Daewoo K2 DMR
S&T Motiv (formerly Daewoo Precision Industries) · Sniper Rifle · In Service · 1984
Also known as: K2 Designated Marksman Rifle, K2 Sniper
Overview
The Daewoo K2 DMR is a designated marksman variant of the standard South Korean K2 assault rifle, modified for enhanced accuracy at extended ranges. Based on the proven K2 platform, the DMR variant features a heavier barrel profile, an optical sight mounting system, a bipod, and a cheek riser on the stock. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, it uses the same unique gas system as the standard K2 that combines elements of both the M16's direct impingement and the AK-47's long-stroke piston design. While limited by its 5.56mm chambering compared to dedicated 7.62mm marksman rifles, the K2 DMR provides squad-level precision capability using the same ammunition supply as standard infantry rifles.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3800 g (134.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4200 g (148.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 980 mm (38.58") |
| Folded Length | 730 mm (28.74") |
| Barrel Length | 510 mm (20.08") |
| Sight Radius | 460 mm (18.11") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 30 N (6.7 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 920 m/s (3018 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1693 J (1249 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 2700 m (2953 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Forged Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Chrome Lined Steel |
| Stock Material | Glass Reinforced Polymer |
| Finish | Parkerized |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Heavy Barrel Profile, Bipod Mount, Optical Sight Mount, Flash Suppressor, Picatinny Rail, Cheek Riser
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Republic of Korea Army · adopted 1984 · as K2 DMR
- Republic of Korea Marine Corps
Production
Production years: 1984-present
Select K2 rifles converted for DMR role. No separate production line.
Origin
Country of origin: South Korea
Notes
The K2 platform uses a distinctive hybrid gas operating system developed by the Korean Agency for Defence Development (ADD) that combines a gas piston with a bolt carrier design influenced by the M16's direct impingement system. The DMR variant is not a separate model designation but rather a field modification of select K2 rifles fitted with precision optics and bipods. Selected rifles demonstrating above-average accuracy during factory testing are earmarked for the DMR role. The K2 DMR serves as an interim solution until more dedicated marksman systems became available in the ROK Army inventory.
Background
The K2 DMR represents the resourceful approach of the Republic of Korea Army to filling its designated marksman requirement. Rather than procuring an entirely new weapons system, the ROK Army selected the most accurate specimens from K2 production lines and equipped them with precision optics and bipods, creating a cost-effective squad-level precision capability from an existing platform.