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Barrett XM500 Review
Price Range:
$12,000 - $15,000
Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Anti-materiel rifle |
| Caliber | .50 BMG |
| Action Type | Semi-automatic |
| Maximum Effective Range | 1,800 meters (depending on ammo and conditions) |
| Barrel Length | 690mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 10-round detachable box magazine |
| Weight | 11.8 kg |
| Overall Length | 1,390 mm (54.7 inches) |
| Price Range | $12,000 – $15,000 (varies based on configuration and market) |
Overview
The Barrett XM500 is an American-made semi-automatic sniper rifle designed for anti-materiel purposes. Chambered in the powerful .50 BMG, this rifle is capable of engaging targets at extreme distances, making it ideal for military, law enforcement, and special operations forces. It was developed by Barrett Firearms to meet the need for a more modern, semi-automatic .50 caliber rifle for precision shooting in various combat situations.
One of the defining features of the XM500 is its semi-automatic action, which provides a quicker follow-up shot compared to traditional bolt-action rifles. The rifle is equipped with a 10-round detachable magazine and features a robust design, making it a formidable weapon in the hands of highly-trained marksmen.
Strength and Quality
The Barrett XM500 is built to withstand the rigors of combat. It features a high-quality, precision-machined barrel and a durable, weather-resistant finish. The rifle’s robust construction ensures reliability even in extreme conditions, including high humidity, extreme temperatures, and rough handling.
- Construction: The XM500 is made from high-strength steel and aluminum alloys, offering a balance of durability and weight.
- Reliability: The rifle is designed for harsh environments, and its semi-automatic action is built for consistent, reliable performance under various conditions.
- Trigger: The adjustable trigger provides a smooth pull with minimal travel, improving accuracy and user control.
Safety Features
The Barrett XM500 is equipped with a manual safety mechanism, located in an accessible position for quick engagement and disengagement. The safety system is designed to prevent accidental discharge, ensuring the weapon can only be fired when intended.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The XM500 is capable of achieving sub-MOA accuracy at 100 meters with high-quality ammunition, providing excellent precision for long-range shots.
- Effective Range: The rifle performs well at ranges up to 1,800 meters, making it highly effective for long-range engagements in combat environments.
- Performance at Distance: At 1,500 meters, the XM500 demonstrated excellent accuracy with minimal bullet drop, even under adverse environmental conditions.
Merits
- Powerful and Versatile: The .50 BMG cartridge allows the XM500 to engage a wide range of targets, including vehicles, equipment, and personnel at extreme distances.
- Semi-Automatic Advantage: The semi-automatic action allows for faster follow-up shots, a key advantage in dynamic combat situations.
- Ergonomics: The rifle is designed for maximum comfort during extended shooting sessions, with an adjustable stock and well-placed controls.
- Durability: Built to withstand the harshest conditions, the XM500 is reliable and resilient, making it ideal for military and tactical use.
Demerits
- Weight: At 14.5 kg (32 lbs), the XM500 is heavier than most sniper rifles, which can be a drawback during prolonged operations or when mobility is critical.
- Recoil: The .50 BMG cartridge produces substantial recoil, which can make rapid follow-up shots difficult for some shooters.
- Price: The high price point of the XM500 may make it inaccessible for some buyers, particularly civilians and law enforcement agencies with budget constraints.
- Ammo Cost: The cost of .50 BMG ammunition is significantly higher than that of more common calibers, making training and sustained use expensive.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning is required to maintain the rifle’s performance, especially after firing high-powered rounds. The barrel, action, and bolt mechanism should be cleaned after each use.
- Lubrication: Periodic lubrication of the moving parts ensures smooth operation and reduces wear over time.
- Parts Replacement: The modular design allows for easy replacement of worn-out or damaged parts, ensuring the rifle’s longevity.
Comparison with Other Guns
Barrett XM500 vs Other Rifles
| Feature | Barrett XM500 | Barrett M82A1 (M107) | McMillan TAC-50 | PGM Hécate II | Accuracy International AX50 | Steyr HS .50 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United States | United States | United States | France | United Kingdom | Austria |
| Caliber | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG |
| Effective Range | 1,800 m | 1,800 m | 2,000 m | 1,800 m | 1,500 m | 1,500 m |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 11.8 kg | 13.5 kg | 11.8 kg | 13.8 kg | 12.5 kg | 12.4 kg |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 5 rounds | 7 rounds | 5 rounds | Single-shot |
| Action | Gas-operated, semi-automatic | Recoil-operated, semi-automatic | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
| Primary Use | Military, Anti-materiel | Military, Anti-materiel | Military, Anti-materiel | Military, Anti-materiel | Military, Precision shooting | Military, Precision shooting |
| Price Range (USD) | $12,000–$15,000 | $8,000–$12,000 | $10,000–$12,000 | $12,000–$14,000 | $10,000–$13,000 | $5,000–$7,000 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The XM500 has an effective range of up to 1,800 meters with proper ammunition and conditions.
The XM500 is known for its semi-automatic action and the powerful .50 BMG cartridge, which gives it a distinct advantage in terms of power and range compared to other sniper rifles that typically use smaller calibers.
While the XM500 is primarily designed for military and law enforcement, it is available for civilian purchase in certain regions, although the price and size may make it impractical for most civilian applications.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain the rifle’s performance. The barrel, bolt, and action should be thoroughly cleaned after each use, especially after firing a large number of rounds.
While the XM500 can be used for hunting large game, its weight, recoil, and cost may make it less practical than other hunting rifles.
