Whenever people talk about extreme long-range rifles, the CheyTac M200 Intervention and the McMillan TAC-50 usually come up. Both are incredible rifles with proven track records, but the question always comes up: “Which one is better?”
The real answer? It’s not a fair comparison.
Two Different Beasts
The CheyTac M200 and the TAC-50 are designed for different purposes. They shoot completely different calibers and shine in different situations.
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The CheyTac M200 is built around the .408 and .375 CheyTac cartridges. These rounds were designed from the ground up for extreme precision and consistent performance at distances that go well beyond 2,000 yards. The M200 isn’t just a rifle—it’s part of a full system that includes custom ammo and advanced ballistic software.
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The TAC-50, on the other hand, fires the massive .50 BMG cartridge. It’s known for its raw power and military use, capable of taking out hard targets and equipment in addition to long-range shots. While the TAC-50 once held the record for the longest confirmed sniper kill, that record has recently been broken by another rifle.
Purpose Over Preference
The real difference between these rifles isn’t about which one is “better,” but which one is built for the job at hand.
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If you’re chasing precision hits on steel at extreme ranges with lower recoil and high ballistic efficiency, the M200 is hard to beat.
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If your goal is raw stopping power, anti-materiel capabilities, or a rifle that can handle almost any target, the TAC-50’s .50 BMG round is king.
These rifles excel in completely different lanes.
Precision vs Power
The CheyTac rounds are smaller, faster, and designed for flatter trajectories with minimal wind drift—ideal for competition or pushing the limits of distance shooting. The .50 BMG, while not as flat-shooting, delivers unmatched energy on target, which is critical for certain tactical or military applications.
Final Thoughts
So, is the CheyTac M200 better than the TAC-50? Not really—it depends on what you need.
Both rifles are world-class tools, but they were never meant to compete with each other. The M200 dominates in extreme long-range precision shooting, while the TAC-50 brings the power and versatility needed for very different roles.
At B&B Firearms, we’re all about helping you find the rifle that’s right for your mission. Whether that’s a CheyTac or another ELR setup, we can help you build the system that fits your goals.