Evolution of Colt Sniper Rifles: 1911 to Today's Accurate Precision Firearms

The Origins of Colt Sniper Rifles

The history of Colt sniper rifles begins with the classic M1911 pistol. Designed by John Browning and adopted by the U.S. Army in 1911, the M1911 became an iconic sidearm known for its reliability and stopping power. Colt would build upon the M1911's legacy to create specialized sniper rifle variants over the next century.

Colt Enters the Sniper Rifle Market

During World War II, the U.S. Marine Corps approached Colt to develop a highly accurate sniper rifle based on the M1911 pistol frame. This led to the creation of the Colt Model 673 'Sniper' variant in 1945, one of the first pistols adapted into a sniper rifle. The Colt 673 fired the powerful .30-06 Springfield round and incorporated a scope, target sights, and accoutrements like a leather cheek pad and bipod to aid in long-range accuracy.

Though the Colt 673 saw limited use, it paved the way for more sophisticated Colt sniper rifles in the coming decades. During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military again turned to Colt to enhance the long-range lethality of the infantryman. This resulted in the Colt Model 655 M16A1 Sniper Rifle, developed in 1967. The Model 655 took the core components of the revolutionary M16A1 assault rifle and optimized them for sniping operations.

Perfection of the Colt Sniper in the 1970s

Building upon lessons learned in Vietnam, Colt introduced the Colt Model 723 in 1976. The Model 723 was lighter weight than earlier models but retained the accuracy needed for sniping in combat. It featured a 20-inch heavy barrel and could mount optical scopes via a specialized carry handle with integrated scope mounts. The Model 723 saw extensive service across all branches of the U.S. military and established Colt as a go-to provider of specialized sniper weapon systems.

Towards the end of the 1970s, Colt introduced the Model 725 sniper rifle. The Model 725 was designed specifically for long-range accuracy and incorporated a free-floating heavy barrel and match-grade trigger. A variety of scopes could be mounted to the rifle via Picatinny rails. The Model 725 had an effective range of over 1,000 yards and a chambering in the hard-hitting 7.62x51mm NATO round. The Colt Model 725 served for over two decades and remains one of the most accurate sniper platforms ever fielded.

Modernization in the 1990s and 2000s

With the introduction of the M16A4 assault rifle in the 1990s, Colt developed a specialized Squad Designated Marksman Rifle (SDM-R) variant to give squads extended range and accuracy. The Colt Model 901 SDM-R became a close cousin of the fully-fledged sniper rifles like the Colt Model 725. It featured a free-floating 20-inch barrel and fiberglass handguard, a flat top upper receiver for mounting optics, and enhanced trigger group.

As sniping doctrine continued evolving in the 21st century, Colt adapted its offerings. This led to the Colt Model CM901 modular sniper rifle introduced in 2006. The CM901 allowed operators to change barrel configurations and calibers to tailor the weapon to the mission profile. The CM901 saw service across branches and remains a highly adaptable, accurate system.

Colt Sniper Rifles Today and Beyond

Colt remains at the forefront of sniper rifle development today. The latest offering is the Colt Competition Sniper Rifle (CSR) introduced in 2020. The CSR provides competition shooters and special operations units with a highly precise .308 semi-automatic rifle scalable for any sniping mission. It features a free-floating, match-grade heavy barrel and adjustable stock.

Looking to the future, Colt continues innovating to enhance accuracy, modularity, and lethality. With over a century of experience crafting specialized sniper solutions, the future remains bright for Colt. Its rifles continue serving on the frontlines and at shooting competitions, cementing Colt's legacy as a leader in precision firepower.

FAQs

What was the first Colt sniper rifle?

The Colt Model 673 "Sniper" variant developed in 1945 during WWII was one of Colt's first purpose-built sniper rifles. It was based on the M1911 pistol frame and fired the powerful .30-06 Springfield round.

When did Colt introduce the Model 725 sniper rifle?

The Colt Model 725 sniper rifle was introduced in the late 1970s. It featured a free-floating heavy barrel for enhanced accuracy out to 1,000+ yards and was chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO.

What is the Colt CSR?

The Colt Competition Sniper Rifle (CSR) is Colt's latest precision semi-automatic sniper rifle introduced in 2020. It provides competition shooters and special ops teams with a highly modular .308 platform.

How did the M16 influence Colt sniper rifles?

Colt developed the Model 655 M16A1 Sniper Rifle during Vietnam, taking the M16A1 and optimizing it for sniper operations. This influence continued with models like the Squad Designated Marksman Rifle.

What calibers can the CM901 fire?

The Colt Modular CM901 introduced in 2006 allows operators to change barrel configurations and calibers, including 5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x51mm NATO, and .260 Remington.