The two bolt-action rifles Haenel HLR Basic in calibre 6.5 Creedmoor and HLR Pro in calibre .308 Winchester represent the new, modernized rifle series of the Bundeswehr supplier C.G. Haenel from Suhl, Thuringia. This series, which is based on the well-known Haenel RS8/RS9, has been given an extensive facelift and offers various models for different purposes.

Modernization and a wide range of variants

The HLR series comprises a total of seven models. Four models are available in the standard .308 Winchester caliber: HLR 308 Basic, 308 Basic Compact, 308 Pro and 308 Pro Compact. The HLR 338 Basic and Pro are available for the .338 Lapua Magnum. The HLR 6.5 Basic model in caliber 6.5 Creedmoor could be of particular interest to sporty long-range shooters, despite the strong competition in this area from rifles such as the Accuracy International AT-X or the Ruger Precision Rifle.

Differences between Basic and Pro

The main difference between the Basic and Pro configurations of the Haenel HLR rifles lies in the features: the Basic models have a length-adjustable shoulder rest with height-adjustable AR-style cheek rest, while the Pro models have a folding, versatile adjustable shoulder rest in a unique design. In addition, the Basic version has a cold hammer forged precision barrel with 22 mm outer diameter and M18x1.5 thread, while the Pro version has a silencer-compatible three-chamber muzzle brake.

Common features

All HLR models are equipped with an adjustable trigger with customizable length, fore-end and trigger weight (between 1,000 and 2,000 grams). The three-position firing pin safety provides additional safety. The HLR 308 Basic and Pro Compact versions have a 90 mm shorter barrel (510 mm instead of 600 mm).

The new HLR bolt-action rifles use box magazines with a capacity of 10 cartridges and are technically largely based on the RS8/9 family, with the receiver, bolt and barrel being identical. Noticeable differences to the predecessor models can be found in the stock connections and hand guard systems, which make the HLR series more modular and ergonomic.

Technical innovations

The receiver with flat underside and the integral optics mounting rail are made of high-quality tool steel, which minimizes material expansion in the event of temperature fluctuations and ensures the best shooting performance under all conditions. The system has been developed so that the bolt return travel is limited to the cartridge length, which means that the shooter only has to travel the minimum distance necessary. The cylinder lock with six locking lugs and a 60-degree opening angle locks in the front section of the receiver and offers reliable operation even under extreme conditions.

Design and ergonomics

The barrel is encased in an octagonal aluminum handguard with M-LOK interfaces, which is firmly attached to the chassis by a solid light alloy block and five additional sealed screws. In the HLR 6.5 Basic, the AR shoulder support is connected to the system carrier via an adapter and offers six fixed length positions as well as a height-adjustable cheek support.

Conclusion

The Haenel HLR series shows that modernized bolt-action rifles can have a high value not only in the military, but also in the civilian sector. With high-quality materials and innovative designs, C.G. Haenel sets new standards in the precision and ergonomics of sniper rifles.