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Today we’re taking a look at the Barrett that never was, the XM109 AMPR.
Originally known as the Objective Sniper Weapon (OSW), the XM109 now bears the designation Anti-Material Payload Rifle (AMPR). Using the existing lower receiver from the M82/M107 rifle, Barrett built proprietary upper receiver and magazine to accommodate a much larger new cartridge. Utilizing a five-round box magazine, the Barrett XM109 would fire 25x59mm grenades in order to engage hard targets such as light armored vehicles.
25 mm rounds for the XM109: XM1050 TP and XM1049 HEDP
Weighing in at 33.2lbs (15.1kg) the XM109 only a few pounds heavier than the original M107 at 30.9lbs (14.0kg). Barrel length is more of a departure from the norm, as the XM109 is limited to a single 17.6in (45cm) barrel. Barrett M82’s and M107’s have a variety of 20-29in (51-74cm) barrels to choose from.
Prototypes for this particular weapon have been around since the ’90s. It was only in 2002 that is was first tested for effectiveness. In 2004 there were only 10 known prototypes of the XM109 in existence. Eventually, the XM109 and some of its Barrett counterparts were folded into a broader Anti-Material Rifle Congressional Program in 2006. Little information regarding the status of the XM109 has been made available since that time. Leaving us to wonder if the weapon has been canceled.
What is known about this rifle, is that it packs quite a punch to the shooter’s shoulder. Even with the muzzle brake, the recoil force of the XM109 was over 60 foot-pounds, compared to the 36 foot-pounds generated by the M107. Ammunition itself, is another question, as weapons like the XM307 (that fired the same round) have since been canceled.
Who knows what the future holds for this scoped grenade launcher. One can only hope this program isn’t dead in the water.
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