TCI M89SR (Model 89 Sniper Rifle)

History of the TCI M89SR (Type 89 Sniper Rifle)

The American Cold War-era M14 semi-automatic rifle formed the basis of the modern Israeli M89SR sniper system. The weapon has its origins in the early Sardius M36 Sniper Weapon System (SWS) introduced in the 1980s, and is also armed with the ubiquitous 7.62x51mm NATO rifle cartridge - a proven range interceptor.

One of the most notable changes to the M36/M89SR compared to the M14 is its bullpup arrangement, where the action and feed mechanism are located behind the trigger group, allowing for a shorter overall weapon but still firing the full length barrel without sacrificing Assembled with precision.

The weapon in its current form was developed by Technical Consultants International (TCI) in Tel Aviv, Israel. As the Sardius M36, the weapon was economically difficult to serve in Israel as a replacement for the aging M14, which eventually led to the company's collapse.

When the license fell to the TCI, it was reborn as the M89SR (SR = Sniper Rifle) with some changes added to better suit the modern battlefield.

The total weight reaches 4.5kg and the total length is 850mm. The barrel is 560mm long. The event focused on the proven air pressure system with a twist-lock mechanism. The muzzle velocity reaches 2,810 feet per second, and the range (effective) is up to 1,000 meters.

Feeds from a detachable 10 or 20 round magazine. By default, the scope is not attached to the weapon - instead, the operator can choose to mount optics based on personal preference and mission requirements.

The stock is made of lightweight carbon fiber, making this gun lighter than its counterparts. An optional silencer is available for more covert work.

Due to its 7.62mm caliber and semi-automatic bolt action, the M89SR resembles a Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) rather than a true manually operated bolt action rifle system. As such, it can be issued at the infantry level to provide in-squad support when accurate long-range fire is required, without the services of a dedicated sniper team.

The repetitive fire nature of the weapon can also be used in firefighting roles if desired.

To date, the M89SR has been actively used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in limited numbers, including special forces.

TCI M89SR (Type 89 Sniper Rifle) Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes