Magnum Research Firearms

About Magnum Research

Magnum Research was founded in 1979 by Jim Skildum and John Risdall with a revolutionary vision to create semi-automatic pistols capable of handling powerful magnum cartridges.

The company's founders remained with the organization for over 40 years, overseeing the development of their flagship Desert Eagle pistol from concept to pop culture icon.

Working with Israel Military Industries, they created the groundbreaking Desert Eagle pistol, which was first manufactured in 1985 and featured a unique gas-operated system.

Magnum Research revolutionized the handgun industry by creating the first successful semi-automatic pistol capable of firing powerful magnum cartridges like .50 Action Express, .44 Magnum, and .357 Magnum.

Today, under the ownership of Kahr Firearms Group since 2010, the company continues manufacturing high-quality firearms at their Pillager, Minnesota facility while maintaining their reputation for precision and innovation.

Popular Magnum Research Features

Gas-Operated System

• The Desert Eagle's unique gas-operated mechanism with rotating bolt enables reliable cycling of powerful magnum cartridges, setting it apart from all other semi-automatic pistols.

Precision CNC Manufacturing

• All Magnum Research firearms utilize CNC machining technology for exacting specifications and tight tolerances, creating what the company calls "a work of art in a precision firearm."

Carbon Fiber Barrel Technology

• Patented carbon technology barrels feature steel inner liner wrapped with compressed graphite, providing superior accuracy and heat dissipation while being six times stiffer than equivalent weight steel.

Modular Design Philosophy

• Many Magnum Research firearms feature interchangeable components, allowing customization and caliber conversions for maximum versatility.

Premium Materials and Finishes

• The company utilizes all stainless steel construction, high-strength aluminum frames, and multiple finish options including Cerakote and specialty finishes for durability and aesthetics.

Anatomically-Formed Grips

• Ergonomic design features and balanced weight distribution provide improved handling and control even with high-recoil magnum cartridges.

Best-Selling Magnum Research Firearms

Desert Eagle Mark XIX Series

• The company's flagship product available in .50 Action Express, .44 Magnum, and .357 Magnum with multiple finish options and lightweight L5/L6 aluminum frame variants.

BFR (Biggest Finest Revolver)

• All stainless steel single-action revolver available in two frame sizes with calibers ranging from .357 Magnum to .500 S&W Magnum, described as "the most powerful production single action handgun made."

MR1911 Pistol Series

• High-quality 1911 pistols manufactured by BUL in Israel, available in .45 ACP, 10mm, and 9mm with Series 70 design and premium components.

Mountain Eagle Rifle Series

• Custom bolt-action centerfire rifles featuring patented carbon fiber barrel technology and available in multiple calibers from .22-250 to .338 Win Mag.

Desert Eagle L5 and L6 Models

• Lightweight aluminum frame variants of the classic Desert Eagle that reduce weight while maintaining the power and reliability of the original design.

Magnum Lite Rimfire Rifle Series

• SwitchBolt .22LR rifles with left-side bolt handle and Straight Bolt manually-operated rifles in .22WMR and .17HMR featuring lightweight carbon barrel options.

Custom Desert Eagle Options

• Special edition and custom Desert Eagle models with unique finishes, engravings, and configurations that appeal to collectors and enthusiasts.

Popular Uses for Magnum Research Firearms

Big Game Hunting

• Desert Eagle and BFR revolvers provide maximum stopping power for big game hunting and serve as reliable backup protection for dangerous game situations.

Competitive Shooting

• Magnum Research firearms excel in competitive shooting, silhouette shooting, and precision long-range shooting competitions due to their accuracy and reliability.

Collection and Investment

• Desert Eagle pistols are highly sought-after collectibles due to their pop culture status, with limited edition and custom models maintaining strong resale value.

Professional Applications

• Professional guides, outfitters, and some law enforcement personnel utilize Magnum Research firearms for training, demonstration, and specialized duty purposes.

Recreational Range Shooting

• The unique shooting experience provided by powerful magnum cartridges makes Magnum Research firearms popular for recreational shooting and firearms education.

Magnum Research FAQs

QUESTION: What calibers are available in the Desert Eagle pistol?
ANSWER: The Desert Eagle is available in .50 Action Express, .44 Magnum, and .357 Magnum calibers with convertible barrel and bolt systems.

QUESTION: Can I convert my Desert Eagle between different calibers?
ANSWER: Yes, Desert Eagles feature convertible barrel and bolt systems that allow caliber conversions with the appropriate conversion kits.

QUESTION: What makes the Desert Eagle different from other semi-automatic pistols?
ANSWER: The Desert Eagle uses a unique gas-operated system with rotating bolt, making it the only semi-automatic pistol capable of reliably cycling powerful magnum cartridges.

QUESTION: What ammunition does Magnum Research recommend for Desert Eagle pistols?
ANSWER: Magnum Research recommends commercial factory ammunition from manufacturers like American Eagle, Winchester, Remington, FMC, Hornady, and UMC.

QUESTION: Where are Magnum Research firearms manufactured?
ANSWER: All Desert Eagle production is handled at Magnum Research's facility in Pillager, Minnesota, while some MR1911 pistols are manufactured by BUL in Israel.

QUESTION: What is the BFR revolver and what calibers are available?
ANSWER: The BFR (Biggest Finest Revolver) is an all stainless steel single-action revolver available in calibers ranging from .357 Magnum to .500 S&W Magnum.

QUESTION: Does Magnum Research offer custom firearms options?
ANSWER: Yes, Magnum Research offers custom Desert Eagle options and builds Mountain Eagle rifles to order with various stock and barrel configurations.

QUESTION: What warranty coverage does Magnum Research provide?
ANSWER: Magnum Research provides a standard one-year parts and labor warranty on all firearms, with warranty service handled through their Pillager, MN factory.

QUESTION: Can Desert Eagle barrels be ported for recoil reduction?
ANSWER: Yes, MagNaPorting services are available for Desert Eagle pistols to help reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise.

QUESTION: What makes Magnum Research carbon fiber barrels special?
ANSWER: The patented carbon technology barrels feature steel inner liner wrapped with compressed graphite, providing superior accuracy and being six times stiffer than equivalent weight steel.