SV-98 Rifle Bolt Action Replica - Real Wood [S&T]

First of all, I can verify that TaiwanGun provides lightning fast shipping to the USA; the SV-98 arrived to my doorstep within a week. I didn't even realize that was possible. On to the review of the rifle itself.

Made of real wood, this rifle feels pretty heavy to carry and wield (not helped by how I am not very strong); it looks and feels fantastic, however. The adjustable, deployable and removable bipod helps with stability; it does have a bit of wiggle to it, but I feel it helps with aiming (and most bipods I've seen aren't rigid).

The built-in iron sights are accurate, but they are too low to the rifle such that the cheek rest gets in the way; to aim using the iron sights, I had to position my head completely behind the stock, making it awkward to hold. Of course, if you're using this rifle it's unlikely you're using it for its iron sights.

The hop-up came pre-adjusted (likely from TaiwanGun quality control), and the shots were pretty consistent at 100ft. However, because the hop-up adjustment is where the rear iron sight is, it is not possible to adjust the hop-up with a scope attached, so be sure to adjust the hop before equipping and zeroing a scope.

The only issue I had with the rifle is that the tapped holes within the rifle to screw in the carrying handle were very slightly misaligned with the carrying handle itself; I was able to screw the carrying handle in using a wrench for extra torque, but it looks like - if it was properly aligned - you should be able to easily attach and detach the carrying handle via screwing it in and out with your fingers. I do not plan on removing the carrying handle so it is not an issue for me. The carrying handle feels strong and robust (as it is also made of metal) and I feel comfortable supporting the weight of the entire rifle carrying it this way.

Another small gripe is how loose the cheek rest adjustments are. They like to slide around even after I've tightened them. If you tighten them too tight, it can damage the wood, so be careful. The monopod is deployed using the same tightening method, and often likes to collapse itself under the weight of the rifle, so if you plan on using the monopod, know that it isn't very strong.

The 45 round midcap magazine successfully fed all the bbs, and the only time it ever misfed was when I failed to actuate the bolt handle completely. I also had no issues operating the bolt; it did not feel overly stiff, but it did take just a little bit of strength to do (again, I am not very strong).

Overall, I am extremely satisfied as this is my first bolt-action rifle. In my experiences, the cons are negligible compared to the pros.

An absolute classic and goooorgeous replica, true to the original. This thing is big, and heavy, so if you're the type of "sniper" that likes to run around with your rifle like an assault player, this one isn't for you, mainly due to the weight, it's too heavy to run around with and aim while standing, but then again, a sniper doesn't do such things. This is a true sniper's rifle, fit for the role intended, beautiful wood and crafstmanship, shoots very accurate too and quite powerful, much thanks to taiwangun giving you a stronger spring already installed free of charge. Mine came with a slight issue, some chips on the wood, but as soon as I contacted taiwangun they solved things right away! Amazing support and stunning replica.

Great looking replica that(as far as I know) is the best SV-98 you can get aside from the raptor, which could cost up to four times as much. Shoots good out of the box, but will need a better spring to be a usable sniper. Mine had some damage to the bolt handle, but that is shipping's fault, and one of the most likely places to get damages, I can fix it though so its no problem. The wood stock looks great, the bipod and handle are solid. The stock adjustments are all tight. You can take the muzzle device off easily and it has an adapter for the included one, as well as standard threads under it for anything else you want. It is very heavy, but the rifle is built to be usable so its not to bad.

Great replica! The quality, weight and feel of it is perfect.
Absolutely love the green color of the wooden stock and the quality S&T has put into the SV-98.

The bolt pull is really good. I directly upgraded mine with a 6.01 innerbarrel and will soon put in a stronger spring. Upgrades to the internals are otherwise not necessary. Its a really solid build

First of all i recieved it very fast. Secondly the SV feels and looks sturdy. When i tested it i shot not at the maximum FPS for the dutch market but with the quick change spring system i wil easly upgrade it to turn it into a true monster.