Believe it or not my 50bmg doesn't cost a great deal to shoot. I can buy factory loaded Federal American Eagle for under $2.80 each (since recent price increase). I use 224gr. of powder for standard ball ammo in my handloads. If I am plinking, I shoot ball ammo. I can get cost down to a tad over $1.17 a shot by handloading. I load my own AMAX or Barnes (turned brass)for accuracy(of course they cost a little more ...lol). I buy factory loaded AMAX for $52 a box (same place as my ball ammo). While I love shooting my .338, the 50 works better for putting a smile on my face...lol.