Match Rifle 1980’s Anschutz 1913 action
by Nick Tremlett
This is a .22lr ‘Match Rifle’ (MRSB), based on a 1980’s Anschutz 1913 action, with a stainless barrel. By means of an Anschutz action ‘carrier’ the rifle has been fitted to a 1st generation Walther aluminium stock.
The telescopic sight is a IOR variable magnification second focal plane (SFP) scope, with a graduated reticle. The reticle enables aiming off (holding over) up to 20 minutes in any direction from centre. The scope has a 40mm tube which enables the sight adjustment to be 50moa either side of centre, essential for shooting at distances over 200 yards (ELR – extreme long range). In addition, the scope is mounted on an adjustable rail, enabling a built in elevation of up to 120moa, again essential for .22 ELR.
Unlike F Class, the MRSB discipline requires the rifle to be rested on the forward hand, and not supported at the butt, making the ‘position’ more challenging. Ideally, the rest is adjustable for height, and benefits from a soft bag cushioning the supporting hand.
Setting up a .22 rifle for MRSB is not difficult and need not be expensive. This example was built entirely from 2nd hand components. The action dates back to the 1980s, the barrel and stock to 2000, and the scope was about 5 years old when purchased. The rifle is no less accurate as a consequence but cost about 40% of the price of a new rifle. The critical element is ensuring there is enough elevation adjustment in the scope. The larger the scope tube, generally the greater the adjustment. By the same token, the lower the magnification of the scope, the more adjustment available. When choosing a scope for .22 ELR, it is important to look for an elevation range of at least 60moa. In addition, the elevation range will need enhancing. This can be achieved with either an adjustable ‘ramp’ rail (which enables a greater range of adjustment) or scope ring inserts, such as those found in the Burris range of rings, or both. Adjustable ramp rails can vary in price from as little as £40 to as much as £500! This rifle has one of the £40 rails, and is no worse for it!
As well as having sufficient elevation range, it is also important to remember that cant (rifle leaning away from horizontal) can have a big impact at long range. The potential for this can be minimised by incorporating a spirit level into the sighting system, and various accessories are available. On this rifle the spirit level is incorporated into the rear scope ring, and is visible when sighting.
A variety of rests can be used, from those commercially available to those home-made. The rest must be adjustable for height (so it is adaptable to different ranges) and stable. As long as those 2 criteria are fulfilled it can looks as Heath Robinson as you like!
