Difference between revisions of "Sandbox"

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{{gun
 
{{gun
−
|name= Beretta Cheetah Series
+
|name=M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System
−
|image= Beretta 84F-JH01.jpg
+
|image= M110 ECP Left.jpg
−
|caption= The Beretta 84F.
+
|caption=The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System
−
|origin= [[Italy]]
+
|origin=[[United States of America]]
−
|type= [[semi-automatic pistol]]
+
|type= [[Sniper rifle]]
 
<!-- Specifications -->
 
<!-- Specifications -->
−
|length= 172 mm<br>185 mm (86)<br>225 mm (87 Target)<br>173 mm (BDA)
+
|frame=
−
|barrel= 97 mm<br>111 mm (86)<br>150 mm (87 Target)
+
|length= 1,029 mm (40.5 in) (buttstock fully retracted)<br />1,181 mm (46.5 in) (buttstock fully retracted and suppressor attached)
 +
|barrel= 508 mm (20 in)
 +
|length_pull=
 
|no_of_barrels=  
 
|no_of_barrels=  
−
|weight= 685 g (81)<br>660 g (84FS)<br>620 g (85FS)<br>660 g (86)<br>570 g (87)<br>835 g (87 Target)<br>640 g (BDA)
+
|weight= 6.94 kg (15.3 lb) with scope, bipod and a loaded 20-round detachable box magazine
 
|width=  
 
|width=  
 
|height=  
 
|height=  
−
|cartridge= [[.32 ACP]] (81 series)<br>[[.380 ACP]] (84, 85, 86 series)<br>[[.22 LR]] (87 series, 89)
+
|cartridge= [[7.62×51mm NATO]]
 
|caliber=  
 
|caliber=  
 
|gauge=  
 
|gauge=  
−
|action= [[blowback]], [[single action]] (most models), [[double action]] (mod. 87s)
+
|action= [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], [[rotating bolt]]
 +
|trigger_pull=
 
|chambers=  
 
|chambers=  
−
|twist= RH, 6 grooves (all)<br>Twist rate varies by model
+
|twist=  
−
|ROF=  
+
|ROF= [[Semi-automatic]]
−
|muzzle_velocity=  
+
|muzzle_velocity= 783 m/s (2,570 ft/s) with 175 gr. M118LR
−
|range=  
+
|range= 800 metres (875 yd) (point targets)
 
|max_range=  
 
|max_range=  
−
|feed= Mag size by model:
+
|feed= 10 or 20-round detachable box magazine
−
* 12 rounds (81)
+
|sights=  
−
* 13 rounds (84)
+
|radius=  
−
* 8 rounds (82, 85, 86, 87 Cheetah)
+
−
* 10 rounds (87 Target)
+
−
|sights= [[iron sights]]
+
−
|radius= ''see tables''
+
 
<!-- Service history -->
 
<!-- Service history -->
−
|service= 1981-present
+
|service=2008–present
−
|used_by= see ''Users''
+
used_by=
−
|wars=  
+
|wars= War in Afghanistan<br/>Iraq War
 
<!-- Production history -->
 
<!-- Production history -->
 
|designer=  
 
|designer=  
−
|design_date= [[1975]]
+
|design_date= 2007<ref>[http://www.knightarmco.com/portfolio/m110/?cate_cm=military&term=m110&features=m110 M110], Knight's Armament Company</ref>
−
|manufacturer= [[Beretta]], [[Browning]]
+
|manufacturer= [[Knight's Armament Company]]
 
|unit_cost=  
 
|unit_cost=  
−
|production_date= [[1976]] - present
+
|production_date=  
 
|number=  
 
|number=  
−
|variants= ''see text''
+
|variants=  
 
|notes=  
 
|notes=  
−
}}The '''Beretta Cheetah''', also known with its original model name of "Series 80", is a line of compact [[blowback]] operated [[semi-automatic pistol]]s designed and manufactured by [[Beretta]] of [[Italy]]. They were introduced in 1976 and include models in [[.32 ACP]] (Model 81), [[.380 ACP|.380 ACP (''9 mm Short'')]] (Model 84, 85 and 86) and [[.22 LR]] (Model 87, 89).
+
}}
 +
The [[M110 Semi Automatic Sniper System]] ('''M110 SASS''') is an American [[semi-automatic]] [[sniper rifle]] that is chambered for the [[7.62×51mm NATO]] round, developed by U.S. [[firearm]] manufacturer [[Knight's Armament Company]].
  
−
It is often believed to have been marketed in North America as the [[Browning BDA-380]] from [[1977]]-[[1997]], but this is not correct.  While the BDA-380 was manufactured by Beretta, it is in fact an independent design and not a variant of the Cheetah series (see below for more).
+
== Overview ==
 +
[[Image:PEO M110 SASS.jpg|thumb|left|The M110 SASS with AN/PVS-10 Sniper Night Sight.]]
  
−
== Models ==
+
The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System is intended to replace the [[M24 Sniper Weapon System]] used by [[sniper]]s, [[Spotter|spotters]], [[designated marksman]], or squad advanced marksmen in the United States Army. However, the U.S. Army still acquired M24s from Remington until February 2010.<ref>[http://www.defenselink.mil/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=3820 DefenseLink: Contracts for Wednesday, July 16, 2008]</ref> After witnessing the effects of USSOCOM snipers and extensive after-action reports from SOF snipers throughout the Iraqi theater of operations, the U.S. Army ran a competition involving several designs, including rifles from Knight's Armament Company, [[Remington Arms|Remington]], and [[DPMS Panther Arms]].{{who}} On September 28, 2005, the Knight's Armament Co. rifle won the competition and was selected to be the supplier of the M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System. The XM110 underwent final operational testing in May and June of 2007 at Fort Drum, New York by a mix of Special Forces troops and Sniper trained soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division. In April 2008, U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Fury in [[Afghanistan]] were the first in a combat zone to receive the M110. The troops rated the weapon very highly, noting the quality of the weapon and its semi-automatic capabilities compared to the bolt-action M24. The United States Marine Corps will also be adopting the M110 to replace some [[M39 Enhanced Marksman Rifle|M39]] and all [[SR-25|Mk 11]] as a complement to the [[M40 rifle|M40A5]].<ref[http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2011/03/marine-corps-sniper-rifle-m110-031711w/ "Corps fielding new semi-automatic sniper rifle"]. Lamothe, Dan. Marine Corps Times, [[March 17]], [[2011]].</ref> It is manufactured by Knight's Armament Company in Titusville, Florida, though the complete system incorporates a [[Leupold]] 3.5–10× variable power daytime optic, Harris swivel bipod, [[AN/PVS-26]] or [[AN/PVS-10]] [[night sight]] and PALs magazine pouches of yet unpublished origin.{{who}} The rifle has [[Cross-dominance|ambidextrous]] features such as a double-sided magazine release, safety selector switch, and bolt catch.
−
===81 and 82===
+
−
These two models are chambered for the [[.32 ACP]] cartridge. The '''81''' has a double stacked magazine with 12 round capacity, while the '''82''' has a single stacked magazine with 8 round capacity and resultant thinner grips.
+
  
−
=== 83, 84 and 85 ===
+
== Design ==
−
These models are chambered for the [[.380 ACP|.380 ACP (''9 mm Short'')]] cartridge. The '''84''' has a double stacked magazine with 13 round capacity, while the '''83''' and '''85''' have a single stacked magazine with 8 round capacity and consequently thinner grips. The 84 and 85 have a 3.81" barrel, while the 83 has a 4" barrel.  Each has a light alloy frame.
+
The rifle is similar to the [[SR-25|SR-25/Mk 11 Mod 0]], but differs significantly in [[Stock|buttstock]] and rail system design. The SR-25, Mk 11 Mod 0, and M110 are based loosely on the original [[AR-10]] developed by [[Eugene Stoner]] but feature additional refinements instituted by KAC to maximize parts commonality with the [[AR-15]] design, improve weapon reliability, and increase accuracy.
  
−
===86===
+
The main differences between the Mk 11 and M110 are improvements suggested by a user group meeting between NAVSPECWAR, USASOC and USA in 2007:
−
[[File:Beretta 86.gif|thumb|left|Model 86 with breech opened.]]In 1986 Beretta introduced the model '''86''' which differs significantly from other models in the series because it has a redesigned front end with a tip-up barrel that hinges in front of the trigger guard. This allows the shooter to load a cartridge directly into the chamber if they do not wish to operate the slide.
+
  
−
===87===
+
* The rail system used: the KAC Free Floated RAS on the Mk 11 is replaced by a URX modular rail system with integral folding front 600-meter back-up iron sight.
−
There are two distinct '''87''' models both chambered for [[.22 LR]]. The standard model (introduced in 1986) is similar to other models, but the '''87 Target''' (introduced in 2000) has a longer barrel and slide (that can accept optical sights) and is single action only.
+
* The M110 buttstock: fixed, though the buttplate is adjustable for length of pull to match user preferences. Adjustment can be made without tools via a notched hand-tightened knob on the right-hand side of the stock. This feature was added during the change from XM110 to M110. The fixed buttstock also features integral quick-detachable sling swivel sockets located on each side of the stock near the rear of the lower receiver.
 +
* The addition of a flash hider to the barrel of the M110, which also necessitates a modified QD Suppressor unit similar to that on the Mk 11.
 +
* The M110's use of KAC's one-piece 30&nbsp;mm scope mount instead of two separate scope rings.
  
−
===89===
+
On June 12, 2008, the M110 was ranked #2 on the U.S. Army's top ten inventions of 2007.<ref>[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/US-Army-Awards-Top-10-Inventions-of-2007-04997/ "US Army Awards Top 10 Inventions of 2007"]</ref>
−
The model '''89''' is also chambered for the [[.22 LR]] and is designed for competition and range training, with a lightweight frame and ergonomic grips.
+
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
−
|+ Model 89 Standard
+
−
|-
+
−
! Cartridge
+
−
|.22 LR
+
−
|-
+
−
! Operation
+
−
| Semi-auto, blowback
+
−
|-
+
−
! Hammer
+
−
| Exposed, single-action
+
−
|-
+
−
! Length
+
−
| 240mm (9.4")
+
−
|-
+
−
! Height
+
−
| 135mm (5.3")
+
−
|-
+
−
! Weight (approx)
+
−
| 1.16 kg (40.9 oz) empty
+
−
|-
+
−
! Barrel Length
+
−
| 152mm (6")
+
−
|-
+
−
! Rifling
+
−
| RH, 6 grooves, pitch 350mm (13.8")
+
−
|-
+
−
! Front Sight
+
−
| Interchangeable blade (3 sizes)
+
−
|-
+
−
! Rear Sight
+
−
| V-notch, adjustable for elevation and windage
+
−
|-
+
−
! Sight Radius
+
−
| 185mm (7.3")
+
−
|-
+
−
! Safeties
+
−
| Ambidextrous manual thumb safety locks the sear and slide in the closed position
+
−
|-
+
−
! Magazine
+
−
| 8 round, single line
+
−
|-
+
−
! Frame
+
−
| sand blasted and anodized light alloy
+
−
|-
+
−
! Slide
+
−
| Brunion coated steel
+
−
|-
+
−
! Barrel-counterweight
+
−
| Brunion coated steel
+
−
|-
+
−
! Other features
+
−
|
+
−
* Fixed barrel counterweight
+
−
* Semi-anatomical grips
+
−
* Micrometric adjustment of trigger after-run
+
−
* 3 sizes anatomical walnut grips (on request)
+
−
|}
+
  
−
== Versions ==
+
According to performance specification (MIL-PRF-32316 (AR) w/AMENDMENT 1, 5 October 2009):
−
There are currently (as of Feb. [[2014]]) potentially five versions for models 81 through 87. The features for each version in models 81, 82, 84 and 85 are consistent between models (i.e., the 81FS, 82FS, 84FS and 85FS all have similar features), buthis is '''not''' the case with models 83, 86, 87 and 89, which were not made in all versions.
+
  
−
=== Base version ===
+
<blockquote>3.4.1.1.1 Accuracy. The distance between the mean point of impact of each shot group, both unsuppressed and suppressed, shall be not greater than 1.1 inches at 300 feet. </blockquote>
−
Base versions of models 81 through 87 are noted for having a rounded trigger guard and generally fewer safety features than subsequent versions. Safety is ambidextrous and frame-mounted. The frame is alloy, the slide is blued steel and the standard grips are wood.
+
<blockquote>3.4.1.1.2 Dispersion. The average mean radius (AMR) (see 6.11), of each shot group shall be not greater than to 0.68 inches at 300 feet. All targets shall be fired on using M118LR ammunition or equivalent, using five (5) round groups. </blockquote>
  
−
=== B version ===
+
== Replacement or reconfiguration of M110 ==
−
The B versions of models 81, 82, 84, and 85 introduced an [[automatic firing pin safety]], a shorter [[extractor]] and grooved front and back straps.
+
In April 2011, the U.S. Army issued a request to the private sector to reconfigure or replace the current Knight Armament M110 sniper rifle as the current version of the M110 was not functioning well in the field requiring significant maintenance and replacement of parts.<ref>[http://kitup.military.com/2011/04/army-wants-lighter-shorter-m110-sniper-rifle.html?wh=wh" Army Wants Lighter, Shorter M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System]</ref> The U.S. Army responded to the referenced article clarifying that the rifle was functioning perfectly and they are just looking for a smaller, lighter version of M110 for the spotter in a sniper team, providing the sniper is equipped with the new [[XM2010]]. "The spotter will have an urban sniper support weapon which will be the M110. … Now you’ve increased the lethality of the team…"—Program Manager LTC Chris Lehner.<ref>[http://kitup.military.com/2011/04/army-speaks-to-m110-performanceupgrade.html" Army Speaks to M110 Performance/Upgrade]</ref>
  
−
=== BB version ===
+
The specifications the U.S. Army has issued are as follows:<ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=224ffff679ab52b0333e79077372c757&tab=core&_cview=0 FedBizOpps.com: M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System(SASS) Reconfiguration]</ref>
−
The BB versions of models 81, 82, 84 and 85 have more serrations on the slide, white dot and post sights and other subtle changes.  Later BB models replaced the original wooden grips with black plastic grips.
+
  
−
=== F version ===
+
# ''Operation:'' Semi-automatic
−
The F versions of models 81, 82, 84 and 85 introduced the "combat" trigger guard with a squared-off front (similar in appearance to current [[Beretta 92]]) that allows for a finger hold, plastic grips, a proprietary "Bruniton" finish, a chrome-plated barrel and chamber, and a combination safety and decocker lever, which when operated in the middle position disconnects the trigger bar from the hammer, and in the upper position lowers the cocked hammer.
+
# ''Caliber:'' Compatible with 7.62×51mm NATO cartridges
 +
# ''Accuracy:'' Capable of 1.3 [[minute of angle]] dispersion or better with match ammunition
 +
# ''Size:'' Overall length shall be reduced using a shorter barrel and/or collapsible buttstock. Maximum length not to exceed 39 without suppressor. Desired minimum length is less than 36 with stock collapsed.
 +
# ''Weight:'' Weight shall be under 9.0&nbsp;lb for unloaded rifle without optics and accessories
 +
# ''Grip:'' A modular, adjustable pistol grip.
 +
# ''Trigger:'' A non-adjustable match style trigger.
 +
# ''Hand guard:'' A forend that includes a fixed 12 o’ clock rail with configurable 3, 6, and 9 o’ clock rails.
 +
# ''Sound suppressor:'' A muzzle mounted, detachable sound suppressor.
 +
# ''Muzzle device:'' A compensator/muzzle brake compatible with the sound suppressor.
 +
# ''Bipod:'' Tool-less detachment featuring cant and pan/track capability.
 +
# ''Day optic:'' An Army specified variable power day optic and compatible rings.
 +
# ''Back up sights:'' Iron sights offset 45 deg from the DOS.
 +
# ''Sling attachment:'' Flush cup, quick detach sling attachment points.
 +
# ''Other:'' The upgraded M110 must meet the operational and environmental requirements that were fulfilled by the original M110 SASS.
  
−
=== FS version ===
+
===CSASS===
−
The last production models of .32 ACP and .380 ACP Cheetah pistols were in the '''FS''' configuration (e.g. ''81FS'').  In models 81, 82, 84 and 85 they included internal improvements over the F versions that are not visible during casual inspection.
+
In July 2012, the U.S. Army requested sources to remanufacture the current M110 rifle into the Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System (CSASS). The CSASS will be a shorter and lighter version of the M110.  It will have a collapsable stock and removable flash suppressor, giving it an overall length of 36 inches and a weight of 9 pounds unloaded. The U.S. Army wants a capability to convert 125 rifles per month, with the ability to increase to 325 per month. This is seen by some as an attempt to replace the venerable [[Mk 14 EBR]].<ref>[http://militarytimes.com/blogs/gearscout/tag/m110-sass-csass-sniper/ US Army looking to replace M14EBR; feelers out for compact M110] - Militarytimes GearScout, July 31, 2012</ref>
  
−
==Browning BDA-380==
+
== Sporting use ==
−
{| class="wikitable" width="400" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="5" align="right"
+
In 2009, the M110 rifle and commercial equivalents were added to the list of NRA-legal US service rifles under rule 3.1.6 of the NRA High Power Rifle Rules.<ref>[http://www.nrahq.org/compete/RuleBooks/HPR/hpr-w03.pdf NRA High Power Rifle Rules: Section 3. Equipment and Ammunition]</ref>
−
|+ Historical data: Browning BDA-380<ref>Browning.com, [http://www.browning.com/customerservice/dategun/detail.asp?id=20 BDA-380 Pistol]</ref>
+
−
! Date !! colspan="2"|Historical Information !! Serial No. Data
+
−
|- valign="top"
+
−
| rowspan="3"| 1977-1997
+
−
| colspan="2"| In 1975 Browning standardized its serial number identification which it followed until 1998.
+
−
| rowspan="3"| S/N Example:
+
  
−
425RR01001
+
== References ==
 +
{{reflist|2}}
  
−
This would be a BDA-380 pistol, made in 1977 with the serial number 01001.
+
== External links ==
−
|- valign="top"
+
* [http://peosoldier.army.mil Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier]
−
| 1. BDA-380 Type || width="100"|425=BDA 380
+
* [https://peosoldier.army.mil/FactSheets/PMSW/SW_IW_M110.pdf M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System (SASS) Fact sheet]
−
|-valign="top"
+
* [http://www.knightarmco.com/military/?term=m110 Knight's Armament Company product page on the SR-25 Series Rifles, includes the M110]
−
| 2. Date of Manufacture is a two digit code
+
* [http://www.militarytimes.com/multimedia/video/20071026_rc_m110sniperrifle Video demonstration of the M110 from Military Times]
−
 
+
* [http://www.gun-world.net/usa/kackmc/sass.htm Gun-World.net gallery of the XM110 (Chinese)]
−
3. Serial Number beginning with 01001 at the start of each year.
+
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/mk11.htm Global Security page on the M110]
−
| Z=1<br>Y=2<br>X=3<br>W=4<br>V=5<br>T=6<br>R=7<br>P=8<br>N=9<br>M=0
+
−
|}The Browning BDA 380 is a blowback operated, double action semi automatic pistol manufactured by Beretta from 1977 to 1997 and often mistakenly believed to be a variant of the Cheetah when it is not &mdash; thought to be essentially the model 84BB with a standard ejection port instead of an open slide, a slide-mounted decocker/safety and a spur hammer. It has aluminium alloy frame and steel slide. Ambidextrous slide mounted safety switch disconnects the [[trigger]] from the [[hammer]] when engaged. The pistol featured low profile fixed sights and was available in either polished steel or blued finish, with wooden grip panels.
+
−
 
+
−
The BDA 380 was introduced as a compact and lightweight pistol for police and civilian use. The gun was manufactured in Italy under contract from [[FN Herstal]] (Belgium) and marketed as [[FN model 140DA]] (in Europe) or [[Browning BDA 380]] (in USA). Some sources said that BDA 380 is a copy of the [[Beretta 84]], but close inspection shows some differences (i.e. the Beretta 84 has [[frame]] mounted safety while BDA 380 has slide mounted safety). The manufacture of the BDA 380 was discontinued in 1997. It was adopted by Belgian police.
+
−
 
+
−
The gun enjoyed a good reputation as reliable and comfortable to fire.
+
−
 
+
−
==Users==
+
−
* Algeria
+
−
* [[Belgian]] police use the BDA 380 which, as noted above, is not in fact a Cheetah.
+
−
* [[Italy]]
+
−
* Kazakhstan - since 2007 used as service pistol in private security companies<ref>"Регистрационный номер: 3.1/003 Пистолет служебный BERETTA - 84"
+
−
Постановление Правительства Республики Казахстан № 1305 от 28 декабря 2006 года "Об утверждении Государственного кадастра гражданского и служебного оружия и патронов к нему на 2007 год"</ref>
+
−
* [[Philippines]] (National Intelligence Coordinating Agency)
+
−
* Slovenia
+
−
* Venezuela
+
−
 
+
−
==Resources==
+
−
{{pistol manuals}}
+
−
* [http://www.gunownersresource.com/?wpfb_dl=250 '''Beretta Series 81'''] Instruction Manual (Italian, English & French)
+
−
* [http://www.gunownersresource.com/?wpfb_dl=249 '''Beretta Series 87 Target'''] Instruction Manual (Italian, English & French)
+
−
* [http://www.gunownersresource.com/?wpfb_dl=248 '''Beretta 89 Standard'''] Instruction Manual (English only)
+
−
 
+
−
* There's also a [http://www.gunownersresource.com/?wpfb_dl=240 '''Browning BDA-380'''] Owner's Manual, in case that's what you were looking for...
+
−
 
+
−
=== Images ===
+
−
<gallery>
+
−
Image:Beretta 84F-JH02.jpg|The Beretta 84.
+
−
Image:Beretta 84F-JH03.jpg|The Beretta 84 disassembled.
+
−
Image:Beretta 87 Target.jpg|The Beretta 87 Target.
+
−
Image:BDA 380.jpg|The Browning BDA-380. (aka Not A Cheetah)
+
−
File:Browning BDA 380(1978-Present).png|Parts view of a Browning BDA-380, with parts legend.
+
−
File:Browning BDA380 Auto.png|Another BDA-380 diagram
+
−
File:Browning 380.jpg|Yet another view of the BDA380
+
−
File:Beretta 85B 85BB Auto.png|Parts view of the 85B & BB variant.
+
−
File:Beretta 81 84 Auto.png|Parts view of models 81 & 84
+
−
File:Beretta_87_Auto.png|Parts for the model 87 (.22 LR)
+
−
</gallery>
+
−
 
+
−
== References ==
+
−
<references/>
+
  
−
==External links==
+
{{ModernUSInfantryWeapons}}
−
*[http://www.beretta.com/Pistols-Carbines/Defence/Compact/index.aspx?m=82&idc=14 Official Beretta Cheetah page]
+
{{AR-15 variants}}
  
−
[[Category:Beretta semi-automatic pistols]]
+
{{categorize gun
 +
| Nationality  = American
 +
| Manufacturer = Knight's Armament
 +
| Caliber      = 7.62mm
 +
| Operation    = gas
 +
| Subaction    = semi-automatic
 +
| Action      = rotating bolt
 +
| Subtype      = sniper
 +
| Type        = rifles
 +
}}

Revision as of 13:07, 19 May 2014

M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System
M110 ECP Left.jpg
The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System
Type Sniper rifle
Land of Origin United States of America
Specifications
Length 1,029 mm (40.5 in) (buttstock fully retracted)
1,181 mm (46.5 in) (buttstock fully retracted and suppressor attached)
Barrel length 508 mm (20 in)
Weight 6.94 kg (15.3 lb) with scope, bipod and a loaded 20-round detachable box magazine
Cartridge 7.62×51mm NATO
Action Gas-operated, rotating bolt
Rate of Fire Semi-automatic
Muzzle velocity 783 m/s (2,570 ft/s) with 175 gr. M118LR
Effective Range 800 metres (875 yd) (point targets)
Feed 10 or 20-round detachable box magazine
Service History
In service 2008–present

used_by=

Wars War in Afghanistan
Iraq War
Production History
Design Date 2007[1]
Manufacturer Knight's Armament Company

The M110 Semi Automatic Sniper System (M110 SASS) is an American semi-automatic sniper rifle that is chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO round, developed by U.S. firearm manufacturer Knight's Armament Company.

Contents

Overview

The M110 SASS with AN/PVS-10 Sniper Night Sight.

The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System is intended to replace the M24 Sniper Weapon System used by snipers, spotters, designated marksman, or squad advanced marksmen in the United States Army. However, the U.S. Army still acquired M24s from Remington until February 2010.[2] After witnessing the effects of USSOCOM snipers and extensive after-action reports from SOF snipers throughout the Iraqi theater of operations, the U.S. Army ran a competition involving several designs, including rifles from Knight's Armament Company, Remington, and DPMS Panther Arms.[sez who?] On September 28, 2005, the Knight's Armament Co. rifle won the competition and was selected to be the supplier of the M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System. The XM110 underwent final operational testing in May and June of 2007 at Fort Drum, New York by a mix of Special Forces troops and Sniper trained soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division. In April 2008, U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Fury in Afghanistan were the first in a combat zone to receive the M110. The troops rated the weapon very highly, noting the quality of the weapon and its semi-automatic capabilities compared to the bolt-action M24. The United States Marine Corps will also be adopting the M110 to replace some M39 and all Mk 11 as a complement to the M40A5.<ref"Corps fielding new semi-automatic sniper rifle". Lamothe, Dan. Marine Corps Times, March 17, 2011.</ref> It is manufactured by Knight's Armament Company in Titusville, Florida, though the complete system incorporates a Leupold 3.5–10× variable power daytime optic, Harris swivel bipod, AN/PVS-26 or AN/PVS-10 night sight and PALs magazine pouches of yet unpublished origin.[sez who?] The rifle has ambidextrous features such as a double-sided magazine release, safety selector switch, and bolt catch.

Design

The rifle is similar to the SR-25/Mk 11 Mod 0, but differs significantly in buttstock and rail system design. The SR-25, Mk 11 Mod 0, and M110 are based loosely on the original AR-10 developed by Eugene Stoner but feature additional refinements instituted by KAC to maximize parts commonality with the AR-15 design, improve weapon reliability, and increase accuracy.

The main differences between the Mk 11 and M110 are improvements suggested by a user group meeting between NAVSPECWAR, USASOC and USA in 2007:

  • The rail system used: the KAC Free Floated RAS on the Mk 11 is replaced by a URX modular rail system with integral folding front 600-meter back-up iron sight.
  • The M110 buttstock: fixed, though the buttplate is adjustable for length of pull to match user preferences. Adjustment can be made without tools via a notched hand-tightened knob on the right-hand side of the stock. This feature was added during the change from XM110 to M110. The fixed buttstock also features integral quick-detachable sling swivel sockets located on each side of the stock near the rear of the lower receiver.
  • The addition of a flash hider to the barrel of the M110, which also necessitates a modified QD Suppressor unit similar to that on the Mk 11.
  • The M110's use of KAC's one-piece 30 mm scope mount instead of two separate scope rings.

On June 12, 2008, the M110 was ranked #2 on the U.S. Army's top ten inventions of 2007.[3]

According to performance specification (MIL-PRF-32316 (AR) w/AMENDMENT 1, 5 October 2009):

3.4.1.1.1 Accuracy. The distance between the mean point of impact of each shot group, both unsuppressed and suppressed, shall be not greater than 1.1 inches at 300 feet.
3.4.1.1.2 Dispersion. The average mean radius (AMR) (see 6.11), of each shot group shall be not greater than to 0.68 inches at 300 feet. All targets shall be fired on using M118LR ammunition or equivalent, using five (5) round groups.

Replacement or reconfiguration of M110

In April 2011, the U.S. Army issued a request to the private sector to reconfigure or replace the current Knight Armament M110 sniper rifle as the current version of the M110 was not functioning well in the field requiring significant maintenance and replacement of parts.[4] The U.S. Army responded to the referenced article clarifying that the rifle was functioning perfectly and they are just looking for a smaller, lighter version of M110 for the spotter in a sniper team, providing the sniper is equipped with the new XM2010. "The spotter will have an urban sniper support weapon which will be the M110. … Now you’ve increased the lethality of the team…"—Program Manager LTC Chris Lehner.[5]

The specifications the U.S. Army has issued are as follows:[6]

  1. Operation: Semi-automatic
  2. Caliber: Compatible with 7.62×51mm NATO cartridges
  3. Accuracy: Capable of 1.3 minute of angle dispersion or better with match ammunition
  4. Size: Overall length shall be reduced using a shorter barrel and/or collapsible buttstock. Maximum length not to exceed 39 without suppressor. Desired minimum length is less than 36 with stock collapsed.
  5. Weight: Weight shall be under 9.0 lb for unloaded rifle without optics and accessories
  6. Grip: A modular, adjustable pistol grip.
  7. Trigger: A non-adjustable match style trigger.
  8. Hand guard: A forend that includes a fixed 12 o’ clock rail with configurable 3, 6, and 9 o’ clock rails.
  9. Sound suppressor: A muzzle mounted, detachable sound suppressor.
  10. Muzzle device: A compensator/muzzle brake compatible with the sound suppressor.
  11. Bipod: Tool-less detachment featuring cant and pan/track capability.
  12. Day optic: An Army specified variable power day optic and compatible rings.
  13. Back up sights: Iron sights offset 45 deg from the DOS.
  14. Sling attachment: Flush cup, quick detach sling attachment points.
  15. Other: The upgraded M110 must meet the operational and environmental requirements that were fulfilled by the original M110 SASS.

CSASS

In July 2012, the U.S. Army requested sources to remanufacture the current M110 rifle into the Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System (CSASS). The CSASS will be a shorter and lighter version of the M110. It will have a collapsable stock and removable flash suppressor, giving it an overall length of 36 inches and a weight of 9 pounds unloaded. The U.S. Army wants a capability to convert 125 rifles per month, with the ability to increase to 325 per month. This is seen by some as an attempt to replace the venerable Mk 14 EBR.[7]

Sporting use

In 2009, the M110 rifle and commercial equivalents were added to the list of NRA-legal US service rifles under rule 3.1.6 of the NRA High Power Rifle Rules.[8]

References

  1. ↑ M110, Knight's Armament Company
  2. ↑ DefenseLink: Contracts for Wednesday, July 16, 2008
  3. ↑ "US Army Awards Top 10 Inventions of 2007"
  4. ↑ " Army Wants Lighter, Shorter M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System
  5. ↑ " Army Speaks to M110 Performance/Upgrade
  6. ↑ FedBizOpps.com: M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System(SASS) Reconfiguration
  7. ↑ US Army looking to replace M14EBR; feelers out for compact M110 - Militarytimes GearScout, July 31, 2012
  8. ↑ NRA High Power Rifle Rules: Section 3. Equipment and Ammunition


External links

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