Anyone remember when the US Army used a fixed 10x on the M24 as the Primary Sniper weapon system. 1-6 is plenty for a DMR better than a fixed 4x acog, 1x on the low end for close in and 6x for distance. I went to a DMR class recently using a different 1-6 mil based optic, and was getting hits on E-type sized steel out to 700 using holds and dialing.
Like it was mentioned above its not a Sniper weapons system its a DMR.
Most people on these forums don't have the first clue what a Designated Marksman is, so this is why we get threads like this where people are arguing about Glock vs M&P in one derail, and how much better an HKG28 in 6.5CM with a 3-20x50 Schmidt would be.
If your avatar is any indication, I know you already know this, but I'll point out some things to set a baseline for what a DM is for those that don't.
First and foremost, a Designated Marksman is a fighting member of his Rifle Squad and Fire Team in an Infantry or dismounted Infantry unit conducting combat operations using infantry tactics. His #1 job is still a Rifleman who must shoot, move, and communicate with his Fire Team and Squad, or other Platoon mates while closing with and destroying the enemy, or repelling his counter-attack.
What the DM brings to the Squad above and beyond a Rifleman is:
1. Enhanced Situational Awareness with a magnified optic and training how to use that optic
2. Increased hit probability on point targets out to the maximum effective range of his rifle
His weapon needs to be maneuverable like those of the Rifleman, but equipped with better optics for TGT detection, PID, and more precise fires. When I think DM in the current Rifle Squads, I think of a 5.56 Carbine with a free-floated barrel, and at least a 1-6x scope with decent glass and a useful reticle, capped knobs that are low-profile, and robust construction.
As KM375 pointed out, this isn't a dedicated Sniper System or even a Sniper Support Rifle. A rifleman needs to be able to shoot and move with his Fire Team with something lightweight, and about as maneuverable as an M4.
As such, I think the Sig Tango 1-6x is more than enough. Sure, a 1-8x would be nice, as long as you don't lose the forgiving exit pupil, and therein lies the rub with 1-8xs.
The combination of the Sig Tango 1-6x on a lightweight Block II or newer SOPMOD-style free-float carbine makes sense. Think of a modern evolution of the "Reece" carbines that were being built in the Unit and within Dev back in the day.
