Barrett Developing MRAD MK 22 6.8x51mm Capability

[Talyn]

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. today announced the ongoing development and evaluation of a 6.8x51mm caliber conversion kit for the Barrett MRAD MK 22 Advanced Sniper Rifle system fielded by the U.S. Army.

The new caliber conversion kit is being developed to support the high-pressure, high-performance 6.8x51mm cartridge used across the U.S. Army’s next-generation small arms platforms, including the M7 Rifle, M250 Automatic Rifle and M157 Fire Control system.

The conversion kit is intended to provide increased flexibility for warfighters seeking to employ the enhanced terminal performance characteristics of 6.8x51mm ammunition within the in-service MK 22 sniper system.

Barrett Developing MRAD MK 22 6.8x51mm Capability | Soldier Systems Daily

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. today announced the ongoing development and evaluation of a 6.8x51mm caliber conversion kit for the Barrett MRAD MK 22 A ...

soldiersystems.net

Barrett is currently testing and evaluating a 6.8x51mm caliber conversion kit for the MRAD MK 22 sniper system, expanding capability options for future mission requirements

 

[TEXASforLIFE]

Don't know why it shouldn't be difficult!

 

[Shibadog]

I still don’t “get” the 6.8 x 51. (And I am by no means a fan of the 5.56 having always thought it was marginal so a more effective round is certainly past due) Seems a 7-08 or 6.5 Creedmore would provide similar performance at a much lower cost per round and significantly lower chamber pressures-which should result in a significantly longer barrel and action life. ‘Course that would mean less $$ spent and doubtless fewer kickbacks….. color me cynical but I truly don’t see the need/purpose for an “all new” round-at least not unless it brings something truly improved to the field, like ceaseless ammo or something similar

 

[ECS686]

From Helping Poor Shooters FB page. It’s ran by a retired Special Forces guy who is a wealth of knowledge. And has some pretty interesting content

 

[Talyn]

SOCOM has been using the 6.5 CM for years in both AR10-type semi-auto & bolt guns.

But SOCOM gets to make their own choices on what to use.

 

[Shibadog]

SOCOM has been using the 6.5 CM for years in both AR10-type semi-auto & bolt guns.

But SOCOM gets to make their own choices on what to use.

My point. 6.5 is a proven long range round-works in auto actions. Why not just go that route and forego ultra high pressure rounds with 3 piece cartridge cases.