I have a Barrett Model 99, the single shot, non-magazine fed, bolt action.
I can tell you that it is an absolute tack driver! Accuracy with Talon reloads is astonishing, and with match ammo it shoots far beyond my capabilities. The longest range available to me is 300 yards and one hole groups at that distance are done time and again with very little effort. I can't wait to shoot at some longer distances and see what I can do with this little beastie.
The rifle is very well built and extremely robust. I have absolutely no complaints at all. The muzzle brake is extremely effective and as such recoil is a non issue.
There are a few "niggling" details to take into account however, nothing that I can't overcome but some things I have found from my own experiences.
1. The weapon itself is massive. The M99 is 25 lbs. with scope and bipod. This is a BIG rifle. Accordingly the lovely fitted hardcase that accompanies the rifle is huge as well. If you have a small car then transporting the rifle could be a problen.
2. The muzzle blast from that very effective muzzle brake can be VERY offensive to other shooters. The effect needs to be witnessed to be understood. I didn't comprehend the astounding impact of that muzzle blast until someone else fired the rifle while I stood off to the side. The guy on the trigger gets his sinuses cleared out, those off to the sides get their bells rung by this astonishing blast. I am not exaggerating here. I no longer shoot mine from underneath my clubs roofed in shooting benches. I went shooting one day and there was a clay pigeon on a bench two over from the one I was set up on, the muzzle blast from the first round turned it to powder.
3. In addition to being expensive a lot of the ammo currently for sale will start fires, easily. There is currently a lot of tracer, and worse yet incendiary, out there for sale. While this stuff is unbelievably fun to shoot you can start fires at tremendous distances with it, not good. Ball ammo is really the best way to go but sadly the most expensive to purchase right now. If you don't reload you may want to think about getting into it.
I am not trying to talk you out of a .50 I wouldn't give mine up for anything! Just trying to pass on a bit of the knowledge I have gained from mine.
One of the things I enjoy most is getting to the range and having lots of interest in the rifle. Then offering people a chance to shoot it. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to own and shoot this rifle and I absolutely love sharing it with others. The look on a first time .50 shooters face is priceless. I call it "the .50 grin" The rifle just naturally attracts people and I am more than happy to turn 'em loose on it! It's a great way to make new shooting buddies.
Good luck and have fun! You're gonna love whatever you end up with.
