Heckler & Koch SL8
Heckler & Koch · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2000
Also known as: SL8, SL8-1, SL8-6, HK SL8-S DMR
Overview
The Heckler & Koch SL8 is a semi-automatic precision rifle chambered in .223 Remington, derived from the military G36 assault rifle platform. Introduced in 2000, the SL8 was designed as a civilian and law enforcement designated marksman rifle that retains the G36's proven short-stroke gas piston operating system while offering enhanced accuracy features. The rifle features a 20-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with 1:7 inch twist rate, a match-grade trigger, and a MIL-SPEC optics rail. The distinctive thumbhole polymer stock includes an adjustable cheek piece and buttpad for customized fit. At approximately 8.6 pounds empty, the SL8 is heavier than typical .223 rifles, but the added weight contributes to stability and reduced felt recoil. The free-floating barrel and match trigger deliver accuracy that makes the SL8 competitive with dedicated precision platforms, while the semi-automatic action allows rapid follow-up shots for practical shooting applications.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3900 g (137.6 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4200 g (148.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 980 mm (38.58") |
| Barrel Length | 510 mm (20.08") |
| Height | 250 mm (9.84") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 20 N (4.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 920 m/s (3018 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1507 J (1112 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 2700 m (2953 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .223 Remington · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as 5.56x45mm, 5.56 NATO, .223 Rem
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Free Floating Barrel, Adjustable Stock, Match Trigger, Mil Spec Optics Rail, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Thumbhole Stock
Variants
Production
Production years: 2000-present
Exact production numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Germany
Notes
The SL8 is the civilian semi-automatic version of the Heckler & Koch G36. It was redesigned to comply with various national firearms regulations, featuring a thumbhole stock instead of a pistol grip and a non-folding stock. The SL8-6 variant added a Picatinny rail, improved trigger, and compatibility with standard G36/HK magazines. Weight varies by source: HK lists approximately 3.9 kg (8.6 lbs) empty; some reviews cite 9 lbs 6 oz (4.25 kg) with magazine. The 20-inch barrel (approximately 510mm) with 1:7 twist stabilizes heavier .223 bullets up to 77 grains. Trigger pull is approximately 4.5 lbs (20N).
Background
The SL8 gave civilian shooters access to the G36's legendary gas system in a precision-oriented package. Many SL8 owners have converted their rifles into G36-style configurations, making the SL8 one of the most popular bases for custom builds in countries where the military G36 is restricted.