Gepard GM6 Lynx
Sero International · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2004
Also known as: GM6 Lynx, Gepard M6, Sero GM6
Overview
The Gepard GM6 Lynx is a Hungarian semi-automatic anti-materiel rifle manufactured by Sero International in a bullpup configuration, chambered for both 12.7x108mm and .50 BMG cartridges. The GM6 Lynx is the latest evolution of the Gepard anti-materiel rifle family developed by Ferenc Sero, featuring a unique long-recoil operating system where the barrel travels rearward with the bolt during cycling, significantly reducing felt recoil for a .50 caliber weapon. The bullpup layout keeps the overall length remarkably compact at just 1,118mm despite the full-length barrel, making it one of the most transportable anti-materiel rifles in existence. The rifle can switch between 12.7x108mm and .50 BMG by exchanging the barrel, bolt, and magazine, giving operators caliber flexibility depending on ammunition availability.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 11800 g (416.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 13000 g (458.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1118 mm (44.02") |
| Barrel Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Action Type | Long Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 35 N (7.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 820 m/s (2690 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 16240 J (11978 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1600 m (1750 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3000 m (3281 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 30 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12.7x108mm · primary — also known as 12.7 Soviet, 12.7mm Russian
- .50 BMG · 12.7x99mm NATO — also known as 12.7x99mm, .50 Browning Machine Gun
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Bullpup Layout, Long Recoil Operated, Quick Change Barrel, Multi Caliber Capability, Folding Bipod, Picatinny Rail, Muzzle Brake, Sub Moa Accuracy, Recoil Buffer
Variants
Service history
Operators
- Hungarian Defence Forces · as GM6 Lynx
- British Special Air Service (SAS)
- Ukrainian Armed Forces · adopted 2022
- Georgian Armed Forces
- Turkish Armed Forces
Conflicts
- Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present)
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
Production
Production years: 2004-present
Produced by Sero International in Godollo, Hungary. Exported to multiple countries including the UK, Ukraine, Georgia, and Turkey.
Origin
Country of origin: Hungary
Designer: Ferenc Sero
Notes
The GM6 Lynx achieved international recognition when the British SAS reportedly expressed high satisfaction with the weapon during operations. The long-recoil system is the key innovation: the barrel recoils approximately 150mm rearward with each shot, distributing recoil impulse over a longer period and making the rifle manageable for sustained fire. Alternative barrel lengths of 711mm (28 inches) and 914mm (36 inches) are available. The rifle guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammunition. The Gepard family was originally developed in the 1990s during Hungary's transition from Warsaw Pact equipment, starting with the single-shot M1 model.
Background
The Gepard GM6 Lynx gained battlefield fame during the Russo-Ukrainian conflict where Ukrainian forces used the compact anti-materiel rifle to devastating effect against Russian armored vehicles and fortified positions. Its ability to be carried and deployed by a single soldier, combined with the destructive power of .50 caliber rounds, earned it a reputation as a 'pocket artillery' piece among Ukrainian defenders.