Introduction
20mm sniper rifles are a specialized class of firearms, designed for extreme long-range engagements, anti-materiel purposes, and dealing with fortified or armored targets. These rifles are significantly larger and more powerful than the more common .50 caliber sniper rifles, providing unparalleled range and stopping power. Here is a list of some of the most notable 20mm sniper rifles, detailing their origins, manufacturers, history of usage, and the countries that deploy them.
1. Anzio 20mm Rifle
Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Anzio Iron Works
History of Usage: The Anzio 20mm Rifle is one of the most prominent American 20mm sniper rifles. It was developed to offer unmatched long-range firepower and has been used in various testing and training scenarios by military and law enforcement. It is also popular among civilian enthusiasts for long-range shooting competitions.
Countries Using It: Primarily used within the United States.
2. Lahti L-39
Origin: Finland
Manufacturer: Valtion Kivääritehdas
History of Usage: Originally designed during the Winter War against the Soviet Union, the Lahti L-39 was used primarily as an anti-tank weapon. Its role has since evolved, but it remains a historic example of 20mm weaponry. Despite its age, it is still revered for its durability and effectiveness.
Countries Using It: Finland (historically), some Eastern European countries.
3. Denel NTW-20
Origin: South Africa
Manufacturer: Denel Land Systems
History of Usage: Introduced in the late 1990s, the NTW-20 is known for its modular design, allowing the user to switch between different calibers, including 20mm. It has seen action in various African conflicts and has been adopted by several nations for its versatility and power.
Countries Using It: South Africa, several African and Middle Eastern nations.
4. Solothurn S-18/1000
Origin: Switzerland
Manufacturer: Waffenfabrik Solothurn
History of Usage: Developed in the 1930s, the Solothurn S-18/1000 was used extensively during World War II as an anti-tank rifle. It has since been retired from active military service but remains a popular collector’s item and is still occasionally seen in historical reenactments.
Countries Using It: Switzerland (historically), various European countries during WWII.
5. RT-20
Origin: Croatia
Manufacturer: RH-Alan
History of Usage: The RT-20 was developed during the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s. Its design was specifically for counter-sniper and anti-material roles, providing Croatian forces with a powerful tool against fortified positions and light armored vehicles.
Countries Using It: Croatia, used in conflicts in the Balkans.
6. Sero Gepard GM6 Lynx
Origin: Hungary
Manufacturer: Sero International
History of Usage: The Gepard GM6 Lynx is a modern semi-automatic anti-materiel rifle. Introduced in the early 21st century, it has been adopted by several military and special forces units for its combination of firepower and portability.
Countries Using It: Hungary, some NATO countries.
7. Vidhwansak
Origin: India
Manufacturer: Ordnance Factory Tiruchirappalli
History of Usage: Developed by the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Vidhwansak is a multi-caliber sniper rifle capable of firing 20mm rounds. It is designed for long-range engagements and anti-material roles, providing the Indian armed forces with a versatile and powerful weapon.
Countries Using It: India.
8. Barrett XM109
Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Barrett Firearms Manufacturing
History of Usage: The XM109 is an offshoot of the popular Barrett M82 platform, designed to fire 25mm rounds. However, the development includes configurations for 20mm ammunition. It is intended for use in anti-material roles, targeting vehicles, and fortifications.
Countries Using It: United States, some NATO allies.
9. Mauser Tankgewehr M1918
Origin: Germany
Manufacturer: Mauser
History of Usage: The Tankgewehr M1918 was the world’s first anti-tank rifle, developed during World War I to counter the advent of armored warfare. It set the precedent for future large-caliber sniper and anti-tank rifles.
Countries Using It: Germany (historically), used in various capacities during and after WWI.
10. Pfeifer Zeliska .600 Nitro Express
Origin: Austria
Manufacturer: Pfeifer Waffen
History of Usage: Though primarily a custom-made firearm and not widely used by military forces, the Zeliska .600 Nitro Express is notable for its incredible power. It has seen use primarily among enthusiasts and for demonstration purposes, showcasing the extreme capabilities of large-caliber firearms.
Countries Using It: Custom-made, primarily in Austria.
Conclusion
20mm sniper rifles represent the pinnacle of long-range and anti-material firepower, combining immense stopping power with precision engineering. Each rifle on this list has a unique history and has served different roles, from anti-tank warfare in the early 20th century to modern anti-material operations. These rifles are used by military forces around the world, showcasing their versatility and enduring relevance in various combat scenarios.