Blaser Presents the R8 300,000 "The Wild Planet"
Innovation + rifle craftsmanship + creativity = R8 300,000 "The Wild Planet."
In the beginning, there was the oft-cited blank sheet of paper on the table. It was the starting point for a unique piece that was to combine modern manufacturing technologies, classic rifle craftsmanship, and passionate creativity in the best possible way. With "The Wild Planet" the team at the Blaser Custom Shop has achieved exactly that: the idea of creating something that had never existed before has resulted in a breathtaking hunting rifle! Surprising elements, fine materials, masterful execution – all this characterizes the R8 300,000 "The Wild Planet."
Breaking new ground
"Of course, in the end we needed more than just one piece of paper," smiles Ralph Salzmann, Creative Head of the Custom Shop. It took around a year from the initial idea to completion. This is not unusual for a hunting rifle from the Custom Shop, especially when new technological solutions are being developed or materials tested. With "The Wild Planet," it started with the idea of developing hinged side plates, a decision that determined the next steps. "Because of the hinged side plates, the receiver was widened, which in turn led to a new stock and a widened bolt housing," Ralph Salzmann explains, "and those are just the most obvious elements." Another challenge was to develop a mechanism for the cheek piece that would function reliably and be aesthetically pleasing.
Perfect craftsmanship in mechanics and image
Exquisite walnut wood of the highest grade, the "Exhibition Grade," was selected for the stock. The leather inlay, with gold-inlaid “300,000” lettering on the clip and a blue-colored push button, is pleasing to the eye, yet conceals the real highlight. A brief press of the button reveals a second stock inlay. Framed in fine ebony, an elephant's head is brought to life using the scrimshaw technique on mammoth ivory. Developed in the 18th century, the delicate art form of scrimshaw still demonstrates its incomparable strength in creating detailed representations in ivory.
Whenever possible and requested by the customer, the artisans at the Custom Shop view a hunting rifle as an overall concept. This means that the focus is not exclusively on individual highlights, but rather on creating a harmonious whole. For the R8 300,000, a relief texture was specially developed as a stylish backdrop and applied to every metal surface of "The Wild Planet." Like a fine breath of air. The Argali logo shimmers within it, a sign of its origins that continues into the future.
A special gun case was made for "The Wild Planet." Lined with the finest Alcantara, it offers additional space for the two Blaser riflescopes that belong to "The Wild Planet." A Blaser B1 2.8-20x50 iC and a B1 1-7x28 iC. The leather used for the case and inserts was also used for the matching rifle sling. But that's not all. A look inside the case reveals an extra compartment. "That's for the miniature edition of 'The Wild Planet'," explains Ralph Salzmann. True to scale, the small R8 300,000 is just as elaborately engraved as its big sister. ."The Wild Planet" shows how craftsmanship excellence and the courage to think outside the box can create something unique. A total work of art with surprising details, fine materials, and masterful execution that amazes even experienced connoisseurs.
Innovation + rifle craftsmanship + creativity = R8 300,000 "The Wild Planet."
