Introduction
The Fass 90, also known as the SIG 550 on the international market, has been the Swiss army’s standard assault rifle since 1986. In Switzerland, it is officially known as the Stgw 90 (Sturmgewehr 90), which means “assault rifle model 90”. Designed to offer exceptional precision and reliability, even under the most extreme conditions, the Stgw 90 is a symbol of Swiss know-how in armaments. Produced by the Swiss company SIG, this rifle is renowned for its durability, ergonomics and ability to maintain high performance at medium range. The Stgw 90 is a preferred choice for Swiss forces, and is internationally recognized for its performance and robustness.
Technical specifications Stgw 90 (Fass 90 / SIG 550)
The Stgw 90 is a 5.56 × 45 mm NATO caliber rifle, optimized for medium-range engagements. This caliber provides a good balance between power and control, guaranteeing effective precision even in successive shots. The Stgw 90’s construction is based on a gas-operated system and rotary lock, ensuring reliable cartridge extraction and reducing the risk of jamming.
–Caliber: 5.56 × 45 mm NATO
–Operating system: Direct gas, rotary lock
–Barrel length: 528 mm
–Firing rate: 700 shots per minute
–Effective range: 400 metres (with a maximum range of up to 600 metres)
–Magazine capacity: 20 or 30 cartridge magazines
Weight: 4.1 kg with 20-cartridge magazine
–Materials: steel and polymer, designed to withstand the harshest conditions
The Stgw 90’s floating barrel significantly enhances accuracy, an asset for medium-range engagements where shooting stability is crucial. Its forged steel and polymer construction enables the Stgw 90 to withstand the most demanding conditions, guaranteeing unrivalled reliability.
Ergonomics and ease of use
The design of the Stgw 90 is conceived to offer an ergonomic grip and facilitate prolonged use. Its folding stock allows soldiers to reduce the length of the weapon, making it easier to carry and handle in confined spaces. The stock is also adjustable, enabling users to tailor the length to suit their preferences.
The rifle features a textured polymer grip and a handguard designed for a firm hold, even in wet conditions. The ambidextrous fire selector makes it easy to switch between semi-automatic and automatic fire, an advantage in close-combat situations. The Stgw 90 is compatible with optical accessories, enabling snipers to optimize their aim for precision engagements.
Reliability and Resistance under Extreme Conditions
One of the aspects that sets the Stgw 90 apart is its ability to operate efficiently in difficult environments, from snow-covered Swiss mountains to wet, muddy terrain. Its rotary locking system and gas-operated mechanism reduce residue build-up, limiting the risk of jamming and enabling the rifle to operate without intensive maintenance.
The Stgw 90 has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that it retains optimum performance even after thousands of shots. Its robust structure resists shocks and temperature variations, making this rifle particularly suitable for deployments in extreme conditions. This reliability makes it the weapon of choice for Swiss soldiers on operations, who can count on a high-performance weapon in any situation.
Performance and precision
The Stgw 90 is renowned for its medium-range accuracy. With an effective range of 400 meters, it enables soldiers to maintain precise aim, even when firing in succession. In semi-automatic mode, the rifle is highly accurate, while in automatic mode it maintains good stability, thanks to a muzzle brake that reduces recoil. This stability makes the Stgw 90 an ideal weapon for combat engagements where precision and rate of fire are essential.
Comparison with other assault rifles
–M4 Carbine: Although the M4 is lighter and more compact, the Stgw 90 offers superior precision and robustness, making it more suitable for demanding environments.
–Heckler & Koch G36: The G36 is appreciated for its lightness, but the Stgw 90 performs better in extreme conditions and does not lose accuracy after prolonged use.
–FN SCAR: Known for its modularity, the SCAR is efficient, but the Stgw 90 is often preferred for its mechanical simplicity, durability and easy maintenance.
Impact and use of the Stgw 90 in the Swiss Armed Forces and abroad
As the Swiss army’s standard rifle, the Stgw 90 is used in intensive training and real-world operations. Its precision, reliability and ruggedness make it a major asset for Swiss forces, capable of meeting the specific needs of soldiers in the most diverse environments. Outside Switzerland, the Stgw 90 (SIG 550) is also appreciated by international security units and special forces, who value its durability and performance in difficult conditions.
Thanks to its technical qualities and reliability, the Stgw 90 continues to be a benchmark for armies and special units, confirming Switzerland’s role as a producer of high-precision military equipment.
Conclusion
The Stgw 90, or Fass 90, represents the excellence of Swiss engineering applied to military weaponry. Designed to withstand the most extreme conditions, while maintaining optimum performance, this assault rifle is a preferred choice for the Swiss armed forces. Whether for its medium-range accuracy, ruggedness or reliability, the Stgw 90 continues to set the standard for soldiers and snipers around the world. Its ingenious design and ergonomics make it a versatile and durable rifle, perfectly suited to the demands of modern combat.
