Straight Pull - vs - Traditional Bolt Action

garrettod · 17-05-2026 03:58PM #1

Hi,

I'm thinking of changing my CF and was wondering, what are people's views on the straight pull bolt action, compared to traditional bolt action CFs?

For those who have a straight pull, have you had any issues with them?

The ability to chamber a round faster is an attraction, but what else is there to consider?

Thanks

alanmc · 17-05-2026 05:09PM

I have a Schmeisser SP-15 in .223. I love it. No feeding issues at all. No ejection issues. It's as accurate as any bolt action .223 I've had.

I'd say go for it. Only think to consider about the Schmeisser is that it falls foul of the "looks like" clause and may require a restricted license. Sonething more traditional like a Blaser wouldn't have this though.

Do you have a rifle in mind?

garrettod · 17-05-2026 05:37PM

Hi,

Thanks for the reply.

To be honest, I've only started looking - I've seen the Laser, and the Mauser. I liked both, in the hands, though the Blaser is a bit pricey.

I was also going to track down both a Merkel and a Beretta, to take a look at them, also.

I'm obviously also open to other suggestions, or any observations, good or bad, on the above brands.

Nothing against the Schmeisser SP-15, but it's not the style I'm after, on this occasion.

I ideally want a gun that's going to be used in the field, but suited for a bit of leisurely range time, too.

dalalada · 18-05-2026 10:13AM

Another 20th century vs 21st century debate. I’d argue the SP-15 is stronger in the field than people assume and for some styles of shooting it’s actually the more useful rifle. If your priority is something genuinely practical in the field and enjoyable at the range.

The layout lends itself naturally to modern optics, bipods, suppressors and accessories if you ever decide to go that direction.
For a rifle that’ll actually get hard field use and still be enjoyable on the range, I’d argue the Schmeisser is the more practical tool with quicker handling, tougher, and more versatile than the old school traditional options.
(AR ftw but I’m biased as I’ve a SP9)

Grizzly 45 · 18-05-2026 12:39PM

More a Leftie issue.After having to convert my Mini14 to straight pull from a SA,and having run it LH and if I was going to change for another straight pull.I'd make sure it has a left hand bolt. I can run the mini 14 left handed as it is light enough and has a pistol gripped stock.But anything else would be a PITA to run,even an AR platform if it is just being worked from the charging handle.

So if you are a left hooker,you really want to get a left handed version to get the full capability from the gun,be it Schmeisser or a more expensive brand.

breakemall · 20-05-2026 09:36AM

Another rifle to consider is the Browning Maral. I have a lot of experience with one and it is accurate, handles sublimely and has to be the fastest cycling of them all.

The Merkel is also fast due to its ratioed action.

The Steel Action is super accurate plus unlike some straight pulls, you can cycle it while keeping your head on the stock. A bit heavy in standard format, but fitted to a carbon chasis is a dream.

richiedel123 · 24-05-2026 11:38PM

I used the Beretta didn't like it. The bolt is very low and ended up tearing the hand off me every time I rechambered a round. The sauer is something else you could look at. Great gun and very smooth action. Very like the blaser

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Straight Pull - vs - Traditional Bolt Action

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