News

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:32:31 +0200

THREE GENERATIONS RETURN TO THE UAE

A Legacy Continued at ADIHEX 2025

For two decades, VO Vapen has returned to the United Arab Emirates, forging bonds of tradition, craftsmanship, and friendship.
At ADIHEX 2025, three generations – the Master, the Gunsmith, and the Apprentice – will stand together, carrying forward a living legacy of artistry and passion for the gunmaking craft.

Following two decades of journeys, friendships, and collaborations in the United Arab Emirates, VO Vapen now presents the UAE Edition 2025. Born from this enduring bond, it is a contemporary hunting rifle deeply rooted in the company’s long history of craftsmanship and precision. Tradition and innovation intertwine: carbon and metal in smooth balance, offering extraordinary stability and handling. More than a rifle, it is a refined expression of VO Vapen’s philosophy – a quiet salute to the courage, growth, and unity of the seven Emirates, brought together under one banner.

”The UAE holds a very special place in our story,” says Viggo Olsson, Master Gunsmith at VO Vapen. “For many years we have returned, inspired by the region’s traditions and hospitality. With this edition, and with three generations traveling together, we continue to honor both the craft we represent and the friends we have made here.”

The bespoke design of the UAE Edition 2025 reflects the colors of the national flag – red, white, and green on a carbon stock, balanced with black-finished steel. Every detail, from weight distribution to ergonomics, has been carefully considered to create a firearm that feels natural in the hand while remaining robust and reliable in the field. Built in the heart of Skåne, Sweden, at VO Faktori – the company’s home dedicated solely to the art of gunmaking – it is a meeting point of Swedish craftsmanship and Emirati spirit.

”Our connection to the region actually began in a magnificent way when H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, commissioned a bespoke ‘Big Five’ rifle collection from us in the early 2000s. Since then, we have returned frequently,” explains the Master Gunsmith.

At ADIHEX 2025, from August 30th to September 7th, visitors will have the rare opportunity to experience the UAE Edition firsthand – and to meet three generations of the Olsson family in person. It is an encounter not only with a rifle, but with a living tradition of craftsmanship passed from grandfather to son to grandson.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:09:51 +0200

Artisans Unite!

Carlex and VO Set Sail for New Adventures Together

From his earliest memories, Damian, the founder of Carlex, has been drawn to the artistry of fine craftsmanship. ?Now, having established Carlex as one of the world’s finest creators of unique vehicles, new possibilities emerge through its collaboration with VO.

Damian’s passion has always been rooted in the art of fine craftsmanship. As a boy growing up in Poland, he dreamed of owning his own workshop, filled with tools for leather-craft, carpentry, and metalwork. Today, he is the CEO of a renowned studio, leading a team of designers and artisans who create luxury upholstery for the automotive, aviation, and marine ?industries. Yet, of all the inspirations that have shaped him over the years, one moment stands out above the rest.

“I recall, as if it were yesterday, the moment I read about the most beautiful rifle I had ever seen – a handcrafted piece with a falcon motif. It was perfection incarnate, its proportions, colors, and reliefs a true feast for the senses,” Damian explains.

These were the early days of the company, just a few years after Carlex was founded. He spent every waking hour dreaming of integrating exquisite craftsmanship and jewelry into automotive design, creating unique cars for a select few. A decade later, he found himself designing the ultimate collector’s car for connoisseurs of fine craftsmanship – the Mercedes G63. Its defining feature would be a hand-relief-carved roof. They named it G-Falcon.

It’s easy to understand where the inspiration for the falcon motif came from—this remarkable rifle from my past ignited a spark that led us to sketch the image of this magnificent bird, the king of the skies, revered as sacred in some cultures. It was clear that both the Swedes and the Poles shared the same passion for culture and craftsmanship.

“As we prepared for a photoshoot, I thought it would be splendid to invite Mr. Ulf Olsson, the owner of VO and the creator of the VO Falcon rifle, to join us. In an extraordinary turn of fate, my invitation was accepted, and Ulf even decided to bring the one and only VO Falcon rifle, allowing us to capture a collaborative photoshoot featuring both the car and the rifle,” Damian continues. And soon, the mutual venture of the ‘Falcon Fellowship’ began.

At the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2024, an unparalleled opportunity soon arose to acquire these two exquisite items together. Individually, they were extraordinary. Together, they formed an exclusive collection, almost as remarkable as the predator itself. It didn’t take long for the duo to realize that many others were eager to acquire such a rare collector’s item; craftsmanship born from the same grand ambition to create something never seen before.

This was the prologue to a brilliant revelation. The VO and Carlex brands had to join forces again – it was written in the Arabian sky. Soon, sketches began to take shape for new One-of-One concepts that would embody astonishing levels of craftsmanship, featuring exquisite techniques in metal, leather, wood, and jewelry. So be prepared for the unexpected. When true artisans unite, everything is possible.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:44 +0200

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.

Tue, 06 May 2025 10:39:35 +0200

VO 45 in the Field

In scandinavia of 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.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:45 +0200

The Fellowship of Falcons

A collector’s duo for hunters and car connoisseurs

At the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2024, two exquisite items created as a tribute to the mighty falcon are being presented as an ensemble. Individually extraordinary, together they form an exclusive collection, almost as remarkable as the predator itself.

It’s rare for two Northern European countries to share such a deep admiration for the mighty falcon of Arabia. VO Vapen has visited the Arabian world many times, and these encounters sparked a profound curiosity about falconry, resulting in an iconic hunting rifle that honors not only traditional hunting but also these magnificent birds—the true masters of the sky. Strangely enough, Carlex Design had a similar experience.

“Learning about this fantastic part of the world and falconry was remarkable. We felt an urge to create something extraordinary revolving around this culture. Finding an artisan who shares your vision of craftsmanship and precision is rare, and even more remarkable is discovering someone who, like us, has dedicated decades to perfecting their craft. It was only natural that we unite in this exceptional collaboration,” explains Damian Skotnicki, CEO of Carlex Design.

Renowned for creating the world’s finest lifestyle and collector modifications for the iconic Mercedes G-Class, the Polish company Carlex Design envisioned a tribute to this mythical tradition. As they explored this ancient legacy, they understood that they had to join forces with their kindred spirit in Scandinavia.

“When we realized our shared inspiration with VO Vapen’s exceptional gun-making, centered around the same theme, it truly encouraged us to create the G-Falcon. This unique car is a piece of automotive art that truly honors this remarkable culture, which I am proud to say. Together, we created an exceptional collector’s duo,” Damian adds.

The hunting rifle in question that inspired Carlex Design is, of course, the iconic VO Falcon. This design endeavor, inspired by the hunting traditions of the Arabian world, took years to perfect. Made from Damascus steel for the octagonal barrels and other parts of the rifle, it is generously enriched with engravings of original falcons from the region. Perfectly balanced and precise, as accurate as it is beautiful.

Carlex Design also has a passion for discovering nature's treasures—rare leathers, meteorites, precious metals, and unique woods—which drives them to create astonishing vehicles that are both functional and evocative. Over four years, they transformed the G63 AMG into a true work of perfection. The centerpiece is the handcrafted roof featuring intricate falcon reliefs, adorned with subtle touches of gold on polished metal—a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

This unique collaboration between the world’s finest gunsmith and the most acclaimed Mercedes G-Class artisans will be unveiled at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2024. A unique duo, profoundly inspired by the regal falcon.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:45 +0200

As Remarkable as the Predator Itself

Behold the VO Falcon

Crafted to honor the deep-rooted hunting traditions of the Arabian world. With its instinctive sense for hunting, the magnificent falcon finds its prey and attacks with unbelievable force due to its speed, raw strength, and elegance. This is a tribute to this magnificent bird.

Falcons captivate us with their ability to fly without exhaustion, their grace, and, not least, their natural sharp hunting instinct. The VO Falcon Rifle is created to honor not only traditional falconry but also these fantastic birds, ”the true masters in the sky.” The rifles are adorned with beautiful scene engravings of Peregrine Falcons and Saker Falcons, the most appreciated falcons by falconers in the Gulf region.

”Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Arab world numerous times. These exciting and intriguing encounters with friends from the region sparked a profound curiosity about the ancient art of falconry, inspiring the creation of a unique hunting rifle to honor this noble predator,” Gunsmith Ulf Olsson explains.

As early as 2008, the gunsmith sensed a captivating and inspiring tale to be told about this unique form of hunting, focusing particularly on the majestic falcon and its adept utilization of all its attributes to become an optimal hunter. They began sketching a concept around this idea. However, the initial research left the team astonished at the multitude of falcon variants worldwide.

In their quest to identify the right species and pay due respect to the project, they journeyed several times to the Middle East. They paid numerous visits to esteemed institutions such as the Abu Dhabi Falconers Club, Emirates Falconers Club, and Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital to meticulously select the original falcons from the region for the upcoming design endeavors.

”To further tie the VO Falcon Rifle to the region, we developed a unique technique using Damascus steel for the octagonal barrels. It took us more than a year to develop and build the barrels, ensuring that high quality and accuracy are guaranteed,” Ulf continues.

After achieving amazing results on the barrels, the gunsmiths also chose to use this unique handmade steel for other parts of the rifle, something that had never been done before. Even the special takedown key is made of Damascus steel. This beautiful and unique steel, with its origins in the Arabian world, along with the rifle's stock, made of the best available walnut root, makes this hunting rifle truly a work of art.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:46 +0200

How to Make Carbon Act as Walnut

VO45 in the making

Absorbingly smooth yet robust, the rifle stocks are a significant factor in the global reputation of VO Vapen. As they craft a modern weapon for a new generation, how can these qualities be seamlessly transformed from centuries-old trees to an artificial contemporary material?

When VO Vapen creates their stocks, they seek the finest walnut roots worldwide. Meticulously air-dried, the roots are then washed, and the bark is shaved off. Finally cut, the wood is carefully stored for another three to five years, and the moisture is gradually drawn out. This creates a stock that is truly unique, famous for its resilience.

”Since the beginning, building the stock has been the benchmark for everything else that goes into a rifle from VO Vapen. This is where our craftsmanship, perseverance, and experience are put to the test,” says Ulf Olsson, who was in charge of the development of VO 45.

As the VO team decided to create a rifle in a brand new price range, they knew that a carbon fiber stock was the only viable option; otherwise, this project would be impossible. The significant amount of time invested in each stock leaving VO Faktori is a fact hard to comprehend for someone who has not witnessed the process. Master Gunsmith Viggo himself puts an endless amount of time into every detail, just as it is when a bespoke rifle comes to life.

They also knew that no one in their part of the world had ever managed such an endeavor with these grand ambitions before. VO Vapen had to create the tools to make the stock and also be in charge of the 'baking' that turns the carbon fiber into a finished stock – a stock with characteristics familiar to all VO Vapen owners out there. The research also made it clear that hollow stocks result in strong recoil, the hunter's worst enemy, sometimes so heavy that cheekbones and ears could be damaged. Naturally, this wasn’t even considered as an alternative.

”First, we create a model of the stock using a soft, sound, and recoil-absorbing material. Next, we apply a layer of delicate, hot carbon fiber fabric, and the entire assembly is placed into our tool, where it undergoes baking in an autoclave for 24 hours. Very detailed manual labor indeed,” Ulf continues.

Finally, they had a prototype that actually resembled the original stock from VO Vapen in its characteristics. But they were not content; they needed something extra to make it truly unique: a traditional cheekpiece, as found on their bespoke rifles. Something unheard of in the world of carbon fiber rifles..."

To be continued…

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:46 +0200

One Question Leading to Many More

VO45 in the making

To celebrate 45 years of tradition and innovation, VO 45 was created – a contemporary hunting rifle as precise in design and accuracy as everything from VO Vapen, reaching out to a brand-new generation of hunters. However, this project started with one simple question, leading up to new questions to be answered.

The field events of VO Vapen have always been something quite out of the ordinary – friends gathering, sharing meals, and hunting together. A unique bond exists among those who have met so many times in similar settings. All of them share one thing in common: they are owners of a rifle from VO Vapen. On this particular day, the hunt had been unusually successful; both deer and roe deer hung in the carriage house outside the castle. After dinner, when the coffee had been served, one of the guests turned to Viggo: “Wouldn't it be fantastic if many more could experience this, after all, not everyone has the chance to acquire a bespoke rifle from VO Vapen.”

This humble question wasn't entirely new; it had crossed Viggo's mind on numerous occasions. However, on that particular evening in the gunroom, at VO Faktori, the question took on a renewed significance. It suddenly seemed like the opportune moment to begin a new chapter in the history of VO Vapen. Glancing around the room filled with both familiar and fresh faces, Viggo realized that they now had the possibility to create a hunting rifle in a new price category: a contemporary weapon with the same precision and finesse that has made VO Vapen renowned worldwide – an offering tailored for a new generation of hunters. This was the perfect moment, as the company had now embarked on a new era with VO Faktori, a building dedicated to exploring the art of gun making.

Viggo and his son Ulf soon began working on this new venture, crafting the blueprint for what they called ”VO X”. This endeavor required innovative thinking to align with the set price range they had decided upon. Both were certain about the necessity of a composite carbon stock – smooth and resilient, reminiscent of the impeccably balanced walnut stocks. However, this composite carbon stock, with entirely new solutions to maintain the comfort and precision synonymous with the bespoke rifles, would have to be constructed and made under their control, in their region, to maintain optimal quality. It wasn’t possible otherwise. This presented a time-consuming challenge.

Peter, the design engineer, and master machinist at VO Faktori, brought in his father, Christer, to provide additional expertise. With their combined experience of over 35 years in tool making, everyone was confident that this substantial development project was in capable hands

Together, they strived day and night – programming machines, crafting drawings, models, and determining allowable tolerances. Material properties were scrutinized, and the team worked late into the evening. When the machined surfaces finally came to life, meticulous hand polishing was required to achieve the perfect finish for the discerning carbon fiber. Finally, the first prototype was ready. A new chapter in the history of VO Vapen had begun. VO 45 was in the making.

To be continued…

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:20:46 +0200

VO Ammunition

Take Your Shooting To a Higher Level

There's not much Henrik Nyberg doesn't know about making ammunition more efficient. As a successful long-range shooter and having long manufactured his own specific precision loads, he is now developing a unique project in collaboration with VO Vapen: handloaded ammunition without comparison in larger quantities today.

We meet at VO Faktori, where Henrik Nyberg has made himself at home for some time now. In this sanctuary fully committed to the art of gunmaking, he works with the father and son duo, the Olssons, to develop a unique product for the hunting market. Strangely enough a perfect hand loaded ammunition has been conspicuously absent in the market. Something which actually makes all the difference between exact and decent precision.

A perfect charge is really about making the loads consistent and finding the exact weight. Here, we are talking about ’grain”, which corresponds to about 0.065 grams. This requires a human presence; no mass production system in the world today can guarantee the required accuracy. Henrik and his team load every cartridge by hand. First the case, then the primer, powder, and bullet. It is also extremely important how deep the bullet sits in the case; the seating depth has a significant impact on accuracy.

“You can be the most skilled hunter, you can have the finest hunting weapon — like in this case. But without the right quality ammunition for the task, precision won't be the same,” Henrik explains and points to his diamond scale.

Henrik learned to make his own ammunition the hard way. For a competitive long-range shooter, there are no substitutes. When VO Vapen approached him for collaboration, he realized a genuine global need—a demand for hand-loaded ammunition with perfect accuracy in larger quantities. Simultaneously, there was a growing desire for ammunition with copper bullets, eliminating unnecessary lead. This not only benefits the environment but also serves the needs of hunters worldwide.

“If the bullet is made entirely of copper, it also holds together much better. You avoid lead splinters when you remove the bullet from the animal. The wound cavity is also much cleaner, and, of course, we avoid unnecessary lead in nature. Hunters today demonstrate a true dedication to environmental awareness, and the market demand for lead-free alternatives continues to rise steadily.”

At VO Faktori, work continues to develop mass-produced hand-loaded ammunition for hunters. In the shooting gallery there is currently more activity than usual. With advanced technology and classical craftsmanship, speed and powder quantities are measured. A bullet travels through the air at about 850 meters per second, and Henrik counts and calibrates. Soon it will be the launch of VO Ammunition: ammunition that takes your shooting to a higher and more stable level. Now there is nothing left to blame; it's up to you and your skill as a hunter.

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:09:51 +0200

The Viking Collection

A Tribute To Norse Mythology

Today, Thor, Odin, and Loki are more fashionable than ever. Streaming series have made Vikings and their mythological characters household names worldwide. However, two decades ago, VO Vapen received an assignment to create the world's first rifle edition with a Viking theme. Thanks to extraordinary coincidences, this edition is now available to new collectors.

Sometimes, it takes a German perspective to make us here in Scandinavia realize our rich history. Today, Vikings seem to be more in focus than in a long time, and here in the south of Sweden, these times feel remarkably alive. This is where famous figures like Harald Bluetooth and his son Sweyn Forkbeard left their marks. It was likely also beyond our shores where the biggest naval battle of the era occurred, in a mysterious place called Svolder.

Inspired by all the stories of the famous Norsemen, and in particular their mythology, Master Gunsmith Viggo Olsson and his son Ulf created four very special rifles: the VO Viking edition. After all, what could be more natural for a Swedish gunsmith than creating a rifle as a tribute to their ancestors?

However, it was a German collector and hunter who gave us the assignment. He's not the first German interested in Nordic mythology, though; just think of Richard Wagner and his “Der Ring des Nibelungen.” As we began our discussions on what to focus on, we eventually settled on four themes: Midvinterblot, Thor, Loke, and Odin – themes that our collector was particularly drawn to.

Odin is the main god in Norse mythology. He is the ruler of Asgard and has a multifaceted role. He is also closely connected to certain animals, not least the two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, who fly all over the world to bring him information. This rifle, like the others, was crafted in a unique design with 24k gold inlays and features two barrels.

Midvinterblot is a famous painting created by Carl Larsson that depicts a legend where a Swedish king was sacrificed to avert a famine.

Thor is a widely talked-about god, a hammer-waving protector of mankind and the gods, closely associated with thunder and lightning and his many adventures.

Loke is a complex and mischievous deity known for his cunning, shape-shifting abilities, and his role as both a trickster and a catalyst for chaos among the gods.

These rifles are once again available due to extraordinary international coincidences and are meticulously cared for at VO Faktori. If you are interested in this unique collection, please contact us to arrange a meeting.