solid build ensure its longevity and reliability under harsh conditions.
Merits
- Affordable for a .50 BMG: The Serbu BFG-50 is one of the more affordable .50 BMG rifles available on the market, offering excellent value for its price.
- Impressive Accuracy: The rifle delivers exceptional accuracy at extreme distances, making it ideal for long-range shooters and military applications.
- Versatility: The BFG-50 is available in both single-shot and semi-automatic configurations, allowing shooters to select the model that best suits their needs.
- Rugged Construction: Built to handle the pressures of the .50 BMG round, the rifle can endure repeated use and harsh environments.
Demerits
- Weight: At 26 lbs, the rifle is quite heavy, which can make it cumbersome to transport, especially for extended periods.
- Recoil: While the recoil is manageable, it is still substantial due to the .50 BMG caliber. New shooters may find it more challenging to control.
- Limited Magazine Capacity: With a single-shot configuration or a 10-round magazine, the rifle may not be suitable for rapid follow-up shots in tactical situations.
- High Ammunition Cost: The .50 BMG cartridges are expensive, which can make regular practice costly.
Maintenance
- Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the BFG-50’s accuracy and longevity. After each shooting session, the barrel should be cleaned to remove carbon and powder residue.
- The bolt should be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation, especially for the semi-automatic version.
- Inspect the recoil system and components for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn parts to maintain reliable performance.
- The rifle’s gas system (on the semi-automatic version) should be checked for proper functioning and cleaned regularly to prevent buildup.
Comparison with Other Guns
Serbu BFG-50 vs Other Rifles
| Feature | Serbu BFG-50 | Barrett M82 | Armalite AR-50A1 | Accuracy International AX50 | McMillan TAC-50 | Steyr HS .50 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United States | United States | United States | United Kingdom | United States | Austria |
| Caliber | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 10.9 kg (24 lbs) | 14 kg (30.9 lbs) | 15 kg (33 lbs) | 12.5 kg (27.5 lbs) | 11.8 kg (26 lbs) | 12.4 kg (27.3 lbs) |
| Barrel Length | 762 mm (30″) | 737 mm (29″) | 813 mm (32″) | 692 mm (27.2″) | 737 mm (29″) | 838 mm (33″) |
| Action | Bolt-action | Semi-automatic | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 round | 10 rounds | 1 round | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 1 round |
| Stock Material | Aluminum | Aluminum Alloy | Aluminum | Polymer | Composite | Polymer |
| Primary Use | Long-range precision shooting | Anti-material & Sniping | Target shooting & Sniping | Military & Tactical | Sniping & Anti-material | Military & Tactical |
| Price Range (USD) | $2,500–$3,000 | $8,000–$12,000 | $3,500–$4,500 | $10,000–$13,000 | $10,000–$12,000 | $6,000–$8,000 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
While the BFG-50 is primarily designed for long-range precision shooting, it can be used for hunting large game, such as feral hogs and other large animals, due to its immense stopping power.
The Serbu BFG-50 stands out for its relatively affordable price while maintaining a high level of precision, ruggedness, and reliability for both military and civilian applications.
While the recoil from the BFG-50 is significant, it is more manageable than some other .50 BMG rifles, thanks to its weight and recoil-absorbing design.
