Parker Hale M85: Traditional Sniper in a Modern World

Published on February 27, 2019
Duration: 8:54

The Parker Hale M85, a traditional bolt-action sniper rifle, nearly won the 1985 British trials against the Accuracy International PM. It features a Mauser-style action, a McMillan fiberglass stock, and utilizes M14 magazines. Despite not winning the main contract, it saw service with elite units like the SAS.

Quick Summary

The Parker Hale M85 was a traditional bolt-action sniper rifle that competed in the 1985 British trials against the Accuracy International PM. It features a Mauser-style action, a McMillan fiberglass stock, and uses M14 magazines. Despite losing the main contract, it was adopted by elite units like the SAS.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Parker Hale M85 vs AI PM
  2. 01:30Action and Magazine System
  3. 02:43Stock and Bipod Features
  4. 03:20Backup Iron Sights
  5. 04:30Optics: Schmidt & Bender Scope
  6. 07:02Production and Adoption by Units

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Parker Hale M85's role in British military trials?

The Parker Hale M85 was a primary contender in the 1985 British sniper rifle trials, competing against the Accuracy International PM (L96A1). It represented a more traditional rifle design compared to the AI's innovative chassis system.

What action does the Parker Hale M85 use?

The Parker Hale M85 is built on a robust Mauser-style action. This includes a reliable two-lug rotating bolt and a distinctive claw extractor, known for its durability and precision.

What type of stock and magazine did the Parker Hale M85 use?

The M85 featured an American-made McMillan fiberglass stock, often seen in camouflage patterns. For its magazine, Parker Hale opted to use M14 magazines, typically in 5 or 10-round capacities.

Did the Parker Hale M85 see any military service?

Although it did not win the main British contract, the Parker Hale M85 was adopted by specialized units such as the SAS, the Parachute Regiment, and various police forces, indicating its recognized capability.

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