FR F2

The FR F2 remains the standard sniper rifle of the French Army. It is a bolt-action operated system built upon the strengths of the FR-F1 before it.

After the FR F1 sniper rifle was put into practical use, some improvements were requested by the French Army, resulting in the all-new FR F2. The FR F2 remains largely unchanged from her predecessor with perhaps the biggest difference between the two rifles being the use of a thermal sleeve which encompasses the barrel. This not only dissipated any heat signature developed by the barrel as seen through an enemy's infrared vision device, it also reduced the affects of heat haze contaminating the telescopic sight view as well as reflective glints.

Additional improvements resulted in the bipod assembly being relocated closer to the receiver allowing for easier adjustments without the operator having to lurch forward. The bipod hangs off of a yoke fitted to the aft portion of the barrel. The barrel is of 21.73 inches in length and is of a 4 groove, right-hand twist attachment. The forend if constructed of steel and the weapon operated from a 10-round detachable box magazine, this inserted just ahead of the trigger group. Ammunition is of the 7.62x51mm NATO standard. The proven bolt-action system of the FR F1 - itself the same system as found in the 1936 MAS-36 infantry bolt-action rifle - remains unchanged in the improved FR F2. Standard-issue telescopic sights include the SCROME J8 and APX L806 series allowing for precision at up to 800 meters.

Construction was provided initially by Manufacture d'Armes St. Etienne (MAS), which became a part of GIAT Industries and, itself, is now known as NEXTER.

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Last Updated: 11/11/2009