[LouD]

Might not be a rifle at all. It could quite possibly be a bolt action or single shot pistol chambered for .223.

Using a pistol would certainly facilitate the sniper's disappearing quickly after each shooting, and these weapons would account for the lack of brass found at the crime scenes. Moreover, they are plenty accurate enough at the ranges the sniper has fired from, particularly if the sniper is using a scope or laser sight.

[Pharmboy]

Good point Lou. There was a shooter who called in to "The Buzz" radio show yesterday (Bey and Malzberg out of NYC WABC) who named the two standard pistols that take that round. He said that it very well could be either of those pistols fitted with a scope that is doing the damage.

It makes sense since a field-stripped pistol is easy to hide.

[oyez]

I was thinking Remmington x500, maybe. Single shop bolt action. I think they came out in the mid 60's. I think it may be a collector item by now.