Sniper Rifle - 7.62x51mm NATO - USA - Semi-Automatic - The SAR8 is a 'sporterized' version of the SAR3, which itself was an unauthorized clone of the HK 91.  The US firm of Springfield Armory imported receivers and other parts from licensed producers of the HK G-3 rifle, and then assembled them in their US plant.  When the importation of semi-automatic 'assault rifles' was banned by President George Bush in 1989, the BATF ruled that the domestic construction of the banned rifles from imported parts would also be illegal.  The addition of a thumbhole stock and a change of name allowed the SAR8 to be considered a 'sporting rifle', instead of a dreaded 'assault rifle'.  (c)D.E. Watters
