IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz)

Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle / Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR)

Israel | 1983

"The Galil Assault Rifle family was broadened to include an accurized sniper rifle model form in the IMI Galil Sniper - or Galatz."

Authored By: Staff Writer | Last Edited: 12/14/2017 | Content ©www.MilitaryFactory.com | The following text is exclusive to this site; No A.I. was used in the generation of this content.

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With the success of the IMI Galil within the Israeli Army and those of other participating foreign nations, it was only natural to continue to evolve the family line. This resulted in developments beyond the basic assault rifle and included a shortened carbine form, a submachine gun-like micro-assault rifle form for special operations and the Designated Marksman Rifle variant of 1996. Back in 1983, the Galil was also branched to include a dedicated sniping platform based on the form and function of the Galil, itself based on the Soviet AK-47 by way of the Finnish Valmet M62 series.

The Galil Sniper - or "Galatz" - was brought about an IDF need for an accurate, long range version of its Galil platform. The 5.56x45mm NATO chambering of the original Galil was changed in favor of the larger and heavier 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge which offered better performance at longer ranges. The basic Galil gas-operated, rotating bolt function was kept, as was the receiver housing the charging handle, ejection port, fire selector and all important internal components. The gas cylinder was fitted over the barrel in true Kalashnikov style while the two-strut folding stock allowed for a more compact weapon when transporting. The firing action (through a two-stage trigger) was, however, limited to semi-automatic fire which played well with the precision side of the weapon. The stock also held an adjustable cheekpiece and recoil pad for added comfort. Key additions to the design were a heavy duty precision barrel, an adjustable folding bipod and a standard telescopic sight (Nimrod 6x40). The barrel was heavier than in the base Galil and capped by a dual-use muzzle brake/muzzle compensator attachment. The bipod was fitted just ahead of the magazine feed, within easy reach of the operator. The bipod folded forwards up against the forestock when not needed. The scope mounting was found along the left side of the receiver while the stock folding over the right side - though not impeding gun functionality in any way. Iron sights were retained as a backup measure to the standard scope.

The Galatz was modernized in the SR-99 model which added a lighter-weight adjustable skeletal stock and synthetic pistol grip and handguard.

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Physical
The physical qualities of the IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz). Information presented is strictly for general reference and should not be misconstrued as useful for hardware restoration or operation.

1,115 mm
43.90 in
O/A Length

508 mm
20.00 in
Barrel Length

14.11 lb
6.40 kg
Weight

Gas-Operated; Rotating Bolt
Action

7.62x51mmNATO
Caliber(s)

20-round detachable box magazine
Feed

Adjustable Iron; Optional Optics
Sights

Performance
Performance specifications presented assume optimal operating conditions for the IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz). Information presented is strictly for general reference and should not be misconstrued as useful for hardware restoration or operation.

2,674 ft/sec
815 m/sec
Muzzle Velocity

Variants
Notable series variants as part of the IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz) Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle / Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) family line.

Galil Sniper "Galatz" - Base Series Name; based on the Galil ARM and chambered for 7.62x51mm NATO; semi-automatic-fire-only; two-stage adjustable trigger; wooden folding buttstock.

SR-99 - Modernized variant of original Galatz rifle; synthetic pistol grip and handguard; skeletal stock.

Operators
Global customers who have evaluated and/or operated the IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz). Nations are displayed by flag, each linked to their respective national small arms listing.

Contractor(s): Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) (fmr Israeli Military Industries (IMI)) - Israel

[ India; Israel ]

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Design Qualities
Some designs are single-minded in their approach while others offer a more versatile solution to requirements.

ACCURACY/PRECISION

Recognition
Some designs stand the test of time while others are doomed to never advance beyond the drawing board; let history be their judge.

Military lapel ribbon representing modern aircraft

Going Further...
The IWI Galil Sniper (Galatz) Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle / Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) appears in the following collections:

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