Steel Core Designs highlights its SC Thunderbolt sniper rifle range at IDEAS 2014
Steel Core Designs is showcasing a whole range of Thunderbolt sniper rifles during IDEAS 2014, all based on the SC-76 7,62 x 51mm sniper rifle. The whole range uses a rugged, high tensile steel 4-lug bolt, incorporating a new innovative firing pin system. The short firing pin travel enables a very fast 'lock time' (time from pulling the trigger to striking the primer) of around 1.5 milliseconds, vital for making a crucial shot with a long barrel rifle.
Steel Core Designs SC-76 Thunderbolt sniper rifle at IDEAS 2014
SCD Thunderbolt heavy recoil plate system is located into both the action body and rifle stock; this is essential for rifle accuracy and greatly assists recoil management. Low friction, wear resistant VDP coatings, reduces the need for lubrication making these weapons ideally suited for the harsh gritty conditions experienced in the deserts; damp dirty conditions of forest and jungle; performing equally well in extreme hot and cold conditions.
The rifle safety lever is incorporated in the trigger mechanism for right handed operation; optionally the safety can be readily adapted for left handed operation when required.
The most critical link between the shooter and the rifle is the trigger. All SCD triggers are designed with two stage operation, 1st and 2nd pull, factory set to a 1.5 kg pull weight for safety, with a crisp, predictable release. Maintenance requirement is minimal, but should the need arise as with all of our designs, it is easy to remove and replace for cleaning.
The main Picatinny scope rail is available with a parallel or angled option to suit the customer requirements. Additional Picatinny rails for the use of ancillary items such as laser illuminators and designators can be easily accommodated as user options. SCD barrels are produced to a very high quality match grade specification, fluted for improved heat dissipation and rifle balance. The barrel is threaded at the muzzle for easy attachment and detachment of the muzzle brake or suppressor.
The SCD designed bipod is fully height adjustable and fits to the forend, maintaining the optimum pivot position around the centreline of the rifle. Thunderbolt's quid release system ensures no tools are required to attach and detach the bipod.
SCD highly efficient muzzle brakes are a standard fitment to all SCD rifles and greatly reduce recoil; this further enhances the shooting experience and improves accuracy.
All SCD rifles feature a folding butt stock as standard for easy bore sighting, cleaning, maintenance and transit. It is also adjustable for length with spacers and incorporates a quick deployment mono pod, fully adjustable with thumbwheel fine adjustment.
Steel Core Designs' unique ambidextrous economically designed rifle stock makes the Thunderbolt a pleasure to use; providing greater shooter comfort, reduced recoil and absorbing vibration; this assists in the quick re-acquisition of target from shot to shot. The innovative use of materials in the stock design such as rubber and aircraft specification alloys, have been proven in extremes of hot and cold operational environments to maintain operation, strength and stability.
Thunderbolt sniper rifle is available in three variants.The SC-76 7.62 x 51 NATO with 10 rounds magazine, which has an engagement range of up to 1,000m with long barrel and up to 600m with short barrel. The SC-86 8.60 x 70 (338 Lap Magnum) with a 10 rounds magazine, which has a maximum engagement range of 1,800m with long barrel and1,250m with short barrel. And finally, the SC-127 12.7 x 99mm (50 BMG), which has a 5 rounds barrel and engagement range up to 2,200m.
All Thunderbolts variants can be fitted with many optional devices, such as tactical day scope and rings, night vision and LADS rails, infra-red and TI sight systems, sound suppressor, etc.