Springfield M21
M25 Sniper Weapon System
Overview
M21
Present day production model of M21 sniper rifle.
Source: Unknown author -
© copyright lies with original owner
Origin
United States
Type
Marksman rifle
Entered service
1969 for M21
Late 1980's for M25
Late 1980's for M25
Status
In service
Development
Late 1980's for M25
Producer
United States
-
Springfield Armory
United States - Rock Island Arsenal
United States - Rock Island Arsenal
Designations
Light Sniper Rifle
Sniper Security System
Product Improved M21
Sniper Security System
Product Improved M21
Variants
M21 sniper rifle
The M21 is a sniper rifle that was based on the M14. It is a converted National Match rifle that has been fitted with a 3-9x scope and fires match grade ammunition. It was the US Army standard sniper rifle until the introduction of the M24 SWS.
M25 Sniper Weapon System
The M25 is a modernized M14 that was developed for Special Forces use alongside the M24 SWS. In practice it is very similar to the M21 and has been called the Product Improved M21. The M25 is fitted with a fiberglass stock, National Match action and newer optics.
Details
Facts
M21
M25
General
Origin
United States
Type
Marksman rifle
Caliber
Caliber
7.62x51mm NATO
Magazine
10 or 20 round detachable box
Barrel length
559 mm
Rifling
4 grooves, 305 mm right hand twist
Muzzle velocity
853 m/s
Operation
Action
Gas operated, gas expansion and cut-off system, rotating bolt
Fire selector
0 - 1
Rate of fire
Semi-automatic
Dimensions
Stock type
Fixed
Length
1.118 mm
Weight
5.27 kg without scope
Sights
Optical sight
Leatherwood 3-9x scope
Back up sights
Iron sights, post front and hooded aperture rear
Sight radius
678 mm
Related articles
Springfield M14
The M21 and M25 are derived from the M14 battle rifle and use the same action.