Steyr Scout

Steyr Mannlicher · Rifle · In Production · 1997

Also known as: Steyr Scout Rifle, Steyr Mannlicher Scout

Overview

The Steyr Scout is the production realization of Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper's 'scout rifle' concept: a short, light, handy general-purpose bolt-action rifle capable of engaging targets out to medium range. It pairs a 19-inch fluted, hammer-forged barrel with a primarily polymer stock over an aluminum receiver, and integrates a folding bipod into the forend, a forward Weaver rail for an intermediate-eye-relief scout scope, flip-up ghost-ring backup sights, Ching-sling attachment points, and a spare magazine stored in the buttstock. Chambered primarily in .308 Winchester.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3000 g (105.8 oz)
Weight (loaded)3800 g (134.0 oz)
Overall Length980 mm (38.58")
Barrel Length483 mm (19.02")
Action TypeBolt Action
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Trigger Pull16 N (3.6 lbf)
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity840 m/s (2756 fps)
Muzzle Energy3430 J (2530 ft·lbf)
Effective Range800 m (875 yd)
Rate of Fire40 rpm
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist305 mm (12.01")
Frame MaterialAluminum
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishMatte

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 1997-present

In production since 1997; service introduction circa 1999

Origin

Country of origin: Austria

Designer: Jeff Cooper

Notes

The integral folding bipod, forward-mounted optic rail and buttstock spare-magazine storage are defining scout-rifle features. Offered in several calibers over its production run including .308 Win, .243 Win, 7mm-08, .223 Rem and the .376 Steyr.

Background

The scout rifle was a concept defined by firearms instructor Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper (USMC, ret.) as a versatile, lightweight bolt-action 'one rifle to do it all.' After nearly a decade of collaboration with Steyr Mannlicher, the Steyr Scout was released in 1997 as the first purpose-built factory rifle to embody Cooper's specifications, including its forward-mounted long-eye-relief optic and integral bipod.