Pros and Cons of Advanced Targeting for Civilian Usage
Abstract: Precision guided firearms (PGFs) improve user accuracy through the use of advanced heads-up display, augmented reality, and fire control technologies. A person sights the item in the scope and is then guided to match the cross-hairs onto the object, and the trigger will not pull unless the "painted" spot matches the crosshairs. Advanced calculations for windage and distance are taken into account, giving people the ability to hit small targets over a kilometer away.
The definition of a Precision Guided Firearm involves the conjunction of various technologies. There must be a complete firing system, meaning that the scope is networked into the firing mechanisms of the rifle in a way that ensures accurate targeting. Target tracking through multi-variable firing solutions (like the crosshairs and "painting" the target") use data from sensors to gauge windage and distance for an accurate calculation. Generally, when the system is engaged the trigger cannot be pulled until the crosshairs in the scope align with the designated target. PGF technology is based around fighter jet missile lock.
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Sarah Connor Won't See It Coming
At over 1 kilometer, the tactical implications for such a rifle are very clear. At minimum, the first shot can come with complet surprise and accuracy. It is only a matter of time before precision guided firearms make the news for an unsavory reason. Although the vast majority of crimes committed with firearms will continue to involve inexpensive and easily concealed products, there are always those who are more methodical and have experience in long-range accurate shooting. Now even amateurs will have the advantage, at least for the first shot, after which their lack of skill would become a liability given that police tactical units have sharpshooters who do not need such technology, or who have counter-sniping devices that are more effective. Even so, one should expect a "precision guided firearms" bill in Congress as some point.
TrackingPoint XS1 PGF
Austin, Texas based TrackingPoint is credited with the creation of the PGF long range rifle system. Since 2013, the company has made PGFs available to civilians and in January 2014 introduced the AR-series rifle. The United States Army has purchased a number of these rifles for integration into the XM2010 Enchanced Sniper Rifle program.
The company uses a variety of integrated technologies in the construction of these weapons, including heads up displays, Linux software, guided triggers, barrel reference systems, network tracked scopes, and scope sofware. These scopes also record video and still images that can be downloaded to phones or emailed. .
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