PGM Hecate II
Summary
| Country | 🇫🇷 France |
| Category | Anti materiel sniper rifle |
| Manufacturer | PGM Precision Company |
Technical specifications
| PGM Hecate II | |
|---|---|
| Fire Rate | Single shot rounds/min. |
| Caliber | .50BMG (12.7 x 99 mm) |
| Magazine | 7 rounds |
| Length | 1380 mm (54.3 in) |
| Weight | 13.8 kg (30.4 lb) |
| Range | 2000 m (6562 ft) |
Description
The PGM Hécate II, also known as the FR-12.7, is the standard heavy sniper rifle and anti-materiel rifle of the French Army. Manufactured by PGM Précision of France, it is chambered for the .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO) cartridge and represents the largest weapon platform produced by PGM. The designation 'Hécate II' is derived from the ancient Greek goddess Hecate.
The design utilizes a metallic-skeleton structure consistent with other rifles in the PGM product line, scaled appropriately for the .50 BMG cartridge. Its barrel, manufactured by FN Herstal, is lined with Stellite alloy, similar to large calibre machine gun barrels, contributing to increased longevity. A high-efficiency muzzle brake is fitted to reduce felt recoil significantly, purportedly to a level comparable to rifles chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO. For achieving maximum accuracy, the rifle incorporates both an adjustable front bipod and a rear monopod. The rifle also features an adjustable stock. The Hécate II can weigh up to 16.00 kg (35.27 lb). The optic typically issued with the Hécate II is the SCROME LTE J10 F1 10× telescope.
As the standard heavy sniper and anti-materiel rifle, the Hécate II serves in a primary role within the French Army.
Operators of the Hécate II include Brazil (specifically the Marine Corps Special Operations Battalion), Bulgaria (SOBT and SKSO), Egypt (Rapid Deployment Forces and Black Cobra), Estonia, France, Indonesia, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, and Switzerland.