The Ohio Ordnance Works (OOW) REAPR, an acronym for “Recoil Enhanced Automatic Rifle,” made waves at the 2024 SHOT Show.

This belt-fed medium machine gun, chambered in .338 Norma Magnum but convertible to 7.62x51mm, stands poised to fill a critical niche in modern warfare.

It symbolizes the evolving face of military firepower, presenting a solution to current shortcomings in standard-issue armaments.

Initially spurred by solicitations from U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and the Marine Corps, the quest for a machine gun to eclipse the limitations of the 7.62 NATO cartridge has been ongoing.

The solicitation, now seemingly eclipsed by the Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program, set forth stringent requirements for this new class of weapon: a weight under 24 pounds, a rate of fire between 500 and 600 rounds per minute, rail compatibility for mounting systems, inclusion of both suppressed and unsuppressed barrels, tripod mounting, compatibility with M240 mounts, and the precision to engage at 2,000 meters.

The REAPR serves as a bridge between medium machine guns like the M240 and heavy machine guns such as the M2 .50 BMG, offering a balance of versatility and firepower.

It remains lightweight for dismounted use yet maintains accuracy and range comparable to the .50 BMG. Employing a roller-delayed operating system, while not entirely novel, is a unique feature for a belt-fed machine gun.

With a firing rate of 600 rounds per minute and a quick-change barrel system, the REAPR enables efficient operation.

Unlike the cumbersome process required for barrel changes on guns like the M240, the REAPR allows for one-handed barrel swaps, reducing downtime.

Its slim profile and ergonomic design make it more manageable to carry compared to the M240, with features like a folding stock and the ability to break down into three pieces for easy transport.

The patented sliding feed tray allows for seamless loading without obstructing optics, while ambidextrous controls and compatibility with AR-type pistol grips enhance usability.

Custom-made stocks from B5 and options for vehicle and aircraft mounts further expand its versatility.

Equipped with a suppressor, the REAPR mitigates noise and muzzle flash, aiding in concealment and reducing the risk of detection by the enemy.

Despite weighing slightly over 26 pounds, it is lighter than the M240 and delivers superior performance with the .338 Norma Magnum round. This high-powered cartridge, designed for long-range precision, enables the REAPR to penetrate military-grade body armor at distances of up to 1,000 meters, surpassing the capabilities of the 7.62 NATO round in range and energy.

In summary, the REAPR emerges as a formidable weapon capable of overcoming various obstacles and neutralizing threats at extended ranges, reflecting advancements in modern warfare technology.

Relevant articles:
– Fear the REAPR – The Ohio Ordnance machine gun, Sandboxx
– Ohio Ordnance Works – REAPR, The Armourers Bench
– Ohio Ordnance Works REAPR: new U.S. MG in long range caliber .338 Norma Magnum with reversible belt feed, All4Shooters.com