A Rangemaster Precision action in a Drakes Shrike chassis, makes for a compact SWS that’s poised for long-range duty!
The Drake Stalker Gen 2 represents the latest generation in precision rifles. With a design based upon lessons learned from real-world deployment, it delivers superb accuracy, ergonomics, and adaptability suited for the urban police marksman or soldiers.
Many precision riflemakers are now moving to modular chassis systems. I remember when they first arrived: they were slow to catch on, that is until shooters actually used them. Like all new or foreign things, modular chassis systems had their detractors—many would not budge from stocks and actions that were “bedded” to fiberglass stocks. But much like first-focal-plane scopes, these systems had been fielded in Europe for years and garnered fantastic success. Over time, the systems moved into the American market, where they have quickly progressed. What once was an exotic import is now, in one form or another, a state-of-the-art system.
The concept of “combat necessity” has led to the production of systems that will accommodate all the latest equipment—night vision, lasers, thermal sights and the like permeate the modern battlefield. The days of a guy and his gun with a fixed 16X scope are long gone. Technology has grown in leaps and bounds, and rifle systems have changed in kind.
The short throw bolt facilitates fast follow-up shots with very little movement while the AICS magazine ensures smooth operation
In response to military contracts and end-user demand, precision rifles now include railed forends, shorter barrels and a modular chassis that requires no bedding. Actions are fast and slick and have triggers that can be adjusted in the field. Rear stocks are adjustable and foldable for carry or concealment. Long barrels are being replaced by shorter ones with greater rigidity, different rifling and other long-range enhancements. These innovations have resulted in some very accurate rifles that have excellent fit—duct-taping padding to the stock should be a thing of the past. Featuring new, top-quality composites with user-friendly adjustments, these rifles can be reconfigured in the field in minutes (with no tools).
… for more on this
pick up the January 2013 issue of Tactical Weapons