Weatherby has a new modular rifle for PRS comps and other tactical disciplines. Called the Vanguard® Modular Chassis (VMC), this rifle features a Modular Driven Technologies (MDT) aluminum stock, Luth AR MBA-1 buttstock, and 22″ heavy barrel. The Weatherby Vanguard action is fitted with an adjustable 2-stage trigger. Priced at $1519.00 MSRP, this rifle can be campaigned in the PRS “Production Class”, which limits complete rifles to $2000.00 without optics. The rifle is offered in three chamberings: .223 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Winchester.
Weatherby says its Vanguard Modular Chassis tactical rifle is very accurate. To back that claim, Weatherby offers a SUB-MOA accuracy guarantee — Weatherby guarantees the rifle will shoot .99” or smaller 3-shot groups at 100 yards when used with Weatherby® factory or premium ammunition.
Near Half-MOA Accuracy with Factory Ammo
It turns out Weatherby’s accuracy claims are conservative. This tactical rifle is closer to a half-MOA rig than a 1-MOA gun. American Rifleman recently tested a .308 Win version of this rifle and recorded really stellar accuracy — close to half-MOA. What’s more, this rifle is not fussy — with a 1:10″-twist barrel it proved very accurate with six different types of factory ammo.
In fact, the rifle delivered near-half-inch 5-shot groups with two types of Hornady factory ammo, and the worst group (of six ammo types) was 0.76″, still very impressive for factory fodder. With good hand-loads this gun could go well under half-MOA (for five shots).
Vanguard Modular Chassis FIVE-SHOT Test Groups with Factory Ammo:
0.53 inches | Hornady 168gr Match BTHP (2718 fps)
0.55 inches | Hornady 155gr Steel Match (2612 fps)
0.57 inches | Black Hills 168gr BTHP (2608 fps)
0.66 inches | Federal Premium 168gr MatchKing BTHP (2659 fps)
0.70 inches | Hornady 155gr American Gunner (2697 fps)
0.76 inches | Black Hills 175gr BTHP (2603 fps)
NOTE: Group sizes are for 5-shot groups shot from bench at 100 yards with Caldwell pedestal rest and rear sandbag. Pentax Lightseeker 6-24x50mm scope. Velocities in FPS from PACT Chronograph.
The accuracy testing was done by gunwriter Mike Detty, who notes: “My single best group was fired with Hornady’s Match 168-gr. BTHP ammunition. Five shots measured just slightly more than a half-inch. Hornady’s 155-gr. Steel Match ammo wasn’t far behind with a group of .55″. Also accounting for the small groups is the VMC’s wonderful trigger. It is a two-stage affair and the first stage has about 3/8” take up with about a pound of pressure until it reaches the second stage where another 1 ¾ lbs. was required to break the shot.”
PRS Production Class Cost Limits
Production Division combined rifle and scope MSRP as listed on the company’s website shall not exceed $3,000 USD, the rifle shall not exceed $2,000 USD and the optic not exceed $2,000 USD. [Editor: For example, you could have a $2,000 rifle with a $1000.00 scope or vice-versa. The total system cannot exceed $3000. Rifle alone cannot exceed $2000.00 retail sale price.]
Production Division rifles are not permitted to be altered or improved in any way from the original factory configuration.
Share the post "Vanguard Modular Chassis Rifle — Half-MOA with Factory Ammo"
There’s a new long-range precision tactical rifle from Ritter & Stark (R&S) of Austria. The new SX-1 Modular Tactical Rifle (MTR) is designed to allow rapid barrel changes for three chamberings: .308 Winchester, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Lapua Magnum.
Notably, the scope rail is mounted on the barrel itself, and the bolt locks directly into the barrel. This patented system allows scope, rail, and barrel to be swapped out as one integrated assembly, which should definitely help maintain zero when barrels are exchanged.
Ritter & Stark explains: “The MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail is installed directly on the barrel, allowing barrel interchangeability with pre-set scopes for no shift of impact when changing calibers. Easily and quickly done in the field, the patented caliber conversion system allows the barrel to be precisely positioned in the machined aluminum receiver with a greater area of contact allowing for more stability. The bolt is locked directly into the barrel breech[.]”
Video Shows Barrel Swap System, and Bolt Locking in Barrel Breech:
CNC-Controlled Rifling Process
Ritter & Stark states: “The rifling is processed in a CNC-controlled electrochemical machine. This avoids the transmission of thermal effects and mechanical stress to the material. Furthermore, this process allows us to produce barrels with unique uniformity and within tolerance zones that were not possible in a serial production before.” This is very interesting technology, and we’d like to learn more about it.
Accuracy Guarantee and Barrel Life Guarantee
Apparently the CNC-controlled rifling process works well as Ritter & Stark guarantees that its barrels maintain accuracy for a long time. The Austrian company states: “Our barrels are guaranteed to at least 5,000 rounds for .308 Win and .338 LM, and 2,000 rounds for .300 WM before noticing any degradation in accuracy.” That kind of claim certainly invites a long-term test. Who’s got enough ammo? Ritter & Stark also claims that “every rifle we manufacture can achieve 0.5 MOA 3-round groups or better with factory match-grade ammunition.”
The Ritter & Stark SX-1 MTR is designed for adaptability. It will accept third-party Rem 700-compatible triggers as well as a variety of AR-type grips. In addition, the SX-1, in standard configuration, will accept other manufacturers’ AI, SR25, or AR10 magazines. The rifle can also accept other buttstock assemblies compatible with Ritter & Stark’s folding mechanism which, interestingly, can be set to fold to either side.
Product Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "High-Tech Tactical Rifle from Austria’s Ritter & Stark"
Report by Jason Baney, EuroOptic.com
At Media Day at the Range, some of us were privileged to shoot a very accurate new tactical rifle — the Sako TRG M10. People have been clamoring for this “bad-ass” multi-caliber rifle, which has not yet been released to the public. The M10 was one of the top submissions for the PSR (Precision Sniper Rifle) contract and we can see why. The ergonomics, function, and adjustments are very smooth and intuitive. As proof, though I had never previously handled an M10, much less practiced with one, we managed to complete our video in just one take. I was quickly able to figure out the adjustments and get shots on target. That bodes well for a serious tactical rifle designed for combat.
When compared to previous Sako TRG models, the M10 is notable for its modular construction, wide range of adjustments, and, of course, its ability to shoot multiple cartridge types (.308 Win, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Mag). As with other PSR submissions, Sako’s M10 has user-changeable barrels that can be switched easily.
Watch Jason Shoot Sako TRG M10 at 960 Yards
The M10 is currently only available to the military market, but the hope is to push it to the commercial (civilian) market after military orders are filled. When this happens, EuroOptic plans to be one of the first vendors to offer TRG M10s to civilian customers. We do not know the price of the TRG M10 at this time — we asked Sako reps but they wouldn’t even venture a guess.
This 8-minute Video Covers Sako M10 Features in Great Detail:
Share the post "Finnish Fire-Power: TRG M10 Multi-Caliber Rifle from Sako"
Nesika is back. Now part of the Freedom Group, Nesika has introduced new ‘custom shop’ Sporter, Long Range, and Tactical rifles. All three rifles feature composite stocks (with aluminum bedding blocks), Douglas barrels, and Timney triggers. Nesika provides a 5-shot, One MOA accuracy guarantee for all three rifles. These are all fairly expensive for factory rifles but Nesika claims they are built “one at a time, by hand” in the Nesika Custom Shop. The Sporter runs $3499.00, the Long Range is $3999.00, and the Tactical is a daunting $4499.00. You can buy a very nice true custom for that money.
The green Tactical model has an adjustable cheekpiece and spacer-adjustable buttplate. The Tactical comes with a matte black CeraKote finish, a built-in +15 MOA scope rail, and an AAC Blackout muzzle brake/suppressor adapter on the barrel. The Nesika Tactical is offered in .300 Win Mag (26″ barrel) and .338 Lapua Magnum (28″ barrel), with a 5-round DBM provided.
The Long Range Rifle has Nesika’s stainless, open-top Hunter action, with a CeraKote-finished chrome-moly bolt. The Timney trigger breaks at three pounds. Leupold QRW bases come standard, as does a SS
Oberndorf-style hinged floor plate.
The Sporter features a Nesika stainless tactical action. A wide variety of regular and magnum chamberings are offered, and barrels are 24″ or 26″ depending on chambering. Like the Long Range Rifle, the Sporter offers Leupold QRW bases. The rifle weighs eight pounds without optics — a reasonable weight for a hunting rifle. It looks nicely built, but will it harvest white-tails any better than a $450.00 Savage? Maybe not.
Share the post "Nesika Introduces Three New ‘Custom Shop’ Rifles"
In this NSSF video, Ryan Cleckner shows how to set up a scope on a tactical or hunting rifle. Ryan, a former U.S. Army Sniper Instructor, notes that many shooters spend a small fortune on equipment, but fail to set up their rifle to use the optics optimally. Cleckner likens this to someone who owns an expensive sports car, but never adjusts the seat or the mirrors.
Ryan notes that you want your head and neck to be able to rest naturally on the stock, without straining. You head should rest comfortably on the stock. If you have to consciously lift your head off the stock to see through the scope, then your set-up isn’t correct. Likewise, You shouldn’t have to push your head forward or pull it back to see a clear image through the scope. If you need to strain forward or pull back to get correct eye relief, then the scope’s fore/aft position in the rings needs to be altered. Watch the full video for more tips.
Tips on Mounting Your Scope and Adjusting Your Comb Height:
1. Normally, you want your scope mounted as low as possible, while allowing sufficient clearance for the front objective. (NOTE: Benchrest shooters may prefer a high mount for a variety of reasons.)
2. Once the scope height is set, you need to get your head to the correct level. This may require adding an accessory cheekpad, or raising the comb height if your rifle has an adjustable cheekpiece.
3. Start with the rifle in the position you use most often (standing, kneeling, or prone). If you shoot mostly prone, you need to get down on the ground. Close your eyes, and let you head rest naturally on the stock. Then open your eyes, and see if you are too low or too high. You may need to use a cheekpad to get your head higher on the stock.
4. If your scope has a flat on the bottom of the turret housing, this will help you level your scope. Just find a flat piece of metal that slides easily between the bottom of the scope and the rail. Slide that metal piece under the scope and then tilt it up so the flat on the bottom of the scope aligns parallel with the flats on the rail. Watch the video at 8:40 to see how this is done.
Video find by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Share the post "Tech Tip: How to Mount a Scope for a Tactical or Hunting Rifle"
ArmaLite has just introduced its latest bolt-action rifle, the new AR-30A1. Armalite’s AR-30A1 is available in .300 Win Magnum (24″ barrel) and .338 Lapua Magnum (26″ barrel). Both the .300 WM and .338 LM are offered in two versions: Standard and Target. The Target versions feature an adjustable stock, plus an extended Picatinny rail running forward of the action.
On the surface, the AR-30A1 bears a family resemblance to its predecessor, the AR-30. But, the AR-30A1 actually shares few components from the AR-30: grip, buttpad, trigger, and a few small parts. All other components are new and/or improved. Armalite claims that the new AR30-A1 has better ergonomics, versatility, reliability, and ease of use.
Features of all versions of the new AR-30A1:
Muzzle brake threads are suppressor industry standard (5/8 x 24 for the 300 WM and 3/4 x 24 for the 338 LM). Many suppressors can be attached without an adaptor.
The bolt-mounted safety mechanism locks the firing pin to the rear. This design is stronger and more secure than a sear- or trigger-blocking safety.
Cheek-piece supports contain integral cleaning rod guides to prevent bore damage.
Multiple sling installation locations allow simultaneous use of a sling and a bipod. Rear sling swivel can be moved to either left or right side.
The entire buttstock assembly can be quickly and easily removed with only one allen wrench. Standard and target buttstocks are interchangeable on any receiver.
Target rifles feature 18″-long, +20-MOA Picatinny rail over the receiver and barrel, plus rails on both sides of the forearm.
The buttstock can be adjusted without tools for lengths of pull from 13.6″ to 15.6″. Buttpad adjusts for height and cheek-piece offers 1″ of vertical adjustment.
Specifications — .300 WM Standard
Caliber: .300 Winchester Magnum
Barrel: 24″ Chrome Moly
Rifling Twist: 1:10
Muzzle Device: Muzzle Brake
Trigger: Single Stage
Stock: Standard
Fixed — nonadjustable
Overall Length: 46.0″
Length of Pull: 13.5″
Weight: 12.8 LBS
Accuracy: 1/4 to 3/4 MOA at 300 Yards
Included: One 5-Round Mag, Detachable Sight Rail, Hard Case, Sling, Manual
Price: $3,264.00
Specifications — .338 LM Target
Caliber: .338 Lapua Magnum
Barrel: 26″ Chrome Moly
Rifling Twist: 1:10
Muzzle Device: Muzzle Brake
Trigger: Single Stage
Stock: Adjustable Cheek Piece (height) & Buttstock (length)
Overall Length: 48.1″ – 50.1″
Length of Pull: 13.6″ – 15.6″
Weight: 15.3 LBS
Accuracy: 1/4 to 3/4 MOA at 300 Yards
Included: One 5-Round Mag, Detachable Sight and Accessory Rails, Hard Case, Sling, Manual
Price: $3,599.00
Share the post "New AR30-A1 from Armalite in .300 WM and .338 Lapua Magnum"
Gun Digest offers a users’ guide for tactical rifles. Authored by Patrick Sweeney (Guns & Ammo Handguns Editor), the 224-page Gun Digest Book of the Tactical Rifle covers tactical rifle types, ammo, reloading, and tactical accessories. Most of the book’s sixteen chapters are gun-specific — detailed discussions of particular rifles such as the M15/M1A, the FN-FAL, and the Sig 556. There are also dedicated chapters on Bullpups, Rimfires, and “Sniper Rifles” (both bolt-action and semi-auto).
While the book sports an AR15 on its cover, AR-platform rifles are NOT the major focus of the book. If you are only interested in ARs, this is not the book for you. However, if you want to learn more about a variety of modern arms, you should find the book a valuable resource. Gun Digest claims: “No other book covers as many different styles of tactical rifles, and is written by a more qualified author.”
About the Author
The handguns editor for Guns & Ammo magazine, Patrick Sweeney is a also a credentialed gunsmith and police firearms instructor. He has written many of Gun Digest Books’ best-selling titles including: Gun Digest Book of the 1911, Vols. I and II; Gun Digest Big Fat Book of the .45 ACP, Gun Digest Book of the AR-15, Gun Digest Book of the AK and SKS, among other titles.
Share the post "Guide to Tactical Rifles from Gun Digest"
In this NSSF video, Ryan Cleckner shows how to set up a scope on a tactical or hunting rifle. Ryan, a former U.S. Army Sniper Instructor, notes that many shooters spend a small fortune on equipment, but fail to set up their rifle to use the optics optimally. Cleckner likens this to someone who owns an expensive sports car, but never adjusts the seat or the mirrors.
