Getting into 50 BMG

[<SLV>]

I've ordered a 50 BMG AR upper, and I plan on reloading for it. I have the Lee Classic Cast press, so I was planning on getting the Lee 2-die set, Lee shell-holder, and Lyman 50-cal case trimming pilot. I have some Lake City surplus ammo that I've shined up to use in this single shot 50 AR upper, and I plan on reloading this brass.

Here are my questions:

1. Do I need a special priming tool? My Lee Classic Cast press came with two standard priming sizes, but I'm pretty sure that 50 BMG is larger than these.

2. My Lyman's 48th Edition doesn't have any load data for 50 BMG. Is there a manual that is specific to loading for this caliber?

 

[50 Shooter]

The Lee kit should've come with the priming tool, I would assume you did buy the .50 BMG kit. If not then you'll need to buy the .50 BMG priming tool for yours.

There really isn't a reloading manual specific to .50 BMG, some of the powder makers have info printed on the side of the powder jug. From my loadings and others, most have found that 215-220 grs. of powder will give the best results. You just need to do a little load work to see what your rifle likes and then you can experiment with loading them out to different lengths.

Have you looked at K&M products for the .50 BMG, they make some good tools for prepping brass. I think Lock, Stock & Barrel carries their stuff www.lockstock.com .

 

[jr_roosa]

The most recent Hornady manual has loads for .50 BMG at the end of the rifle section.

-J.