What Sniper Does the US Army Use?
The US Army is one of the most prominent military forces in the world, and its snipers are considered some of the best in the business. The type of sniper rifle used by the US Army has changed over the years, but today, there are several sniper rifles used by the US Army. In this article, we will explore the different types of sniper rifles used by the US Army and what makes them effective.
The M24 Sniper Weapon System
The M24 Sniper Weapon System (SWS) was the primary sniper rifle used by the US Army until the 2010s. The M24 is a bolt-action rifle that is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. It was introduced in the 1980s and was widely used by the US military during the Gulf War and other conflicts.
The M2010 and M110
The M2010 and M110 are two semi-automatic sniper rifles used by the US Army. The M2010 is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and is used by the Army’s elite snipers, while the M110 is chambered in 7.26x51mm and is used by special operations forces. Both rifles are considered highly effective and are used for long-range engagements.
The Barrett M82
The Barrett M82 is a bolt-action sniper rifle that is chambered in.50 BMG. It was introduced in the 1980s and was used by the US military during the Gulf War and other conflicts. The M82 is a highly effective rifle that can engage targets at long ranges.
Other Sniper Rifles Used by the US Army
In addition to the M24, M2010, M110, and Barrett M82, the US Army also uses other sniper rifles, including the MK 21 Sniper Weapon System, which is chambered in 12.7x99mm, and the M99, which is chambered in.50 BMG.
Benefits of US Army Sniper Rifles
US Army sniper rifles are considered some of the most effective in the world. Here are some of the benefits of using these rifles:
- Accuracy: US Army sniper rifles are highly accurate, with some having an accuracy rating of 1 MOA (1 minute of angle) or better.
- Range: US Army sniper rifles can engage targets at long ranges, with some capable of hitting targets at ranges of over 1,000 meters.
- Power: US Army sniper rifles are designed to be powerful, with some chambered in.50 BMG or 12.7x99mm, which is more powerful than traditional rifle cartridges.
Table: US Army Sniper Rifles
| Rifle | Caliber | Action | Accuracy | Range | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M24 | 7.62x51mm | Bolt-action | 1 MOA | 800-1,000 meters | 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) |
| M2010 | 7.62x51mm | Semi-automatic | 0.5 MOA | 1,000-1,200 meters | 5.5 kg (12.1 lbs) |
| M110 | 7.26x51mm | Semi-automatic | 0.5 MOA | 1,000-1,200 meters | 5.5 kg (12.1 lbs) |
| Barrett M82 | .50 BMG | Bolt-action | 0.5 MOA | 1,000-1,500 meters | 11.4 kg (25.2 lbs) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the US Army uses a variety of sniper rifles, including the M24, M2010, M110, and Barrett M82. Each of these rifles has its own unique features and benefits, and they are all designed to be highly effective at engaging targets at long ranges. The US Army’s sniper rifles are considered some of the best in the world, and they are used by elite snipers and special operations forces to engage targets at long ranges.