The Beretta 501 Sniper is an Italian-made bolt-action sniper rifle. Introduced in 1985, it was intended for military and police use. The Beretta Sniper was adopted by number of European police forces and by armies in other parts of the world. Because of competition by more modern sniper rifle designs and due to the lack of interest in the M501 rifle, the product was discontinued. The 501 Sniper has been replaced in service by newer sniper rifle designs.