Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For hunters running the Desert Eagle or other 50 Action Express platforms, the Underwood 230-grain Lehigh Xtreme Defense load delivers terminal performance that rewrites the rules. This 50 Action Express ammo exits the muzzle at 1700 feet per second with 1476 foot-pounds of energy — velocity and penetration driven by a fluted solid copper projectile that creates a permanent wound cavity over 100% larger than any expanding hollow point. The Lehigh Xtreme Defense geometry forces hydraulic pressure outward through radial flutes, carving wound channels that remain consistent through hide, bone, and intermediate barriers. Lead-free construction eliminates toxicity concerns on carcass handling and meets non-toxic hunting regulations in restricted zones.
Performance at a Glance
Underwood manufactures this load with nickel-plated brass cases and non-corrosive boxer primers — field-tested through real firearms to verify function and pressure. The fluted nose design differs from the Xtreme Penetrator: the Hunter variant optimizes weight and velocity for maximum penetration depth rather than rapid energy dump, making it purpose-built for large game where bone and muscle mass demand deep straight-line wound tracks. Each case is reloadable for shooters who handload 50 AE, and the solid copper bullet retains 100% of its weight through tissue, unlike fragmenting or expanding designs that shed mass on impact.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 50 Action Express |
| Bullet weight | 230 grains |
| Bullet type | Lehigh Xtreme Defense (fluted solid copper) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1700 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1476 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer (non-corrosive) |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead-free | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammunition |
Underwood backs this ammunition with field testing using customer-owned firearms and guarantees performance satisfaction. The nickel-plated case reduces friction for reliable feeding in semi-automatic actions and resists corrosion in humid or wet environments. For more hunting loads in this chambering, see our full 50 AE ammo selection.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 21 years old for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and know your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your firearm is chambered for 50 Action Express and is in safe operating condition before firing this ammunition — consult your owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith if uncertain.
- While this ammunition is lead-free and meets non-toxic hunting regulations, always wear eye and ear protection when shooting and wash hands after handling ammunition or spent cases.
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