Does SWAT even use 50 caliber? I was under the impression they use the police version of the M24 SWS, I believe it's a Remington 700 LTR and it's in either .223 or .308 but not 50 caliber by any means.
Certain larger police departments have purchased M82 Barrett rifles for special applications. Los Angeles Police Department SWAT has purchased multiple rifles but it is not a common purchase due to price.
SWAT most commonly use .308 or .300.
The .50 caliber is really of no worry to any of us statistically speaking. Though the rifle HAS been used on law enforcement, it was on high-risk operations in which we are not authorized on scene.
The .50caliber rifle has been present at:
-The up-armored bulldozer chase (Which many of you have seen on tv at one time or another) where a barrett was mounted on the bulldozer but never used.
-Waco, TX. Where LEO were fired upon with a .50 caliber rifle. Thus the reason for Bradley Fighting vehicles being used. 4 ATF members were killed.
There has been ONE event were EMS has been fired at with a .50caliber rifle:
In February 2004, Kansas City, MI.
Where LEO, Firefighters and Paramedics were lured to a mans house where he shot at them with many weapons including a .50cal. No deaths reported.
Look, with a .50cal it doesn't matter what you're wearing or behind. But the chances of you being fired at with one are literally close to none. Worry more about the things that can actually happen. Get trained. Get body armor to protect you against stabbings and firearms.
If I were you, I'd worry more about knives than guns even.
Didn't know that they were using the Lapua. One hell of a round! Do you know what rifles departments are currently fielding chambered for it?