The Steyr Mannlicher Classic is a centrefire, bolt-action rifle directly derived from the renowned 1903 Mannlichner Shoenauer model. It features a classic design and style that labels it as the traditional gentleman’s rifle. It has also been a favoured firearm for its high reliability, precision, long service life, and convenience of use among other things.

Basic Specifications (depends on calibre)

• Length – 41.7, 45.3, and 47.2 inches
• Barrel Length – 20, 23.6, and 25.6 inches
• Weight – 7.1, 7.3, and 7.9 pounds
• Rate of Twist – 8.6 to 14 inches
• Magazine Capacity – 3 or 4 rounds in a detachable magazine

The Steyr Männlicher Classic Rifle is a firearm made by Steyr Mannlicher which is based in Steyr, Austria. It is considered to be directly related to the classic Schonauer built in the early 20th century, and which earned a reputation for its accuracy as well as for its glass-smooth action and elegant fit and finish.

However, the Steyr Classic is not a modern version of the Schonauer though they look the same down to the tool marks on the barrel. The Steyr Classic actually sports a new Bavarian-styled cheek piece and offers the shooter top-notch quality when it comes to durability, safety, and ergonomics. And with the Safe Bolt System (SBS), a system which features an extra firing pin and safety lock, accidents will not be an issue.

The rifle comes in half stock, full stock, and mountain versions and in these calibres:

• .222 Rem.
• .223 Rem.
• .243 Win.
• 6,5×55 SE
• 25-06 Rem.
• .270 Win.
• 7×64
• 7 mm-08 Rem.
• .308 Win.
• 30-06 Spr.
• 8×57 JS
• 9,3×62

Understandably the Steyr Classic is the go-to gun in its home country of Austria, as well as many countries across Europe. Many are handed down from generation to generation, which just proves how durable and dependable this rifle is.

It features a handsome walnut stock, which gives it that Old-World look reminiscent of the early 1900s. Though some would find this outdated and would rather have a more modern looking rifle. It also has a cold-hammer forged, carbon steel barrel finished in matte-grey that Steyr called Mannox. This makes it resistant to rust, scuffs, and glare. Definitely designed for long-term, repeated use.

The Steyr Classic has a 3-position safety switch centrally located on the tang. When set all the way back towards the shooter, the gun is in off mode. Setting it in the middle position allows users to open the bolt and clear it safely. Switch it all the way forwards and the bolt is locked.

At the heart of the action is the four-lug bolt and the butter knife bolt handle. The pairs of forward-locking lugs provides the rifle with an incredibly strong lock-up. The lugs are recessed which allows the receiver to be shaped uniformly. The result is a 70-degree lift and a bolt that glides smoothly over the nickel-plated finish.

Aside from the classic styling and material of the stock, the rifle’s fore-end tapers from the magazine to the Schnabel tip. Checkering on the stock is coarse enough to give grip even on wet conditions. The stock then widens forward of the magazine, which gives the shooter complete control, as well as aids in recoil. Gentle palm swells accurately positions the hand for easy and quick access to the trigger.

As with any other rifle in the market, the Steyr Mannlicher Classic has its share of negative comments from users. One of them is that changing any part of the gun doesn’t come cheap. If a user wants to improve its performance or replace a factory supplied part, he or she should have to shell out money. In particular, the barrels are almost impossible to replace because of the method of fitting. And because not all people find the Steyr Classic beautiful, re-selling it is hard.