An interesting and affordable straight-pull bolt action, the Force B1, from Hammerli, at first glance follows in the company's storied tradition of competition firearms. Upon further review, however, the Force B1 goes beyond a single-purpose competition rifle. With a 16.1-inch bull barrel and a 15-slot Picatinny rail for the easy attachment of an optic, the Force B1 comes chambered in either .22 LR or .22 WMR, making it a devastating companion for any small-game hunter. A quick-disconnect hose fitting even allows barrels to be interchanged quickly and easily, meaning buying a spare barrel along with the gun can essentially get shooters two rifles in one. To these ends, the gun's magazine well is sized for both .22 LR and .22 WMR rotary magazines. Magazine capacity for each is 10 rounds. Additionally, barrels are threaded to 1/2x28 TPI, for the quick and easy addition of a suppressor. This sort of muzzle device, combined with subsonic .22 LR loads, is all but certain to keep a hunter from disturbing the woods as he stalks after squirrels.
True to its competitive roots, the Force B1 utilizes a biathlon-style bolt handle, which sports a polymer extension that extends out and down from the articulating lever, allowing the bolt to travel back and forth in the receiver. The magazine release latch is similarly competition-sized for easy engagement, and the trigger is of a 10/22 pattern for easy aftermarket swaps.
The stock utilizes a rubber comb insert that can be pulled out and reversed, providing two different heights. For LOP adjustment, simply push the "H" at the butt and pull the stock to the desired position. A QD swivel cup sits at the toe of the stock, ahead of the recoil pad, for the easy attachment of a sling.
For more information on the rapid-shooting rimfire, visit hammerliarms.com. MSRP: $649
