Bleiker Challenger
BLEIKER Precision Engineering AG · Rifle · In Production
Also known as: Bleiker Challenger II, Bleiker Small Bore Challenger
Overview
The Bleiker Challenger is a Swiss single-shot, bolt-action .22 Long Rifle smallbore match rifle built by BLEIKER Precision Engineering AG for ISSF and CISM Olympic-style target shooting in the 50 metre prone and three-position disciplines. Its defining feature is an extremely short bolt throw that draws the breech face rearward and closer to the shooter, letting competitors cycle the action from the prone position without lifting their elbows. Fitted with a Lilja precision barrel, a match trigger adjustable from roughly 50 to 160 grams, precision diopter iron sights and a fully adjustable chassis, it is regarded as one of the most accurate rimfire target rifles ever produced.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6000 g (211.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1100 mm (43.31") |
| Barrel Length | 690 mm (27.17") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Match |
| Trigger Pull | 0.5 N (0.1 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 330 m/s (1083 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 141 J (104 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 150 m (164 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum |
| Finish | Anodized |
Calibers
- .22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 22 LR, 5.6x15mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Features: Single Shot, Extremely Short Bolt Throw, Lilja Precision Barrel, 23.5mm Barrel Diameter, Adjustable Match Trigger 50 To 160g, Switchable Cartridge Ejector, Diopter Iron Sights, Front Sight Tunnel, Adjustable Cheekpiece, Adjustable Buttplate, Modular Chassis
Variants
- Bleiker Challenger II Metallic - Chassis
- Bleiker Challenger II Lady - Ergonomic
- Bleiker Challenger II Balance - Chassis
Production
Low-volume, hand-built precision competition rifle; retail price around USD 10,000
Origin
Country of origin: Switzerland
Notes
Available in several configurations (Metallic, Lady, Balance, Master) that differ mainly in stock/chassis design and barrel weight. All barrels are supplied by Lilja Precision of Montana; the Metallic model uses a 23.5 mm high-precision barrel.
Background
For several years a Bleiker held the record for the most accurate rifle ever tunnel-tested by ELEY in England, and at the 2014 ISSF World Championships Bleiker Challenger actions were used to win 10 individual medals across the 50 metre prone and three-position rifle events.