Bolt action rifles might not be the first gun you think of when it comes to modularity, but they can be. Faxon Firearms has proven that with their Overwatch Tactical and Overwatch Hunter models. Yes, the manufacturer is more widely known for their barrels, but they make guns as well. Chambered in 8.6 BLK, this particular pair of rifles is a testament to the company’s dedication to quality and overall performance.
Faxon provides details of the two rifles:
The Overwatch is available in a more traditional style with the Overwatch Hunter, as well as two flavors of chassis builds in the Overwatch Tactical, in a 16″ barreled rifle and a 12″ barreled/braced pistol.
The 16″ Faxon Overwatch Tactical Bolt Action in 8.6 BLK provides modern modularity and attachment capabilities while retaining the classic bolt action experience.
The 12″ Faxon Overwatch Tactical Bolt Action in 8.6 BLK provides modern modularity and attachment capabilities while retaining the classic bolt action experience but in a smaller package, of course.
They went on to say:
There are two primary differences between the Overwatch Tactical 12″ and 16″. First, besides the barrel length, the rifle has a buttstock, while the pistol has a stabilizing brace.
First, let’s talk barrel length. Next, here’s a look at the preliminary load data for 8.6 Blackout, as provided by Faxon and Q.
The difference between 12″ and 16″ with Barnes supersonic 160gr is only 150 fps. With Sierra’s 300gr subsonic round, the difference is about 40 fps. With 8.6 Blackout optimized for performance in short barrels, there’s little difference.
Instead, the barrel length (and corresponding brace/stock) is more about personal preference and legality. For example, in some states hunting with pistols is outlawed, regardless of caliber.
Features and Specifications for the Overwatch Tactical
- Faxon 16-inch, 1:3 Twist 8.6 BLK Barrel with Thread Protector, Taper Adapter, and Remage-Style Nut
- Muzzle threaded M18x1.5mm for use with any AI standard muzzle device or suppressor mount
- MDT LSS XL Gen 2 Chassis
- Faxon TAC 30 Action & Bolt by Stiller
- AICS Mag Compatible
- Timney Elite Hunter 510-V2 Trigger
- B5 Precision Collapsible Stock
- B5 Pistol Grip
Weights & Dimensions
- Weight: 7.61 lbs
- Length: 35.375 inches
- Depth: 8 inches
- Width: 1.5 inches
Features and Specifications for the Overwatch Hunter
- Faxon 16″ 1:3 Twist 8.6 BLK Barrel w/ Thread Protector, Taper Adapter, and Remage-Style Nut
- Muzzle threaded M18x1.5mm for use with any AI standard muzzle device or suppressor mount
- Iota EKO Midnight Grey Stock
- Faxon TAC 30 Action & Bolt by Stiller
- Timney Elite Hunter 510-V2 Trigger
- Hawkins Precision Bottom Metal
- AICS Mag Compatible
Weights & Dimensions
- Weight: 6.66 pounds
- Length: 35.5 inches
- Depth: 6 inches
- Width: 2.25 inches
The guns were designed as task-specific platforms and each has features meant to get that particular job done. MSRP for the guns varies by model but starts at $3399.00.
Which one is your favorite? Tell us in the comments.
