The Cheytac M-200 is built around the brand-new .408 CheyTac cartridge. The new cartridge lies midway between the .338 Lapua and the powerful .50 BMG in terms of power. The design of the cartridge allows the bullet to retain its supersonic velocity at ranges beyond 2000 metres. At ranges beyond 700 meters the .408 bullet has more energy than the standard .50BMG ball bullet. The .408 cartridge is also lighter than the .50BMG cartridge by about 1/3, and generates less recoil.

The rifle is intended for use in truly long range engagements in an anti-personnel role. It delivers sub minute-of-angle accuracy at ranges up to 2270 metres, one of the longest ranges for a modern sniper rifle.

The M-200 comes equipped with a collapsible stock with rear monopod, an adjustable bipod mounted on the tubular barrel shroud and a carrying handle. The heavy, fluted barrel is free floated and is quickly removable for storage, transportation or replacement. The box magazine holds 5 rounds. The standard scope is the Nightforce NXS 5.5-22X, included here with the AN/PVS-14 Night Vision module and AN/PEQ-2 IR laser. No iron sights are provided with the M-200 rifle.