DRD Tactical has become well known for building some of the best takedown semi-automatic rifles available. The company’s Paratus P762 Gen 2 was a huge hit, providing an accurate 7.62mm rifle that breaks down and fits into a small and portable case or pack. Innovative, pushing the limits and dedicated to reliability, DRD Tactical rifles are not only functional but beautiful. Working closely with the U.S. military, DRD Tactical was asked to produce a similar rifle in .338 Lapua Magnum. The result is the new Kivaari.
RELATED STORY: Gun Review – DRD Tactical’s Paratus Gen 2
Breaking down into three major parts (receiver, barrel and handguard) the Kivaari fits into either a hard case or a soft pack. Assembling the rifle takes just a minute or two using the included barrel nut wrench. The magazines, custom-built for this rifle, hold 10 rounds of .338 Lapua Magnum ammunition. The lower receiver is equipped with Magpul’s PRS stock, which made it easy to secure a rock-solid cheekweld for using the U.S. Optics LR-17 scope I installed on the rifle in a LaRue one-piece mount. I also added an Atlas bipod for testing the Kivaari.
Ambidextrous controls include the safety, magazine release and bolt release. Magazines fit tightly yet perform well and drop free when released. The handguard accepts rails as needed for lasers, night vision or other accessories. SilencerCo’s Harvester muzzle brake helps tames recoil.
RELATED STORY: Quick Barrel Change with DRD Tactical’s CDR15 Pistol
I’ve tested a few of the latest semi-auto .338 Lapua rifles, and the Kivaari sets the bar high. Its fit and finish are excellent, the machining is tight, and DRD Tactical’s great attention to detail is plainly evident. Testing out to 800 yards, the Kivaari easily held 1 MOA, and it was reliable and a ton of fun to shoot.
Check out the video to see the rifle in action, and keep your eyes peeled for a full review in an upcoming issue of TACTICAL WEAPONS. To subscribe, visit https://www.tactical-life.com/subscribe
For More Information
DRD Tactical
http://www.drdtactical.com
Magpul
https://www.magpul.com
Atlas Bipod
http://www.accu-shot.com
U.S. Optics
http://www.usoptics.com
Horus Vision
https://www.horusvision.com
