The heart of the new RMS Wild from Steyr is the monobloc system, in which the barrel and action form a single high-strength unit. This results in particularly high rigidity, a consistent point of impact and reliable accuracy – even during fast follow-up shots. In combination with the straight-pull action, the result is exactly what many hunters are looking for: quick cycling and optimal rifle control.
What advantages does the RMS Wild straight-pull action offer over other systems?
In direct comparison with other bolt-action systems, the Steyr RMS Wild demonstrates its potential right from the first handling: the straight-pull action runs remarkably smoothly and cleanly, and enables very fast cycling without breaking aim. A clear advantage over classic bolt-action systems, where the rifle usually somehow starts to move around the longitudinal axis when cycling. Nevertheless, the crucial question remains: how will the new Steyr system fare in the long term in everyday hunting situations and in competition with established straight-pull platforms? At this point, it can be said that the initial impressions are extremely promising and indicate that Steyr has developed a system with the RMS Wild that has the potential to win over many hunters. But first, a few details about the new hunting rifle from Austria.
Ergonomics, handling, safety: the new RMS Wild from Steyr Arms is consistently designed for hunting
What makes the RMS Wild special is its clear focus on everyday hunting. Fast cycling, accuracy, clean follow-up shots – this is precisely where the straight-pull action demonstrates its advantages. But according to the concept, the new Steyr RMS Wild is also intended for stalking and stand hunting – a true all-rounder.
It also comes with a weatherproof and – thanks to the glass fiber-reinforced polymer –lightweight and rugged synthetic stock. This can be adjusted as needed to suit the shooter's individual preferences, different aiming heights, or the thickness of the hunter's clothing. For this purpose, the one-piece stock features a height-adjustable cheek piece, accessible at the push of a button, and its length of pull can be varied using spacers. Grip inserts on the contact surfaces of the pistol grip and fore-end give the hands the necessary secure hold on the rifle even in wet conditions. A Picatinny rail on the receiver opens up a wide range of potential optics and mounting solutions for the hunter. There is also an M15x1 muzzle thread on the cold hammer forged barrel, which allows silencers or muzzle brakes to be fitted quickly and easily if required.
The combination of a steep pistol grip, clean balance and intuitive straight-pull action ensures that the rifle can be swung and fired extremely quickly – exactly what you need on driven hunts.
Steyr also delivers when it comes to safety: the RMS Wild has a two-position safety in the manufacturer's signature wheel design on the stock tang, a clearly visible cocking status indicator and allows for safe unloading with the safety on. All in all, the new straight-pull action doesn't feel complicated, but rather practical – just as it should be. Ferdinand Ritter von Mannlicher, who developed the first straight-pull action at Steyr back in the early 1880s, would likely have had no complaints.
Steyr RMS Wild straight-pull rifle technical specs
Model: | Steyr Arms RMS Wild |
Caliber: | .308 Winchester / .30-06 Springfield |
Action: | Straight pull |
Magazine Capacity: | 3 rounds |
Barrel Length: | 470 mm (18.5"), 508 mm (20") / 470 mm (18.5"), 558 mm (22") |
Twist Rate: | 1:12" with 470-mm and 508-mm barrel, 1:10" with 558-mm barrel |
Muzzle Thread: | M15x1 |
Sights: | No open sights, Picatinny rail on receiver |
Trigger: | Single stage |
Trigger Pull Weight: | 700 g approx. |
Stock: | Glass fiber-reinforced polymer |
LOP: | 350 mm (adjustable with spacers) |
Safety: | Steyr Safe Bolt System (two-position wheel safety) |
Overall Length: | 987 mm, 1,025 mm, 1,075 mm (depending on barrel length) |
Weight: | 3.25 kg approx. |
Price (RRP): | To be announced |
Our initial assessment on the new Steyr RMS Wild straight-pull hunting rifle
With the RMS Wild, Steyr is reviving a long-standing tradition and, as expected, is now entering the fiercely competitive segment of modern straight-pull hunting rifles. Whether Steyr Arms can claim a share of this market with the new rifle and how big it will be, ultimately depends on how the RMS Wild performs in practical hunting scenarios and how it is received by customers. Based on our first impression, the rifle definitely has the potential. Steyr delivers a well-designed hunting tool that, in terms of functionality and suitability for hunting, is unlikely to be outdone by its competitors. As is usual with the current straight-pull hunting rifles, the focus is primarily on driven hunting. However, the RMS Wild should also be perfectly suited for stalking and stand hunting. The two chamberings available at the start of production, .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield, cover a wide range of possible hunting applications and game species.
We are already looking forward to extensively testing the new RMS Wild from Steyr Arms.
