MK22 MOD 0 ASR - A SHORT HISTORY

In previous articles in this series, we've studied contemporary American sniper rifles—rifles designed specifically for sniping, rather than modifying existing infantry rifles. So far, we've looked at the M40, M21, M24, and the M2010 ESR. Each of these is a world-class rifle in its own right. However, precision rifle shooting—whether PRS, NRL Hunter, Competition Dynamics, or a myriad of other shooting sports that require an accurate rifle—has exploded in popularity in the civilian world. This growth has led to increased innovation among manufacturers. Unlike military demand, this field has evolved due to civilian interest. So, what happens when civilian popularity meets military need? I believe the outcome is the Barrett MRAD, a switch-barrel, modular rifle system designed to leverage the best features of civilian cartridge and rifle design.

USSOCOM

The United States Special Operations Command oversees the special operations capabilities of various military branches. This includes weapons acquisition and testing, as it makes sense that the nation's best have access to the latest gear. Existing sniper rifles fell short of the real-world target interdiction capabilities observed as the landscape of war evolved. Current versions of the M40, M2010, and MK13, while capable, were no longer cutting-edge. Operators needed a rifle that could take the fight to an enemy that was learning our capabilities.

The new rifle would be required to allow snipers to "interdict enemy personnel, positions, and non-technical vehicles out to 1,640 yards or further and defeat level III body armor out to 820 yards." Furthermore, the gun must be capable of holding 1-MOA groups at 1,640 yards. Additionally, the rifle was required to have switch-barrel capabilities that could be completed in the field. None of this was revolutionary; however, it represents a considerable step forward for United States sniper rifles.

SELECTION AND TESTING

The ASR was selected using a three-phase approach. Phase 1 involved technical specifications: rifles were weighed, measured, and all technical requirements were verified. Rifles were then fired to ensure sub-MOA precision at 100 meters. Phase 2 consisted of an endurance test that assessed performance in various conditions, including sand, wind, dust, extreme heat, cold temperatures, and barrel life. Phase 3 focused on user assessment, where trained snipers from all branches tested the rifle in realistic conditions for two weeks. By the time Phases 1 and 2 were complete, only the Barrett MK22 Mod 0 remained in the competition, having met or exceeded all requirements. As a separate program, the Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 with the TReMoR3 reticle won the contract for the scope.

While the rifle met all the technical requirements laid out by the P-SPECS and the Capability Production Document (CPD), I find it odd that the Barrett MRAD was the only rifle to advance beyond phase 2. Considering the competition and the reputation of several of the manufacturers involved, it's striking. However, in contrast to the PSR solicitation, the ASR testing was carried out by members with real-world experience. The testing and evaluation were hosted by Todd Hodnett of Accuracy 1st, with representatives from Special Forces, Ranger Regiment, Naval Special Warfare, the U.S. Marine Corps, engineers from Picatinny and Crane, as well as USASOC G8 Colonel Lynn Ashley and SOCOM Program Manager Major Aaron Hauquitz. Even Brian Litz of Applied Ballistics contributed his expertise.

BARRETT MRAD

Barrett submitted rifles for sniper contracts in 2009 and 2013, both times losing out to Remington. Fortunately, during the ASR trials, Remington was fading faster than Void (IYKYK). The third time's the charm. The MRAD is the civilian rifle that Barrett modified for the Advanced Sniper Rifle (ASR) contract.

MRAD stands for multi-role adaptive design. It can thus be summarized that MRAD is a switch-barrel system. The switch-barrel system operates by loosening two retaining fasteners that secure the barrel in place. Once loosened, the barrel slides out. MRAD barrels feature an indexing notch at 12 o'clock, making it easy for users to identify. After reinserting the barrel, close the bolt to set the headspace. The only remaining task is to tighten the screws. This process can be completed in under 120 seconds. Changing bolt heads for different calibers is also a breeze. Removing a single pin is all that is required. Another safeguard is that the pin can only be inserted one way, further simplifying the procedure.

MK22 MOD 0 LOADOUT

The system ships with 7.62x51mm NATO, .300 Norma Mag, and .338 Norma Mag barrels (as well as 300 WM barrels for the USMC loadout). It also includes the requisite bolt faces and magazines. Additionally, a Barrett AML suppressor is included. As mentioned above, Nightforce won a USSOCOM contract for optics. Designated the M317 POD (Precision Day Optic), the Nightforce ATACR 7-35X56 is a premier piece of glass whose rugged reputation is second to none. The Army, however, has chosen the Leupold MK5 for its MK22. The rest of the kit includes a bipod, sling, takedown tools, cleaning supplies, soft case, and a Pelican case to carry everything—quite a package.

FULLY OPERATIONAL CAPABILITY

As of November 2024, the MK 22 MOD 0 ASR reached Fully Operational Capability (FOC). "Fully Operational Capability is achieved when all the Infantry and Reconnaissance units, as well as MOS-producing schools, have been fielded to and new equipment training is completed," stated Maj Michael Billings, Weapons Team Lead, Marine Corps Systems Command. This signifies the first time a sniper rifle has been universally optioned across all branches. Previously, each branch selected and operated its own sniper rifle, making acquisition and testing a more laborious and widespread process. Selecting a single system streamlines logistics.

ZOOMING OUT

Although the MK22 MOD 0 ASR is still relatively new, concerns have already surfaced on forums and social media regarding issues with the weapon. Unfortunately, many of these concerns haven't been reported by reputable publications; however, internet searches will show otherwise. Issues include accuracy, barrel, and barrel-twist problems, meaning certain projectiles do not shoot reliably in this weapon. Scraping of brass from the bolt can cause extraction issues as the gun heats up, along with headspacing problems. Time will tell the overall success of this weapon system in the annals of military history.