I have been looking at the new Desert Eagle L5 lightweight model and am feeling tempted. Not having any experience with Desert Eagles, I am wondering about their accuracy for hunting. Most reviews just talk in generalities, which isn't of much use to anyone.

Is there anyone on this forum who regularly shoots a Desert Eagle and who can comment on group size at 50 yds or 100 yds?

Anyone had any experience with the L5 model?

My son-in-law has a Desert Eagle, but I have probably shot it more than he has. Both of us have large hands. I say that because this pistol weighs 4.75 pounds and has a very large grip, that must be firmly held in order for the pistol to operate. Although it sounds intimidating, the 50 AE's recoil is not as had as you might think. I thought it was similar to a heavy bullet .480 Ruger. It will do 3" groups at 50 yards if you do your part. I have not shot it at 100 yds.. Hornady XTP ammo is very accurate. It is a well made gun and great fun to shoot. It would be a terrific bear or boar gun. In my opinion, pistols produced since 2009 are more accurate, due closer tolerances. Try to rent, or borrow one, before you buy, which is a good idea with any $2,000 pistol.

Looking at the data, the new L5 model has a 5" barrel and weighs in at around 3 lb, height 6.25", length 9.75". Which makes it very similar size wise to the Ruger Super Redhawk Toklat model. The main concern will be grip size. The grip will be the same as the XIX model. I think one of my local dealers has a XIX in stock so I'll give it a try and see how it fits my hand.

Good idea. A lot of shooters complain about the size of the grip.