VO 45 IN THE FIELD
IN SCANDINAVIA OR AFRICA
This new rifle was not only born from a desire to seamlessly blend classic knowledge with new materials. It also emerged from listening to the family of VO hunters, many in search of a contemporary piece guided by the art of gunmaking.
The VO 45 was designed to connect with a new generation of hunters. It offered an opportunity to strengthen the bonds within the VO family – those who own a hunting rifle crafted at VO Faktori. However, this new endeavor wasn’t just shaped by the gunsmith’s vision; it also emerged from extensive discussions with visitors and clients.
“I was invited for a hunt at the amazing VO Faktori, and around dinner, we got into a discussion. Maybe I said too much, but I pointed out that I thought it was necessary to be more accessible to a wider target group and compete with more standard rifles, while still making something really remarkable,” says Svante Liljevall, who immediately signed up for a VO 45 when the project was introduced. But he didn’t buy it for himself; he bought it for his brother as a birthday gift.
Soon after, the two brothers flew to Namibia, renowned for offering hunts for species like Kudu, Oryx, Springbok, Blue Wildebeest, Impala, and many other plains game animals. Each hunt is tailored to provide choice and variety – a perfect opportunity to try out the new rifle.
“In Africa, you tend to walk much more than in Scandinavia, and it was, of course, a good thing to carry a light weapon – yet very precise and well-balanced. I think it’s pretty cool, this mix of classic technique and new materials. A great combination,” Svante concludes.
Henrik Hermansson is also a first-time client who signed up directly after visiting the VO Faktori, often accompanied by his wife, who is also an avid hunter. Well aware of the reputation of VO Vapen, it was only after the launch of this new rifle that he placed his order, as carbon fiber rifles are truly his thing. And he was not disappointed after using it in the field for the first time.
“The rifle has a fantastic trigger feel and power – something out of the ordinary. And the finish on the carbon fiber is also something I have never experienced before. Every detail is fantastic,” says Henrik, who has already taken down at least 20 animals with his new hunting rifle. He is now considering acquiring another VO Vapen rifle, but this time, no carbon fiber – just a classic, handmade rifle from VO Faktori. Finally, the spirit of Viggo Olsson’s craftsmanship has got a hold of him.
Not only newcomers to the family have enjoyed this modern rifle. Even true ambassadors of the company, such as Curt-Anton Bengtsson, were charmed by this new chapter in VO Vapen’s history. At just 28 years old, he ordered his first VO Professional TakeDown rifle in 2021 and has taken it on trips to Africa at least once a year since.
When he first heard about the project, Curt-Anton didn’t believe Viggo would put his name on such a rifle. But when he realized it was true, at the first presentation, he immediately decided this was something he wanted to own.
“I enjoy being part of the history of VO Vapen, and owning a first edition was a great honor. When I held it in my hands, I was astonished that it felt like my VO Professional. But I understand why Viggo sees the benefits of offering a rifle that doesn’t require years of finishing and preparing wood and other materials. And now that my girlfriend has tried it out, we can both go hunting together with a true VO. In Africa or wherever,” Curt-Anton elaborates, always on the lookout for new and exciting expeditions.
