What Rifle Did Chris Kyle Use?
Chris Kyle, the legendary American sniper, used the McMillan Tac-50 during his time in the United States Navy’s SEAL Team 3. The Tac-50 is a high-powered, bolt-action sniper rifle designed for long-range engagements. Kyle used this rifle to make a record-breaking 160 confirmed kills during his four tours in Iraq.
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Why the Tac-50?
Chris Kyle chose the Tac-50 for several reasons. First, the rifle’s accuracy and reliability were unmatched. The Tac-50 features a 1.5-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel and a McMillan-style adjustable stock, allowing for a high level of precision and customization. Second, the rifle’s long-range capabilities made it ideal for the type of engagements Kyle encountered in Iraq. The Tac-50 is capable of firing rounds out to 2,000 yards or more, making it an effective weapon for engaging targets at long range.
Tac-50 Specifications
Here are some key specifications of the McMillan Tac-50:
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .50 BMG (12.7x99mm) |
| Barrel Length | 36 inches (91.4 cm) |
| Overall Length | 55.5 inches (141.3 cm) |
| Weight | 34.5 pounds (15.6 kg) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | Up to 2,700 feet per second (823 m/s) |
| Effective Range | Up to 2,000 yards (1,829 meters) |
Kyle’s Tac-50 Setup
Chris Kyle’s Tac-50 setup was highly customized to suit his needs. He typically used a Leupold & Stevens 6.5-20x50mm scope, which provided him with a clear and precise sight picture at long range. Kyle also used a McMillan adjustable cheekpiece, which allowed him to get a comfortable shooting position, even in full gear.
Kyle’s Shooting Technique
Chris Kyle was known for his exceptional shooting technique, which played a crucial role in his success as a sniper. Here are some key elements of his technique:
- Steady breathing: Kyle would take deep breaths to calm his nerves and steady his hand.
- Focal point: He would focus on a specific point, such as the sniper’s scope, to maintain a steady sight picture.
- Trigger control: Kyle would squeeze the trigger slowly and deliberately, taking into account the rifle’s recoil and the target’s distance.
- Follow-through: After firing, he would keep his eyes on the target and maintain his shooting position, ready to adjust for wind or other environmental factors.
Conclusion
Chris Kyle’s choice of the McMillan Tac-50 was a testament to his understanding of the importance of precision and reliability in a sniper rifle. The Tac-50’s long-range capabilities and accuracy made it an ideal weapon for Kyle’s work as a sniper. His highly customized setup, combined with his exceptional shooting technique, allowed him to make a record-breaking 160 confirmed kills during his time in Iraq.
