Innovations

Browning T-Bolt Browning’s new T-Bolt Rimfire includes some changes from the original design of several years ago. One is the change in the shape of the T-Bolt handle, which is now somewhat larger and has a swept-back configuration for a more efficient operation.

Browning T-Bolt Double-Helix Magazine Our test team was particularly impressed by this innovative 10-shot “double-helix” magazine. Rather than one rotary spool, it employs two, one over the other, which makes it relatively narrow for its 10-round capacity. It fits flush and the stock doesn’t have to be widened through the action area to accommodate it.

Savage Model 12 Left Port With an idea borrowed from the very best benchrest rifles, Savage’s new Model 12 Varminter features standard right-hand bolt operation but a loading and ejection port on the left side. This makes loading the single-shot rifle faster and more convenient when firing from a supported rest, such as over sandbags or a varmint rest in the field. The solid-top receiver adds strength and rigidity, a worthwhile accuracy-aiding feature on target/varmint-type rifles.

Remington CTi Autoloader The carbon-fiber receiver shell, or hood, of Remington’s very different new autoloading shotgun adds to the gun’s distinctive appearance, and it’s also a weight-saving innovation.

Magnum Research Receiver Bridge The integral, bridge-like scope base of the Magnum Research autoloader not only eliminates the need for attaching scope-mounting bases, which is a feature that can improve accuracy, but also adds a sculptured, futuristic profile to the receiver. This is a receiver that was designed with both looks and function in mind.

Kimber Choke Tubes Kimber’s screw-in choke tubes are virtually invisible when in place because of the absence of telltale wrench notches characteristic of other choke tubes. The choke tubes are inserted and removed with a compact, cone-shaped tool that friction-fits the inside of the tube. Removal of the tube was easy, even after several hundred rounds, because of the slick chrome plated surfaces of both the barrels and the tubes.

Marlin Accuracy To improve the accuracy of the new 336XLR rifles, Marlin has returned to a traditional style of cut-rifle barrel making, the same style used on many top-grade competition benchrest rifles.