Beretta shows off new battle rifle

Developed to meet the Italian Army’s requirements, the ARX 200 is a new combat rifle in 7.62 mm x 51 NATO calibre. The Italian Army uses the ARX-160A3 5.56x45 mm rifle. The new rifle has similar look to the ARX-160 5.56 mm assault rifle and is designed to be familiar to a user of either. Gas-piston operated with locked breech and rotating bolt, the rifle also features an ambidextrous magazine release button, catch lever and fire selector. The fire selector has three positions: safe, single shot and automatic. The ARX-200 weighs just shy of 10 pounds at about 9.92 pounds without a magazine. Weight is reduced through a single aluminum piece design for the forehand and upper rail. This is one accurate rifle. The ARX achieved a1.5 MOA accuracy at 100 meters using match-grade ammunition – an accuracy pretty much in line with designated marksman rifles. A designated marksman rifle variant is underway by Beretta.