The .50 Action Express is a large-bore handgun cartridge designed in 1988 by Evan Whildin, primarily for use in Magnum Research's Desert Eagle handgun. It was later used in Magnum Research's Big Frame Revolver, as well as some other weapons by other companies.
Due to the heavy recoil of such a large caliber bullet, smaller cartridges that are still easily lethal are generally preferred for self-defense. Use for such a high caliber usually involves metallic silhouette shooting or handgun hunting. It is also used for self-defense against thick-skinned animals that would not normally be killed by smaller cartridges, like bear. Hunters or people living in areas with animals like bears would need such a gun.