New for 2026: Blaser R8 Professional Rifle

Blaser released a modern take on the iconic straight-pull bolt-action rifle.

by
posted on February 11, 2026
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Blaser R8 Professional Rifle

Blaser’s take on the straight-pull, bolt-action rifle showcases a new, ergonomically optimized vertical pistol grip for increased comfort and improved control when shooting. The R8 Professional 2.0’s ambidextrous palm swell is designed to fit both right- and left-handed shooters. Additional enhancements include new, molded-polymer grip inserts manufactured using 2K technology, which have an improved surface texture for better grip in all environmental conditions.

The Diamond-Like Carbon A+ (DLC A+) coating of the barrel surface provides excellent protection against corrosion and scratches. Now standard is a height-adjustable comb which assists in achieving exact alignment in the proper shooting position at the push of a button. The receiver is permanently embedded into the synthetic stock for extra protection, enhanced rigidity and precision. The fore-end also allows mounting a Harris bipod and/or Picatinny rail.

Blaser R8 Professional Rifle case.
The new R8 Professional Rifle is available in a kit with a TSA-approved hard case.

Often chosen for its speed, accuracy and reliability in even the most daunting hunting conditions, this newest R8 is available as a Blaser kit with custom TSA approved hardcase featuring pre-cut interior foam for extra protection wherever shooting activities may take place. In addition to slots for the rifle, there are openings for two scopes, a scope mount and an extra barrel for easy storage..

“The R8 Professional 2.0 kit is an upgraded system for Blaser owners in the United States and, for added convenience, all existing R8 parts fit this newly designed stock and receiver,” said Jason Evans, CEO, Blaser Group. “The hard case is also an attractive element of the new system for our customers who travel the globe to hunt and also those who hunt closer to home and value an improved storage option.”

Available in Black Brown and Dark Olive, three stock-length options are available—14.56 inch is standard, but customers can easily exchange for 13.97-inch or 15.35-inch lengths. MSRP starts at $5,500.

For more information, visit the Blaser company webpage at blaser.de/en/.

 

Latest

Pete Hegseth
Pete Hegseth

U.S. Army Bases Will No Longer Be Gun-Free Zones

U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced this week that U.S. Army bases will no longer be gun-free zones.

Gun of the Week: CZ Shadow 2 Carry

One of the latest concealed-carry handguns to hit the consumer market is the CZ's Shadow 2 Carry. Watch our "Gun of the Week" episode to see the details of this carry-oriented design.

The Armed Citizen® April 3, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

In Memoriam: Lt. Gen. William Morgan Keys (1937-2026)

Lt. Gen. William M. Keys, a decorated war veteran and former President and CEO of Colt Defense and Colt’s Manufacturing Company, passed away on Jan. 24.

2026 NRA Board Election Results (Updated)

The National Rifle Association is pleased to announce the results of the 2026 elections for the NRA Board of Directors.

A Celebration of American Freedom: The 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

With acres of exhibition space, addresses from NRA’s leadership, an epic country concert and literally tens of thousands of guns on display, the 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston­—and our nation’s 250th celebration—are not to be missed.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.