Barrett Model 90, 95 and 99: The Most Powerful Bullpups in the World

By Eric R. Poole

The Model 90, Model 95 and Model 99 are the most powerful bullpups in the world.

MODEL 90

A compact Barrett doesn’t come about overnight. In fact, it takes three days. At least, that’s how long it took Ronnie Barrett to personally design the Model 95’s predecessor, the Model 90, in January 1990.

“A few rifles were handmade, but the design was never put into production,” says a Barrett spokesperson. This statement doesn’t mean word didn’t get out. If you find a July 1990 copy of Guns & Ammo, you’ll discover an ad for it in the front half of the magazine. “Prices start at $3,350 (Scope extra),” it reads.

The Model 90 foreshadowed the development of a bolt-action alternative to Ronnie Barrett’s legendary semiautomatic Model 82A1, popularized on film and coveted during Operation Desert Storm. The rotating bolt featured the same three massive lugs that locked it directly into the long, fluted barrel.

The Model 90’s receiver was made from stamped sheet steel and consisted of an upper and lower receiver secured by push pins. Unlike the Model 82A1’s …Read the Rest

Source:: Guns and Ammo