Barrett 98 Bravo
Summary
| Country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Sniper rifle |
| Manufacturer | Barrett |
Technical specifications
| Barrett 98 Bravo | |
|---|---|
| Fire Rate | Single shot rounds/min. |
| Caliber | .338 Lapua |
| Magazine | 10 rounds |
| Length | 1264 mm (49.8 in) |
| Weight | 6.12 kg (13.5 lb) |
| Range | 1000 m (3281 ft) |
Description
The Barrett Model 98B is a bolt-action sniper rifle chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum. Development began in 1997, with the goal of creating a precision tactical rifle independent of sporting rifle designs. An initial semi-automatic version, the Model 98, was shown in 1998 but did not enter production. The company's interest in a .338 rifle was later revived. The Model 98B was formally introduced in October 2008 and became available for purchase in early 2009. A safety recall was issued on September 9, 2009, identifying a potential for accidental discharge if the rifle experienced a significant impact, requiring a modification to the lower receiver.
The design of the Model 98B incorporates features inspired by Stoner's AR-15/M16 platform, including hinged aluminum upper and lower receivers, an ergonomic pistol grip, and a thumb-operated safety. The upper receiver features a full-length 1913 style Picatinny rail, with two additional accessory rails forward. The rifle is equipped with a fluted medium-heavy 27-inch barrel made of 4150 MIL-B-11595 steel, featuring a six-groove, 1:10" right hand twist and a two-port muzzle brake. A bolt guide system, utilizing tubular, Teflon-infused polymer guides, assists bolt movement, reduces lubrication needs, and helps seal against debris. The bolt head is made of case-hardened 8620 steel, features nine lugs, and is attached via a crosspin. The lower receiver is forged from 7075 aluminum, accepts AR-15/M-16 pistol grips, and has an ambidextrous magazine latch and integral trigger guard. The adjustable trigger assembly is a removable unit. The skeletonized buttstock is integral to the lower receiver and features a Sorbothane buttpad, pull adjustment spacers, a polymer cheekpiece with variable height, and an adjustable monopod. Accuracy testing showed sub-MOA groupings, including 0.73 inches at 100 yards, 1.3 inches at 200 yards, and 4.05 inches at 800 yards. A Harris S-BR bipod is standard from the factory.
The MRAD variant is derived from the Model 98B and was Barrett's offering for USSOCOM's Precision Sniper Rifle contract. Modifications include a folding adjustable stock instead of the fixed stock, a Desert Tan finish, and a front-loading quick-change barrel system designed for caliber changes. As of 2011, the MRAD was offered with a 24.5-inch fluted barrel chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum, with a 1:10" right hand twist.