Dentler, previously known above all for its excellent riflescope mounts, presented its latest development at the JAGD & HUND trade fair in Dortmund: the DR 21. A first look and test of the modularly designed straight-pull repeater reveals: There is innovation here!

In the competitive hunting rifle market, genuine innovations are a rarity. This made the announcement by Dentler, a company from Swabia, that it would be unveiling its own hunting rifle at the JAGD & HUND trade fair in Dortmund, Germany, all the more attention-grabbing. Until now, the southern German company was primarily known for its precise riflescope mounts.

Unique design

The DR21 is characterized by its modular design. The magazine is unusually located behind the trigger, which makes the gun exceptionally compact with an overall length of just 87 cm. The bolt head can be changed in seconds without tools. All that is required to change the barrel is to loosen a screw on the lower part of the stock - a process that takes less than three minutes. A major advantage is the integrated Dentler mount mounted on the barrel, which effectively minimizes point of impact deviations as the mount and barrel form a single unit.

Innovative clamping system

Particularly noteworthy is the innovative manual cocking system, which differs from the traditional cocking slide. The DR 21 has a manual cocking system directly on the pistol grip, activated by the pressure of the ball of the thumb - an intuitive mechanism that automatically cocks the weapon system when gripped and uncocks it when released. The magazine capacity is impressive with space for five .308 Win. caliber cartridges.

Optics

Visually, the DR 21 differs from classic hunting rifles due to its special design, which may initially meet with reservations from traditionalists. Nevertheless, with the growing acceptance of camouflage patterns, sporty perforated stocks and more, it could well find its target group. Despite a recommended retail price of around €5,000 for the standard version - comparable to other premium straight-pull bolt action rifles - the DR 21 could be convincing.

The DR 21 shows visual parallels to the grip repeaters from Sommer & Ockenfuß, especially with regard to the safety and the manual cocking system on the grip. Nevertheless, the two gun designs are fundamentally different.

To summarize, Dentler is bringing an innovative and exciting new model to the hunting rifle market with the DR 21. It remains to be seen how it will prove itself in practice.