The MK17 Medium Range Semi-Automatic Sniper System (MRSASS) is a variant of  SWORD’s MK-17 rifle and has been purpose built to serve as the ultimate semi-automatic sniper system. SWORD started with an AR-10 design familiar to both U.S. and coalition troops, then completely changed the operating system with our proprietary and robust short-stroke piston system. SWORD Defense’s proprietary PURG-E system delivers outstanding reliability and durability, while eliminating fouling and carbon build up. The MRSASS comes equipped with either a  16″ or 20″ barrel based on user preference, with a 1:7.5 twist rate. The MRSASS utilizes a free-floating forend system with MLOK compatible slots at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions along with a full length picatinny at the 12 position. This allows the end user to adapt attachments to the rifle for modularity on the battlefield. We upgraded the traditional AR style rear charging handle with a non reciprocating side charging handle that eliminates negatives such as charging handle impingement malfunctions and blow back in the operators face during suppressed operation. The rifles’ ergonomics make weapon manipulation easy and intuitive due to its ambidextrous bolt catch/release control design, located outside the trigger well and built into the rifle it allows the operator to maintain fire control while using the same lever for catch and release. The MRSASS s available as a stand alone rifle or as a complete weapons system which includes suppressor, bi-pod, sling and optic. Employment of this rifle system gives the end user a lighter weight, more accurate, and reliable answer to the compact sniper system requirement.