Performance difference. 50 cal. VS 54 cal.

[Webfoot]

I have a Remington ML 54 cal. and am thinking a 50 cal. might be better in regards to performance and bullet selection. Is there much difference in performance?

[JimmyHoffa]

The performance difference will mostly be due to bullet and rifling differences.  The .50 usually has more options, so you have a better chance of finding performance you like best.  The difference in diameter is only .04 inches.

[usmc74]

There is a LOT more choices of 50 cal projectiles.  I rebarreled my 700ML to a 50 when the barrel went bad.

Have 2 more 50's in addition (Knight Bighorns).

Have killed 2 bull elk with the Barnes 290 TMZ 50 cal, One shot each, and never moved again (both were bedded)

[Jeeper]

A .54 with a 450gn Plains bullet is a real thumper!  (100gns 777)
I know over the counter is a thing of the past, but all you need is still available online.

[konradcountry]

I'm sure the 50 is better for states that allow scopes. That is probably where the performance difference matters.

But for iron sights I'd rather have the bigger bullet.

I also wanted a traditional Lyman and got a good deal on a 54.

[floatinghat]

You don't say what your .54 is and its twist?  I would consider looking at .54 sabot and a bullet combination that give you the performance you want.