Place of origin United States Length 1,118 mm (44.0 in) | In service 2001–2010 | |
 | ||
Type Designated marksman rifle Wars War in Afghanistan
War in Iraq Weight 4.5–5.0 kg (9.9–11.0 lb) | ||
The United States Marine Corps Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR, NSN 1005-01-458-6235; more formally the United States Rifle, 7.62 mm, M14, DMR) is a semi-automatic, gas-operated rifle chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. It is a modified version of the M14 rifle formerly used by the United States Marine Corps.
Contents
The DMR was issued with match-grade M118LR 175-grain Long Range ammunition. The "basic" DMR (i.e., without secondary sight, magazine, sling, basic issue items, cleaning gear, suppressor and bipod) weighs 11 pounds (5.0 kg) or less. The DMR design facilitates repairing or replacing of the sight mount, barrel, bolt, and other key assemblies at the third echelon maintenance level. The USMC Precision Weapons Section at Marine Corps Base Quantico built all DMRs.
The Marine Corps replaced the DMR with the M39 Enhanced Marksman Rifle on a one-for-one basis. The M39 was itself subsequently replaced by the M110.
Specifications
There are several notable differences between the basic M14 and the DMR.
Applications
A designated marksman primarily uses DMRs for enhanced accuracy and range. The DMR fills the need for a lightweight, accurate weapon system utilizing a cartridge more powerful than the M16A4's standard 5.56×45mm NATO—the 7.62×51mm NATO. The DMR was previously used by Marine Corps FAST Companies and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Teams.