Intro
Discover the elite firepower of the US Marine Corps with our top 5 list of the most effective sniper rifles used by Marines. From the versatile M40A3 to the high-powered Barrett M82, learn about the precision and accuracy of these legendary firearms, honed for exceptional performance in combat situations.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is renowned for its elite marksmen, with a long history of utilizing the most effective sniper rifles to accomplish their objectives. Over the years, the USMC has employed various sniper rifles, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the top 5 US Marine sniper rifles, highlighting their features, histories, and notable uses.
1. M40 Sniper Rifle
The M40 is a bolt-action sniper rifle that has been in service with the USMC since 1966. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the M40 is known for its accuracy, reliability, and durability. It features a Remington 700 action, a McMillan A6 fiberglass stock, and a Unertl 10x scope. The M40 has seen extensive use in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War and the Gulf War.
Specifications:
- Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
- Barrel length: 24 inches
- Overall length: 43.5 inches
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Effective range: 800 meters
2. M24 Sniper Rifle
The M24 is a bolt-action sniper rifle that was introduced in 1988 as a replacement for the M40. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the M24 features a Remington 700 action, a fiberglass stock, and a Leupold Mark 4 10x scope. The M24 has seen extensive use in various conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan.
Specifications:
- Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
- Barrel length: 24 inches
- Overall length: 43.5 inches
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Effective range: 800 meters
3. M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle
The M2010 is a bolt-action sniper rifle that was introduced in 2010 as a replacement for the M24. Chambered in.300 Winchester Magnum, the M2010 features a Remington 700 action, a fiberglass stock, and a Leupold Mark 4 10x scope. The M2010 has seen extensive use in the War in Afghanistan and is known for its accuracy and range.
Specifications:
- Caliber:.300 Winchester Magnum
- Barrel length: 24 inches
- Overall length: 43.5 inches
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Effective range: 1,200 meters
4. Mk 12 Special Purpose Rifle
The Mk 12 is a semi-automatic sniper rifle that was introduced in 2002. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the Mk 12 features a Colt M16A1 action, a free-floating barrel, and a Leupold Mark 4 3-9x scope. The Mk 12 is known for its accuracy and versatility, making it a popular choice among USMC snipers.
Specifications:
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
- Barrel length: 18 inches
- Overall length: 37 inches
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Effective range: 600 meters
5. Mk 13 Mod 7 Sniper Rifle
The Mk 13 is a bolt-action sniper rifle that was introduced in 2018. Chambered in.300 Norma Magnum, the Mk 13 features a Barrett MRAD action, a fiberglass stock, and a Leupold Mark 4 20x scope. The Mk 13 is known for its accuracy and range, making it a popular choice among USMC snipers.
Specifications:
- Caliber:.300 Norma Magnum
- Barrel length: 26 inches
- Overall length: 49 inches
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Effective range: 1,500 meters
US Marine Sniper Rifles Image Gallery
What is the most accurate sniper rifle used by the USMC?
+The most accurate sniper rifle used by the USMC is the M40, which has a reported accuracy of 1 MOA at 800 meters.
What is the effective range of the Mk 13 Mod 7 sniper rifle?
+The effective range of the Mk 13 Mod 7 sniper rifle is 1,500 meters.
What is the difference between the M40 and M24 sniper rifles?
+The main difference between the M40 and M24 sniper rifles is the caliber, with the M40 chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and the M24 chambered in.300 Winchester Magnum.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about the top 5 US Marine sniper rifles. Whether you're a military enthusiast or simply interested in firearms, these rifles are truly impressive and have played a significant role in the USMC's military operations.