Blaser R8

[Beck]

What is the take on these rifles? There is what appears to be a really good deal on one at Cabelas right now, link below. Why are people so crazy about them?

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/101426096

 

[Piet-Vis]

I have a R93 with multiple barrels in Botswana. I really love that gun. It makes shooting easy. Super well balanced with a incredible trigger.

 

[BeeMaa]

Why are people so crazy about them?

In short…because they are awesome.

Straight pull action is simply faster than any traditional bolt action. Magazine is on top of the trigger group which essentially shortens the rifle by 4”. Caliber changes (within a caliber group) takes about 2 minutes. If the bolt head needs to be changed to accommodate another caliber group, add another 2 minutes. Breaks down quickly for easy travel. Two stocks and 3 barrels will fit in a Pelican 1700 case (no optics) and weigh less than 45#. Quick detach scope mounts return to zero 100% and lock up like a bank vault. Uses a decocker to complete relieve the tension from the firing pin spring, not a simple wing safety. Multitude of stock options from wood, synthetic, thumb-hole and fully adjustable. Barrel length and profiles in a multitude of calibers from 17HMR to 500J and all of them can be shot from the exact same stock with the same fit and feel. Amazing trigger that breaks like glass at just over 2#.

I know I’m missing a few things, but that’s most of it. I’m sure some other Blaser guys will let me know if I missed something.

 

[BeeMaa]

BTW - That used Blaser R8 in 375H&H and 300WM is not a bad deal. Years ago that combo sold for over $8K new, but they usually came with a Blaser branded Pelican 1700 case with pre-cut foam.

 

[smp005]

That is an very good price for that setup - unusual for Cabelas LOL!

I have found that enlightenment comes with holding and handling one . Quality take-down firearm with interchangeable barrels and guaranteed return to zero scope mounts..

I think a big item is the safety factor - an R8 does not have a traditional safety, it is a cock / decock.. the firing pin is not cocked until the "safety" is pushed forward (like a Kreighoff Double) which makes it an excellent client rifle in a PH's eyes!

Complete interchangeability is really cool - and functional, and Blasers are incredibly accurate right out of the box..

Hmm.. maybe that's why I have 3 and keep buying more