[Silent-Snail]

What are they, and what purpose do they sevre?

[Preacherman]

See here (http://www.steyrscout.org/project.htm) and scroll down to the comments on the "Scout Rifle Concept" for an overview.

[Silent-Snail]

Thanks Preacherman

[Malamute]

Some of the thoughts that influenced the design included,

Forward mounted scope enabled the gun to be carried with the hand around the action comfortably, and the gun to be loaded with stripper clips. They are also pretty quick to use. At Coopers rifle clases, many are able to hit straight away clay targets in the air with a scout rifle.

Short length enabled a powerful gun to be always handy and available, Manual action also was to be able to have a powerful gun in a short light package. Available semi-auto designs are not as light for caliber as manual actions.

Caliber was felt should be capable of killing game up to certain size (400KG?) out to 400 yards (?) and be available worldwide. (my memory of the details on this are sketchy but close)

[thereisnospoon]

They are another reason to part with your hard earned money...ain't it cool :D

[Cosmoline]

You don't have to spend much money. I'm in the process of making an M-39 Mosin into a scout rifle. Darrell over on Paralax's board sells awesome no-alteration mounts for $65 and under.