Serbu BFG-50
Serbu Firearms · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1999
Also known as: BFG-50, Big Frame Gun, Serbu .50
Overview
The Serbu BFG-50 is a single-shot bolt-action rifle chambered in .50 BMG, designed by Mark Serbu as an affordable entry point into .50 caliber shooting. The BFG-50 (Big Frame Gun) uses a simple, robust design with a tubular steel receiver and stock, keeping manufacturing costs low while still delivering full .50 BMG performance. With a 29-inch barrel and effective muzzle brake, the rifle provides a surprisingly manageable shooting experience for a cartridge of this size, making it one of the most popular budget .50 BMG options on the civilian market.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 10900 g (384.5 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 11300 g (398.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1334 mm (52.52") |
| Barrel Length | 737 mm (29.02") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 853 m/s (2799 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 18000 J (13276 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1800 m (1968 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 4000 m (4374 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Steel Tube |
| Finish | Parkerized |
Calibers
- 12.7x99mm NATO · primary · 12.7x99mm NATO — also known as .50 BMG, .50 Browning Machine Gun, 12.7x99mm, .50 caliber
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Muzzle Brake, Picatinny Rail, Bipod, Single Shot, Tubular Stock
Variants
- Serbu BFG-50A — Semi Automatic
- Serbu RN-50 — Budget
Production
Production years: 1999-present
Produced in quantity for the civilian market. One of the most affordable .50 BMG options available.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Mark Serbu
Notes
The BFG-50's design prioritizes simplicity and affordability. The receiver is machined from a single piece of steel tubing, and the stock is a simple steel tube with a rubber buttpad. The bolt uses a two-lug design with a 90-degree throw. Serbu also offers the BFG-50A semi-automatic variant and the even more affordable RN-50 break-action model. The rifle has become popular on YouTube and social media, introducing many shooters to .50 BMG for the first time.
Background
Mark Serbu designed the BFG-50 with the explicit goal of making .50 BMG shooting accessible to ordinary gun owners. At roughly one-third the price of a Barrett M82, the BFG-50 became the gateway drug for thousands of shooters into the world of .50 caliber, proving that you don't need a military budget to reach out and touch targets at extreme distances.