The Department of Homeland Security recently released a Sources Sought Notice on behalf of US Secret Service to inform a requirement for a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 6.5 CM.
According to the document, the USSS-Office of Training has a need to replace its inventory of M110 SASS rifle systems in 7.62 NATO to better serve our Agency’s needs.
They desire a weapon with a common manual and of arms to the current M110. Additionally, they are seeking the following characteristics:
The weapon shall be operable, without modification or alteration, by a right or left-handed user, firing with the right or left hand, depending on handedness, (Fully ambidextrous).
All external metal parts of the weapon shall have a dark subdued, rust/corrosion resistant finish. The finish shall be unaffected by commercially available gun cleaning solvents, such as Simple Green, used in heated ultrasonic cleaning tanks. Flaking, peeling, blotching, etc. of the finish is unacceptable.
The weapon shall be chambered in accordance with current SAAMI Specifications in 6.5 Creedmoor, and function with assorted ammunition ranging in weight from 130-145 grain (to include all common SAAMI-spec and Mil-Spec ammunition).
The weapon shall utilize a direct-impingement gas-operated system or a short-stroke gas piston system.
The barrel shall have a minimum service life of 3,500 rounds, (weapon systems will be tested to 5000 rounds).
Barrel service life is defined as not exceeding 1.5 Minutes-of-Angle and exhibiting no more than 150 ft/sec decrease in velocity (in accordance with USSS velocity testing procedures), with observance of offeror’s submitted maintenance protocols.
The muzzle should be equipped with the appropriate attachment device for mating with the included sound suppressor. If a muzzle device is utilized it should be installed with shims as necessary. Crush washers are not acceptable.
The Rifle shall be supplied with a suppressor, both Quick detachable or direct thread is acceptable.
The trigger shall be of two stage design and weight shall be 3.5 lbs. min and 5.0 lbs. max.
The weapon shall be equipped with a Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny attachment rail on the top of the receiver for mounting of optics, iron sights, lasers, etc.
The weapon shall have a modular free-floating handguard assembly measuring no less than 11 inches and no more than 16 inches of functional/configurable rail space(measured along the 6:00 o’clock position of the rail).
Total length combined between the upper receiver and handguard must be at least 19 inches of Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny rail at the 12 o’clock position. Measurement will begin at forward edge rear most slot and be measured to the forward edge of the foremost slot.
The butt stock shall be quickly adjustable for length of pull and cheek weld without the use of any tools. The butt stock shall have, at minimum total of six positions, including fully extended and fully collapsed.
Dimensions:
Height (no taller than, w/o accessories or magazine) …………………..…..7.75 inches
Weight including suppressor (no heavier than, w/o accessories) ……………9.5 pounds. (the folding stock sample will not be weighed).
O/A Length (no longer than, w/stock fully collapsed) …………….………40 inches.
Barrel length (min – max) ………………….….……………………15.5-16.5 inches.
The department plans to issue the actual solicitation for procurement of 50-150 rifles plus associated equipment and documentation later this year via a multi-year Firm Fixed Price Contract vehicle.
