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M21 Sniper Weapon System
LIMITED PRODUCTION
Quick Overview
Manufacturer
Origin
Production
1969 - 1990s
Caliber
Overview
The M21 Sniper Weapon System is an accurized semi-automatic rifle based on the M14, chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO. It served as the primary U.S. Army sniper rifle from 1969 until the adoption of the bolt-action M24 in 1988, seeing extensive combat in Vietnam and beyond.
Calibers & Ammunition
Dimensions
Overall Length
1,118mm (44 in)
Barrel Length
559mm (22 in) — National Match profile
Weight
5.27 kg (11.6 lb) with scope
Mechanical
Action Type
Gas-operated, rotating bolt — M14/M1A derived, glass-bedded
Trigger Type
National Match two-stage, 2-2.5 kg (4.5-5.5 lb)
Sights Type
Leatherwood ART 3-9× scope with automatic ranging, iron sights backup
Magazine Capacity
20 rounds
Additional Information
scope
Leatherwood ART 3-9× — innovative automatic ranging telescope with BDC
stock
Walnut, fiberglass-impregnated — action glass-bedded for consistent accuracy
action
Gas-operated, rotating bolt — M14/M1A derived, glass-bedded for accuracy
barrel
559mm (22 in) — heavy National Match profile, chrome-lined
trigger
National Match trigger — 2-2.5 kg (4.5-5.5 lb) two-stage
accuracy
1-2 MOA — excellent for a semi-automatic service rifle of its era
How does the M21 Sniper Weapon System compare?
Pick any other firearm for a side-by-side spec breakdown.