The Remington M24 Sniper Weapon System (SWS), adopted by the U.S. Army in 1988, stands as a pivotal design in military precision rifles. Unlike the hand-built M40 series rifles used by the Marine Corps, the M24 was mass-produced by Remington. It is chambered in 7.62 NATO, effectively .308 Winchester, yet uniquely built on a long action Remington 700 receiver. This choice provided an upgrade path for larger cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum.
Original M24 specifications included a 24-inch stainless steel barrel with a 1:11.25-inch twist rate, a profile reportedly similar to the M40A3/A5/A6 series, though those barrels are 25 inches. The system was issued with a fixed 10X Leupold scope and a backup iron sight system, which attached via blind screw holes on the muzzle end of the barrel and the left side of the receiver. Feeding was from an internal box magazine with a hinged floor plate. The rifle was bedded in a Kevlar/Fiberglass HS Precision stock featuring an aluminum bedding block and an adjustable butt plate, mirroring the popular varmint stock designs of its era.
Recent observations from an owner evaluating a used M24, described as having an unknown round count and cosmetic wear, provided insights into its practical performance. Using Federal Gold Medal 175-grain factory ammunition, the rifle reportedly produced a 0.725 MOA five-shot group at 100 yards, with four of those rounds clustering under 0.5 MOA after an initial cold bore shot. The factory trigger was noted to be heavy, breaking at over five pounds. Perceived recoil was described as substantial compared to contemporary .308 precision rifles, attributed to the thin rubber on the adjustable steel butt plate.
The M24's design reflects late-1980s technology, contrasting sharply with modern sniper systems that often feature advanced chassis platforms, higher magnification optics, and integrated forward rails for night vision devices. Its straightforward design embodies a functional simplicity that still resonates with shooters. Despite its age, the M24 holds significant legacy, representing the foundational development of modern precision shooting.
Upgrading the M24, particularly due to its long action, often requires specialized components. However, the sustained demand from the U.S. Army and foreign military users has driven innovation in aftermarket support. Notable modernization efforts include the IDF Modernization program for the M24, which integrates an MDT Chassis, demonstrating the continued adaptability and relevance of this venerable platform.
