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Navy

Navy SEAL Weapons and Gear

Navy SEALs are considered one of the most elite special op forces in the U.S. Military.

So, as you would expect, they carry an impressive arsenal of some of the most sophisticated and powerful weapons known to mankind.

Have you ever wondered what types of weapon and gear you would deal with if you were in the Navy SEALs?

We have put together a list of assault rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles, shotguns, handguns, and other equipment used by the special ops group with specifics regarding each weapon.

Note: The weapons noted on this page are all public knowledge. No classified weapons are listed for obvious reasons. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a firearm in the US.

Jump To A Weapon Category

Assault Rifles

M4A1

The M4A1 assault weapon. Image: Wikipedia

Specs

Caliber: 5.56 mm x 44 mm NATO
Weight: 5.56 lbs. or 6.65 lbs. loaded
Length: 33 inches (stock extended); 29.8 inches (retracted)
Barrel Length: 14.5 inches
Range: 600 meters with M193 round
Muzzle velocity: 3,020 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 30 rounds

The M4A1 assault rifle has been used by the SEAL teams since it was introduced into service in 1994.

It is a personal favorite among U.S. Special Operations Forces due to its versatility, power, and range.

The M4A1 has a maximum effective range of between 550 to 660 yards. [Ref: 1]

The fully automatic trigger produces a more consistent trigger pull, leading to increased accuracy, although the fully automatic function is rarely (if ever) used.

The M4A1 varies between a safe/semi-auto/automatic trigger and safe/semi-auto/3-round burst configurations. [Ref: 2]

The M4A1 uses a 5.56 mm x 44 mm NATO caliber and is gas operated with a rotating bolt action.

The carbine is normal fed with 30-round STANAG magazines.

stanag magazines
Image: Wikipedia.org

The assault rifle is capable of being customized in a number of ways.

The M4A1 can be adapted based on the demands of an individual mission and will support various mounting scopes, sights, and carrying handles.

Additionally, some M4 assault weapons are mounted with grenade launchers like the M203 or M320.

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the M4A1 from Palmetto State Armory.

MK18 CQBR

The CQBR is offered in a few different variations, including the M4A1. Image: Wikipedia

Specs

Caliber: 5.56mm x 45mm NATO
Weight: 5.9 lbs. or 6.9 lbs. loaded
Length: 29.45 inches (stock extended); 26.25 inches (retracted)

Barrel Length: 10.3 inches

Range: 300 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,600 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 30 rounds

The Close Quarter Battle Receiver, which is generally shortened to the abbreviation CQBR, is a type of MK18 assault rifle that is incredibly important to Navy SEAL operations.

The MK18 CQBR features a 10.3-inch barrel that is comparable to the Colt Commando short-barreled M16 version. [Ref: 3]

A shorter barrel not only helps make the weapon more compact but also makes it easier to use in close quarters.

It enables soldiers to swiftly operate in and around vehicles and other tight, confined spaces.

Special units like the Navy SEALs generally have more of a use for the MK18 CQBR compared to traditional military squads.

As a result, the MK18 CQBR enables special operatives to have the striking power of an assault rifle yet with the compactness much more comparable to a submachine gun.

The MK18 CQBR is generally assigned for missions like hostage rescues, VIP protection, and very secretive missions.

The CQBR was originally a Naval Special Warfare exclusive weapon though it is now used by other special op groups such as Green Berets and Maritime Security Response Teams (MSRTs).

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the MK18 from Palmetto State Armory.

MK 16 SCAR-L

navy seals use scar-l
SCAR-L. Image: Fnherstal.com

Specs

Caliber: 5.56mm x 45mm NATO
Weight: 6.7 lbs. (CQC); 7.25 lbs. (standard); 7.7 lbs. (LB)
Length: 31 inches (CQC); 35 inches (standard); 39 inches (LB) 
Barrel Length: 10 inches (short); 14 inches (standard): 18 inches (LB)
Range: 300 meters (CQC); 500 meters (Standard); 600 meters (LB)
Muzzle velocity: 2,870 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 20 rounds STANAG magazine

The MK 16 SCAR-L is relatively new to elite forces such as Navy SEALs.

The special assault weapon features a 5.56 mm caliber-style rifle that is slowly weaning out previous types of assault rifles such as the CQBR and M4A1.

One reason the MK 16 SCAR-L is becoming popular with special ops is that it can be configured in a number of ways.

There are three different barrel options. The standard version is 14 inches, as well as a shortened 10-inch barrel for close-quarter combat.

The 18-inch barrel works really well in long-distance combat. 

You can swap barrels quickly when out in the field, making it very practical for a variety of purposes from close-quarter warfare to long-distance shooting. [Ref: 4]

The stock is also adjustable, as operatives can also extend, collapse, or fold it over when in the field.

SCAR-Ls have all been offloaded in favor of 5.56mm conversion kits for SCAR-H.

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the MK16 from Palmetto State Armory.

MK 17 SCAR-H

fn scar-h std
SCAR-H. Image: Fnherstal.com

Specs

Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO
Weight: 7.7 lbs. (CQC); 7.9 lbs. (standard); 8.2 lbs. (LB)
Length: 35 inches (CQC); 38 inches (standard); 42 inches (LB)
Barrel Length: 13 inches (CQC); 16 inches (standard); 20 inches (LB)
Range: 300 meters (CQC); 600 meters (Standard); 800 meters (LB)
Muzzle velocity: 2,342 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 20 rounds

The MK 17 SCAR-H is comparable to the MK 16 SCAR-L in a variety of ways.

The two assault rifles are becoming more of the norm out in the field for SEALs.

SOCOM is slowly phasing out previous weapons with the newer MK 17 SCAR-H.

Like the MK 16 SCAR-L, SOF really likes the MK 17 SCAR-H because it has so many variations.

The assault rifle has three different types of barrels — all of which can be interchanged quickly.

The standard barrel is 16 inches. A close-quarters combat version is offered at 13 inches.

The longest barrel for the SCAR-H is 20 inches.

The MK 17 SCAR-H also offers four Picatinny rails.

The rails are featured on the weapon both sides, the top, and the bottom.

The rails are designed to mount any type of MIML-STD-1913 compatible accessory.

These include items like optics, foregrips, and even grenade launchers. [Ref: 5]

The MK 17 SCAR-H was heavily used in Afghanistan and will likely continue to serve a major purpose in SOF thanks to its combination of accuracy, light weight, and stopping power.

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the MK 17 from Palmetto State Armory.

MK14 EBR (no longer used, for reference only)

mk14 ebr used by SEALs
No longer in use by Navy SEALs, the MK14 was once a versatile weapon. Image: Fulton-Armory.com

Specs

Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO
Weight: 11.24 lbs.; 14 lbs. loaded
Length: 35 inches
Barrel Length: 18 inches; 22 inches (EBR-RI)
Range: 600 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,800 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 20 rounds

The MK 14 Enhanced Battle Rifle is generally shortened to the abbreviation MK14 EBR.

The American-produced weapon is designed for selective fire for skilled marksmen.

The 7.62×51 mm caliber shoots out some serious lead.

The MK14 EBR is a variant of the M14 rifle, which was originally designed exclusively for forces like Delta Force and Navy SEALs.

Related ArticleDelta Force (SFOD-D): Selection, Training, Motto, and More

The MK14 EBR is fairly versatile.

It is capable of being handled by a skilled marksman in both close quarters or for more long-distance targets.

Since 2010, the U.S. Army has approved two types of the M14 for use in the military.

Most of the arsenal was sent to assist the combat in Afghanistan. 

A set of Picatinny rails allowed the MK14 EBR to be customized in a variety of ways. [Ref: 6]

Operatives often added scopes or laser-pointing systems for starters.

Mk 14s are no longer used and were phased out when the SCAR-H came online.

Automatic Weapons/Machine Guns

M249 SAW Machine Gun

The M249 SAW is a well-known machine gun used in the military. Image: Flickr

Specs

Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO
Weight: 17 lbs. empty; 22 lbs. loaded with 200-round belt
Length: 40.75 inches
Barrel Length: 18 inches; 21 inches
Range: 700 meters w/18 inch barrel; 800 meters w/21 inch barrel
Muzzle velocity: 3,000 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 200 belt or 30 magazine

The M249 Light Machine Gun – LMG – was formerly known as the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), which confuses some people.

The M249 LMG is an American adaptation of a light machine gun that was produced by a Belgian manufacturer called the FN Minimi.

The American version is currently produced in Columbia, South Carolina.

The M249 LMG was first introduced to the U.S. military in 1984 as the machine gun became preferred by troops over other attempts to recreate a similar weapon.

The M249 is renowned for being able to produce a high rate of fire yet still being highly accurate. [Ref: 7]

It is also portable for swift, prompt missions, such as many of the ones carried out by SOF.

Interestingly enough, the M249 SAW/LMG is gas operated and air cooled. It allows operatives to quickly change the barrel in the event it gets overheated or jammed.

The folding bipod near the front of the gun helps with accuracy. 

The weapon may be fed with either linked ammunition belts or STANAG magazines.

It is a really great backup plan in the event the soldier runs out of linked rounds and needs a quick source of firepower. 

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the M249 from Palmetto State Armory.

M240

The M240 automatic machine gun. Image: Flickr

Specs

Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO
Weight: 27.6 lbs.
Length: 49.7 inches
Barrel Length: 24.8 inches; 21.7 inches
Range: 600 meters to 1,800 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,800 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: Belt

“The M240 is a powerful medium-range automatic weapon utilized by the United States military.”

The machine gun is gas-operated and belt-fed. [Ref: 8]

It has been used by the U.S. military since the late 1970s, used mainly by infantry.

Though infantry initially had the biggest use for the M240, there is also a need for it among special operation forces.

It may be heavier than other weapons in their arsenal yet soldiers appreciate the reliability of the M240.

There are very few automatic weapons with such a stellar reputation for dependability.

The M240 is often mounted on military vehicles like helicopters, boats, and GMVs.

Though it can get carried on foot some soldiers opt for a rifle that is not quite as bulky.

Consequently, the M240 often works best when mounted on a tripod and fitted with a spade grip trigger and sight for heavily sustained fire.

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the M249 from Palmetto State Armory.

M2

The M2 is one of the most legendary machine guns in the U.S. military. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO)
Weight: 84 lbs.
Length: 65.1 inches
Barrel Length: 45 inches
Range: 1,800 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,910 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: Belt-fed

The M2 is a legendary weapon in the U.S. military.

It has origins that date back to the 1920s when it was developed by John Browning. [Ref: 9]

Despite weapons being constantly updated and improved, it is impressive that the M2 machine gun remains a viable option for the modern military, even special ops.

One of the most distinctive features of the M2 is that it unleashes devastating .50 BMG rounds at its enemy.

The high caliber, rapid-fire release amazingly can travel over a mile.

The rounds are even capable of taking on light armored vehicles.

Previous demonstrations have witnessed M2 rounds penetrate concrete walls.

Needless to say, special ops groups like Navy SEALs appreciate the M2 in heavy combat situations.

It can strike hard and fast. The M2 is often mounted to a vehicle, boat, or aircraft.

Every major conflict, from World War II to the War in Afghanistan, saw the M2 in action.

Note: There aren’t any legal / comparable civilian versions of the M2.

Handguns

Sig Sauer P226

sig sauer p226 used by navy seals
The SIG Saucer P226 is a dependable backup handgun for a Navy SEAL. Image: Wikipedia.org

Specs

Caliber: 9mm x 19mm 
Weight: 2.12 lbs.
Length: 7.7 inches
Barrel Length: 4.4 inches
Range: 50 meters
Muzzle velocity: 1,500 ft. / second 
Magazine capacity: 15 round detachable

The Sig Sauer P226 is a semi-automatic weapon that is one of the most reliable handguns on the market.

It has been famously used by U.S. Navy SEALs since the early 1980s.

The 9mm pistol is compact and the designated carrying pistol for any SEAL.

Sig Sauer pistols are designed in Switzerland, however they are manufactured in both the United States and Germany.

The mechanically-locked, recoil operated single and double action design is the Sig Sauer P226’s most distinct feature. [Ref: 10]

Click Here to pick up the Sig P226 from Palmetto State Armory.

Glock 19

The Glock 19 handgun. Image: PIxabay

Specs

Caliber: 9 mm x 19mm
Weight: 1.32 lbs.
Length: 7.36 inches
Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
Range: 36-45 meters
Muzzle velocity: 1,230 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: Various (6, 10, 15, 17, 19, 31, or 33 round detachable box magazines); Also 50 round detachable drum magazine

“Glock” is one of those rare instances that a gun only needs to get mentioned by a single name to let you know it is the real deal.

Of course Glock has one of the best reputations, especially among handguns, so elite forces like to have something like it to rely on in backup situations.

The Glock 19 is essentially a reduced version of the Glock 17.

The compact version was first introduced in 1988 and is a reliable handgun. [Ref: 11]

The operation is extremely reliable with a short 102 mm barrel and a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds.

Click Here to pick up the Glock 19 from Palmetto State Armory.

HK45C

The HK45C handgun. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: .45 ACP
Weight: 1.56 lbs.
Length: 7.2 inches
Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
Range: 50 meters
Muzzle velocity: 1,080 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 8 or 10 round detachable

The HK45C is another popular choice among SEALS, especially elite forces like SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU).

Related Article:  DEVGRU: Selection, Squadrons, Gear, Notable Missions, And More

The compact pistol has exceptional accuracy for a handgun thanks to front and rear sights.

The extended threaded barrel supports suppressors.

Soldiers have the option between feeding the HK45C with 8 or 10 round magazines. [Ref: 12]

It has been reported that special Navy ops use infrared laser sights over the rail along with a number of other accessories.

Click Here to pick up the HK45C from Palmetto State Armory.

Shotguns

Benelli M4 Super 90

benelli m4 shotgun
Image: Wikimedia.org

Specs

Caliber: 12 gauge
Weight: 8.42 lbs.
Length: 35 inches (stock retracted); 40 inches (stock extended)
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Range: 50 meters
Muzzle velocity: 1,340 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 7+1 rounds

The Benelli M4 Super 90 is a rare gas-operated semi-auto shotgun.

Due to its gas-operated technology, the U.S. Navy SEALs have come to depend on it when needing the use of a close-range shotgun.

The M4 Super 90 is a very reliable tactical shotgun.

The auto regulating gas operated (A.R.G.O.) bypasses the need for the complex mechanisms of most shotguns because the short-stroke design uses two stainless steel pistons ahead of the chamber to function opposite the rotating bolt.

The A.R.G.O. mechanism only uses four parts, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure out in the field.

The M4 Super 90 also offers different versions of cartridges. The weapon can fire off 70 mm or 76 mm shells without any operator adjustments.

The shotgun also offers a ghost ring military-style sight with various other features that can be reconfigured.

The buttstock also collapses in order to shorten the shotgun by 5 inches.

Click Here to pick up the civilian-legal version of the Benelli M4 from Palmetto State Armory.

Sniper Rifles

MK12 Mod 1 (no longer used, for reference only)

The MK12 Mod 1 is designed specifically for SOF. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: 5.56 mm x 45 mm NATO
Weight: 10 lbs.
Length: 37.5 inches
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Range: 700 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,750 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 20 or 30 rounds

The MK12 Mod 1 serves as a special variant of the M16 series of weapons.

The MK12 Mod 1 was created specifically for Navy SEALs that sought a far more compact type of sniper rifle.

As a result, the MK12 Mod 1 was developed and to much fanfare.

The sniper rifle features a threaded-muzzle match-grade free floating stainless steel heavy barrel and has its own distinct type of ammunition used for firing.

It is also semi-automatic while fed with 20 or 30 round STANAG magazines.

There are endless customization options for the MK12 Mod 1.

Operatives often upgrade the weapon with items such as improved optics or butt stocks.

The weapon was used extensively by SEALs during operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. [Ref: 13]

Mk 12 SPRs were withdrawn from service in 2017.

Improvements in the M4 platform, 5.56mm ammunition, and the proliferation of LPVOs like the Vortex Razor 1-6X made them pretty much obsolete.

Note: There aren’t any legal / comparable civilian versions of the MK12.

MK 11 MOD 0

The MK11 sniper rifle. Image: Flickr

Specs

Caliber: 7.62×51 mm NATO
Weight: 15.3 lbs.
Length: 45.5 inches
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Range: 1,370 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,951 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 10 or 20 rounds

The Mk 11 MOD 0 is part of a family of SR-25 rifles produced by the Knights Armaments Company

In the past, the MK11 version was most widely used by the U.S. Navy, while the Army prefers the M110.

The MK11 is considered more of a special ops version that is tactful in hunting down high-profile targets.

With that said, the Mk 11 configuration shown above is apparently no longer used.

The MK 11 MOD 0 was replaced with the sniper variant of the FN SCAR, the SSR Mk 20, by the end of 2017.

Furthermore, the 7.62 NATO round was also replaced in the semi-auto sniper role by 6.5 Creedmoor.

Note: There aren’t any legal/comparable civilian versions of the MK 11.

M91A2

The M91A2 sniper rifle is capable of accurately engaging targets from 1,000 meters. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: .300 Win Mag
Weight: 14 lbs.
Length: 43 inches
Barrel Length: 24 inches
Range: 1,000 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,550 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 4 rounds internal magazine

The RAD M91A2 sniper rifle is developed exclusively for the U.S. Navy.

The weapon is manufactured by Redick Arms Development (RAD) and must meet thorough inspections by the U.S. military.

The long-range bolt action sniper rifle is popular with elite forces like DEVGRU because it is based on the Remington model 700, which has consistently been a highly reputable type of long-range rifle.

The M91A2 is chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum (Win Mag) and different from the M91, comparable in many ways yet more used for the U.S. Army than U.S. Navy.

Click Here to pick up the from Palmetto State Armory.

MK13

The MK13 is a long-range rifle used by Navy SEALs. Image: Flickr

Specs

Caliber: .300 WinMag
Weight: 11.4 lbs.
Length: 47.5 inches
Barrel Length: 26.5 inches
Range: 1,300 meters
Muzzle velocity: N/A
Magazine capacity: 5 rounds

The MK13 is a bolt-action sniper rifle designed for SOCOM.

The SEALs have been known to prefer it due to its long action, large caliber rounds, and dependability of parts.

The MK13 sniper rifle features a Lilja precision barrel that can be fitted with a Knight’s Armament MK11 suppressor.

There have been several modifications made to the MK13 some of which are reported to the mainstream.

For example, it is known that the Mod 5 variant has an Accuracy International Chassis System (AICS) which is a rare feature similar to a rifle like the AI AWM. [Ref: 15]

The MK13 has a longer distance of accuracy when stacked up against the MK11 and MK12 semi-automatic rifles.

Therefore, some missions require the use of it or it is preferred based on the individual tastes of the SOCOM sniper.

Click Here to pick up the  from Palmetto State Armory.

TAC-338

The McMillan TAC-338 sniper rifle. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: .338 Lapua Magnum
Weight: 11 lbs.
Length: 48 inches
Barrel Length: 26.5 inches
Range: 1,600 meters
Muzzle velocity: N/A
Magazine capacity: 5 rounds

The McMillan TAC-338 sniper rifle is another long distance rifle utilized by special ops like Navy SEALs.

The TAC-338 is chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum which is noteworthy.

The cartridge is larger compared to .300 Winmag which helps take out “soft targets” more discreetly. 

The TAC-338 can reach an incredibly impressive range of 1,600 meters accurately, or nearly a mile.

However, these types of ranges are only accurately engaged by some of the finest marksmen in the U.S. Armed Forces.

There are even some reports of marksmen hitting targets from over 2,000 meters with the TAC-338. [Ref: 16]

The rail system on the McMillian TAC-338 supports a wide variety of attachments such as night scopes.

Click Here to pick up the from Palmetto State Armory.

MK 15

The MK 15 sniper rifle. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: .50 BMG
Weight: 26.9 lbs.
Length: 57 inches
Barrel Length: 29 inches
Range: 1,600 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,700 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 5 rounds (detachable box magazine)

The MK 15 has recently been modified for special applications that are practical to those carried out by elite forces.

In other words, the sniper rifle is the U.S. Navy version of the McMillan TAC-50.

However, the MK 15 Mod 0 SASR serves specific purposes that the previous long-distance rifle lacked.

The MK 15 is defined as an “anti-material” rifle.

What that means is that the weapon is designed for use against military equipment, or materials, as opposed to engaging in other combatants.

Those types of sniper rifles are referred to as “anti-personnel” weapons.

The MK 15 fires a massive .50 BMG caliber round comparable to other anti-material weapons like the M82 and M107. [Ref: 17]

It can engage a large range of targets from heavy crowds of personnel to armored vehicles.

Click Here to pick up the from Palmetto State Armory.

M82

The M82 is classified as an “anti-material” weapon. Image: Wikipedia

Specs

Caliber: .50 BMG
Weight: 30.9 lbs.
Length: 57 inches
Range: 1,850 meters
Muzzle velocity: 2,799 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: 10 rounds

The M82 is as powerful as they come when you compare long-range rifles in the current arsenal of the U.S. Navy SEALs.

The sniper rifle is sometimes referred to as The Barrett, though many shorten it to the M82.

It is called a “light fifty” firearm because it unleashes .50 caliber cartridges.

Special forces love this sniper rifle because it is very adaptable for a number of purposes.

It is often used as an anti-material weapon because it can engage heavily armored vehicles and at long distances too.

Trained marksmen are capable of taking out personnel even with body armor, or for those that are hiding behind a wall or other obstacle.

The massive shells can also disable the engine block of a vehicle or knockout a power generator.

EOD operators may use the M82 to disable IEDs from a safe distance.

Related ArticleNavy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician: Career Details

Click Here to pick up the from Palmetto State Armory.

Missile / Rocket Launchers

M136 AT4

The M136 AT4 rocket launcher. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: 84 mm
Weight: 14.7 lbs.
Length: 40 inches
Range: 300 to 500 meters
Muzzle velocity: 950 ft. / second
Magazine capacity: Single shot

The M136 AT4 is a single-shot rocket launcher that is utilized by special ops on select missions. It’s a disposable weapon.

The 84mm caliber unit fires a fin-stabilized projectile that is fitted with a shaped warhead.

The M136 AT4 is a one-shot, disposable, 84mm rocket launcher found throughout the US military.

It can be pre-loaded with a variety of warheads depending on the purpose.

These include HEDP (high-explosive dual purpose), HEAT (high-explosive anti-tank), and HP (high penetration) warheads.

U.S. Navy SEALs were effective in using the M136 AT4 at bunkers and other establishments during the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Javelin Missile

The Javelin missile is capable of inflicting great damage. Image: Wikimedia Commons

Specs

Caliber: 127mm
Weight: 40.12 lbs
Length: 46.97 inches
Range: 75 to 2500 meters
Muzzle velocity: N/A
Magazine capacity: Single shot (NOTE: CLU can be reused)

The FGM-148, nicknamed “The Javelin,” is a missile system also utilized by special ops groups of the U.S. Military.

It consists of a disposable launcher tube that projects a missile attached to the command launch unit (CLU).

The CLU features an optical viewer as well as an infrared targeting system.

It can locate a threat with its own thermal seeker locked onto the target before being fired.

It is labeled a “fire-and-forget system,” meaning that once the missile is locked on a target, the operator no longer needs to monitor or control the flight of the missile.

The system has helped make missile launchers far more accurate.

Additionally, the tandem HEAT warhead on Javelin weapons can defeat modern anti-missile systems like those seen on tanks.

Night Vision and Optics

Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle | GPNVG-18

Navy SEALs rely on several different types of optics. Image: Optics Planet

Specs

Focus Range: 45 cm to Infinity
Field of Angle: 97 degrees
Weight: 27 ounces

The EOTech GPNVG Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles allow soldiers to identify targets in low light conditions.

The goggles feature a 97 degree horizontal field of view and is adjustable. 

Newcon Optik NVS-9 3rd Gen (2 Eye Tubes)

An example of optics used by a Navy SEAL. Image: Adorama

Specs

Focal Length: 27 mm
Field of Angle: 40 degrees 
Weight: 1.26 lbs

The Newcon Optik NVS-9 3rd Gen binoculars feature an autogated third-generation intensifier with 64 lp/mm resolution.

The optics feature a 27 mm focal length lens, 40 degrees of angular view, 25 mm eye relief, and 10-inch focus. You can also adjust the diotrics.

 

Steiner 7×50 M750rc Commander Military Binoculars 2690

Binoculars are crucial to Navy SEAL missions. Image: Wikipedia

Specs

Magnification: 7x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Weight: 39.7 ounces

The Steiner 7×50 M750rc Commander Military Binoculars 2690 are yet another popular type of optics utilized by special forces.

The binoculars offer 7 x 50 mm resolution.

The illuminated HD-stabilized compass is what separates the M750rc model from other types of binoculars.

M49 Spotting Scope

U.S. Special Forces rely on high power spotting scopes like the M49 for missions. Image: Marines.com

Specs

Power: 20x
Field of View: 2 degrees
Length: 14.5 inches

The M49 Spotting Scope, also known as an observation telescope, serves many purposes within SOF.

Its primary use is for long range marksmanship. However, it can also get used for observing the effects of artillery fires.

The M49 spotting scope is fixed at 20-power telescope and has a field of view of 2 degrees.

The M49 is a fixed 20-power telescope with an eyepiece focus.

It has a field of view of 2 degrees and an exit pupil diameter of 0.108 inches.

The M49 is an erect image instrument that is magnified by the lenses in the eyepiece.

Conclusion

U.S. Navy SEALs use a variety of assault weapons, sniper rifles, automatic weapons, handguns, grenade launchers, and specialized accessories in order to complete their sophisticated missions.

With the latest in technology and advancement in weaponry, it is little wonder Navy SEALs are among the most elite military forces in the world.

See Also

Green Berets Vs. Army Rangers: 5 Major Differences

Navy SEAL Training: Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) School

References

1. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m4-specs.htm

2. https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2015/07/04/army-continues-rollout-of-more-durable-full-auto-m4a1/

3. https://www.revolvy.com/page/Close-Quarters-Battle-Receiver

4. https://fnamerica.com/products/rifles/fn-mk-16/

5. https://fnamerica.com/products/rifles/fn-mk-17/

6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Picatinny_rail

7. https://taskandpurpose.com/m249-squad-automatic-weapon-praise

8. https://fnamerica.com/products/machine-guns/fn-m240b/

9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Browning

10. https://www.sigsauer.com/store/recoil-spring-set-p226-9mm.html

11. https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.asp?smallarms_id=331

12. https://hk-usa.com/hk-models/hk45-compact/

13. https://www.tactical-life.com/lifestyle/military-and-police/mk-12-navy-seal-steel/

14. https://www.wired.com/2012/10/navy-seals-pirates/

15. https://www.milehighshooting.com/

16. https://www.tactical-life.com/firearms/rifles/mcmillan-tac-338-chris-kyle-rifle/

17. https://drakeassociates.us/product/stalker-mk-15-416-50-bmg-strike-dual-mcmillan-tac50/

 
Rob V.

General FAQ

What rifle do Navy SEALs use?

The primary assault rifle used by the US Navy SEALs is the Colt M4A1. It fires a 5.56 caliber round, weighs about 5.6 lbs., and is capable of firing 750 - 900 rounds per minute.


Do Navy SEALs keep their weapons when they retire?

Short answer, no. The weapons Navy SEALs use are property of the US Government, and at the end of a SEALs career, are returned to the unit armory.


What caliber rifle do Navy SEAL snipers use?

The most common sniper rifle employed by SEAL snipers is the MK11, which fires a 7.62 mm round.


What guns do SEAL Team 6 use?

Like the traditional SEAL teams, DEVGRU operators carry an assortment of weapons to and from the battlefield. They include the M4A1, Sig Sauer P226 pistol, and M249 SAW machine gun. Learn more about DEVGRU (aka SEAL Team 6) and the weapons they use here.


Do Navy SEALs use the AK-47?

During the Vietnam War, SEALs did employ the use of a version of the AK-47. However, in their current form, they do not use it.

Navy SEAL Weapons

Navy SEAL Weapons

4.8 out of 5 (94 Ratings)

Navy SEALs use a wide array of weapons on the battlefield, and in training. Learn more about the handguns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, and more employed by the SEALs.
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