Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
This year’s ADIHEX is showcasing not only some of the latest and most advanced weaponry; it spotlights the most unique, too. At the CARACAL stand, visitors get a glimpse of distinctive hunting rifles inspired by the UAE and its rich heritage.
CARACAL, an EDGE entity, has unveiled its three Helix Deluxe VIP rifles, considered to be the “ultimate collector’s items”. Each of these .308 rifles features hand-engraved UAE motifs, gold-plated triggers, and straight comb cheek piece stocks made of walnut.
In tribute to Emirati heritage and identity, the trio are named “Forts in the UAE”, “Dubai Skyline”, and “Rabdan”.
“All of them are made with Grade 10 wood, which is among the finest in quality,” said Mohamed Al Rashdi, Senior Manager BDS at CARACAL Light Ammunition, in an interview with Aletihad.
The rifles’ names perfectly capture the intricate, engraved designs on each. For instance, the bespoke rifle depicting a beautiful, galloping Arabian horse is called ‘Rabdan’ — the name of the first horse of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The “Forts of the UAE” design frames the iconic, ancient towers of the country, while the “Dubai Skyline” features the emirate’s landmarks, from the Burj Khalifa and the Palm to the Museum of the Future.
Elaborating on CARACAL’s ADIHEX participation, Al Rashdi said: “We are here to represent our latest products, both firearms and light ammunition… We are also participating alongside our famous partner company, MERKEL, which has been renowned for more than 125 years for its hunting rifles.”
RAKNA is another company that showcases leading firearm brands, optics, and tactical equipment.
Dedicated to the UAE’s evolving defence and sporting industries, RAKNA Firearms’ showcase seeks to spotlight Emirati heritage while boosting the national economy. RAKNA is the official weaponry sponsor of the Hunting and Shooting Sports Guns and Equipment sector at the 22nd ADIHEX.
Speaking to Aletihad, Hamad Abdulla Al Ahbabi, CEO of RAKNA Firearms, said: “The primary goal of our participation is to support the Emirati market and revive our heritage.”
Among its latest offerings is a special rifle assembled in .308 and .223 calibres.
“This rifle has been met with great response and unexpected interest from the public and users. It was assembled in collaboration with major international companies and under the direct supervision of our company,” Al Ahbabi said.
What makes RAKNA stand out is its wide range of international brands, including those specialising in large-calibre rifles, in addition to long-range scopes, the CEO added.
“We have a British company that has specialised in this field for more than 20 years, and its products have proven their worth during trials over the past year,” Al Ahbabi said.
“We have international brands from the US, Germany, Austria, Australia, the Czech Republic, and others.”
