IWI DAN

«DAN .338»
Sniper rifleIsrael2014In service

Israeli bolt-action precision rifle in .338 Lapua Magnum: modular chassis, free-float match barrel and folding adjustable stock, designed for long-range engagements.

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Sniper rifle
ID — IWI-DAN
Designation

IWI DAN

Israel Weapon Industries
Caliber
.338 Lapua Magnum

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Data trust

Reliability
Unverified
Sources
Sources pending review
Sources and methodology

Identity

Designation
IWI DAN
Alias
DAN .338
Manufacturer
Israel Weapon Industries
Country
Israel
Year
2014
Category
Sniper rifle
Status
In service

Ballistics

Caliber
.338 Lapua Magnum
Muzzle velocity
915 m/s
Effective range
1200 m
Maximum range
1500 m

Dimensions

Barrel length
686 mm
Overall length
1015 / 1265 mm
Empty weight
6.8 kg

Mechanics

Operating system
Manual bolt action
Bolt / action
Three-lug rotating bolt

Feed

System
Single-stack bolt-action magazine
Standard capacity
10 rounds

Fire modes

SafeSemi-auto

Historical profile

Development Process and Origins

The development of the DAN rifle began in the early 2010s when Israel Weapon Industries identified a requirement for an indigenous bolt-action weapon capable of bridging the gap between 7.62x51mm NATO systems and large anti-materiel calibers. The platform was developed in close cooperation with the Israel Defense Forces to meet the evolving demands of modern urban and asymmetric warfare.

Officially unveiled at the Eurosatory exhibition in June 2014, the IWI DAN represented the company's first foray into the high-performance bolt-action precision rifle sector. The weapon's name is derived from the ancient Israelite Tribe of Dan, traditionally associated with justice and border protection.

Technical Features and Design

The DAN architecture is built upon an anodized aerospace aluminum alloy chassis that ensures superior structural rigidity and a stable base for optics. The action utilizes a three-lug bolt with a 60-degree throw, designed to guarantee a smooth and rapid cycling process even in adverse environmental conditions.

The 28-inch barrel is cold-hammer forged and features a six-groove rifling with a twist rate optimized for heavy 250 to 300-grain projectiles. The trigger system is fully adjustable between 1 and 2 kilograms, incorporating an ambidextrous safety that allows the operator to maintain control without leaving the grip.

Operational Service and Military Adoption

Although the IDF predominantly utilizes the Barrett MRAD, the IWI DAN has seen service with various Israeli special units and elite police departments for counter-sniper operations. Its ability to provide sub-MOA accuracy at ranges exceeding 1,200 meters makes it ideal for neutralizing targets protected by heavy body armor.

Internationally, the weapon was acquired by the British SAS (Special Air Service) to partially replace older L115A3 systems in specific long-range surveillance contexts. Other users include special forces in Vietnam and various security agencies in Latin America requiring a reliable multi-role platform.

Evolution and Technical Legacy

The success of the DAN allowed IWI to consolidate its position in the precision weapons market, leading to the development of updated variants such as the DAN .338 Tactical. These recent versions include integrated M-LOK handguards and signature suppression systems specifically designed to operate with subsonic ammunition.

The DA's legacy lies in demonstrating that the Israeli arms industry can compete at the highest levels in the bolt-action rifle segment, historically dominated by European and American manufacturers. Today, the rifle remains a benchmark for ergonomics applied to long-range shooting systems, influencing the design of many subsequent platforms.

Variants

DAN .338DAN TDAN SF

Main users

Israel

Key components

  • ●Stock — Shoulder rest.
  • ●Receiver — Weapon body with internal mechanisms.
  • ●Grip — Primary grip.
  • ●Magazine — Cartridge feed.
  • ●Barrel — Guides the projectile.

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