Raptor XL (XHS) Rifles
APS introduced the 338 Allen Magnum to the shooting world in 2006, along with that amazingly powerful and accurate cartridge, there had to come a rifle to chamber it. That rifle was the Xtreme Heavy Sporter (XHS).
Based on either the Stiller TAC408 (Now TACDriver), BAT Model CT or the Cadex 408 receiver which were designed for use with the extremely large 408 Cheytac cartridge. The XHS was initially offered in single shot only but eventually a repeating version was offered using a detachable magazine system.
The design goal of the XHS rifle was to offer the ultimate platform to house and bring out the very top potential of the new 338 Allen Magnum and 375 Allen Magnum wildcats. A chore it still accomplishs effortlessly to this day nearly 20 years later. Some things have changed over the years but the design goal stays the same and quality continues to improve.
Bare rifle weight will run in the 16 lb range for single shots and up to 19 lbs for repeaters. UL models are also available that will allow the ready to hunt with rifles to weigh in at sub 16 lb weight limits of some western states. These UL versions are not standard order items but are available upon special request.
Raptor XL (XHS) Features
Receivers
Receivers
Receivers
Top to Bottom: Cadex 408CT, Stiller TAC Driver, BAT MCT
The Raptor XL and XHS rifles are all based on one of three custom receiver. The Stiller TAC-Driver can be used for single shot or repeating models. The BAT Model CT is a compact, very strong single shot receiver and the Cadex 408CT is for repeaters only. The Stiller and BAT can also be had in two different diameters, 1.600" and 1.450". The smaller being better suited for building somewhat lighter weight versions of these rifles. All are of exceptional quality. The Stiller and Cadex can be discribed as field grade match receivers, the BAT is a true BR class receiver.
Barrels
Receivers
Receivers
Top to Bottom: XHS Barrel, Raptor XL barrel, Heavy Varmint barrel
Standard Barrel lengths for the Raptor XL and XHS rifles is 32" but barrel lengths from 30" to 36" are available. All barrels used on the Raptor XL and XHS rifles at produced by Bartlein barrels and are Stainless Steel. The Raptor XL is simply a scaled up version of the same barrel used on the Raptor LRSS. it has a 1.450" shank diameter compared to the 1.350" diameter for the LRSS rifles. The muzzle diameter is also roughly 0.100" larger in diameter. The Raptor XL barrel contour has a very long shank length of 8". This design offers extreme stiffness and rigidity while reducing over all rifle weight and improving balance with the help of the unique dual flute pattern similar to the smaller LRSS barrels.
The XHS barrel contour has a shank of 1.350-1.400" diameter with a 5" shank length, then straight taper to the muzzle at roughly 1.00" diameter.
Stocks
Raptor XHS repeater in 375 Allen Magnum
The standard stock choice for the Raptor XL and XHS rifles in both single shot and repeating versions is the McMillan A5 SuperMag stock. This is a scaled up version of the standard A5 stock and has a wider cross section through the receiver inletting area as well as a wider and significantly longer forend to much better support long heavy barrels used on these rifles. Standard features include adjustable cheek pieces and optional shim style adjustable LOP are also available as add on options. One of the most functional, comfortable stocks on the market for a long range precision rifle. Also available in a nearly endless selection of finishes and colors from McMillan.
Triggers and Muzzle brakes
Raptor XL single shot in 338 Allen Magnum
Because of the size of these receivers and stocks, conventional mounted safeties do not work. As such, all triggers used on the Raptor XL and XHS rifles are fitted with the bottom safety design. These can take a little getting used to as far as function but work extremely well. Trigger Tech Special and Diamond series triggers are standard and upgraded options on all Raptor XL and XHS rifles. Muzzle brakes are either my Large 5 port Painkiller or large UM Pro Series muzzle brakes. I do not tolerate recoil so I use brakes that turn the felt recoil of these monsters into a gentle push. The 338 Allen Magnums felt recoil has been discribed as soft and fuzzy feeling!!!
Raptor XL (XHS) Chamberings
The Raptor XL and XHS rifles can be chambered in the following APS wildcats:
338 Allen Magnum
375 Allen Magnum
45 Allen Tactical
50 Allen Tactical
Also available in the following commerically available chamberings:
375 CheyTac
408 CheyTac