Comments on: War Spurs Change in Sniper Gear, Tactics

By: Rhyno327

Rhyno327 — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:59:44 +0000

I think the problem has been solved by the Mk-110, which is now being issued to Army snipers and DM’s. The Mk-110 is an improved version of the SR-25, and was used primarily by SEAL teams. Knights Armament has recieved a huge order. Bout time.

By: Jim

Jim — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 02:23:45 +0000

Ptsfp,
I’m sure all snipers and indeed riflemen would prefer an automatic rifle with the long range accuracy of an M40. The only problem with that is that no one has been able to make such a rifle.
Horses for courses.
I have to say, nothing in here is a new idea. Marine Gunnery Sgt and sniper, Jack Coughlin, in his 2005 book ‘Shooter’ raised all these issues.

By: Edward

Edward — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 07:51:54 +0000

The article says that there is still a need for a bolt-action rifle, despite the use of 7.62x51mm semiautomatic rifles.

By: Ptsfp

Ptsfp — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:47:57 +0000

I don’t get it. Its 2008, why can’t we arm all our snipers with a non-bolt action sniper system that can double as a main battle rifle? Something like the M14 based systems. They would not even need an Eberlestock pack.
Bolt actions are great when you’re hunting Elk out West, but Elk don’t fire back. I can also see SWAT snipers using bolt actions, but the military?
I personally would much rather have one rifle that could work for long range and unexpected close range conflict, especially now when the combat is more urban based and unpredictable.

By: demophilus

demophilus — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 19:36:32 +0000

IIRC, the new 6.5 Lapua is based on a 7.62 NATO case, or at least has similar dimensions. That might allow you to squeeze it into legacy 7.62 NATO platforms — M24, M40, M14, M110, etc., etc.
I’m not saying it *should* be done, but it’s a pretty interesting capability. Don’t know that it would add much to the mix, but there it is.

By: Steve Coad

Steve Coad — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 19:25:29 +0000

Wes,
The 6.5 is a great round but would pose a problem with ammo interchanging with allies. The .338 Lapua is a great round that is lighter than a .50 but heavy enough to do the job more effectively than a .308 (or .300 Win Mag, my favorite). I think the Grendel would be a great replacement for the standard 5.56 but don’t see that happening. This is too bad as I have some experience firing the round and really like it.
Great article.

By: Wes

Wes — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:01:21 +0000

or as the new projectile in an LSAT-type telescoped/polymer cased round.
The 6.5 bullet is such an outstanding performer (low recoil/high retained velocity and energy) one wonders why they ever went out of fashion with military weapons designers.