Based on the M16A1 platform, the standard issue for the Mid-1990’s Philippine Marines, the MSSR was developed to fulfill the need for a lightweight and accurate precision rifle in dense jungle environments.

A fraction of the size of the M1 Garand, M14, and Springfield 1903 rifles that the current military budget would allow, modification of the existing and accurate-enough M16 platform was a largely a cost saving measure.

Still in use today and in its 5th Generation, the MSSR serves as a primary sniper system for counter-insurgency and internal security forces. The MSSR Gen 1 was issued with NATO 62 gr SS109 ball ammo, the Generation 3 is issued with 69 or 75gr Hornady TAP BTHP, handloaded at the Marine Scout Sniper School.

I’m most impressed with the organic growth and adaptation-to-need that this program showed over nearly 30 years - a highly adaptable and modular system that was updated ever 5 years for the current needs and technology available.

Gen 1: Issued 1996 M16A1with Tasco 3-9x40 scope and DPMS tri-mount on a carry handle. Delta HBAR cheek piece, free floating handgaurd, bipod, sweet paintjob, 24” barrel DPMA Stainless Ultra MAtch Barrel 1:8.5 twist

Gen 3: Mil Dot scope adopted and 20” version adapted for Navy and SOF

By Gen 4/5 The MSSR had a Leupold LR/T Scope, Daniel Defense barrel, JP Match Trigger, AAC SR5 Suppressor and 20 round Magpul Mags, swivel bipod, and ambi controls.

Integrally suppressed night fighting MSSRs were developed and fielded with night optic systems, they also developed SPR and DMR variations.

10/10 Sniper Rifle, I want one and you should too.