PGM 338
PGM Precision · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1999
Also known as: PGM Ultima Ratio .338, FR-G3
Overview
The PGM 338 is a bolt-action sniper rifle developed by PGM Precision of France, designed as a long-range precision system for military and law enforcement applications. Chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum, the rifle was adopted by the French Armed Forces in 1999 as their standard long-range sniper platform, filling the capability gap between the FR-F2 in 7.62 NATO and the massive PGM Hecate II in .50 BMG. The PGM 338 features a modular aluminum chassis design with a free-floating barrel, folding stock, and adjustable ergonomics. Its bolt action utilizes a three-lug rotating bolt for fast lock time and reliable extraction. The rifle is designed for sub-MOA accuracy at extended ranges and incorporates an effective muzzle brake to manage the substantial recoil of the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. The PGM 338 served as the predecessor to the improved PGM Mini-Hecate, which eventually replaced it in French military service.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5800 g (204.6 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 6200 g (218.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1195 mm (47.05") |
| Folded Length | 960 mm (37.80") |
| Barrel Length | 660 mm (25.98") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 15 N (3.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 880 m/s (2887 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 6275 J (4628 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 5000 m (5468 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Cold Hammer Forged Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum Chassis Polymer Furniture |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .338 Lapua Magnum · primary — also known as 8.6x70mm, 8.58x70mm, .338 Lapua Mag
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Bolt Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Adjustable Buttstock, Folding Stock, Integral Bipod Mount, Accessory Rail, Adjustable Trigger, Muzzle Brake, Suppressor Ready, Quick Change Barrel
Variants
- PGM Mini-Hecate — Improved
- PGM Hecate II — Anti Materiel
Service history
Operators
- French Armed Forces · adopted 1999
- French National Gendarmerie (GIGN)
- French Foreign Legion
- Belgian Armed Forces
- Swiss Armed Forces
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Northern Mali Conflict (2012-present)
- Central African Republic Civil War (2012-present)
Production
Production years: 1999-present
Production numbers not publicly disclosed. Manufactured in limited quantities primarily for French military and allied nation contracts.
Origin
Country of origin: France
Notes
The PGM 338 was developed by PGM Precision, a French company founded in 1989 that specializes in precision rifles for military and law enforcement. The rifle's modular design allows for quick barrel changes and caliber conversion. French snipers deployed the PGM 338 extensively in operations in Africa, particularly in Mali and the Central African Republic, where its long-range capability proved essential in open terrain engagements. The rifle accepts standard AICS-pattern magazines and features a full-length Picatinny rail for optics. The folding stock reduces transport length significantly, making it more practical for airborne and special operations units.
Background
The PGM 338 became France's first dedicated .338 Lapua Magnum sniper system, bridging the gap between the venerable FR-F2 and the massive Hecate II anti-materiel rifle. French snipers in Operation Serval in Mali used the PGM 338 to engage targets at ranges exceeding 1,200 meters in the open Saharan terrain, demonstrating the critical need for a long-range precision capability that neither the 7.62mm FR-F2 nor the unwieldy .50 BMG Hecate II could optimally fill.