The Bullpup Barretts. Bolt Action Barrett Bullpups with firearms and weapon expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on July 7, 2021
Duration: 7:54

Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery at the Royal Armouries, provides an expert overview of two bolt-action bullpup Barrett rifles chambered in .50 BMG: the M95 and the less common M90. He details their design advantages, such as a shorter overall length for a full barrel, and contrasts them with the semi-automatic M82 series. The discussion covers the purpose of anti-material rifles, ammunition specifics, and historical military usage, including their role in EOD and by irregular forces.

Quick Summary

The bullpup design in rifles like the Barrett M95 places the action behind the trigger, enabling a full-length barrel in a shorter overall weapon. This enhances portability and handling. Anti-material rifles, such as the .50 BMG Barretts, are designed to engage military equipment, not personnel.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to Barrett Bullpups
  2. 00:30Bullpup vs. Semi-Automatic Barretts
  3. 01:08Purpose of Anti-Material Rifles
  4. 01:38Bullpup Design Advantages
  5. 02:08Weight and Action Type Differences
  6. 02:55.50 BMG Ammunition Overview
  7. 03:17Barrett M95 and M90 Models
  8. 04:30M90 vs M95 Design Improvements
  9. 05:13Service History and IRA Use
  10. 06:17Legacy of Anti-Material Rifles

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary advantages of a bullpup rifle design like the Barrett M95?

The bullpup design places the action behind the trigger, allowing for a full-length barrel within a shorter overall weapon. This makes bullpup rifles easier to transport and handle without compromising ballistic performance.

What is the purpose of an anti-material rifle, such as the Barrett .50 BMG models?

Anti-material rifles are designed to engage military equipment like vehicles, aircraft, and radar systems. They are not intended for use against personnel, though their immense power can inflict significant damage.

How does the Barrett M95 differ ergonomically from the earlier M90 model?

The M95 improved upon the M90 by relocating the trigger mechanism forward by approximately one inch for better clearance and grip. The bolt handle was also swept rearward and flattened for enhanced user comfort and easier manipulation.

What caliber ammunition do the Barrett M95 and M90 rifles fire?

Both the Barrett M95 and M90 rifles are chambered to fire the powerful .50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG) round, a high-caliber cartridge designed for anti-material applications.

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