THE Steyr CL II is a real eye catcher. A modified version of the original Steyr Mannlicher Classic, it revives that rifle’s handsome, traditional Euro-style stock — hand-chequered, oiled walnut with Bavarian cheekpiece, slender fore-end with contrasting rosewood schnabel tip.
The buttstock’s graceful hogsback comb is high with hardly any discernible drop at heel. Panels of fish-scale chequering in grip and fore-end are neatly executed and provide a non-slip grasp. The closely curved grip is oval in cross-section and has a palm swelling on the right side. A slight flare at the bottom of the grip helps keep the right hand firm to control the rifle. There’s a rosewood grip cap with a silver insert carrying the Steyr logo, which matches the fore-end tip. The long, slim, tapered fore-end is rounded and can be comfortably grasped by the hand.
The walnut stock is tobacco coloured, straight-grained with dark streaks running through it. A solid rubber recoil pad and fixed one-inch sling swivels are standard fittings.
The Steyr CL II’s stock should be judged not only by its cosmetics, but also by its general utility and the effect it gives. The CL II’s stock is not only a thing of grace and
