Sniper rifle Barrett MK 22
The Barrett Mark 22 Advanced Sniper Rifle is the latest precision weapon adopted by the United States military. Chosen by U.S. Special Operations Command in 2021, it replaces several older sniper platforms with a single, highly adaptable system. Developed by Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, the rifle was selected for its precision, modular design, and suitability for a wide range of combat conditions.
One of its most important features is multi-caliber capability. It can be configured to fire .338 Norma Magnum, .300 Norma Magnum, and 7.62x51mm NATO rounds. Each caliber serves a different role: the .338 offers the longest effective range and terminal performance, the .300 Norma provides excellent long-range accuracy with flatter trajectory, and the 7.62mm option delivers lower recoil for shorter-range engagements and compatibility with standard NATO ammunition. The rifle’s design allows users to swap barrels, bolts, and magazines in the field without special tools, offering true mission flexibility.
The rifle includes a fully adjustable folding stock to suit individual shooters, with customizable cheek rest height and length of pull. It features a monolithic upper receiver with integrated rails for mounting optics and accessories. The U.S. military selected the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm scope for use with the system, providing clarity and precision for long-range targeting.
In terms of suppressor compatibility, the rifle works with advanced quick-detach suppressors that reduce both sound and muzzle flash—critical for maintaining concealment during operations. Its performance in long-range engagements is a key advantage. With .338 Norma Magnum, the rifle has an effective range of up to 1,500 meters, and in optimal conditions can reach targets beyond 1,900 meters. When configured for .300 Norma Magnum, it maintains high precision out to approximately 1,500 meters. The 7.62 NATO setup is effective up to 800–1,000 meters, depending on the environment and ammunition.
Currently deployed by Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, and Marine Raiders, the system is also being integrated into conventional sniper units under the Army’s Precision Sniper Rifle program. Its ability to replace multiple legacy rifles reduces logistical burden while giving snipers greater capability and adaptability.
