Mauser SP 66 sniper rifle
Mauser 66 hunting rifle, which served as a starting point for a sniper weapon
Caliber(s): 7.62x51mm NATO (.308Win)
Operation: manual; rotating bolt action
Length: 1120 mm
Barrel: 730 mm
Weight: 6.12 kg empty with Zeiss scope
Feed Mechanism: 3 rounds integral box magazine
The Mauser SP66 sniper rifle had been developed fom Mauser Model 66 Super Match sporting rifle circa 1976. It was widely used by various military and police forces from many countries, including Germany, Italy and Israel. Currently some of the SP 66 rifles are still in service, but production had been ceased circa 1985 with the introduction of the Mauser 86 SR.
Mauser SP66 (like all other Model 66 Mauser rifles) is based on short-throw bolt action, developed by Gehmann. In this action bolt has two frontal lugs that engage the barrel extension, which is screwed onto the barrel. Unlike the famous standard Mauser cation, the Gehmann bolt has cocking handle near the front end of the bolt, and the receiver has a split bridge. The magazine is integral and holds only 3 rounds. The thumbhole stock is made from laminated wood and is ajustable for lenght of pull and position of the cheekpad. Heavy, macth-grade barrel is equipped with combined muzzle brake/flash hider. Mauser SP66 in standard configuration has no iron sights and comes with Zeiss Diavari ZA 1.5-6X variable power scope.
Mauser 86 SR sniper rifle
Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Win),300 Win Magnum
.300 Win.
Operation: Manual bolt action
Scope: Any may be fitted
Feed: 9 round double row box magazine
Weight (No Sight): 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg)
Length: 47.7" (121cm)
Stock: Fully adjustable, thumb-hole, Ventilated target style wood stock.
The Mauser 86SR is an upgraded Mauser SP66. It features a new bolt, and a different stock which is ventilated to help dissipate heat from the barrel. The 86SR also features a detachable box magazine, a useful feature for both Law Enforcement (Change from high penetration to low penetration rounds quickly) and military (Rapid reloads). The rifle is a little longer, and a little less weight then the SP66. But the accuracy is no less then the SP66!
Mauser 86SR sniper rifle employs a manually operated rotary bolt action with dual front locking lugs. barrel is free-floated and fitted with effective muzzle brake. Stock is made either from laminated wood or from fiberglass plastic, with adjustable buttpad and cheek rest. Bottom of the forend was equipped with special rail for attachment of bipod. Feed was from 9-round detachable box magazines. No open sights were provided on rifle by default, and it was usually fitted with Hensoldt telescope sight.
