Blaser · Sniper Rifle
Blaser R93 Tactical
Bolt action · .308 Winchester · introduced 1993
Also known as R93 Tactical, R93 LRS2, Blaser Tactical
About the Blaser R93 Tactical
The Blaser R93 Tactical is a straight-pull bolt-action sniper rifle based on Blaser's innovative R93 hunting rifle platform. Its defining feature is the straight-pull bolt mechanism with a collet locking system, which allows significantly faster cycling than conventional turn-bolt actions -- the bolt travels straight back and forward without any rotation, enabling trained operators to achieve rapid follow-up shots. Originally designed as a high-end hunting rifle, the R93 was adapted for law enforcement and military use with a tactical stock, heavy barrel, and full-length accessory rail.
The Blaser R93's straight-pull action was revolutionary in the sniper rifle world, offering a cycling speed advantage that no turn-bolt action could match. German GSG 9 operators reportedly chose the R93 Tactical specifically because its fast bolt cycle allowed them to take immediate follow-up shots during hostage rescue scenarios where split-second timing was critical. The rifle's hunting rifle origins also gave it an unexpectedly low profile -- it could be transported in a standard sporting rifle case without attracting attention.
Blaser R93 Tactical specifications
General
- Type
- Sniper Rifle
- Action
- Bolt action
- Firing mechanism
- Striker-fired
- Trigger
- Single stage
- Trigger pull
- 0.9 kg (1.9 lb)
- Calibres
- .308 Winchester, .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Lapua Magnum
- Magazine capacity
- 4 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 610 mm (24.0 in)
- Overall length
- 1178 mm (46.4 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 5.40 kg (11.90 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 5.80 kg (12.79 lb)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:12 in (305 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
- Grooves
- 6
Materials
- Barrel
- Chrome molybdenum steel
- Receiver / frame
- Aluminum alloy
- Stock
- Aluminum chassis polymer furniture
- Finish
- matte_black
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 860 m/s (2822 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 3592 J (2649 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 800 m
History
- Introduced
- 1993
- Production status
- In production
- Country of origin
- DE
- Designer
- Horst Blaser
Available calibres
Features
- Straight pull bolt
- Free floating barrel
- Quick change barrel
- Multi caliber conversion
- Adjustable cheek piece
- Adjustable length of pull
- Suppressor ready
- Full length picatinny rail
- Collet locking system
- Adjustable trigger
- Radial locking head
Safety
- Manual decocking safety
- Firing pin safety
The R93's straight-pull action uses a 14-lug collet that expands radially into the barrel extension to lock, rather than conventional rotating lugs. This allows the bolt to be cycled with a simple push-pull motion. The trigger pull is exceptionally light at approximately 850 grams (1.87 lbs) due to the direct trigger linkage. Barrel changes between calibers take approximately 60 seconds. The R93 Tactical was particularly popular with German counter-terrorism units who valued the fast follow-up shot capability for urban hostage rescue scenarios. The LRS 2 (Long Range Sporter) variant added a longer forend and heavier barrel profile.
