Haenel RS (series)

History

The sniper still plays a vital primary role on the modern battlefield, tasked with eliminating high-value and low-value targets with precise long-range firepower. For decades, the tools of this deadly industry have been making long guns with unique qualities: manual repeats, "precise" barrels, over-frame optics/magnifiers, and 5 or 10-round magazines.

Modern snipers are no exception and still rely on such solutions. To meet this market demand, Haenel GmbH of Germany designs, develops and manufactures the superb range of "RS" bolt-action rifles for military and law enforcement agencies.

The product line includes "RS8" and "RS9", which are similar in shape, versatility and modularity, but differ in some characteristics: RS8 for mid-range work, and RS9 for mid-length Distance work needs to be covered. RS8 variants include RS8 Basic, RS8 Compact (with a shorter barrel assembly) and RS8 Subsonic (with an integrated full-length suppressor for 7.62x51mm subsonic ammunition).

RS9 consists of RS9 standard products and built-in. 338 La Playa Magnum.

The 2016 rifle line features a traditional design with a proven manual bolt handle system. The grip is mounted on the right side of the stock in the usual way, and the magazine is located directly in front of and above the magazine well - which holds a spring-loaded hard case containing 10 rounds of steel. Hinged, foldable shoulder rests are fully adjustable in height and length, and feature padded toe and cheek pieces for maximum shooter comfort. The pistol grip features an ergonomic primary hand recess behind the two-stage adjustable trigger assembly with an integrated 3-position firing pin safety.

Front bezel features a full range of Picatinny rails for mounting tactical accessories at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock - framed barrel is full length, helping to make modularity a staple of rifle design . A folding bipod can be mounted under the front end for forward support, while a monopod can be mounted under the stock for additional support. The barrel protrudes from the perforated forearm and is locked by a multi-slotted brake, with an optional suppressor assisting in stealth work.

As expected, the rifle can be fitted with a variety of day and night sights/optics, as well as magnifiers and laser sights, as required. Iron sights are retained as backup and are removable.

The rifle was developed according to a 2014 request by the Bundeswehr to cover the powerful . 338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. The company received the request in February 2016, after which it delivered the first 115 rifles. Currently (2022), the RS9 is only used by the German Special Forces (known as "G29") as their primary sniper rifle, as this series has replaced the earlier G22 (0.300 Winchester Magnum Accuracy International AWM) .

Specification

Base

Years of Service

2016

Origins

Germany

Categories

Military/Law Bolt Action Rifle Sniper Rifle

Manufacturer

C.G. Haenel GmbH - Germany

Operator

Germany

Roles

Accuracy/Precision

Wide range of accuracy/accuracy capabilities; suitable for sniping, especially when equipped with sights.

Special Forces

The qualities of this weapon have proven its worth to special forces who need a versatile, reliable solution for the rigors of special operations.

Mute

This weapon is either inherently silent/suppressed, or can be made with special muzzle mounts, special subsonic ammo, or a combination of the two.

Notable Features

Portable

Despite its size/weight, the product can be transported on foot.

Mute function

Support for silence/suppression actions via silencers, silencers or subsonic ammunition for stealth operations.

Bolt locking system

The operation requires the operator to operate a bolt handle or similar device, clean the chamber of the used cartridge, and insert a new cartridge from the magazine.

Ability to use rifle scopes/visual aids

Support for mounting optics (scopes) to improve accuracy in long-range shooting.

Bipod assembly

Aiming can be aided by the use of a bipod support assembly, either as an integral part of the design or as an option.

Customizable

Design allows users to customize certain components for customization.

Adaptable

Design provides attachment points for external aftermarket hardware including laser sights, flashlights, scopes and grips.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length

1,275 mm

50. 20 inches

Barrel length

690mm

27. 17 inches

Cured weight

16.64 lbs

7.55 kg

Attractions

Supports various optics; spare, optional iron.

Action

Manually operated repetitive system.

Bolt Action

The process of manually operating the control bolt lever to eject the spent cartridge, releasing the bolt and inserting a new cartridge into the chamber.

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber*

. Chapter 338

Circle/Feed

Detachable 10-round box magazine.

POWER

Maximum efficiency. Arrived

4,920 feet

(1,500m | 1,640m)

Rate of fire

12

Number of revolutions

Mile speed

3,290 ft/s

(1,003 m/s)

VARIANTS

RS9 - The name of the base series. G29 - Designation of the Bundeswehr.