5.6 x 50 Mag.

The 5.6 x 50 Magnum, often referred to as 5.6x50R Mag. (for the rimmed variant) and 5.6x50 Mag. (for the rimless), is a caliber with its origins rooted in Germany. It was developed in the mid-1970s by the renowned ammunition manufacturer RWS (Rheinisch-Westfälische Sprengstoff-Fabriken) as a response to growing interest in small-bore, fast, and flat-shooting cartridges suitable for European hunting scenarios. The introduction of this caliber was meant to offer hunters an alternative to the then-prevalent .222 and .223 Remington, with more downrange energy and better performance for medium-sized game found in Europe. The 5.6 x 50 Mag. quickly gained a following among hunters and shooters who valued its excellent accuracy and versatile performance, especially in countries where military calibers were restricted for civilian use.

For reloaders and shooting enthusiasts, the 5.6 x 50 Mag. is an attractive option due to its well-balanced ballistic profile. The cartridge is favored in a variety of shooting applications, from precision target shooting to hunting small and medium-sized game. The case design, slightly longer and with greater capacity than the .223 Rem., allows for higher powder loads and thus higher velocities. This translates into flatter trajectories and increased effective range, making it ideal for open fields and woodland edges. Handloaders appreciate the flexibility the cartridge provides in component selection and load development, tailoring performance for either match accuracy or hunting effectiveness. The 5.6 x 50 Mag. is also renowned for its manageable recoil and excellent barrel life, two factors that make it a pleasure to shoot for those who spend significant time at the range.

When it comes to target species, the 5.6 x 50 Mag. truly shines as a versatile hunting round. It excels in varmint and predator control, delivering lethal energy on foxes, crows, and other small game at considerable distances—often beyond the reach of traditional rimfire cartridges. Additionally, in many European countries, it is legally permissible for use on roe deer and similar-sized ungulates because of its high energy yield and consistent penetration, provided the correct bullet weight and construction are chosen. Its high velocity ensures rapid expansion and effective terminal performance, minimizing the risk of wounding game. This capability makes the 5.6 x 50 Mag. especially popular in regions with diverse game populations, where hunters may encounter a variety of species in a single outing.

Typical bullet weights for the 5.6 x 50 Mag. generally range from 50 to 70 grains, with the most popular choices hovering around 55 to 63 grains. Lighter bullets are ideal for varmint and pest control, delivering explosive expansion and minimal pelt damage, while heavier options are preferred for medium-sized game due to deeper penetration and weight retention. With bullet diameters measuring 0.224 inches (5.7 mm), reloaders have access to a wide variety of projectile styles, from hollow points to soft points, optimizing performance for specific targets. The cartridge is capable of achieving muzzle velocities between 3,000 and 3,500 feet per second, depending on load and barrel length. Reloaders should note that the 5.6 x 50 Mag. exhibits mild pressure characteristics and excellent accuracy potential, especially when paired with high-quality brass and primers. Cases are typically robust and stand up well to multiple reloadings, making this caliber a practical and cost-effective choice for dedicated handloaders seeking consistent, high-performance results.