Airsoft DMR Meaning

Maybe you’ve heard someone reference the acronym DMR during your last airsoft match and wondered ” What does DMR mean” Maybe, like me, you were too embarrassed to ask so just nodded your head and tried to change the conversation. Like me, you might have done a quick google search only to be more confused and lost.

I this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. Here we will discuss what airsoft DMR means and everything you need to know about the term. So what is the meaning of DMR in airsoft? Well DMR is short for Designated Marksman’s Rifle. This type of airsoft class is between that of a standard rifle and a sniper rifle. Typically a DMR has a longer barrel and other modifications.

What Is A DMR

In the airsoft world DMR stands for Designated Marksman Rifle. These types of airsoft guns are able to shoot beyond the standard range that other marksman rifles can. Typically the definition is mostly used for standard semi auto infantry rifles that are equipped with modified optics barrels and various accessories that can shoot at and over 450 FPS.

Simply put, DMR’s are a hybrid between bolt action sniper rifles and semi automatic rifles. Which means that any player that has this class of rifle can consider it a DMR. However, there are many designs that are underpowered and lack the necessary range and accuracy that most DMRs are capable of. So it’s a good idea to really make sure your airsoft rifle is powerful enough to be considered a DMR, or you might risk being ther laughing stock at the next airsoft events.

What Makes a Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) Unique

A Designated marksman rifle, at first glance, might look a lot like other standard airsoft rifles or sniper rifles. Most are built around AR10 AR15 and M4 designs, however, they are certain features that make DMRs very unique yet can be hard to spot. So here is a few things that separate a DMR from your typical marksman rifle.

Longer Barrel

It may not always be the case, but typically a DMR will have a longer and heavier barrel that sometimes can be up to 20 inches in length. This gives the gun added performance by increasing the guns accuracy and range.

Optics

Almost all DMR’s have some sort of upgraded optical sight that has a better magnification than that of a standard rifle, but lack that of a standard sniper rifle. Some have a slightly magnified red dot scope or a lower power variable scope (LPR) which usually has a magnification of 1-6.

Trigger

An upgraded trigger is very common amount designated marksman rifle airsoft guns. Added a precision trigger will reduce the force necessary to pull the trigger. This allows for better, smoother shots and a faster rate.

Action

All DMR rifles use a semi automatic action and sometimes even full automatic fire. This is very important when you need to lay down fire at a rapid rate. Having this capability is vital in calling your airsoft gun a DMR. Anything less than this is basically a sniper rifle.

Bipod

Most airsoft DMRs have a swivel bipod. This allows the player to have more stability when proned on the ground. These bipods can be quickly deployed and stowed under the gun within seconds.

Magazine

Most designated marksman rifles have some sort of upgraded magazine. This allows the player to to shoot more rounds without having to reload, which saves time and is a huge factor in any airsoft match.

Full Metal

There are a lot of airsoft guns that try to pass off as DMR’s However, most true DMR’s are full metal. High quality goes hand in hand with a designated Markman rifle, and having a full metal gun is naturally going to be of high quality than an all plastics gun. So remember that the next time your buddy with a cheap $50 DMR tries to call their gun a DMR.

What Type Of Player Would Use a Designated Marksman Rifle?

A player who often finds themselves a designates marksman, sniper or sharpshooter, might be a good fit for a DMR airsoft player. But not all of these roles are going to be the exact same. So here is a few different roles in a little more detail.

Sniper

A sniper is a marks man who is specialized in long range marksmanship. A sniper can be both mobile and stationary depending on your play style. Typically airsoft snipers are very good at concealing themselves and are very patient.

Designated Markman

Usually at least one member on the team is a designated marksman. This player usually has a rifle style airsoft gun and who’s job it is to get as many kills as possible.

Shapshooter

An airsoft sharpshooter is typically very proficient at firing rifles accurately. However, they are do not have the additional skills that a sniper might have.

DMR Advantages

It’s no surprise to anyone that any true DMR airsoft gun will have advantages. But what exactly are they? Well for starters, a DMR airsoft gun will have better range, enhanced accuracy, better optics, upgraded internals with higher FPS capabilities, and are usually full metal, thus making them more durable.

Usually player who decide to use a designated Markman rifle do better on the battlefield. The guns are very versatile and typically are more powerful than other airsoft guns. This combined with improved accuracy and accessories, give them a distinct advantage.

DMR Disadvantages

Probably the most common disadvantage of a DMR is that they can be costly. A full metal gun is never cheap and the accessories to make an airsoft gun more into a DMR are also an added cost. So be ready to spend some money if you have asperations of being the DMR for your team.

It’s also time consuming replacing parts on your gun to make it more of a DMR airsoft gun. It took me a while to replace my trigger and internal spring to make my gun a little more accuracy and responsive.

DMR Airsoft Guns