Special weapons from South Africa

Brian M Walters

Wednesday, 18 June, 2008

South Africa has become known as a source for innovative solutions to infantry needs – from grenade launchers to powerful sniper rifles.
On Stand N230e, Truvelo is showing its 20x110 sniper rifle, which it claims to be a world first in this calibre. Accurate to within a 15in radius at 600 yards, this sniper rifle has an effective range of 2,000m, but the .338 Lapua is a new addition to the company’s range developed as a countermeasure sniper (CMS).
Weighing 5.9kg, the CMS has a five-round magazine capacity and an effective range of 900m and Truvelo boldly claims that its new rifle will become the benchmark for counter sniping. Exhibiting alongside Truvelo, Rippel Effect Weapons Systems is showcasing the latest additions to its range of grenade launchers. These include the MSGL40 multishot weapon designed as a tactical and flexible force-multiplier with extreme firepower and offering pinpoint accuracy at 150m. At 4kg, the MSGL40 is said to be the lightest grenade launcher and seen to be ideally suited for use in areas of limited space, such as from inside a vehicle or helicopter. It can also be mounted on vehicles and patrol boats.
Rippel’s XRGL40 is an extended range development that could enable the user to reach 800m with extended range low-pressure rounds. The weapon weighs 20 per cent less than any other 40mm multiple grenade launcher and can be fitted with the GR40 – an all-weather reflex sight developed for use with the weapon. This enables it to be used in daylight and in total darkness.

The single-shot Truvelo 20x110 sniper rifle is claimed to be a world first in this calibre