Blaser Re-engineers the Thumbhole Stock

by
posted on March 19, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
blasersized1.jpg

Apparently it takes a team of German firearm engineers to fashion the perfect thumbhole stock, because the Blaser R8 Professional Success is as good as it gets. It’s not exactly a surprise that this touch of perfection comes via the R8, which I consider the world’s most technologically advanced hunting rifle. The Blaser’s unique mechanical features include a segmented-collet bolt sleeve that forms a circular locking lug, making the action faster than any turnbolt, yet stronger than competing straight-pull guns. On top of that, the magazine and trigger assembly are combined in a single detachable unit, which allows for a shorter receiver and shorter overall length, while at the same time enhancing safety by allowing the shooter to fully unload or reload the gun in an instant.

Granted, the R8’s looks take some getting used to, and thumbhole stocks aren’t necessarily my cup of tea. But I do like the way they feel in actual shooting positions-especially offhand and kneeling-and am convinced that the thumbhole configuration is an advantage in making deliberate, precise shots. For me, though, a thumbhole stock can feel kind of awkward afield when a fast shot is needed. The Professional Success’s interpretation bridges the gap. The grip angle, size and shape combine to produce a comfortable hold and great trigger control, but make for intuitive handling, and the entire rifle was rebalanced to account for the relaxed hand position. Some versions of the new stock even come adorned in fine-grained leather, which, perhaps goes to show that much as I like the R8, I’m still a step behind Blaser’s engineers.

A new thumbhole stock designed for the Blaser R8 Professional Success brings a new balance of trigger control and fast-handling capability.

blaser R8 thumbhole stock

Latest

Heritage Mfg Roscoe Rifleman Review 1
Heritage Mfg Roscoe Rifleman Review 1

Rifleman Review: Heritage Mfg. Roscoe

In recent years, Heritage Mfg. has expanded its centerfire offerings, and the Roscoe is one of the latest new models, a retro-styled revolver chambered for .38 Special that's capable of dedicated defensive use.

Chiappa Expands Rhino Revolver Lineup

Chiappa Firearms is updating its unique line of Rhino revolvers with several new models, giving consumers an all-new 10 mm Auto chambering, as well as complete stainless-steel construction.

Review: TandemKross Manticore X

In 2024, TandemKross (TK), best known for its high-quality competition upgrades for rimfire platforms, launched the first ever lower-receiver assembly designed for the rimfire Ruger 10/22 platform.

Rifleman Q&A: Surreptitious L.C. Smith

American Rifleman staff recently received the following question about markings on a possible L.C. Smith shotgun. Read what we learned:

USA Clay Target League Breaks Participation Record—Again

The fall season is underway for the USA Clay Target League, and the number of student athletes participating speaks volumes about the growing popularity of shooting sports among high school- and college-age students.

Hunting For The Perfect Partner: Ruger/Dead Air’s Centerfire RXD

The result of a joint venture between two giants of their respective industries, the new RXD30Ti exemplifies just how beneficial a well-designed hunting suppressor can be in the field.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.