Video: Melvin Forbes And His Rifles

by
posted on November 2, 2015
** 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. **

When Melvin Forbes was presented with the 2011 NRA Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award, NRA Publications Editorial Director John Zent said that Forbes “shook up the shooting and hunting world with his five-pound rifles that shoot every bit as good as many twice that heavy.” As a young master gunsmith in West Virginia, Forbes had a vision of an accurate, reliable, bolt-action hunting rifle that weighed less than 6 pounds. He introduced his masterpiece at the 1985 SHOT Show and today his revolutionary approach to paring weight without sacrificing accuracy has created a template that sets the industry standard.

Watch this feature video from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV to learn why other firearm manufacturers paid attention and, to varying degrees, copied Forbes’ ideas.

For more on Forbes rifles, please enjoy the following articles:

2011 Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award Winner Melvin Forbes
How to Shoot Light Rifles
Forbes Rifle Model 24b
Keefe Report: Production Forbes Rifles
Keefe Report: Pioneer Award—An Award Worth Giving

Latest

Ruger Rxm Gotw 1
Ruger Rxm Gotw 1

Gun of the Week: Ruger RXM

On the surface, the RXM appears to be similar to the Glock G19-inspired selection of striker-fired, polymer-frame pistols on the market, but a closer look reveals that there's much more to this modular design.

Rifleman Q&A: How Frequently Should You Clean?

AN NRA member and his brother have identical rifles. One brother cleans every time he shoots. The other cleans every 100 rounds. Which barrel will last longer?

The Armed Citizen® March 20, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

NRA Launches New Official App

The National Rifle Association proudly unveiled its new official NRA App today, marking a significant milestone in enhancing member engagement and delivering convenient access to essential NRA resources on the go.

How the Security Team at Temple Israel Stopped a Terrorist

The terrorist attack on Temple Israel, in West Bloomfield Township near Detroit, Mich., was over fast, thanks to a security team that was well-prepared.

RevolverFest & The State of the Modern Wheelgun

Why, in a world of micro nines and omnipresent striker-fired polymer pistols, does the revolver seem to be enjoying a mini Renaissance?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.