The JMK Bora-12 is Türkiye's first indigenous sniper rifle, developed by the Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE). Its design was completed between 2004 and 2008, and production began in 2008. This rifle was developed according to the needs of the General Command of Gendarmerie and is actively used by the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) and the Gendarmerie Special Operations (JÖH) units.
JMK Bora-12 (MKE)
Technical Specifications
Caliber: 7.62×51 mm NATO
Operation: Rotary mechanism (single shot)
Barrel Length: 660 mm
Overall Length: 1220 mm (stock closed) / 1265 mm (stock extended)
Weight: 6.4 kg (without magazine)
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Muzzle Velocity: 860 m/s (with Lapua HPS 170 grain ammunition)
Effective Range: 1000 m (point target), 1200 m (area target)
Accuracy: 0.3 MOA (approximately 1 cm deviation at 100 meters)
Trigger Pull: 15–25 Newton
Rifling: 4 grooves
Stock: 4-position adjustable, adjustable up to 45 mm
Design and Ergonomics
The JMK Bora-12 stands out with its user-friendly design. Ergonomic adjustments such as stock length, cheek rest height, and trigger-to-grip distance accommodate different user profiles. Its cold-forged barrel increases durability, while its free-floating design maximizes shooting accuracy.
JMK BORA-12 (YouTube)
International Use and Achievements
The JMK Bora-12 has proven itself not only in Türkiye but also internationally. Preferred by countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Saudi Arabia, and Bangladesh, this rifle ranked first in tests conducted by the Pakistan Army, outperforming its competitors.
Development and Production Process
The rifle was designed by retired Master Sergeant Necmi Güngör. Produced at MKE's Kırıkkale facilities, the Bora-12 holds the distinction of being the organization's first patented weapon. During the development process, the General Command of Gendarmerie actively contributed, incorporating field experience into the design.
The JMK Bora-12 is an important example of Türkiye's localization and nationalization efforts in the defense industry. With its high precision, ergonomic design, and international success, it is a sniper rifle that meets the needs of modern combat environments.