Lithgow Arms, better known to you military clunker fans as Lithgow Small Arms Factory, is about to begin production of a sporting rifle called the LA101. They're starting with a rimfire model in 22lr and 17hmr but should move into centre fire production at the end of 2013, beginning of 2014 making rifles in .223 and .308. Lithgow currently produces arms for the Australian Defence Forces so they've used their know how building the EF88 assault rifle to build a sporting rifle. Here's the launch vid:
And some clearer pics from a Sporting Shooter magazine feature:
http://www.sportingshootermag.com.au/news/exclusive-first-gallery-of-lithgow-s-la101-crossover
It reminds me a lot of the Steyr Prohunter, which is interesting because the EF88 is a variation of the Steyr AUG. The LA101 is also a rear locking action, like a Rem 788 but with 3 lugs. Bit of a nod to the SMLEs L.S.A.F. made until the 1950s. If they turn out affordable and accurate I'll be getting a .223. It'll be nice to have a new rifle that is entirely made in Australia, even though the company is French owned.
And some clearer pics from a Sporting Shooter magazine feature:
http://www.sportingshootermag.com.au/news/exclusive-first-gallery-of-lithgow-s-la101-crossover
It reminds me a lot of the Steyr Prohunter, which is interesting because the EF88 is a variation of the Steyr AUG. The LA101 is also a rear locking action, like a Rem 788 but with 3 lugs. Bit of a nod to the SMLEs L.S.A.F. made until the 1950s. If they turn out affordable and accurate I'll be getting a .223. It'll be nice to have a new rifle that is entirely made in Australia, even though the company is French owned.
