Israeli SP66: A Modern Mauser Sniper

Published on April 14, 2019
Duration: 10:44

The Israeli SP66 is a rare Mauser Model 66-based sniper rifle developed for the IDF in the 1970s for counter-terrorism. It features a heavy thumbhole stock, a distinctive muzzle brake, and a unique short-bolt action. Chambered in .308 Win, it was often paired with Swarovski scopes calibrated for specific ammunition. Most were later sold as surplus, making them collector's items.

Quick Summary

The Israeli SP66 is a rare Mauser Model 66-based sniper rifle developed for the IDF in the 1970s. It features a heavy thumbhole stock, distinctive muzzle brake, and a unique short-bolt action chambered in .308 Win, often paired with Swarovski scopes calibrated for M118 ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Israeli SP66
  2. 01:12Design and Development History
  3. 02:59Physical Characteristics and Stock
  4. 05:14Muzzle Brake and Optics
  5. 06:41Markings and Action Details
  6. 08:35Trigger and Reticle
  7. 09:31Service Life and Surplus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Israeli SP66 sniper rifle?

The Israeli SP66 is a rare sniper rifle based on the Mauser Model 66 sporting action, developed for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the early 1970s. It served as a dedicated precision rifle platform, replacing older models.

What are the key features of the Mauser SP66?

Key features include its heavy construction (around 13.5 lbs), a robust wooden thumbhole stock with adjustable components, a distinctive multi-slotted muzzle brake, and the unique Mauser Model 66 short-bolt action. It's chambered in .308 Winchester.

What optics were commonly used on the Israeli SP66?

The IDF often equipped the SP66 with high-quality optics. The rifle shown features a Swarovski 6x42 scope, which included an elevation turret specifically calibrated for M118 7.62 NATO match ammunition.

Why is the Mauser SP66 considered a collector's item?

The SP66 is rare because it had a limited production run and was later replaced by the SP86. Most were sold as surplus in the 1990s, primarily imported to the US by Springfield Armory, making complete, original examples highly sought after.

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