Incorporating long-range lethality with superior accuracy, both M110 and SR-25 are heavily relied upon by designated marksmen. Knight’s Armament’s SR-25 was, theoretically, modified quite a bit to give the militarily adored M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System (SASS).
The M110 was originally a replacement for the M24; while the SR-25 was designed originally by Eugene Stoner and later developed by Knights Armament Company.
Aside from the overall structure and gear, the AR-10-type rifles are distinct in that while the M110 is primarily used by law enforcement agencies, SR-25 is a comrade for civilian marksman for long-range precision.
Here we delve into the differences and help you decide which one is better for you.
Size and Appearance
Although the duo has mostly similar dimensions, SR-25 is bulkier:
| M110 | SR-25 | |
| Barrel length | 20 inches | 24 inches |
| Width | 2.5 inches | 2.5 inches |
| Height | 8 inches | 8 inches |
| Overall length | 42.8 inches | 39.75 inches |
| Weight | 8.5 pounds | 9.5 pounds |
These are general sizes and may vary with the various configurations and models of the rifles.
The M110 rifle integrates sophisticated form and function with its black polymer stock in a compact package. The SR-25, however, is a more time-honored rifle with a black composite layout, an extended rail system, and a side-mounted charging handle. The M110 has a charging handle mounted on the back and a URX rail system.
Feel In Hand
Considering both rifles take after the AR-10 platform, they are pretty similar in comfort and feel in hand. Although depending upon the preferences of the user, the SR-25 being larger and heavier does create some differences.
Featuring a longer handguard, SR-25 provides a better grip and more space for customization. The additional weight in contrast to the M110 also puts together the SR-25 as a more stable and balanced rifle that is easier to control.
But remember the heavier the rifle becomes, the tougher it gets to maneuver around. Also, a weightier receiver makes it harder to shoulder.
Specifications
Similarly chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the gas-piston operated guns have some key contrasting specifications:
Handguard: As mentioned above, the longer handguard of SR25 enables a secure grip and relatively more space.
Barrel: Longer barrels give room for greater accuracy, performance, and velocity, giving SR25 the lead here too.
Weight: As previously discussed, the added weight increases stability in M110, but retards maneuverability.
Stock: SR-25 has a SOPMOD stock that can be used on all the M4 family rifles. On the other hand, M110 features a non-adjustable, fixed buttstock, very similar to the triangle stock that comes on a traditional M16.
Sight: The M110 showcases a standard integrated optic, while the SR-25 possesses iron sights.
Ambidextrous Controls: The standard M110 has ambidextrous controls whereas the SR-25 does not.
Trigger: The M110 boasts a match-grade trigger, which allows competent precision. The SR-25 comes with a 4.5lb, 2-Stage Match Trigger, which in my opinion is much better when compared to the stock M110 trigger.
Compressor: The M110 features a KAC QD suppressor, while the SR-25 does not.
Accessory options: The longer handguard allows SR-25 to be more adaptive in terms of accessories.
Shooting Experience
To begin, know that M110 and SR-25, both unleash supreme precision and are formidable weapons on the field.
Range: SR-25 is specifically designed for long-range precision shooting with accuracy, and therefore it has a cut above the other. It can fire accurately over a distance of 800-1000 meters, while the M110 can go up to 800 meters.
Recoil: The SR-25 with its bulkier form may retard felt recoil, making the experience more comfortable.
Sight: The M110 can level up your shooting with its standard integrated optic, which allows more of a streamlined experience. And for some shooters, SR-25’s iron sights- which require manual adjustments, may not be as favorable.
Conceal Carry and Draw
None of the two AR-type rifles are meant to be concealed. They are long-range guns and are burly. Closed-quarters situations don’t go well with their sizes as well.
However, because the M110 is lighter (shorter barrel and handguard), it is significantly more portable than the SR-25, therefore easier to carry. A sling can also help both of them in this aspect.
The smaller stock also gives the M110 greater practicality, permitting rapid shouldering and firing. The SR-25’s fixed stock with a long receiver, however, can not relate.
Reload and Magazine/ Clip
The M110 and SR-25 both benefit from 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition. Both use 20-round detachable box magazines; but depending on different models, configurations, locations, and manufacturers, they can have 10 or 25-round capacities too. Not all are legal everywhere, though!
The two also share the same reloading technique, magazine retention systems, and magazine wells due to the similar AR-10-based design. Also, since these rifles aren’t intended for close combat, they have a slower reloading speed.
Safety
The M110 and SR-25 are both reliable with several safety features to deter accidental discharge. There is no big difference here and both feature manual safety mechanisms, trigger guards, firing pins, magazine safeties and bolt catches.
Price and Value for Money
The two Designated Marksman Rifles (DMR), are both premium guns. As heavy as they are on the range, they come with an equally weighty price tag too. The exact cost might vary according to different models, locations, and manufacturers, with the M110 being more expensive than the SR-25.
Needless to mention, the duo provides excellent value for money. They are precision beasts that pack a punch on the field and are highly respected among military and civilian marksmen. The M110 can typically be priced around $11,000 and the SR-25 can be found for mostly between $6,000 and $8,000.
Also, these may not be commonly found at retail shops, rather they are present with either specialty retailers or manufacturers. I had a really hard time finding these from a reputable retailer to recommend to you guys. All I could find is this great example of a KAC SR-25, over at Guns.com.
Conclusion
Both gas-operated rifles are highly respected among expert shooters and in incredible demand in competitive shooting. While the SR-25 offers a slight edge over M110 in precision and accuracy with its longer handguard, barrel, and greater weight, it by no means has a full advantage over the latter.
Comparatively, the M110 is much lighter and more modulatory. The state-of-the-art rifle is particularly versatile, making it an ultimate weapon for law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters. Plus, it sets the standard for maneuverability in the field, while SR-25 can be cumbersome to carry.
In the end, it is up to the intended use of the individual and specific preferences that can determine which rifle may be the one.
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