Smith & Wesson Introduces i-Bolt™ Rifle
May 24 2007
| Written By - SCI first for hunters - 05/24/2007 | |
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Link to Original Article here |
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The innovative i-Bolt incorporates several patent-pending features, including an externally adjustable trigger, a new bolt release, and a synthetic stock design engineered for stability, easy handling and comfort. Simple yet sophisticated, the new i-Bolt continues the Smith & Wesson legacy by delivering unmatched durability and consistent reliability in an innovative centerfire rifle.
"The introduction of the i-Bolt signifies a new chapter in the history of Smith & Wesson," said Leland Nichols, President and COO of Smith & Wesson Corp., a division of Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation. "Now, hunters and shooters alike will have the opportunity to own what we believe is among the most innovative, reliable and accurate production bolt-action rifles available.
Featuring an innovative design and patented technology, we believe the new i-Bolt will quickly change the expectations of consumers worldwide." The first models of the Smith & Wesson i-Bolt, which will be available by summer 2007, are chambered in .25-06, .270 and .30-06, and feature a 4+1 magazine capacity. Initially available in two configurations, shooters can select the i-Bolt with either a black synthetic stock or a Realtree® AP HD™ synthetic stock complete with a blued receiver and barrel.
At the heart of the i-Bolt is the Smith & Wesson patent pending E-Z Turn™ bolt release. A breakthrough design, the bolt release requires no side-buttons or mechanical parts. To extract the bolt, the user must simply push, turn and release. The aggressive three-lug bolt features a short 60-degree travel and a flattop bolt handle with the Smith & Wesson logo adorned on the surface. At the rear of the bolt, via a "boat-tail" contour design, a cocking indicator provides the user with a visual reference that the firing pin is in the cocked position.
Another innovative i-Bolt feature is the patent-pending Tru-Set™ trigger, designed in collaboration with Timney Manufacturing Inc. This feature allows the user to adjust the trigger pull from three to six pounds without removing the barreled action from the stock. By simply inserting and turning the quick-click tool inside the trigger guard, the user can decrease or increase the trigger pull in one-pound increments. When engaging the trigger, the user will appreciate the enlarged trigger guard and its downward slope, which has been designed for easier trigger acquisition.
As part of the fire control system, Smith & Wesson has designed a three-position, semi-lineal safety. The key to this safety mechanism is the positive "middle position" detent, which is not traditionally found in arc movement safeties. Manufactured with a serrated top lever, the safety is easily maneuvered and user friendly.
For increased accuracy and durability, the i-Bolt features a 23-inch, free-floated Thompson/Center precision match grade barrel with a twist rate of 1 in 10 inches. At the end of the barrel, the i-Bolt features a 90-degree target crown that has been added for increased accuracy. On top of the polished blue barrel, the i-Bolt features a one-piece weaver scope mount. This unique one-piece design incorporates a Posi-Lug™ recoil lug, which helps to secure the mount in front of the ejection port while adding scope stability during recoil.
Inside the i-Bolt, the rifle features a rigid synthetic stock with the new patent-pending X-Bed™ technology. Through the use of this new technology, four small "x" quadrants have been molded within the internal structure of the forend helping to strengthen and stabilize the polymer material. This new technology provides increased accuracy and durability when combined with the CNC machined solid steel receiver.
