Barrett M82: The Ultimate Anti-Material Sniper Rifle
The Barrett M82, also known as the Barrett .50 cal, is one of the most powerful and recognizable anti-material sniper rifles in modern military service. Developed by Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, the M82 is a semi-automatic, recoil-operated rifle chambered for the formidable .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO) cartridge. Since its introduction in the 1980s, this high-powered rifle has become a staple in the arsenals of more than 60 armed forces worldwide, including elite special operations units.
Barrett M82 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | United States |
| Entered service | 1989 |
| Caliber | 12.7x99 mm (.50 BMG) |
| Weight (unloaded, without scope) | 12.9 kg |
| Length | 1,448 mm |
| Barrel length | 737 mm |
| Muzzle velocity | 854 m/s |
| Muzzle energy | 15,580 Joules |
| Magazine capacity | 10 rounds |
| Sighting range | ~ 2,000 m |
| Range of effective fire | 1,000 m |
| Maximum effective range | 1,800 m |
| Accuracy | 1.5 - 2 MOA |
History and Development of the M82
The development of the Barrett M82 began in the early 1980s, with working prototypes completed by 1982—hence the "M82" designation. Unlike many other rifles, the M82's designation originates from the manufacturer rather than the U.S. military. Ronnie Barrett, the founder of Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, spearheaded the rifle’s development independently, designing and producing each component in-house.
In 1986, Barrett unveiled an improved version, the M82A1, which caught the attention of the Swedish Armed Forces, who purchased 100 rifles in 1989. By 1990-1991, the U.S. Marine Corps acquired approximately 125 rifles, followed by orders from the U.S. Army and Air Force. As of 2017, the rifle remained in active production and operational use across the globe.
Primary Role: Anti-Material Destruction
Engineered as an anti-material rifle, the Barrett M82 was designed to eliminate high-value enemy equipment at long distances—targets that would typically require heavier weaponry like rocket launchers, recoilless rifles, or artillery. This includes:
- Aircraft parked on airfields
- Radar systems
- Lightly-armored vehicles and trucks
- Fuel storage tanks
- Communication installations
- Ammunition depots
- Pillboxes and defensive positions
It’s also frequently used for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), allowing for safe detonation of explosives from a distance.
Sniper Role and Anti-Personnel Capabilities
Though originally designed for material destruction, the Barrett M82 is also highly effective as a long-range anti-personnel sniper rifle. It is used to:
- Engage enemy snipers at stand-off distances
- Neutralize personnel hiding behind cover and barriers
- Penetrate walls made of brick or concrete
- Support interdiction missions and special forces operations
Its capability to deliver high kinetic energy makes it a reliable choice for tactical raids, counter-sniper roles, and battlefield disruption.
Record-Setting Long-Range Kills
Although not the longest-range sniper rifle on record, the M82 has been used in several notable long-distance engagements:
- In 2004, U.S. sniper Brian Kremer achieved a confirmed kill at 2,300 meters in Iraq using the M82A1.
- In 2008, sniper Nicholas Ranstad scored a kill at 2,092 meters in Afghanistan.
These record shots demonstrate the rifle's effectiveness well beyond its standard operational range of 900 to 1,000 meters.
Technical Specifications and Performance
- Operation: Recoil-operated, semi-automatic
- Caliber: .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO)
- Magazine Capacity: 10-round detachable box magazine
- Effective Range: 1,000 meters (human-sized target), with potential up to 2,000 meters
- Barrel Length: Approximately 29 inches
- Weight: Varies by model, typically 30–35 lbs (unloaded)
- Muzzle Brake: Reduces recoil by up to 70%
Optics and Sighting Systems
Originally paired with a Leupold 10x scope, the M82 is compatible with a wide range of optics, including:
- Night vision scopes
- Advanced thermal sights
- Backup flip-up iron sights for emergencies
- Picatinny rails on modern models for custom scope mounting
Portability and Handling Features
Despite its size and weight, the Barrett M82 was designed for field deployment:
- Detachable bipod for prone shooting
- Carrying handle (integrated or detachable based on model)
- Compatible with sling mounts
- Typically transported in a custom hard case due to bulk
Barrett M82 Price and Market Value
As of 2017, the cost of a Barrett M82 ranged between $9,100 and $12,000, depending on the configuration and accessories. Prices may vary with newer models and upgrades.
Variants of the Barrett M82 Series
Barrett M82A1
Introduced in 1986, this model features:
- Enlarged muzzle brake
- Flip-up iron sights
- Compatibility with M3 and M122 infantry tripods
- Enhanced reliability and battlefield resilience
Barrett M82A1M
A military-upgraded version of the A1, designed for the U.S. military. Features include:
- Extended Picatinny rail for flexible scope mounting
- Rear monopod socket
- Additional rear grip for stability
Barrett M82A2
A bullpup-configured version introduced in 1987. It was meant to be shoulder-fired against low-flying aircraft like helicopters. However, this variant proved impractical and was discontinued shortly after release.
Barrett M82A3
The U.S. Marine Corps designation for the M82A1M. Also known as the Special Applications Scoped Rifle (SASR). This variant saw service in:
- Operation Desert Storm
- Operation Desert Shield
- The War in Afghanistan
In 2004, sniper Steve Reichert used the M82A3 to neutralize a target at 1,614 meters in Iraq.
M107 and M107A1
The U.S. Army designation for the upgraded M82A1M. Officially referred to as the Long-Range Sniper Rifle, it includes:
- Leupold Mk.4 scope with 4.5–14x magnification
- Adopted in 2002
- Production ceased in 2010, succeeded by the M107A1, a commercialized model produced since 2011
Conclusion: Why the Barrett M82 Remains a Battlefield Legend
The Barrett M82 is more than just a weapon—it is a tactical tool that revolutionized long-range engagements and anti-material warfare. With its devastating firepower, precise engineering, and versatile application across various combat environments, the M82 continues to serve as a reliable, mission-critical firearm for military and law enforcement around the world. Its legacy as a high-caliber force multiplier is unmatched, and its variants continue to evolve with modern battlefield demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- M82A1 – Standard improved version with iron sights and larger muzzle brake
- M82A1M / M107 – Military versions with enhanced rail systems
- M82A2 – Rare bullpup design intended for shoulder-fired anti-air use
- M82A3 – USMC version known as the Special Applications Scoped Rifle (SASR)
- M107A1 – Lighter commercial version with modern upgrades
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