Springfield Armory 2020 Waypoint Review
January 13, 2025
Steyr Mannlicher SSG 08 – Detailed Review
January 13, 2025
Steyr Elite Review
Price Range:
$3,000 - $3,500
Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Name | Steyr Mannlicher |
| Country of Origin | Austria |
| First Build Date | 2010 |
| Action | Bolt-Action |
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | 42 inches |
| Weight | 5.1 KG |
| Price Range | $3,000 – $3,500 |
Overview
The Steyr Elite is a premium, bolt-action sniper rifle designed for precision shooting at long ranges. Manufactured by Steyr Mannlicher in Austria, it was first introduced in 2010 and quickly became a popular choice among military snipers, law enforcement, and long-range precision shooting enthusiasts. This rifle is chambered in .308 Winchester, a widely respected cartridge known for its manageable recoil and excellent accuracy.
The Steyr Elite features a sophisticated, ergonomically designed stock with adjustable components to provide maximum comfort and accuracy for a variety of shooting positions. It is known for its precision engineering, with a match-grade barrel and high-quality optics. The rifle is designed to handle various harsh environments and can be relied upon in military and tactical operations.
Strength and Quality
The Steyr Elite is constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring it performs reliably in various conditions. The match-grade barrel is manufactured to precise tolerances, resulting in exceptional accuracy. The rifle’s stock is made from a fiberglass-reinforced polymer, offering both durability and comfort during extended shooting sessions. The rifle’s bolt-action mechanism operates smoothly, and the adjustable stock allows shooters to customize it for the best possible fit.
Safety Features
The Steyr Elite comes equipped with all standard safety features expected from a precision sniper rifle. It includes a manual safety located near the trigger guard, which prevents accidental discharges when the safety is engaged. The rifle is also designed to ensure safe operation under various weather conditions, and the high-quality construction minimizes the risk of mechanical malfunctions.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The Steyr Elite delivers sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy at 100 yards, allowing for tight groupings that ensure precision shooting at distances of 800 yards and beyond.
- Effective Range: With the .308 Winchester cartridge, the effective range of the Steyr Elite is approximately 800 yards, though it can extend further with advanced optics and ammunition.
- Recoil: The recoil is moderate due to the .308 cartridge, making the rifle manageable for most shooters, even in rapid follow-up shots.
- Penetration: The .308 Winchester provides significant stopping power at medium to long ranges, but the Steyr Elite is best used for precision rather than anti-material purposes.
Merits
- Exceptional Accuracy: The Steyr Elite delivers outstanding precision, with sub-MOA performance that is perfect for long-range sniping.
- Quality Build: The rifle is crafted using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance in tough conditions.
- Ergonomic Design: The adjustable stock and overall design provide a comfortable and customizable shooting experience for various users.
- Reliable in Harsh Conditions: The rifle is designed to function in extreme environmental conditions, making it suitable for military and tactical use.
Demerits
- Weight: At 11 lbs, the Steyr Elite is relatively heavy compared to some other sniper rifles, which may affect mobility in certain situations.
- Price: The Steyr Elite comes with a premium price tag, making it less accessible for civilian shooters with budget constraints.
- Recoil: While manageable, the recoil can be somewhat intimidating for less experienced shooters, especially after sustained firing.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: The rifle should be cleaned regularly, especially after extended shooting sessions. Cleaning the barrel after each use is essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing fouling from the powerful .308 rounds.
- Lubrication: Proper lubrication is crucial for maintaining smooth bolt operation and ensuring long-term reliability of the action.
- Inspection: The Steyr Elite should be inspected periodically for wear or damage to the barrel, bolt, and stock, particularly after use in harsh environments.
Comparison with Other Guns
Steyr Elite vs Other Rifles
| Feature | Steyr Elite | Sako TRG 22 | Tikka T3x TAC A1 | Accuracy International AT | FN Ballista | Ruger Precision Rifle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Austria | Finland | Finland | United Kingdom | United States | United States |
| Caliber Options | .308 Win, 7.62 NATO | .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win | .308 Win, .243 Win | .308 Win, .300 Win Mag | 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 5.1 kg (11.2 lbs) | 4.9 kg (10.8 lbs) | 4.6 kg (10.1 lbs) | 5.4 kg (11.9 lbs) | 6.8 kg (15 lbs) | 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs) |
| Barrel Length | 600 mm (23.6″) | 600 mm (23.6″) | 510 mm (20″) | 610 mm (24″) | 610 mm (24″) | 610 mm (24″) |
| Action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
| Stock Material | Polymer | Composite | Aluminum Chassis | Composite | Aluminum Chassis | Aluminum Chassis |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 5 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Primary Use | Precision Shooting | Long-Range Precision | Tactical & Precision | Military & Law Enforcement | Long-Range Precision | Tactical & Hunting |
| Price Range (USD) | $3,000–$3,500 | $4,000–$4,500 | $2,000–$2,500 | $4,500–$5,000 | $6,000–$7,500 | $1,800–$2,400 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Steyr Elite is available for civilian purchase, though its price point and specialized nature make it more commonly used by professionals and military units.
The Steyr Elite offers a combination of exceptional accuracy, high-quality construction, and ergonomic design. Its ability to maintain accuracy under extreme conditions sets it apart from many other rifles in its class.
The Steyr Elite is designed to function reliably in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for military and tactical operations in challenging environments.
The recoil is moderate due to the .308 Winchester cartridge, but the rifle’s design helps manage this, allowing for more accurate follow-up shots.
The Steyr Elite is a high-performance rifle designed for experienced shooters. Its weight and recoil might make it less suitable for beginners, especially those unfamiliar with long-range shooting.
