21.01.2026 • In the Field

In Short

Dawn breaks and you make your way to the hunting blind as quietly as possible. The area around the hunting blind might be overgrown, the ladder is often cramped, and space limited. It's good when the hunting rifle is so compact that it can be handled safely and effortlessly, without bumping or getting caught. A short hunting rifle can also be an advantage when stalking. And since silencers are now used for hunting in many countries, compact hunting rifles are becoming even more important, as the silencer significantly lengthens the overall system consisting of the rifle and silencer.

The R8 has exactly this advantageous, compact design. The unique design of the R8 magazine above the trigger, it is significantly shorter than conventional bolt-action rifles with the same barrel length. The result is a rifle that fits almost anywhere and allows for safe handling.

However, maneuverability is more than just length. It is the interplay of weight, balance, and ergonomics. The balanced weight distribution of the R8 ensures that it literally glides into the shooting position. Fast, smooth, controlled – the R8 immediately feels right. This is also ensured by the ergonomically perfected thumbhole stocks of the R8 Success and R8 Ultimate. The steep pistol grip and the optimized thumbhole allow for a relaxed posture of the shooting hand and arm, while at the same time providing a secure hold when, as is sometimes necessary, the rifle is held with one hand. Every hunter is familiar with this situation: one hand holds the dog or the shooting stick, the other holds the rifle.

The R8 Silence goes one step further. The smooth bull barrel outer contour of the slim integrated silencer ensures comfortable handling. No snagging when marching through the hunting ground with the rifle over your shoulder, no catching when stowing it in its case. The highlight: the weight of the silencer is distributed over the entire length of the barrel. This noticeably improves balance and swing behavior. The rifle is quicker to achieve a perfect shot.

With its excellent handling, its huntability, the R8 creates the best conditions for safe handling, confidence in the rifle, and your own abilities – and thus for a successful hunt.

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