LAS VEGAS, Nevada — Caracal and Wilcox Industries unveiled this week at SHOT Show 2016 the first in their line of integrated tactical rifle systems, the CAR816-A2 with Fusion System Kit designed for the defence and security market with commercial application.
On the new product, Hamad Al Ameri, CEO of Caracal said, "Our partnership with Wilcox has redefined the approach to integrated weapon systems. The CAR816-A2 with Fusion System is the first product collaboration between our two companies, delivering firearms that meet the critical needs of law enforcement officers and the modern warfighter."
Caracal's CAR816-A2 is currently being manufactured at Wilcox's world-class facility in New Hampshire and will be available on a limited basis in 2016. The tactical rifle features a short stroke push rod gas piston operating system, controlled by an adjustable gas block with three positions – supressed, unsupressed and a setting for operating in adverse conditions. The Wilcox's Fusion System Kit, a lightweight module rifle forearm system that hosts a quick-change battery compartment within the grip can be integrated into the manufacturing process of the CAR816-A2. This system powers a red dot sight, integrated visible laser, IR laser as well as fixed IR illuminator, and is co-aligned with one windage and elevation knob to boresight the system.
On the eve of SHOT Show 2016, Caracal and Wilcox Industries officially announced their new strategic partnership that will see Caracal guns produced in the United States for the first time.
Looking ahead, Hamad Al Ameri said, "This partnership brings together Caracal with an innovation leader when it comes to tactical products for special forces units. In addition to the CAR816-A2, Wilcox and Caracal will begin manufacturing the CAR 814 direct impingement rifle and the new generation Enhanced F pistol at Wilcox's facility." He went on to add, "Our teams are already working together to design and develop new Caracal products customised for the US market, and we look forward to showcasing our progress at SHOT Show 2017."
In addition to the products manufactured at Wilcox's facility, Caracal will also be importing under license and on a limited basis the Haenel sniper rifle. The Haenel RS-8 and RS-9 Rifles are extremely durable and lightweight sniper rifles with 60degree bolts, 3-lug action and 3 position safety. They feature fully adjustable 2-stage triggers, high-quality barrels and deliver ultimate precision and accuracy and a wholly modular design to allow for the full complement of accessories. The RS-9 was recently awarded the German Army Special Forces Sniper contract for mid range .338 rifles system.
Caracal is the only OEM small arms company in the Middle East, manufacturing firearms, sniper rifles and other light weapons, catering to international civilian, military, law enforcement and sporting markets. Caracal is now being backed by a strong industrial parent company, the Emirates Defence Industries Company (EDIC). This unique arrangement allows for Caracal to receive maximum resources and support in order to drive the next phase of growth for the company, including its new US presence.
Based on significant positive feedback at this year's show, Caracal will be returning once again to SHOT Show 2017 with an expanded presence to showcase more products and variants for the US commercial and defence and security market.
