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LR-300
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The Z-M LR-300 is an American select-fire assault rifle designed by gunsmith Allan Zitta and manufactured by Z-M Weapons. The model name LR-300 stands for Light Rifle and 300 is for 300 meters, which is regarded by the manufacturer as the effective range of the rifle with a standard 55 gr (3.6 g) FMJ bullet. The design is based on the AR-15, M16 and C7 rifles, but has a unique semi-direct gas impingement system and a folding stock option.[1]
Key Information
History
[edit]The design was originally a stockless short-barreled pistol version of an AR-15 receiver that Allan Zitta used in target shooting competitions. It later went into commercial production as the Master Blaster in 1996.[2] Zitta later developed it into a full rifle with a folding stock, and conversion kits have also been offered for AR-15 rifles.
In 2008, the LR-300 was offered under the name Para Tactical Target Rifle (TTR) as a result of a joint collaboration between Para USA and ZM Weapons.[3][4]
Description
[edit]The direct gas impingement system used in the LR-300 is intended to solve the fouling problems of the traditional AR-15 direct gas impingement gas system. The forward-mounted return spring also allows for fitting a folding stock, and the factory stock option folds to the left side. The rifle is also available with a fixed stock. Since its introduction, the exterior design has evolved and changed a couple of times.[citation needed]
LR-300MLs have flat-top receivers with Picatinny rails, allowing them to be used with multiple types of sighting systems. The trigger, forward assist, magazine release and bolt hold release are identical to those of the AR-15. The barrel has a 1:9 inch (230 mm) twist ratio, is chrome lined, and the muzzle is fitted with a Phantom flash suppressor.
Firing mode
[edit]The weapon was originally designed with select-fire, offering the option for semi-auto, full auto, and burst fire options. When fired, the LR-300 has a built-in counter-recoil mechanism which helps to off-set muzzle rise, decreasing the recoil in comparison to the inspiration for the rifle, the M16.[5]
Stock
[edit]Contrary to the original AR-15 rifle design, the LR-300 has the capability to use a fully folding and adjustable skeletal stock. Most AR-15 rifle variants have a thick, cylindrical recoil buffer tube, more properly called the receiver extension, that protrudes approximately 20 cm (7.9 in) straight back from the rear of the receiver, and the firearm cannot operate without it. This normally precludes the use of anything but fixed or telescoping stocks. The LR-300 however uses a forward-mounted return spring which removes the need for a receiver extension.
Gas system
[edit]The LR-300 uses a modified version of the AR-15's standard direct impingement gas operating system dubbed delayed impingement gas system.[4] The gas key is extended beyond its normal length (manufacturer calls it an "operating rod"), extending into the handguard. The gas key contains the return spring which is fixed between the front of the receiver and the collar at the front of the gas key. The gas port is under the back side of the gas block, gasses go up then forward to the front side of the gas block then up and back to the gas tube. The gas tube is about half of the length of a standard AR-15 tube. The gas tube is always inside of the gas key (minimal overlap is about 1 inch). This leaves the area near the bolt much cleaner. Almost all gasses exit the gun through the holes on the right side of the bolt carrier, and minimal leaks from the gas key to the handguard area do not hinder the gun's function.
Upper
[edit]To accommodate the unique forward buffer and gas impingement system, the proprietary upper is taller and thicker than a standard AR upper.[4] The handguard rail has a removable top cover to access the recoil spring system for disassembly. The charging handle is proprietary and has a beefier design to fit the op-rod.[6]
Models
[edit]- LR-300 ML-A: Military/law enforcement model (selective fire version). Has an 11.53 in (293 mm) barrel, aluminium forend, and fires single shots or bursts.
- LR-300 ML-N: Military/law enforcement model (selective fire version). Has an 11.53 in (293 mm) barrel, Nylatron forend with attachable Picatinny rails, and fires single shots or bursts.
- LR-300 SR-A: Sport rifle model (semi-auto fire version). Has a 16.49 in (419 mm) barrel, aluminum forend, and fires single shots.
- LR-300 SR-N: Sport rifle model (semi-auto fire version). Has a 16.49 in (419 mm) barrel, Nylatron forend with attachable Picatinny rails, and fires single shots.
- LR-300 AXL: Aluminium quad handguard.[7]
- LR-300 AXLT: Aluminium partial handguard.[7]
- LR-300 NXL: Nylatron handguard.[7]
- TTR-XA:[8] Handguard with full length aluminium quad rail.
- TTR-XAS:[8] Aluminium handguard partially fitted with picatinny rails on bottom and sides at 90 mm (3.5 inches) of its length.
- TTR-XASF: Aluminium handguard partially fitted with picatinny rails on bottom and sides, fixed stock.[9]
- TTR-XN: Nylatron handguard.[9]
In popular culture
[edit]- The rifle can be seen and used by the player in the video game Urban Terror.
- The rifle is seen prominently and can be used by the player in the video game S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl and its sequels.
- The rifle can be seen and used by the player in the video game Rust.
- In video game Payday 2, a rifle named CAR-4 can be equipped with attachments that make it heavily resemble the LR-300.
See also
[edit]- SIG MCX, another folding stock AR-15 style rifle
References
[edit]- ^ Association, National Rifle. "An Official Journal Of The NRA | Para USA TTR". An Official Journal Of The NRA. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ "Tactical Life Gun Magazine - PARA USA TACTICAL TARGET RIFLE 5.56mm". Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ "Para Ordnance TTR AR-15 -". 26 August 2008. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ a b c American Rifleman | Para USA Tactical Target Rifle
- ^ "Z-M Weapons LR-300 - Assault rifle". Archived from the original on June 29, 2013. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ Poole, Eric (17 July 2009). "PARA USA TTR 5.56mm". Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ a b c "Z-M Weapons - LR 300 Rifles". Archived from the original on September 4, 2009. Retrieved April 19, 2020.
- ^ a b "Not Just Another AR: Para USA Tactical Target Rifle - SWAT Survival | Weapons | Tactics". 8 June 2010. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
- ^ a b "Para USA". Archived from the original on September 28, 2009. Retrieved April 19, 2020.
External links
[edit]LR-300
View on GrokipediaDevelopment and Production
Origins and Design Intent
Z-M Weapons was established in 1988 by firearms designer and gunsmith Allan Zitta in Massachusetts, with the aim of innovating on existing platforms like the AR-15 to overcome inherent limitations in modularity and user ergonomics. Zitta, a veteran competitive shooter and IPSC World Champion from 1996 to 2002, sought to create more adaptable firearms suitable for tactical and special operations use.[6] The LR-300 project originated in the mid-1990s as a modular enhancement to the AR-15, specifically targeting issues with the traditional direct impingement system's buffer tube, which restricted stock options and overall flexibility. The design originated from a stockless, short-barreled pistol version of an AR-15 receiver that Zitta used in target shooting competitions.[7] Zitta's core objectives centered on developing a lightweight rifle that maintained the AR-15's reliability while introducing greater field adaptability through features like a side-folding stock compatible with the platform's operating system. Initial prototypes, completed around 1994, were tested for integration of direct impingement principles with enhanced compactness.[8] Key design intents included improved ergonomics for both right- and left-handed users via a left-side non-reciprocating charging handle, which facilitated quicker manipulations without interference from optics or accessories. The rifle emphasized ambidexterity and reduced weight for superior handling in dynamic environments, without compromising the proven durability of the AR-15 lineage; this was achieved through Zitta's patented Delayed Impingement Gas System (DIGS), which minimized recoil and eliminated the buffer tube dependency. Prototypes from 1999 to 2000 further refined these elements, focusing on seamless barrel swaps for mission-specific configurations and overall system reliability under high-stress conditions.[2][8]Manufacturing History
The LR-300 rifle entered production in 2000 under Z-M Weapons, a small firearms manufacturer based in Bernardston, Massachusetts, initially focusing on military prototypes and conversion kits to adapt existing AR-15 platforms with the rifle's innovative side-folding stock and forward recoil spring system.[1][9] Z-M Weapons produced the rifle through 2007, offering both select-fire models for military applications and semi-automatic variants for civilian markets, with output centered on custom orders that contributed to the design's reputation for precision engineering but limited overall availability.[1] In 2007, Z-M Weapons sold all rights to the LR-300 design to Para USA, the U.S. subsidiary of the Canadian firm Para-Ordnance Ltd., allowing the smaller company to transition away from ongoing manufacturing.[1][10] Para USA relaunched production in 2009, rebranding the rifle as the Para Tactical Target Rifle (TTR) and incorporating minor enhancements such as refined surface finishes to appeal to tactical shooters.[1][10] The TTR remained in production until 2011, when Para USA discontinued rifle manufacturing entirely to refocus resources on its core handgun lineup.[10]Current Status
Production of the LR-300 ceased in 2011 when Para USA exited the rifle market, ending active manufacturing of the rifle under that brand.[10] Surplus and used examples occasionally appear on secondary markets, though the rifle's rarity limits widespread availability.[11] Aftermarket support for the LR-300 leverages its design as an AR-15 derivative, with standard AR-15 components compatible for lower receivers and many upper parts, facilitating maintenance and customization through existing AR-15 ecosystems.[12] Specialized uppers remain unique, but third-party adapters and kits enable integration with broader AR-15 accessories. Under U.S. federal law, the semi-automatic LR-300 is classified and treated as a standard rifle, permissible for civilian ownership without special registration. Short-barreled variants, however, fall under National Firearms Act (NFA) oversight, requiring ATF registration, a $200 tax stamp, and compliance with transfer rules.[13] No nationwide bans apply to the platform, but restrictions exist in states like California, where features such as the folding stock and pistol grip classify it as an assault weapon under state prohibitions. Interest in the LR-300 persists through 3D-printed replicas designed for airsoft simulations and training applications, with detailed 1:1 scale models available for hobbyists to fabricate non-functional props.[14] No successful revival efforts have materialized since Para USA's closure, though the design's innovative quick-change barrel system continues to inspire niche discussions among firearms enthusiasts.Technical Design
Overall Specifications
The LR-300 is chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, a standard intermediate cartridge for modern assault rifles, providing a balance of lethality and controllability at typical engagement distances.[1] Its effective range is 300 meters.[7] Overall lengths range from 667–820 mm (26.25–32.25 inches) folded to 820–946 mm (32.25–37.25 inches) extended, depending on barrel length and stock configuration, facilitating compact storage and maneuverability while supporting stable firing positions. Barrel length options are 11.5 inches (293 mm), 14.5 inches (368 mm), or 16.5 inches (419 mm), enabling customization for mission-specific needs such as short-barreled carbine variants for urban operations or longer barrels for extended accuracy.[1][7] The unloaded weight ranges from 2.54 to 3.45 kg (5.6–7.6 lb) depending on configuration, contributing to its designation as a lightweight rifle suitable for extended patrols without excessive fatigue.[2] The rifle accommodates STANAG-compatible magazines with capacities of 10, 20, or 30 rounds (10-round for civilian models), ensuring interoperability with NATO-standard equipment and reliable feeding during sustained fire.[1] With M855 ball ammunition, it achieves a muzzle velocity of approximately 900 m/s from a 14.5-inch barrel, delivering sufficient kinetic energy for point-target engagements out to 300 meters.[2] Select-fire models maintain a cyclic rate of fire of 950 rounds per minute, balancing suppressive capability with ammunition conservation.[1]| Specification | Value (Depending on Configuration) |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56×45mm NATO |
| Effective Range | 300 meters |
| Overall Length | 667–820 mm (26.25–32.25 in) folded to 820–946 mm (32.25–37.25 in) extended |
| Barrel Length Options | 11.5–16.5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 2.54–3.45 kg (5.6–7.6 lb) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10, 20, or 30 rounds (STANAG-compatible) |
| Muzzle Velocity (M855) | ~900 m/s (14.5-inch barrel) |
| Rate of Fire (Select-Fire) | 950 rounds per minute |
| Barrel Twist | 1:9 inches |
