All the suggestions seem to be for large, overbore magnums. I agree they have their place and are very useful for extreme range shots. But for every day sniper duty, isn't there a need for a lighter rifle, 12-15#? Something that doesn't deliver howitzer recoil? Something that fits in a short action so you don't have to break your cheek weld to cycle thew bolt? lastly, I don't know if price would be a consideration, but would the Marines really fork out the money to outfit every sniper with some of the super expensive rigs mentioned?
I say, buy the 338 Lapua's for special duties. But the every day Marine Sniper rifle should be a bolt action, short receiver, short barrel (22") in either 260 or 6.5x47 with 139-142gr. bullets. The ammo isn't too expensive or heavy. The rifle is easily carried in all situations. short enough to shoot from even cramped quarters inside a helicopter, Hum-V or small hide. Recoil is easily managed. Weapon could easily wear a suppressor. 7WSM, 284 and 6.5-284 won't fit long bullets in 2.85 COAL inside the magazine. 260 or 6.5x47 is the ticket.
