Bergara B14R: A High-Performance Rifle for the Discerning Shooter
As an avid shooter, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Bergara B14R, a 10-round magazine-fed rifle chambered in 17 HMR and 22 WMR. With its impressive specs and exceptional build quality, I was eager to put it through its paces and see what it’s capable of. In this review, I’ll share my experiences with the Bergara B14R, highlighting its key features, performance, and any notable pros and cons.
Unpacking and First Impressions
Upon unboxing the Bergara B14R, I was impressed with its sleek, compact design and the attention to detail. The rifle arrived in a sturdy cardboard box with a soft cloth wrapping around the product, ensuring it was protected during shipping. The first thing I noticed was the rifle’s weight – 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg) – which, to me, is perfect; not too light, not too heavy. The grip is contoured, providing a comfortable feel in the hand.
Key Features
Here are some of the key features that set the Bergara B14R apart:
- M-LOK Rail: The M-LOK rail allows for easy attachment and detachment of accessories, giving you maximum flexibility.
- Turkish-made receiver: The receiver is built with a strong, durable steel alloy, ensuring the rifle can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.
- 10-round magazine: The 10-round magazine is a welcome feature, ideal for plinking, target shooting, or taking down small game.
Performance
I chose to test the Bergara B14R with various ammunition, including Federal Premium, CCI, and Eley Tenex. The results were nothing short of impressive. With the 17 HMR cartridge, I achieved accuracy numbers consistently above 1 MOA, with some 5-shot groups as tight as 0.7 MOA. The 22 WMR proved just as capable, with groups averaging around 1.2 MOA.
Loading and Ejection
The Bergara B14R has a smooth, reliable bolt action, and loading and ejecting shells was a breeze. The designer-style bolt handle made it easy to manipulate, even when wearing gloves. The extractor was also robust, consistently picking up fired cases.
Shotgun Feel and Handling
The Bergara B14R has an ambidextrous safety, which is a thoughtful touch. Handling the rifle was a pleasure, with the contoured grip and non-slip surfaces providing a secure hold. The rifle pointed well, making it easy to target.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Bergara B14R:
Pros:
- Impressive accuracy, even with budget-grade ammunition
- Robust design and build quality
- M-LOK rail for maximum accessory flexibility
- 10-round magazine capacity
- Ambidextrous safety and contoured grip for comfortable handling
Cons:
- No scope rail available (at the time of testing)
- No picatinny rail option, limited to M-LOK
- Some users might find the rifle a tad heavy
- No significant upgrades or adjustments available for the action or trigger
Conclusion
The Bergara B14R is a high-performance rifle that more than justifies its price tag. Its exceptional accuracy, robust build, and versatility make it an excellent choice for plinkers, competitive shooters, and even hunters. While it may lack a few niceties, the Bergara B14R delivers where it counts. If you’re in the market for a reliable, accurate, and feature-rich rifle, the Bergara B14R is definitely worth considering.
