DPMS LR-308

DPMS Panther Arms · Battle Rifle · Discontinued · 2003

Also known as: LR-308, Panther LR-308, DPMS .308

Overview

The DPMS LR-308 is an AR-10-pattern semi-automatic rifle chambered in .308 Winchester/7.62x51mm NATO, introduced by DPMS Panther Arms in the early 2000s. Built around a direct gas impingement system, a forged 7075 aluminum flat-top receiver set, and a heavy stainless bull barrel, it was one of the first affordable mass-market .308 AR rifles and helped popularize the large-frame AR for civilian long-range and hunting use. Its receiver footprint, distinct from Armalite's original AR-10, became a de facto industry standard often called the 'DPMS/SR-25 high pattern.'

Specifications

Weight (empty)5110 g (180.3 oz)
Overall Length1107 mm (43.58")
Barrel Length610 mm (24.02")
Action TypeGas Operated Direct Impingement
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity19 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity838 m/s (2749 fps)
Muzzle Energy3344 J (2466 ft·lbf)
Effective Range800 m (875 yd)
Maximum Range1000 m (1094 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist254 mm (10.00")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialAluminum
Barrel MaterialStainless Steel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishHard Coat Anodized

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Production

Production years: 2003-2020

Large civilian production run; DPMS wound down following parent-company consolidation

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Notes

The LR-308 receiver/magazine geometry (the 'DPMS Gen 1' or 'high' pattern) became one of the two dominant .308 AR standards alongside the Armalite AR-10 pattern. Numerous barrel-length and stock configurations were offered.

Background

The LR-308's receiver dimensions were so widely copied that the entire family of .308 AR rifles is split into 'DPMS-pattern' and 'Armalite-pattern' camps, a divide that still dictates magazine and parts compatibility today.