Husqvarna Model 246

Husqvarna Vapenfabrik · Rifle · Discontinued · 1939

Also known as: Husqvarna 246, HVA 246

Overview

The Husqvarna Model 246 is a rare Swedish bolt-action sporting rifle built by Husqvarna Vapenfabrik on the full-size FN commercial Mauser 98 action imported from Fabrique Nationale in Belgium. Introduced in 1939 and chambered in the powerful 9.3x62mm Mauser big-game cartridge, it was one of the first Husqvarna sporters produced after the company switched from the Swedish m/96 action to the stronger FN M98 design. With controlled round feed, a wing safety, a hinged floorplate, ramp front and adjustable rear sights and a checkered walnut sporter stock, only around 207 examples were made before production ended in 1942, making it highly sought after by collectors.

Specifications

Barrel Length610 mm (24.02")
Action TypeBolt Action
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeInternal
Muzzle Velocity720 m/s (2362 fps)
Muzzle Energy4808 J (3546 ft·lbf)
Effective Range250 m (273 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWalnut
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Service history

Operators

Production

Estimated total produced: 207 · Production years: 1939-1942

Rare civilian sporting rifle; roughly 207 examples produced on the FN commercial Mauser 98 action.

Origin

Country of origin: Sweden

Discontinued: 1942

Notes

The Model 246, alongside the Models 146 and 640, was among the first Husqvarna sporters built on the FN Mauser 98 action after Husqvarna began importing FN actions in 1939. Barrel length (roughly 24 inches) and weight varied between individual rifles; the 246 is distinguished by its dedicated 9.3x62mm chambering.

Background

When Husqvarna could no longer rely on the surplus Swedish m/96 military action, it turned to its Belgian rival FN for Mauser 98 actions in 1939 - and with only around 207 built in 9.3x62mm before wartime production ended in 1942, the Model 246 became one of the scarcest of the early FN-actioned Husqvarna sporters.