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The gun world tends to move in cycles. Whether it’s because the industry wants to push the latest and greatest thing in order to keep customers coming back, or circumstances of the world shift, we see ideas come and go and then come back again. Lately, I’ve noticed a lot of buzz about SPR builds and a focus on precision AR-15 projects. This is after years of enthusiasm aruond short-barreled CQB rifles seen in the hands of GWOT Special Operations assaulters. Prior to that, we saw a lot of attention on Recce Rifles, a shorter/lighter cousin of the SPR.
Why the shift? I think it’s a few things working in tandem to give SPR and DMR builds their time in the sun again.
First, there’s been less attention on CQB-style raids and more on the light infantry and irregular warfare methods seen in Ukraine. People tend to be inspired by what they see often.
Second, when it comes to training and competition, it’s getting more and more difficult to stomach the ammunition bill for 1500 rounds fired over a weekend. Precision shooting naturally tends to have lower round counts.
Third, precision shooting overall has grown more popular with PRS, NRL and the like. Optics and barrels suitable for the task cost a fraction of what they did 10-15 years ago.
For beginners, I still think the best course of action is a basic general purpose rifle in line with the Minimum Capable Carbine. This is a great platform to build skills on, and it will do most things pretty well.
That said, if you’re interested in diving down the precision rifle rabbit hole, then let’s get started.
Defining the Terms
There really a lot of misunderstanding surrounding the designated marksman rifle and special purpose rifle. People often confuse the role and the rifle. Since adoption into the US military doctrine, the actual rifles have changed several times, often leading to confusion over what it actually looks like.
We’ve seen modified M-14 EBR, 308 ARs like the SR-25, many variations of the AR-15 platform, and more. Despite the variety of platforms, the role the rifle serves has been consistent.
When I talk about a designated marksman, I’m specifically referring to an organic member of the squad. Their primary role is engaging priority targets or supporting friendly movements by accurate fire from intermediate ranges up to about 600 yards. This is primarily a fighting role that moves and fights with their squad. They operate much like an automatic rifleman, but equipped with a precision rifle rather than a light machine gun.
Contrast that against a sniper, who serves a different role. A sniper is part of a separate team designated to observe, provide intelligence, and engage with precision fire. In the real world, snipers do a whole lot more observing and communicating than shooting. A sniper can, of course, do a lot of shooting, moving, and communicating, but it’s not their primary function.
Put another way, think of the sniper as if they were a special asset you could ask for if they were available, much like air support or artillery, while the designated marksman is always in your squad.
The intent of the designated marksman, from WWII to today, has always been to provide a longer range or precision fire capability organic to a team. This is not a sniper. The role is to fight along with and support friendly units in conflict. A designated marksman or squad advanced marksman does this using magnified optics and superior marksmanship.
On one hand, this is very similar to the role of a belt-fed machine gun, but sacrificing volume fire in favor of precision. On the other hand, it allows a squad the benefit of overwatch, where another member of the unit looks ahead for safe paths of travel.
Some of the core traits we’re looking for are:
- Light enough to move freely and fight along with the rest of the unit (this isn’t a “hide and wait” rifle)
- Capable of holding good accuracy over long strings of shots
- Free floated barrel with a good trigger
- Enough magnification to shoot further than the “average” engagement distance. In an era where nearly everyone is running up to 4x o4 6x magnification, this probably looks more like 10x, 15x or 18x.
The Designated Marksman Rifle vs Special Purpose Rifle Templates
I think we’ve come along far enough that the terms are more or less settled. The primary distinction between a DMR and SPR is the cartridge selection. In turn, going one route or the other affects other factors, particularly weight.
For our purposes, a Designated Marksman Rifle describes an accurate semiautomatic rifle chambered in a full power cartridge like 7.62 NATO. The DMR is best suited to mid-range, between 100 and 800 yards, but could be used at even longer distances with the right cartridge selection.
The Special Purpose Rifle no longer refers explicitly to the Mk12, but instead any lightweight semiautomatic precision rifle chambered in an intermediate cartridge like 5.56 NATO or .223 Rem. The SPR encompasses both the shorter Recce rifle concept and longer classic SPR/SAMR configurations. The SPR has a defined ideal use of close quarters up to 600 yards.
Both templates could be used in either a Designated Marksman or Sniper role, though the SPR is better suited at close-in fighting and observation. It’s also good for maneuvering with a team since it shares ammunition, magazines, and parts with the rest of the members.
The Everyday Marksman’s Designated Marksman Rifle
If we know we’re going to use a full power cartridge, then we have a lot of options that work well. With the M110A1, the Army elected to use 7.62 NATO for their DMR rifle. That may shift again in the future depending on the outcome of the XM7 project, but stick with me here.
Cartridge Selection
Since you and I are not limited by the same kind of logistics overhead that the Army is, we can use whatever cartridge we’d like. 7.62 NATO, or match loads of .308 Win are suited to the job, but so is 6.5 Creedmoor and many other popular short action hunting cartridges. Personally, I think it’s best to stick with what the industry knows how to build well- and that’s either .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor.
When choosing between these two, consider how easy it will be for you to keep an ammunition supply and spare parts on hand. It used to be that .308 was the default answer here, but 6.5 CM has enough support and backing now that I think it’s a perfectly suitable DMR cartridge, if not slightly superior.
The main catch is that 6.5 CM has about half of the barrel life of a 308. If you don’t have spare barrels on hand, and I know most people don’t, it’s something to consider down the line.
DMR Optics
As for specific suggestions, I’ve got a few depending on your budget and desires. The lowest I’ll suggest here is the Primary Arms GLx 3-18×44, which retails around $750. Primary Arms has done a great job packing many desirable features into an affordable package.
Another great alternative for slightly more money is the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44.
Stepping up to Japanese glass is the Brownells MPO 3-18×50. This scope goes on sale from time to time, often at prices even lower than the Vortex PST, and it seems like ridiculously good optic for that price.
Another interesting one is the Meopta Optika6 3-18×50, which ticks a lot of boxes including one of my favorite reticle designs for a DMR. I reviewed its larger brother and the 3-18x has always stayed on my radar since.
Beyond the ~$1000 price point, but still below $2000, things get more competitive. My top picks if you’ve got the budget to support it are currently, the Burris XTR III 3.3-18×50 with illuminated SCR 2 reticle, Steiner T6xi 3-18×56 with SCR 2 reticle, and Trijicon Tenmile 3-18×44 with precision tree.
DMR Barrel Selection
The barrel is the heart of the weapon, so everything I said about AR-15 barrels applies just as much to DMR barrels. The rules of physics don’t change just because you’re using a larger cartridge. The same rules of weight and barrel length must be considered balanced against the need for mobility in a fighting rifle.
When it comes to the barrel, the DMR is fundamentally a precision “fighting” rifle. There is still a need for accuracy, but you’re also going to have to carry the thing. For that reason, I err on the side of medium to light-heavy taper profile.
Something like a Criterion Hybrid profile barrel stands out to me as the right mix of accuracy and weight. I particularly like the nitrided 416r stainless models.
Struggling between 16″, 18″, and 20″ options? Join the club. In truth, I don’t think anyone has really nailed this down. Personally, I think 16″ makes sense if you plan on suppressing the gun. This is the route the Army solicitation went when they put out requirements for the CSASS (compact semi automatic sniper system) to supplement the 20″ M110 SASS.
Without a suppressor, a 16″ barrel with full power rifle cartridge has a significant amount of blast. 20″ makes a lot of sense, especially if you consider a collapsible stock to go with it.
After that, pretty much the same rules apply to anything regarding rails, triggers, stocks, grips, etc. So much of that is personal preference. However, I do want to make the case for not building it yourself.
Build or Buy a DMR?
Unlike the AR-15, the large frame AR format is nowhere near as standardized. There’s a high probability that mixing and matching parts from different manufacturers ends up not working for you in the long run. For that reason, I think there’s a real argument for skipping the DIY process for a DMR and going right to a factory-built rifle.
It will probably cost more, but then you know you’ve got the backing of an actual factory warranty should anything go wrong.
My top picks for factory-built full power rifles are:
- LMT MARS-H (basis for the British Army DMR, BTW)
- Daniel Defense DD5 series rifles
- Seekins Precision SP10 series
- FN SCAR 20S
- KAC SR-25 series
- LaRue Tactical PredatOBR
The Everyday Marksman Special Purpose Rifle
With the heavier DMR defined, let’s look at the lighter SPR cousin. Originally, “SPR” stood for Special Purpose Receiver, with the intent being a separate modular precision-oriented upper receiver group that could sit atop any M4 or M16 lower receiver and provide the needed capability. Later on, probably about when the Mk 12 program finished up, the “R” became “Rifle.”
I mention that, because it might be helpful for you to think primarily in terms of the upper receiver as the “special” part.
When we’re talking about an SPR, then we’re looking at most of the same requirements of the DMR but in an even lighter package and focused on closer ranges. One of the big benefits here is that the SPR shares the same ammunition with the rest of the squad, allowing the user to quickly switch from a light sniper/advanced marksman role to a close assault role.
That’s the military role, at least. As non-military members, I think we have some more flexibility.
SPR Cartridge Selection
By default, most people think of an SPR in terms of 77gr SMK cartridges like Mk 262 (developed in tandem with the Mk 12). Realistically, any quality accurate 5.56 load works well, and I think there’s a lot of value in hunting ammunition as well as barrier-blind ammo selection for the role.
Then, should the need arise to abandon precision in favor of volume, the rifle is just as happy to feed whatever everyone else is shooting as well.
On the other hand, I think there’s a very interesting argument for the SPR as a “light DMR” that still fits in an AR-15 package and shoots heavier bullets like 6.5 Grendel or 6mm ARC. If we think of the SPR as a separate receiver geared for the purpose, then it makes sense.
My biggest hesitation with the 6.5 Grendel and 6mm ARC route is a steady supply of ammunition as well as parts breakage. Both of these cartridges use a different bolt head with a larger face and less metal. While the breakage problems seen early on seem to have been worked out, I think it’s important to know that there’s an increased risk of parts failure under hard use and hot loads.
For now, I think the best bet for a defensive SPR is sticking with quality .223 loads.
SPR Optics Choice
The SPR has a lot of overlap with the DMR. In fact, you could use any of the options I listed for the DMR and use them equally well on an SPR. However, I think the closer intended ranges of the SPR as well as the expectation for role flexibility translates to lower magnification ranges and lighter weights.
I break SPR optics choice into two categories: high-magnification LPVOs in the 1-8x and 1-10x range, and lightweight Medium Power Variable Optics (MPVOs).
On the LPVO front, I really like what Primary Arms did with the Compact PLx 1-8×24. There are many other options on the high end here, like the Nightforce ATAC 1.1-8×24, Vortex Razor Gen III 1-10×24, and Steiner M8xi 1-8×24. All of these are fantastic, and trying to nitpick between them isn’t really worth the time.
On the more budget-friendly end, I’ve been interested in the Athlon Ares ETR 1-10×24, Swamp Fox Arrowhead 1-10×24, and what Brownells did with the MPO 1-8×24.
That’s all just the LPVO market. For an SPR, I think there’s a better value in MPVOs paired with offset dots. Aside from the 3-18 and 3-15 scopes I mentioned earlier, the ones that stand out to me the most here are anything in the 2-10x or 2-12x range with a lighter weight. Particularly the Trijicon Credo 2-10×36 with mil tree, Primary Arms 2.5-10×44 with Griffin Mil reticle, and Nightforce NXS 2.5-10×42.
SPR Barrel Selection
The same rules apply to SPR barrels as DMRs and rifles in general. What you need the rifle to do dictates the barrel requirements. For general-purpose light carbines that get carried a lot and shot moderately, I suggest lightweight pencil barrels and light taper barrels. However, since SPRs have both an increased need for accuracy and a requirement to sustain that accuracy over many shots, we can’t be so light.
For an SPR, I’ll suggest at least a medium weight, and probably closer to a heavy hybrid taper. I’m ambivalent about stainless or not, that depends a lot on the manufacturer’s ability to make an accurate barrel. Generally, I think a .223 Wylde chamber with 1/8 twist offers the most versatility.
Some standout options for barrels include:
- Centurion Arms precision series
- Daniel Defense S2W series
- Criterion Hybrid profile
- Rainier Arms Ultramatch or Match series
There are many others out there given the popularity of the AR-15 platform, so listing all of the worthy ones would take forver. Ultimately, it’s nitpicky to sort between them.
The question of length comes up again, though. I think the same rules apply as for a DMR. I think it makes the most sense to either go 16″ or 20″ for length. 18″ is somewhat of an anomaly and exists mainly because of government bean counters. 20″ offers the most capability across the widest variety of ammo, while 16″ offers plenty of compactness and is far easier to work with when suppressed.
A 16″ is also easier to carry around separately should you bring it along as a standalone receiver.
SPR Build or Buy
Unlike DMRs, I think the AR-15 platform is well enough standardized and understood that building it from the parts you want is the best route. Yes there are many factory-built accurate AR-15 rifles out there, but this is an instance where you can get exactly what you want without much trouble.
Wrapping Up
This was a long one. The DMR and SPR templates are both worthwhile investments, especially as you start getting into working with teams. I look forward to the rise in SPR/DMR-oriented competitions like what we’re seeing with Quantified Performance.
Ultimately, what I’ve suggested here is just my personal templates based on the history of use for both DMR and SPR platforms. You might have a very different idea, and that’s okay.
Get out there and shoot!
As you can see from the history, there really hasn’t been a single version of the Designated Marksman Rifle. Rather, it’s more of a philosophical concept.
The intent of the designated marksman, from WWII to today, has always been to provide a longer range or precision fire capability organic to a team. This is not a sniper. The role is to fight along with and support friendly units in conflict. A designated marksman or squad advanced marksman does this using magnified optics and superior marksmanship.
On one hand, this is very similar to the role of a belt-fed machine gun, but sacrificing volume fire in favor of precision. On the other hand, it allows a squad the benefit of overwatch, where another member of the unit looks ahead for safe paths of travel.
Some of the core traits we’re looking for are:
- Light enough to move freely and fight along with the rest of the unit (this isn’t a “hide and wait” rifle)
- Capable of holding good accuracy over long strings of shots
- Free floated barrel with a good trigger
- Enough magnification to shoot further than the “average” engagement distance. In an era where nearly everyone is running up to 4x o4 6x magnification, this probably looks more like 10x, 15x or 18x.
The Designated Marksman Rifle vs Special Purpose Rifle Templates
I think we’ve come along far enough that the terms are more or less settled. The primary distinction between a DMR and SPR is the cartridge selection. In turn, going one route or the other affects other factors, particularly weight.
For our purposes, a Designated Marksman Rifle describes an accurate semiautomatic rifle chambered in a full power cartridge like 7.62 NATO. The DMR is best suited to mid-range, between 100 and 800 yards, but could be used at even longer distances with the right cartridge selection.
The Special Purpose Rifle no longer refers explicitly to the Mk12, but instead any lightweight semiautomatic precision rifle chambered in an intermediate cartridge like 5.56 NATO or .223 Rem. The SPR encompasses both the shorter Recce rifle concept and longer classic SPR/SAMR configurations. The SPR has a defined ideal use of close quarters up to 600 yards.
Both templates could be used in either a Designated Marksman or Sniper role, though the SPR is better suited at close-in fighting and observation. It’s also good for maneuvering with a team since it shares ammunition, magazines, and parts with the rest of the members.
The Everyday Marksman’s Designated Marksman Rifle
If we know we’re going to use a full power cartridge, then we have a lot of options that work well. With the M110A1, the Army elected to use 7.62 NATO for their DMR rifle. That may shift again in the future depending on the outcome of the XM7 project, but stick with me here.
Cartridge Selection
Since you and I are not limited by the same kind of logistics overhead that the Army is, we can use whatever cartridge we’d like. 7.62 NATO, or match loads of .308 Win are suited to the job, but so is 6.5 Creedmoor and many other popular short action hunting cartridges. Personally, I think it’s best to stick with what the industry knows how to build well- and that’s either .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor.
When choosing between these two, consider how easy it will be for you to keep an ammunition supply and spare parts on hand. It used to be that .308 was the default answer here, but 6.5 CM has enough support and backing now that I think it’s a perfectly suitable DMR cartridge, if not slightly superior.
The main catch is that 6.5 CM has about half of the barrel life of a 308. If you don’t have spare barrels on hand, and I know most people don’t, it’s something to consider down the line.
DMR Optics
As for specific suggestions, I’ve got a few depending on your budget and desires. The lowest I’ll suggest here is the Primary Arms GLx 3-18×44, which retails around $750. Primary Arms has done a great job packing many desirable features into an affordable package.
Another great alternative for slightly more money is the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44.
Stepping up to Japanese glass is the Brownells MPO 3-18×50. This scope goes on sale from time to time, often at prices even lower than the Vortex PST, and it seems like ridiculously good optic for that price.
Another interesting one is the Meopta Optika6 3-18×50, which ticks a lot of boxes including one of my favorite reticle designs for a DMR. I reviewed its larger brother and the 3-18x has always stayed on my radar since.
Beyond the ~$1000 price point, but still below $2000, things get more competitive. My top picks if you’ve got the budget to support it are currently, the Burris XTR III 3.3-18×50 with illuminated SCR 2 reticle, Steiner T6xi 3-18×56 with SCR 2 reticle, and Trijicon Tenmile 3-18×44 with precision tree.
DMR Barrel Selection
The barrel is the heart of the weapon, so everything I said about AR-15 barrels applies just as much to DMR barrels. The rules of physics don’t change just because you’re using a larger cartridge. The same rules of weight and barrel length must be considered balanced against the need for mobility in a fighting rifle.
When it comes to the barrel, the DMR is fundamentally a precision “fighting” rifle. There is still a need for accuracy, but you’re also going to have to carry the thing. For that reason, I err on the side of medium to light-heavy taper profile.
Something like a Criterion Hybrid profile barrel stands out to me as the right mix of accuracy and weight. I particularly like the nitrided 416r stainless models.
Struggling between 16″, 18″, and 20″ options? Join the club. In truth, I don’t think anyone has really nailed this down. Personally, I think 16″ makes sense if you plan on suppressing the gun. This is the route the Army solicitation went when they put out requirements for the CSASS (compact semi automatic sniper system) to supplement the 20″ M110 SASS.
Without a suppressor, a 16″ barrel with full power rifle cartridge has a significant amount of blast. 20″ makes a lot of sense, especially if you consider a collapsible stock to go with it.
After that, pretty much the same rules apply to anything regarding rails, triggers, stocks, grips, etc. So much of that is personal preference. However, I do want to make the case for not building it yourself.
Build or Buy a DMR?
Unlike the AR-15, the large frame AR format is nowhere near as standardized. There’s a high probability that mixing and matching parts from different manufacturers ends up not working for you in the long run. For that reason, I think there’s a real argument for skipping the DIY process for a DMR and going right to a factory-built rifle.
It will probably cost more, but then you know you’ve got the backing of an actual factory warranty should anything go wrong.
My top picks for factory-built full power rifles are:
- LMT MARS-H (basis for the British Army DMR, BTW)
- Daniel Defense DD5 series rifles
- Seekins Precision SP10 series
- FN SCAR 20S
- KAC SR-25 series
- LaRue Tactical PredatOBR
The Everyday Marksman Special Purpose Rifle
With the heavier DMR defined, let’s look at the lighter SPR cousin. Originally, “SPR” stood for Special Purpose Receiver, with the intent being a separate modular precision-oriented upper receiver group that could sit atop any M4 or M16 lower receiver and provide the needed capability. Later on, probably about when the Mk 12 program finished up, the “R” became “Rifle.”
I mention that, because it might be helpful for you to think primarily in terms of the upper receiver as the “special” part.
When we’re talking about an SPR, then we’re looking at most of the same requirements of the DMR but in an even lighter package and focused on closer ranges. One of the big benefits here is that the SPR shares the same ammunition with the rest of the squad, allowing the user to quickly switch from a light sniper/advanced marksman role to a close assault role.
That’s the military role, at least. As non-military members, I think we have some more flexibility.
SPR Cartridge Selection
By default, most people think of an SPR in terms of 77gr SMK cartridges like Mk 262 (developed in tandem with the Mk 12). Realistically, any quality accurate 5.56 load works well, and I think there’s a lot of value in hunting ammunition as well as barrier-blind ammo selection for the role.
Then, should the need arise to abandon precision in favor of volume, the rifle is just as happy to feed whatever everyone else is shooting as well.
On the other hand, I think there’s a very interesting argument for the SPR as a “light DMR” that still fits in an AR-15 package and shoots heavier bullets like 6.5 Grendel or 6mm ARC. If we think of the SPR as a separate receiver geared for the purpose, then it makes sense.
My biggest hesitation with the 6.5 Grendel and 6mm ARC route is a steady supply of ammunition as well as parts breakage. Both of these cartridges use a different bolt head with a larger face and less metal. While the breakage problems seen early on seem to have been worked out, I think it’s important to know that there’s an increased risk of parts failure under hard use and hot loads.
For now, I think the best bet for a defensive SPR is sticking with quality .223 loads.
SPR Optics Choice
The SPR has a lot of overlap with the DMR. In fact, you could use any of the options I listed for the DMR and use them equally well on an SPR. However, I think the closer intended ranges of the SPR as well as the expectation for role flexibility translates to lower magnification ranges and lighter weights.
I break SPR optics choice into two categories: high-magnification LPVOs in the 1-8x and 1-10x range, and lightweight Medium Power Variable Optics (MPVOs).
On the LPVO front, I really like what Primary Arms did with the Compact PLx 1-8×24. There are many other options on the high end here, like the Nightforce ATAC 1.1-8×24, Vortex Razor Gen III 1-10×24, and Steiner M8xi 1-8×24. All of these are fantastic, and trying to nitpick between them isn’t really worth the time.
On the more budget-friendly end, I’ve been interested in the Athlon Ares ETR 1-10×24, Swamp Fox Arrowhead 1-10×24, and what Brownells did with the MPO 1-8×24.
That’s all just the LPVO market. For an SPR, I think there’s a better value in MPVOs paired with offset dots. Aside from the 3-18 and 3-15 scopes I mentioned earlier, the ones that stand out to me the most here are anything in the 2-10x or 2-12x range with a lighter weight. Particularly the Trijicon Credo 2-10×36 with mil tree, Primary Arms 2.5-10×44 with Griffin Mil reticle, and Nightforce NXS 2.5-10×42.
SPR Barrel Selection
The same rules apply to SPR barrels as DMRs and rifles in general. What you need the rifle to do dictates the barrel requirements. For general-purpose light carbines that get carried a lot and shot moderately, I suggest lightweight pencil barrels and light taper barrels. However, since SPRs have both an increased need for accuracy and a requirement to sustain that accuracy over many shots, we can’t be so light.
For an SPR, I’ll suggest at least a medium weight, and probably closer to a heavy hybrid taper. I’m ambivalent about stainless or not, that depends a lot on the manufacturer’s ability to make an accurate barrel. Generally, I think a .223 Wylde chamber with 1/8 twist offers the most versatility.
Some standout options for barrels include:
- Centurion Arms precision series
- Daniel Defense S2W series
- Criterion Hybrid profile
- Rainier Arms Ultramatch or Match series
There are many others out there given the popularity of the AR-15 platform, so listing all of the worthy ones would take forver. Ultimately, it’s nitpicky to sort between them.
The question of length comes up again, though. I think the same rules apply as for a DMR. I think it makes the most sense to either go 16″ or 20″ for length. 18″ is somewhat of an anomaly and exists mainly because of government bean counters. 20″ offers the most capability across the widest variety of ammo, while 16″ offers plenty of compactness and is far easier to work with when suppressed.
A 16″ is also easier to carry around separately should you bring it along as a standalone receiver.
SPR Build or Buy
Unlike DMRs, I think the AR-15 platform is well enough standardized and understood that building it from the parts you want is the best route. Yes there are many factory-built accurate AR-15 rifles out there, but this is an instance where you can get exactly what you want without much trouble.
Wrapping Up
This was a long one. The DMR and SPR templates are both worthwhile investments, especially as you start getting into working with teams. I look forward to the rise in SPR/DMR-oriented competitions like what we’re seeing with Quantified Performance.
Ultimately, what I’ve suggested here is just my personal templates based on the history of use for both DMR and SPR platforms. You might have a very different idea, and that’s okay.
Get out there and shoot!
German Infantryman equipped with K98 ZF4. Image courtesy of the German Government
I hadn’t heard about the 1.5x scopes the Germans were using in WWII before this. I always find the history of a concept fascinating. The ‘how we got here’ to me is as important as a list of things to buy, if not more important.
Agree on wanting to know the ‘how we got here.’ Far too many people just want the gear without knowing the reasons behind it. I always figured that knowing the philosophy makes gear selection way easier.
A 20″ free float A5 with a Trijicon Creedo 1-8 with Fed GMM 69 gr will fit this bill nicely.
It’s the setup I used at the Guardian Long Range Team Sniper match in 2020.
0-600 was too easy, even in high wind.
That does sound like a very nice setup! Now you’ve got me thinking of what to do with my 20″ A5,..
If you havent gotten your hands on a Creedo yet, you should.
It is as close to a true x1 power as LVPOs can get.
Illuminated reticle that can be green or red and is daylight bright.
Put it on 1 power and it’s like running an EoTech. Then whip the magnification up when you need it.
FFP, MRAD reticle for fast hold overs when you know your DOPE but dont have the luxury of dialing. And when you know how, you can range with your reticle.
Larue Tactical makes a complete match grade upper that I think would fit the SPR role pretty well. Great article, love the history and research you did.
Wow Matt – lots of info/research!
As a free society we may be close to ‘peaking’ in available choices to buy or build a rifle system for whatever capability we desire. I feel the winds of change are coming however. Just a general comment that may or may not be related to trend and effectiveness of DMR/SPR (SAM as in the USMC) use. Apparently the USMC has closed their infamous Scout Sniper Program. MARSOC has their own so recently Marine Force Recon has started their own school as have the Marine Raiders to not completely lose the training cadre and skill set. Seems the ‘designated marksman’ attached to regular infantry squads have relegated ‘scout/snipers’ to Special Forces use. Snipers were once considered the deadliest asset on the battlefield – things change.
I know the whole closure of the USMC Scout Sniper School was in the news recently. I asked around about it. The word I got back was that the school itself had a high attrition rate and wasn’t producing enough snipers to be useful anymore. The Recon Sniper School, on the other hand, still holds onto the core capabilities and is seen as more productive to focus on.
It’s always had a high attrition rate, that’s why the USMC scout/sniper designation was so coveted. – ‘HOG’. The Marines never used scout/snipers or DM riflemen within regular rifle squads. This is a relatively ‘new’ concept for the USMC. They also made changes to their decades old basic rifle qualification course and I can’t help but to think it has to do with the addition of ‘SAMs’ within regular rifle squads. In the 80’s every Marine was still expected to be able to engage targets out to 500 meters (with iron sights) and the basic 4 man rifle squad had 2 rifleman, machine gunner and grenadier. I was just pointing out that Marine snipers will no longer be an available asset to regular infantry commanders and are now utilized in SF applications. I think the use of ‘drones’ has also affected the ‘scout/observation’ utility of scout/sniper teams.
The heart of my 16” SPR upper is my Rainier Arms Mountain barrel. When they first rolled it out it had the same ad copy and specs without the 416r as the White Oak Armament DMR barrel, but they make it with 4150 CMV, flute it, and nitride it. It’s pretty light and accurate. I like it enough that I am completing a 14.5 pin and weld with the same series of barrel. Years ago the “Afghan” rifle was a thing on arfcom, and the idea of an accurized 14.5 has stuck with me.
I’ve always liked the Rainier Mountain barrels, and used to suggest them a lot.The only reason I stopped was that availability got spotty for a while. I also remember the whole Afghan rifle craze, lol. Completely forgot about it until you mentioned it. There’s definitely merit there for sure.
The best thing about the Afghan craze was the contention from the recce guys. That’s not 16”! It shouldn’t be in this thread!
Ugh, yeah…clone dorks. I’ve never been part of the crowd to be a purist about specific configurations. The funny thing is that there was never a formal pattern for the “recce”
Exactly.
Has anyone had the pleasure of using the M-14 SOPMOD in this type of situation? I’ve seen it used by only a few, usually tier1 SpecOps or contractors. Probably because of the cost I’m guessing… My intrigue is because of my long time love of the M-14 and also of the EBR. The SOPMOD seems to be a perfect cross between the two besides a smaller stock and it’s use of top notch attachments. I’ve only seen them decked out with the best..usually suppressed with a mid to long range optic, collapsible stock, and fold-down fore-grip. Im about to embark on my own DMR/SPR journey and picking the right platform has not been so cut & dry! As I said the SOPMOD is not in my budget, I’m considering the the SOCOM-14, but definitely not with its forward-mounted 3x dot scope, so that means I’ll nd a top rail system for a Mid-to-Long Range Scope that sits back, and I’ll be able to bring my eye up to it. I’d like a bi-pod and a foregrip but that’s unrealistic on that rig so maybe a fire grip w/ a spring released bipod combo…Actually I nd some help here so anybody have info and/or ideas? Next might end up being an SPR25, if I can find the right semi-auto AR-10 to do a full overhaul on the barrel & rails. If so, it’ll have to have the Harris bi-pod, atleast a 30x Leopold and 45 degree flip up iron sights.More ideas… Read more »
How about a Springfield Armory M1A1 SOCOM as an DMR? I know, it’s as heavy as a LMG, but so is the EBR and if I could take it to th ground with the Harris even 20% of the time, I’d be popping heads off shoulders like a baseball bat to watermelons! Any pics of SPR/DMR builds anyone don’t mind posting will be appreciated!!!