Gallery: Brugger & Thomet SPR 223

The .223 caliber has reached its full maturity, and the number of bolt action rifles chambered for this little cartridge is always increasing. We take a look at the B&T SPR, one of the most interesting

B&T SPR-223 — B&T SPR-223 bolt-action long-range target shooting rifle

B&T SPR-223 — The muzzle is crowned so as to provide some protection in case of impact or falls. The long cylindrical portion on the barrel allows mounting of muzzle accessories

B&T SPR-223 — The bipod, manufactured by B & T, is completely adjustable. Next to it, on the side of the handguard, the hole for the carry strap quick mount attachment

B&T SPR-223 — The B&T SPR rifle has a score of Picatinny rails: this is the extension of the mail rail above the receiver hosting the optical sight

B&T SPR-223 — Manufacturer and model markings on the firearms. Above the markings, a small Picatinny rail meant for ancillary accessories

B&T SPR-223 — Right side view with open folding stock

B&T SPR-223 — On the main Picatinny rail mounted on the receiver we found a superb Night Force variable magnification riflescope

B&T SPR-223 — A bit of minimalist design, the simple arming lever is welded on the bolt body

B&T SPR-223 — The manual safety lever can be found on the right side above the trigger. It is easily operated and features three positions

B&T SPR-223 — The rear end of the receiver houses, on the left side, the bolt release lever. The bolt end cap does not protrude from the receiver, and neither does the firing pin arming indicator

B&T SPR-223 — The rugged and oversized hinge of the folding stock insures tight and slack free operation for years to come

B&T SPR-223 — Left side view with the stock folded for easier transport and handling. It is still possible to use and shoot the weapon with a folded stock

B&T SPR-223 — The folding stock fold on the left side of the SPR, and all controls are perfectly accessible. It is possible to fire the gun with a folded stock in an emergency, although we fail to see any way to shoot the gun both safely and accurately

B&T SPR-223 — The pistol grip on the SPR is a CAA Tactical UPG: the front and rear straps of the grip can be replaced with differently sized parts

B&T SPR-223 — The trigger guard couldn't be plainer: it's just a strip of stamped sheet steel

B&T SPR-223 — The skeletonized stock is built out of machined and extruded aluminum alloy. The simple U shaped cheek piece can be adjusted loosening two screws

B&T SPR-223 — Left side view with the stock folded for easier transport and handling. It is still possible to use and shoot the weapon with a folded stock

B&T SPR-223 — The bolt in its rearward position. The bolt is extremely simple; the locking lugs are machined in the same diameter of the bolt body

B&T SPR-223 — The standard magazine holds 10 rounds and is the same used by the SG-550/Stgw90 assault rifle. 5, 20 and 30 round magazines are also available

B&T SPR-223 — The bolt head is extremely rugged. Note the three locking lugs, machined out of the same diameter of the bolt body, the spring loaded ejector and the claw extractor

B&T SPR-223 — The bolt, although simple, is machined with utmost attention to detail, as is the whole firearm