PERSONALIZING THE VO 45
UPGRADE TO A MODERN CLASSIC
One hunter wanted the option to switch the VO 45’s carbon composite stock for a handpicked walnut version. This customization blends the rifle’s modern precision with the timeless appeal of true craftsmanship – a distinctive blend of tradition and modernity.
“It’s not every year that you have a milestone birthday,” was Andreas Dahlin’s reasoning when, after a long period of curiosity, he finally ordered his VO 45. At the first gathering and presentation of the new rifle at VO Faktori, he wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, except that he would get a glimpse of all the secrets and craftsmanship rituals hidden in southern Sweden.
“I had previously been interested in a pre-owned weapon, but unfortunately, I didn’t get around to it at the time. When I was introduced to the VO 45 as a completely new project, I was intrigued. At the same time, as the years have passed, my interest in wooden stocks has grown,” says Andreas.
When Ulf told him that it would be possible to switch between carbon fiber and a traditional VO stock, the decision was easy. Knowing how they treated the wood and the care that went into each piece made it an obvious choice. That’s exactly what Andreas wanted, and soon he selected a fine piece of walnut that would form the basis of his stock. The choice was made, and Viggo and the team began crafting the stock, just as they had done for 45 years – the reason the VO 45 got its name when the weapon was first designed.
“This is a combination in my style. Less is more, I think. No extravagance, but at the same time, a beautifully handmade wooden stock. Matte-finished barrel, and then this. Plus, a small personal engraving on the magazine. Cool.”
At first, Andreas thought all the talk about family and the community among VO hunters was a bit exaggerated, but soon he realized there was truth to it. Along the way, he met many other hunters, including Ulf, his father, and many others at the VO Faktori.
“I’ve always appreciated craftsmanship, the stories behind objects. Now I know that a certain line on my rifle is there because Viggo did it,” concludes Andreas, who is planning a trip to Africa with his new rifle. After all, you don’t celebrate a milestone birthday every year.
