Scandi Style
Together with the Norwegian artist Jo Stenersen, the Custom Shop created three emblematic rifles which reflect the Nordic soul.
Custom Shop to be sold at the trade show in Norway. What a grand finale of a very special project! In collaboration with the Norwegian artist Jo Stenersen, the Custom Shop has created three hunting rifles that perfectly embody the Nordic hunting spirit: Straightforward with a pinch of roughness.
At least that is how Jo Stenersen would describe it. The 54-year-old artist not only hunts since his childhood but also observes and draws wildlife ever since. “The inspirations for the drawings were encounters I had with wildlife”, says Jo and adds, “in fact I have spent a lot of time outdoors. My father hunted and all my uncles were hunters. It may come to no surprise that my father would take me out of school for one week each fall, so I could follow him and his friends on the moose hunt. As a result, I was much more interested in wildlife and drawing than in going to school.” However, it was not only about enjoying time together. Jo: “It is also an important tradition where I grew up, to learn as a kid about the harvesting traditions which provide sustainable and healthy food.”
About ten years ago he swapped his job in the insurance industry for being a full-time photographer, journalist and artist. That is how he met Karl Frisk. The CEO of Blaser Norway knew the work of the artist and wanted to him to be part of the project of building three Custom rifles. “We wanted to create something authentic that appeals to the Nordic soul which has always been in tune with nature”, explains Karl.
Quickly they settled on the three themes of the rifles: roedeer, reindeer and red deer. Then Jo started on the drawings which were sent to the Custom Shop. The challenge for the creative team in Isny was to transfer the specific style of Jo Stenersen’s art to the engravings on the rifles. “They did great a great job”, smiles Karl. In addition to the engravings on the actions, all the rifles received suede inserts as well as a butt plate from the respective game, which are very pleasant to the touch. Footprints on the pistol grip cap and the trigger guard are only two of the thoughtful touches which grant an elegant appearance of understatement to each R8. Karl: “The ensemble of the design elements makes each rifle a clear statement, reflecting the Nordic style of modern simplicity with a close connection to nature.”
The feedback during the trade show underlined the success of the cooperation. All three rifles and their respective accompanying drawings of Jo Stenersen were enthusiastically received. “This encourages us to do more the Nordic way in the future”, says Karl with a wink.
Reindeer Edition R8 Ultimate Carbon, .308 Win., fluted barrel, trigger DLC-coated (?), threaded muzzle.
Roe Buck Edition R8, .308 Win., fluted barrel, matte stock, gold-coloured trigger, threaded muzzle.
Red Stag Edition R8 Success, .308 Win., fluted barrel, gold-coloured trigger, matte stock, threaded muzzle.
All three rifles have the signature of Jo Stenersen next to their name in the stock clip.
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