E. · Sniper Rifle
RSASS
Gas-operated (direct impingement) · 7.62x51mm NATO · introduced 2009
Also known as Remington Semi-Automatic Sniper System, Remington RSASS, XM2010 competitor
About the RSASS
The Remington Semi-Automatic Sniper System (RSASS) is a precision semi-automatic rifle developed by Remington Defense for military special operations and law enforcement applications. Built on an AR-10-type platform with a direct impingement gas system, the RSASS features a 558mm (22-inch) match-grade stainless steel barrel and a Geissele two-stage match trigger, delivering sub-MOA accuracy from a semi-automatic platform. The rifle was developed in collaboration with US Naval Special Warfare operators who provided input on ergonomics, weight distribution, and operational requirements. The RSASS uses a free-floating handguard with full-length Picatinny rails, accepts standard SR-25/M110 pattern magazines, and features an adjustable Magpul PRS stock. The rifle represents Remington Defense's entry into the precision semi-automatic market, competing directly with the Knight's Armament SR-25/M110 and the HK417 platform.
The RSASS was born from direct collaboration between Remington Defense engineers and Navy SEAL snipers who wanted a lighter, more accurate alternative to the Knight's Armament M110. Despite its technical merits, the RSASS ultimately lost the CSASS competition to the HK G28E (M110A1), though it found a dedicated following among special operations units and federal agencies who appreciated its match-grade accuracy and refined ergonomics.
RSASS specifications
General
- Type
- Sniper Rifle
- Action
- Gas-operated (direct impingement)
- Firing mechanism
- Hammer-fired
- Trigger
- Two stage
- Trigger pull
- 2.0 kg (4.5 lb)
- Calibres
- 7.62x51mm NATO
- Magazine capacity
- 20 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 558 mm (22.0 in)
- Overall length
- 1067 mm (42.0 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 5.20 kg (11.46 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 5.80 kg (12.79 lb)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:11 in (292 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
- Grooves
- 5
Materials
- Barrel
- Match grade stainless steel
- Receiver / frame
- Aluminum alloy
- Stock
- Polymer composite
- Finish
- matte_black
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 840 m/s (2756 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 3353 J (2473 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 800 m
History
- Introduced
- 2009
- Discontinued
- 2020
- Production status
- Discontinued
- Country of origin
- US
Features
- Free floating barrel
- Match grade barrel
- Adjustable buttstock
- Accessory rail
- Quad rail handguard
- Match grade trigger
- Suppressor ready
- Flash hider
Safety
- Manual safety
- Firing pin safety
The RSASS was developed with significant input from Navy SEAL snipers and was initially designed to compete for the US military's Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System (CSASS) program. The rifle uses a JP Enterprises silent captured spring buffer system to reduce felt recoil and bolt carrier velocity. The match-grade barrel is manufactured from 416R stainless steel with 5R rifling, which features five grooves with a shallower land-to-groove transition for reduced bullet deformation and easier cleaning. Production ended when Remington Arms filed for bankruptcy in 2020. The RSASS achieved limited but notable adoption among US special operations forces and federal law enforcement agencies.
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