The Parker-Hale M85 is a highly regarded bolt-action rifle, manufactured by the British company Parker-Hale, which was renowned for producing quality firearms and gun accessories, particularly for sporting and military use. The M85, designed and produced during the late 20th century, is one of the more iconic models associated with Parker-Hale, offering a mix of precision, performance, and versatility. Let's explore the rifle in depth, considering its design, features, historical context, and performance.
Background on Parker-Hale
Parker-Hale was a British company known for its extensive range of firearms, muzzleloaders, gun sights, and accessories. Founded in the mid-19th century by William Parker and George Hale, the company became a respected name in the shooting community, particularly in the UK and the Commonwealth. It was especially well-regarded for its target rifles, sporting rifles, and military surplus rifles, as well as its high-quality barrel-making.
The M85 is part of Parker-Hale’s tradition of precision firearms, but unlike the company’s earlier work with muzzleloaders and military rifles, the M85 was intended as a modern, commercial hunting rifle. It gained a reputation for accuracy and craftsmanship, with several key design features that set it apart from other rifles of the time.
Design and Features of the Parker-Hale M85
The Parker-Hale M85 is a bolt-action rifle that was typically chambered in a variety of popular calibers, including .308 Winchester, .243 Winchester, and .22-250 Remington, among others. It was designed for hunting and sport shooting but also saw use in target competitions due to its precision.
1. Bolt Action Mechanism
The M85 features a classic bolt-action system, which remains one of the most reliable and precise action types for modern rifles. The bolt is manually cycled to load a round, extract the spent cartridge, and cock the firing mechanism. The bolt is usually constructed from high-strength steel, and Parker-Hale designed it to ensure smooth cycling and minimal backlash.
The bolt-action mechanism is prized for its consistency and accuracy, as the shooter has total control over the chambering of the round. The design of the M85’s bolt action was known for its smooth operation and reliability, with minimal chance of mechanical failure. This made it a popular choice for shooters who required precision, whether in hunting or competition.
2. Barrel
The barrel on the Parker-Hale M85 is considered one of its standout features. Parker-Hale was known for producing high-quality barrels, and the M85 featured a cold-hammer-forged barrel that ensured tight tolerances and durability. The cold hammer-forging process is used to create stronger barrels with better internal consistency, which directly improves accuracy and longevity.
The rifle’s barrel typically ranged in length from 20 to 26 inches, depending on the specific model and intended use (shorter barrels were more common for hunting, while longer barrels were generally preferred for target shooting). The rifling in the barrel helped stabilize the bullet, ensuring better accuracy and consistent performance over longer ranges.
3. Stock Design
The M85 was offered with a wooden stock, typically made from walnut or beech, although synthetic stocks were available on some models. The wooden stocks were well-regarded for their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, with checkering and fine finishing enhancing both the look and feel of the rifle.
The stock is generally designed for ergonomics, with an easy-to-handle grip and a solid, stable shooting platform. The rifle’s design balanced weight, comfort, and maneuverability, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions, whether at a range or in the field.
In some models, the stock featured an adjustable comb height to allow the shooter to fine-tune the alignment of the rifle to their own eye line, a feature appreciated by competitive shooters.
4. Trigger System
The Parker-Hale M85 was equipped with an adjustable trigger system. The trigger pull weight could be customized to suit the individual shooter’s preferences, typically between 3 to 4 pounds. This feature contributed to the rifle’s precision and control, especially for shooting at targets or engaging game at long distances.
An adjustable trigger is particularly advantageous for target shooters who require fine-tuned control to avoid jerking the trigger during the shot. The ability to adjust the trigger pull weight allowed users to customize the rifle for their shooting style.
5. Magazine and Loading System
The M85 typically featured a detachable magazine, allowing for quick reloading in the field or during competitions. The magazine capacity could vary depending on the caliber, but it generally held 4 to 5 rounds. The detachable magazine was a key feature for shooters who needed to reload quickly, particularly for those using the rifle in a hunting environment or for long-range shooting.
In addition to the detachable magazine, the rifle also featured a reliable feeding system, ensuring that rounds were chambered smoothly each time the bolt was cycled. This made the M85 suitable for various environments where quick follow-up shots could be necessary.
Performance and Accuracy
The Parker-Hale M85 was highly regarded for its accuracy, and this performance was largely attributed to the rifle's high-quality barrel, bolt-action system, and smooth trigger mechanism. Whether used for hunting or target shooting, the M85 demonstrated impressive precision.
- Hunting: In the field, the M85 was a popular choice for medium game hunting like deer, wild boar, and other large mammals. Its accuracy and consistency made it suitable for long-range shots, and the robust design held up well under field conditions.
- Target Shooting: The M85’s performance in shooting competitions, particularly in long-range precision shooting, was exceptional. The combination of the adjustable trigger, smooth bolt action, and high-quality barrel made it a reliable contender in shooting sports.
Historical Context
The Parker-Hale M85 was produced during the 1980s and early 1990s, a time when bolt-action rifles were still highly prized for their accuracy and craftsmanship. During this period, Parker-Hale was one of the more prominent British gunmakers catering to sportsmen and hunters, and the M85 was one of their most popular commercial hunting rifles.
The rifle was designed to cater to a growing demand for versatile, reliable firearms that could handle a variety of shooting scenarios, from target ranges to hunting expeditions. It competed with similar rifles from manufacturers like Browning, Remington, and Sako, offering an alternative for shooters looking for a British-made rifle.
However, the rifle's production was eventually phased out as Parker-Hale faced financial difficulties in the early 1990s. The company was acquired by the BSA Guns group in the mid-1990s, and production of the M85 and other Parker-Hale firearms ceased. Despite this, the M85 remains a highly sought-after collector's item for those interested in vintage British rifles.
Legacy and Modern Interest
While Parker-Hale is no longer a major force in the firearms industry, the M85 remains a classic example of British craftsmanship in the rifle market. Used examples of the M85 can still be found in second-hand markets and are particularly valued by collectors and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate well-crafted, high-performance firearms.
Modern bolt-action rifles may have eclipsed the M85 in terms of technological advancements, but the rifle still holds a special place in the hearts of those who admire its accuracy, smooth operation, and classic design. The M85 is especially favored by precision shooters and those who appreciate the historical significance of Parker-Hale’s legacy in the British firearms industry.
Conclusion
The Parker-Hale M85 is a remarkable bolt-action rifle that exemplifies the quality and precision for which Parker-Hale was known. Combining fine craftsmanship, a reliable action, and impressive accuracy, the M85 remains a solid option for both hunters and target shooters. While no longer in production, it is still cherished by gun enthusiasts and collectors, maintaining its place as a classic in the world of sporting rifles.