Defense New Zealand Selects LMT to Replace Steyr AUG Recoil Staff August 20, 2015 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Read our affiliate policy. Find out more about how we test products. New Zealand has been debating the idea of replacing their main service rifle (sound familiar?). Last week, due to months of extensive testing, they took the next step and officially choose Illinois-based LMT (Lewis, Machine, and Tool) as the preferred tenderer. Companies that LMT beat out during the New Zealand Defense Force individual rifle testing were: Beretta CZ Colt Canada (formerly Diemaco) FNH Hk Sig Sauer …and the current holders, Steyr Mannlicher. While currently we don't have information on exact models tested or the requirements, it's easy to make some educated guesses based on the companies shown. The actual tests and results have yet to be disclosed. New Zealand has been issuing and fielding limited numbers of LMT's .308 MWS (Modular Weapon System) as a designated marksman rifle (DMR) since 2012, so there is already a relationship and logistical framework in place. While details about the chosen LMT are still in question, rumor has that it will be one of their newer MRP configurations. Example of LMT The selection of a new individual weapon is part of New Zealand's “Weapon Replacement and Upgrade Programme” (ISWRUP). You can read more about it here. Future projects for the ISWRUP include: Sniper Rifle replacement and the Anti Material Rifle Short Range Anti Armour Weapon 84 mm upgrade Personal Protection Weapon (pistol) replacement project Sustained Fire Machine Gun tripod and target acquisition replacement Grenade Launcher (M203) replacement. So, we can look forward to more changes in the future, aside from just their national flag. As more details come out, we'll keep you updated. In the meantime, you can visit LMT's website right here. Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
