TOP HEADER

Operators Manual

Caliber .223
(5.56mm)

In a world of compromise, some don’t.

HK SL8-1 Rifle 1
CAUTION: Read the safety notes before handling the
SL8-1 Rifle!

SL8-1
Sporting Rifle
Operators Manual

© Heckler & Koch, Inc., 10/99, 11/99 (revised May 2000)

All rights reserved
HK, Inc., 21480 Pacific Blvd.
Sterling, Virginia 20166-8903
United States of America
Telephone (703) 450-1900
Specifications and models subject to change without notice.
TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Notes on the Use of the SL8-1 rifle ..........................................6
Maintenance and Service ..................................................................38

General ................................................................................................8
Troubleshooting Guide ........................................................................41

Assembly Groups ................................................................................10

Parts & Exploded Diagram..................................................................42

Description of Assembly Groups ........................................................11

Specifications ......................................................................................44

Group 1 Receiver with barrel, buttstock and attaching parts ........11

Firearm Service Record ......................................................................45

Group 2 Bolt Assembly ..................................................................12

Group 3 Buttstock Assembly (with trigger & safety mechanism) ..14

Group 4 Handguard ......................................................................16

Group 5 Magazine ..........................................................................16

Handling and Operation ....................................................................17

Operation of Parts ..............................................................................22

Disassembly of the SL8-1 ..................................................................24

Assembly of the SL8-1 ........................................................................28

Disassembly and Assembly of the magazine ....................................30

Adjustment of the Stock and Cheekpiece ..........................................31

Adjustment of the Sights ....................................................................33

Optical Sights ....................................................................................35

4 5
SAFETY NOTES SAFETY NOTES
Safety Notes on the Use of the HK SL8-1 • Always point the rifle in a safe direction.
• Before handling and before cleaning it has to be checked to
Clear the rifle! Before handling the firearm, “clear it!” Do so by: ensure that:
1 • Make sure fingers are outside of the trigger guard and the - The bolt is locked to the rear
firearm is pointed in a safe direction at all times! - The rifle is unloaded (cartridge chamber empty)
2 • ON SAFE – Rotate the safety/selector lever to the “Safe” - The barrel is free of obstructions
position (the white “S” adjacent to the safety/selector lever) - The magazine is empty.
3 • REMOVE MAGAZINE – Depress the magazine paddle release • Keep your finger off the trigger when loading, unloading or
lever and remove the magazine from the magazine well. otherwise handling the rifle. Always place the trigger finger
4 • COCKING LEVER – Rotate the ejection port towards the outside of the trigger guard.
ground and fold out and pull the cocking lever rearward one or • Place your finger on the trigger only when your sights are
more times to insure the chamber is empty. Watch for a live aimed at the target.
round or empty case to be ejected. Move the cocking lever • Never use force when handling, disassembling, cleaning and
upward slightly and lock it into the indent in the cocking lever assembling the rifle.
housing to lock the bolt open. • Disassemble the rifle only as far as described in this manual.
5 • BOLT CATCH – While holding the cocking lever fully rearward • Always wear eye and hearing protection when using the rifle.
use the trigger finger to press upwards on the bolt catch button • Take into account the fact that bystanders are also endangered.
located in the front top corner of the trigger guard to lock the Ensure bystanders are also wearing ear and eye protection.
bolt rearward. • Only use factory-loaded and undamaged cartridges of the
6 • INSPECT CHAMBER – Inspect chamber for the presence of a correct caliber.
live round or empty case. • Always mind that the muzzle area is free of obstacles during
Visually – View chamber through open ejection port. firing.
Physically – Insert index finger through magazine well or • Store the firearm and ammunition in separate places.
ejection port and feel for the presence of a round or cartridge • Discharging firearms in poorly ventilated areas, cleaning
case in the chamber. firearms, or handling ammunition may result in exposure to
7 • Remove any live rounds or empty cases from the chamber or lead, a substance known to be associated with birth defects,
from within the firearm or magazine before handling the firearm reproductive harm, and other serious injury. Have adequate
further. ventilation at all times. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure.
• Heckler & Koch does not assume any liability for events due to
The HK SL8-1 is now considered “Clear. disregarding this manual, improper handling, negligence,
improper treatment, use of improper or reloaded ammunition,
unauthorized exchange of parts or manipulations of the rifle.
WARNINGS • Remember, firearms safety begins with you. Read this operators
• Carefully read this operators manual before handling the rifle. manual and be familiar with the safe handling of this firearm
• Only use the rifle after you have fully reviewed and before using it. Store all firearms in a safe and secure location.
understand these instructions. Keep firearms away from children. Always be a safe shooter.
• Observe all notes on handling and operation. Failure to do so Keep this manual with the rifle.
may result in injury or death of the operator or bystanders.
• Do not use the rifle if you have previously ingested alcohol or
drugs.
• When passing the rifle between persons, the firearm must be
clear and the bolt should be open.
• Always treat the rifle as if it were loaded and ready to fire.
• Never point the rifle at anyone during handling.

6 7
GENERAL GENERAL
The HK SL8-1 semiautomatic rifle is a caliber .223 Remington civilian
sporting arm based on the G36 rifle currently used by the German Army.

The SL8-1 rifle is gas operated with a rotating bolt head. Its receiver,
pistol grip, buttstock, and handguard are all made of a high-strength
polymer material, resulting in a tough and lightweight rifle.

A mechanical sight is mounted on the Picatinny long rail found on the

top of the upper receiver. This sighting system can be easily replaced by
other sighting systems, including optical scopes.
Figure 2 SL8-1 with mechanical sights (right side view)
A movable buttplate and cheekpiece are other features that can be
adjusted to the individual needs of the user.

The heavy barrel and the chamber are cold hammer forged and hard
chrome plated for durability and accuracy. The barrel is fastened and
centered to the receiver by means of a hex nut.

A cocking lever on the front end of the bolt head carrier can be swiveled
to the left and to the right for actuation by both left and right handed
users.

The magazine holds 10 rounds.

A bolt catch locks the bolt rearward (open) when the last round is fired
or an empty magazine is inserted and the bolt is retracted.

Figure 3 SL8-1 Accessories

Figure 1 SL8-1 with mechanical sights (left side view)

8 9
ASSEMBLY GROUPS DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS
Group 1 Receiver with barrel, buttstock and attaching parts
The receiver is made of high-strength fiber-reinforced plastic. It houses
all the other assembly groups. Inside the receiver there are guideways
for the bolt as well as contact surfaces for the pistol grip, the buttstock
and the magazine well. The barrel is fastened and centered to the
receiver by means of a nut.

CAUTION: The barrel nut should not be removed by the operator.

Only HK certified armorers should attempt to remove the barrel.

On the right side of the receiver is an ejection port with an integral

cartridge case deflector. The cartridge case deflector directs the ejected
cases (at an angle of approximately 45° to the muzzle) away from the
shooter.

Handguard and magazine well are fitted to the bottom of the receiver by
means of removable locking pins.
Figure 4 SL8-1 Assembly groups
The buttstock with trigger mechanism is fastened to the receiver by
means of two hex head screws. To fasten and unfasten them use the
HK special tool provided with the rifle.
1 Receiver with barrel, gas system, magazine well,
mounting rail with mechanical sights
2 Bolt assembly with recoil spring assembly
3 Buttstock assembly complete
4 Magazine
5 Handguard

Figure 5
Receiver with barrel, gas system, mounting rail with mechanical sights

1. Barrel
2. Front sight
3. Mounting rail
4. Rear sight
5. Receiver
6. Magazine catch
7. Magazine well

10 11
DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS
Gas block The firing pin is retained by the firing pin retaining pin.
The gas block is fastened with a cross pin to the barrel; do no attempt to
remove it. After the bullet has passed the gas vent hole in the barrel, a A cocking lever on the front end of the bolt head carrier can be swiveled to
portion of the propellant gases are guided into the gas cylinder within the left and to the right for actuation by both left and right handed users. It
the gas block and actuate the gas piston. can also be locked in a 90° position to the left and right for use as a
forward assist.
The gas piston drives the bolt assembly rearward via the push rod. The
return spring on the push rod returns the rod to its starting position.

Figure 7 Bolt assembly with recoil spring assembly

The recoil spring guide rod with the recoil spring is a separate unit and
fits into the bolt head carrier. Rearward movement of the bolt assembly
is stopped by a buffer in the buttstock.

Figure 6 Gas system

Magazine well
The front of the magazine well engages into two support studs on the
receiver. For fastening the magazine well is swiveled upward. A locking
pin fastens both the pistol grip and the magazine well to the receiver.
When the locking pin is removed the magazine well is retained by the
Figure 8 Bolt assembly
magazine catch.
1. Cocking lever 4. Retaining pin
Group 2 Bolt assembly
2. Bolt head carrier 5. Cam pin
The bolt assembly with the rotary bolt head is guided into the receiver
3. Firing pin 6. Bolt head
by metal guide rails molded into the polymer receiver. The bolt assembly
is driven rearward by the gas piston and forward by the recoil
spring.The bolt assembly serves multiple functions including; feeding the
cartridges, locking of the chamber, cartridge ignition, case extraction
and ejection, as well as for cocking of the hammer.
1. Extractor
The bolt head is retained in the bolt head carrier by the cam pin which
2. Ejector
also controls its rotary movement. Locking lugs are machined onto the
3. Locking lugs (6 total)
front of the bolt head. The spring-loaded extractor is located in a gap
between the locking lugs. Adjacent to the extractor is a spring-loaded
ejector. Figure 9 Bolt head

12 13
DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS
Buttstock Assembly, complete Trigger and Safety Mechanism
The buttstock is fixed to the receiver by the means of two hex head The trigger and safety are integrated into the buttstock assembly.
screws which can be opened and closed with the HK Tool. The buttstock
includes an integral rear sling attachment point. At the front of the trigger guard there is a bolt catch button which is
used to hold the bolt open on an empty magazine or when fired “dry.”
Butt plate and cheekpiece can be adjusted to the individual requirement There are safety selector levers on both sides of the grip. The
of the user by the means of spacers. safety/selector levers can be placed in two positions:

The trigger and safety/selector lever is located at the front end of the “S” = Safe (white index line on the safety/selector
buttstock. lever pointing to the white “S”)
“F” = Fire (semi-automatic white index line on the
safety/selector lever pointing to the red “F”)

Figure 10 Buttstock assembly complete

Figure 13 Trigger and safety mechanism

1. Bolt catch button

2. Hammer
3. Safety/selector lever
4. Trigger
5. Bolt catch

Figure 11 Figure 12
Cheekpiece Buttplate with
interchangeable spacers

Figure 14A Safety/selector position Figure 14B Safety/selector position

“safe” “fire” (semi-automatic)

14 15
DESCRIPTION OF ASSEMBLY GROUPS HANDLING AND OPERATION
Handguard Ammunition and Accuracy
The detachable handguard encloses the barrel and the gas system. The By using ammunition with match bullets (like Sierra 62 grain Match King
handguard is positioned at the receiver by means of two support studs #1410) or other match grade ammunition the HK SL8-1 will achieve the
and is fastened there by means of a removable locking pin. The best level of accuracy.
handguard incorporates a sling attachment point and two threaded hard
points for accessory attachment. If used, handloaded ammo should not exceed the maximum gas
pressure specified by C.I.P. and SAAMI for the cal. 223 Remington
cartridge (5.56 x 45mm NATO). Follow the instructions of propellant and
bullet manufacturer.

Mounting Rail
The rail with mechanical iron sights is not designed to be a carrying
handle.

CAUTION: Except for loading and unloading the rifle there should be
no finger placed between the rail and the receiver.
Figure 15 Handguard

Magazine NOTE: If the bolt is locked to the rear by the bolt catch and the
The detachable box-type magazine holds maximum 10 rounds. The magazine is removed, a hard knock on the buttstock, like slamming
magazine housing consists of impact-resistant transparent plastic which the gun to the ground will release the bolt. However, to avoid
allows the user to visually check the contents of the magazine from the damage to the rifle, the bolt should be pulled fully rearward and
outside. released.

Safe handling
Compared to the military issue G36 assault rifle, the trigger pull of the
SL8-1 is significantly reduced. If the weapon is loaded, avoid rough
handling and drops.

Because of the absence of a firing pin spring, a slight mark on the

primer can be seen after chambering a round. This has no influence on
the handling safety of the rifle; without pulling the trigger the gun will not
fire. Please avoid chambering the same round several times in
sequence as the bullet can be worked loose from the cartridge.
Figure 16 Magazine Figure 17 Magazine disassembled
NOTE: Use only .223 Remington or 5.56 x 45mm NATO ammunition
The magazine consists of: in the SL8-1 rifle. Damage caused by the use of improperly
1. Magazine housing assembled or remanufactured ammunition in the SL8-1 may void the
2. Magazine floor plate HK Warranty. Do not use ammunition assembled with corrosive
3. Follower components (primers, propellants, etc.).
4. Follower spring

16 17
HANDLING AND OPERATION HANDLING AND OPERATION
Cartridges assembled with projectile weights from 50-70 grains are Loading the Rifle
recommended for use with the SL8-1 rifle. Method 1: No magazine in the weapon
The bolt is in its forward (locked) position
Loading of the magazine
1 • Hold the magazine with one hand. Place a cartridge with the 1 • Set the safety/selector lever on “Safe.”
other hand slightly forward of the the magazine lips and push 2 • Swivel the cocking lever to the left or to the right, pull it all the
back and downward until the cartridge is held underneath the way to the rear (Figure 20) and hold it.
lips.
2 • Repeat this operation until the magazine is fully loaded and the
desired 10 rounds are inside the magazine.

Figure 20 Operating the cocking lever

3 • Push the bolt catch button upward to lock the bolt open
(rearward, see Figure 21)

Figure 18 Loading of the magazine

Unloading the magazine

Hold the magazine with one hand. Push the cartridges forward out of
the magazine with the thumb of the other hand. Do not allow the
cartridges to drop on a hard surface or they may become damaged.

Figure 21 Activate bolt catch, push upwards

4 • Insert a loaded magazine into the magazine well until the

magazine catch clearly engages. Swivel the cocking lever out,
pull it all the way to the rear and release it.

The weapon is now loaded and set on “Safe.”

18 19
HANDLING AND OPERATION HANDLING AND OPERATION
Reloading the Rifle Forward assist
Method 2: The magazine in the weapon is empty. If the exterior of the rifle is very dirty (sand, mud etc.) the cocking lever
The bolt has been held in its rear position by the bolt can also be used as a forward assist.
catch.
To use the cocking lever as a forward assist
1 • Set the safety/fire selector lever at “Safe.” 1 • Swivel out the cocking lever and push it inward against the bolt
2 • Push the magazine catch forward with the thumb and remove head carrier (the cocking lever remains in its swiveled position).
the empty magazine (see Figure 22 below). 2 • Push the bolt head carrier with the cocking lever forward until it
fully locks closed.
3 • Pull the cocking lever outward and let it swivel to its initial
position (parallel with the bolt head carrier).

Figure 22 Release magazine (push forward)

3 • Insert a loaded magazine into the magazine well until the

magazine clearly engages. Tug on the magazine to ensure it is Figure 23 Cocking lever shown in
securely engaged. its “forward assist” position
4 • Swivel the cocking lever out, pull it all the way to the rear and
release (see Figure 20). Low-noise loading using the forward assist
1 • After the magazine has been inserted, swivel out the cocking
The weapon is now loaded and set on “Safe.” lever and push it inward against the bolt head carrier until it
engages (see Figure 23).
2 • Pull the cocking lever slightly to the rear and guide it forward.
3 • Push the cocking lever forward until the bolt locks.
4 • Pull the cocking lever outward and let it swivel to its initial
position (parallel with the bolt head carrier).

The rifle is now loaded and set at “Safe.”

WARNING: Never fire the SL8-1 with cocking handle locked in the
90° forward assist position or injury may occur.

20 21
OPERATION OF PARTS OPERATION OF PARTS
Bolt Locked Bolt Unlocked
The barrel is tightly screwed to the barrel extension by means of a nut. The locking lugs disengage. The bolt head disengages (unlocks) from
The bolt head carrier houses the bolt head which can move along its the barrel extension. Bolt head carrier and bolt head move to the rear.
longitudinal axis inside the bolt head carrier. Additional to its longitudinal The extractor in the bolt head extracts the cartridge case by its rim from
movement the bolt head can also rotate around its longitudinal axis. the chamber. When the bolt assembly passes the ejection port, the
spring-loaded ejector ejects the cartridge case through the open
In the locked condition the bolt head is in the foremost position. The bolt ejection port forward and to the right.
head in the bolt head carrier is turned in such a way that the locking
recesses of the bolt head engage the corresponding locking lugs of the The rearward movement of the bolt assembly compresses the recoil
barrel extension. spring and cocks the hammer.

The SL8-1 is now loaded and safety selector lever set to fire. If the magazine is empty, the follower lifts the bolt catch upwards which
holds the bolt rearward. If a round is present in the magazine, the bolt
Pulling the trigger releases the hammer which hits the firing pin and assembly, driven by the recoil spring moves forward and pushes the
ignites the cartridge. uppermost cartridge out of the magazine into the chamber.

The propellant gases accelerate the bullet. As soon as the bullet has The bolt head contacts and stops at the rear face of the barrel and the
passed the gas vent hole, a portion of the gases enter the gas block bolt head carrier continues its forward movement which rotates the bolt
and the gas cylinder. head via the cam pin and the camming slot into the locked position.

These gases push the bolt head carrier via the gas piston and the push The firing pin tip can only protrude through the bolt face and hit the
rod to the rear. The camming slot in the bolt head carrier causes the primer when the bolt is fully locked. The weapon is now ready to fire
cam pin to pivot downward, which in turn rotates the bolt head and again.
unlocks it.

Figure 25 Bolt in the unlocked position

Figure 24 Bolt in locked position
1. Gas piston 6. Firing pin
1. Gas piston 6. Firing pin 2. Push rod 7. Camming slot
2. Push rod 7. Camming slot 3. Bolt head 8. Barrel extension
3. Bolt head 8. Barrel extension 4. Bolt head carrier 9. Barrel
4. Bolt head carrier 9. Barrel 5. Cam pin 10. Gas block
5. Cam pin 10. Gas Block

22 23
DISASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1 DISASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1
Clear the rifle! Before handling the firearm, “clear it!” Do so by: Stripping into assembly groups
1 • Make sure fingers are outside of the trigger guard and the 1 • Use the 5 mm Allen wrench of the HK tool and remove the hex
firearm is pointed in a safe direction at all times! headed Allen screws located on the left and right sides of at the
2 • ON SAFE – Rotate the safety/selector lever to the “Safe” rear end of the receiver
position (the white “S” adjacent to the safety/selector lever) 2 • Remove the locking pin above the front end of the trigger
3 • REMOVE MAGAZINE – Depress the magazine paddle release guard.
lever and remove the magazine from the magazine well. 3 • Pull buttstock with trigger back out of the receiver.
4 • COCKING LEVER – Rotate the ejection port towards the 4 • Pull the cocking lever to the rear and remove the bolt.
ground and fold out and pull the cocking lever rearward one or 5 • Pull out the locking pin at the handguard and remove the
more times to ensure the chamber is empty. Watch for a live handguard to the front.
round or empty case to be ejected. 6 • Push the magazine catch, swivel the magazine well downward
5 • BOLT CATCH – While holding the cocking lever fully rearward and detach.
use the trigger finger to press upwards on the bolt catch button
located in the front top corner of the trigger guard to lock the
bolt rearward.
6 • INSPECT CHAMBER – Inspect chamber for the presence of a
live round or empty case.
Visually – View chamber through open ejection port.
Physically – Insert index finger through magazine well or
ejection port and feel for the presence of a round or cartridge
case in the chamber.
7 • Remove any live rounds or empty cases from the chamber or
from within the firearm or magazine before handling the firearm
further.

The HK SL8-1 is now considered “Clear.” Once clear, let the bolt move
forwards.
Figure 26 Stripping SL8-1 into assembly groups

NOTE: The SL8-1 is easily disassembled and reassembled with the

HK Tool. Do not use force in any of the disassembly procedures.
Disassembly beyond the procedures outlined in this manual is not
recommended and may void the HK Warranty. Disassembly beyond
the operators level described here may be carried out by qualified
maintenance personnel only. Contact HK for more information.

24 25
DISASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1 DISASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1
Disassembly of the push rod and the gas piston Disassembly of the bolt assembly

CAUTION: The push rod is under considerable spring tension. Use 1 • Push the firing pin retaining pin to the left (e.g. with
caution when installing and removing it. To avoid injury to yourself gas piston) and detach.
and others, never point the compressed push rod in an unsafe 2 • Remove the firing pin to the rear.
direction in the event it is inadvertently released under pressure. 3 • Take out the cam pin to the left.
4 • Detach the bolt head to the front.
1 • Push the push rod to the rear against spring pressure and
remove it from the gas piston.
2 • Swivel the push rod to the side and remove it to the front.
3 • Remove the gas piston to the rear.

Figure 29 Bolt head disassembled

Figure 27 Removing push rod

Figure 28 Removing the gas piston

26 27
ASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1 ASSEMBLY OF THE SL8-1
Assembly of the bolt
1 • Slide the bolt head with the extractor on the right, as viewed
from the rear, into the bolt head carrier.
2 • Insert the cam pin from the left into the bolt head carrier and
the bolt head; mind that the flat surfaces on the cam pin and
the hole for the firing pin are parallel to the bore.
3 • Introduce the firing pin from the rear into the bolt head carrier
and the bolt head.
4 • Insert the firing pin retaining pin from the left side into the bolt
head carrier to secure the firing pin and cam pin in place.
5 • Determine that all parts are assembled in proper sequence and Figure 31 Installing the push rod
complete and that the bolt head and cam pin moves freely
within the bolt head carrier. Assembly of the SL8-1
1 • Slide the handguard from the front over the barrel and the
Assembly of the gas system receiver. Align notches onto studs.
1 • Insert the gas piston into the gas block. 2 • Fasten the handguard with the locking pin.
2 • Introduce the push rod into the front part of the receiver, push it 3 • Place the front of the magazine well onto the bearing studs,
against the spring pressure into the receiver and let it slide into swivel the rear of the magazine well upward all the way until it
the gas piston. engages the magazine catch.
4 • Insert the bolt assembly from the rear into the receiver together
with the recoil spring.
CAUTION: The push rod is under considerable spring tension. Use 5 • Push buttstock assembly with trigger mechanism (hammer is
caution when installing and removing it. To avoid injury to yourself back, in the cocked position) from the rear into the receiver and
and others, never point the compressed push rod in an unsafe insert the locking pin above the trigger guard.
direction in the event it is inadvertently released under pressure. 6 • Fasten the buttstock to the receiver by the means of the allen
screws with the HK Tool (do not use excess force to tighten
them down).
7 • Set the SL8-1 safety/selector on “Safe!”
8 • Insert the magazine.

Figure 30 Installing the gas piston

28 29
DISASSEMBLY & ASSEMBLY OF THE MAGAZINE ADJUSTMENT OF THE STOCK & CHEEKPIECE
Disassembly of the magazine Buttstock adjustments
1 • Press the bottom of the right sidewall of the magazine inward Cheekpiece and buttplate can be adjusted by means of removable
until the front catch is disengaged. spacers to the user’s preference.
2 • Push the magazine floor plate to the rear.
3 • Press the bottom of the right sidewall inward until the rear catch Adjustment of buttstock length
is disengaged. 1 • Use the 5mm allen wrench of the HK Tool to remove the hex
4 • Remove the floor plate to the rear. head screw on the left and right side of the rear of the buttstock
assembly.
WARNING: The magazine spring is under pressure! Remove the 2 • Pull buttplate with spacer back out of the buttstock.
magazine spring and the follower from the bottom of the magazine
while holding the magazine with the bottom pointed downward.

Figure 35 Remove buttplate with spacer

Figure 32 Figure 33
3 • To adjust the buttstock length to your requirement you can use
Press magazine sidewalls Remove floor plate
up to five spacers. Each spacer is 10 mm (approximately 1/2
inch wide). Maximum adjustment is 2 inches.
4 • Push back buttplate with the required number of spacers into
the buttstock and fasten the two hex head screws with the HK
Allen wrench.

NOTE: The buttstock can be set at any length without the use of
optional spacers by using the two hex head screws to secure the
buttplate in position.
Figure 34 Magazine disassembled

Assembly of the magazine

1 • Insert the follower and the magazine spring from the bottom
into the magazine housing.
2 • Slide the magazine floor plate from the rear onto the magazine
housing.
3 • Push the magazine floor plate all the way over the two catches
onto the magazine housing.

30 31
ADJUSTMENT OF THE STOCK & CHEEKPIECE ADJUSTMENT OF THE SIGHTS
Adjustment of the cheekpiece Sight Adjustments
1 • Use the Phillips screwdriver of the HK Tool to remove the two If the point of impact of several shots does not coincide with where you
Phillips screws from the cheekpiece. aimed, a sight adjustment is necessary. The SL8-1 is zeroed at 100
2 • You can use the cheekpiece alone or with up to two spacers. meters point of aim point of impact using the 100 meter rear sight
3 • Tighten the cheekpiece with or without spacers to the buttstock aperture. For zeroing, select the 100 meter rear sight aperture.
by using the Phillips screwdriver.
Elevation Adjustment
• If shots are high, elevation adjustment screw is turned clockwise with
the 2.5 mm Allen wrench of the HK Tool.
• If shots are low, turn the screw counterclockwise.
• A full turn of the adjustment screw will move the point of impact 11
cm or 4-1/2 inches up or down at a distance of 100 meters.

Figure 36 Adjustment of cheekpiece

Figure 37 Elevation Adjustment

Windage Adjustment
• If shots are right of the point of aim, use the 2 mm Allen wrench and
turn the windage adjustment screw clockwise.
• If shots are to the left of the point of aim, turn the windage adjustment
screw counterclockwise.
• One click of the side adjustment screw moves the point of impact 3.3
centimeters (or 1-1/4 inches) left or right.

Figure 38 Windage Adjustment

32 33
ADJUSTMENT OF THE SIGHTS OPTICAL SIGHTS
Optical sight with 3x magnification
Instead of the standard iron sights, an optional optical sight with 3x
magnification can be used on the SL8-1.

The sight comes with 2 Phillips screws, 2 spacers and 2 threaded

washers, to be mounted to the rail after removing front and rear sight.

Figure 39 Proper sight alignment

NOTE: When engaging targets that are 300 meters away, flip the 300 Figure 40 Optical Sight
meter rear sight aperture into position to account for the drop in the
trajectory of the projectile. Optical Sight Reticle
The reticle of the optical sight is provided with range marks from 200 to
800 meters in increments of 200 meters.

The outer lateral surfaces of the circular reticle simultaneously serve as

lead marks when aimed at laterally moving targets, moving at
approximately 15 km/h (9m/h) speed at a range of 200 meters.

The interior diameter of the circular reticle corresponds to a target with

a height of 1.75 meters (or 5.5 feet) at a 400 meter range.

The range marks at the bottom left which help to find and set the range
at 200, 400 and 800 meters are also based on a target sized about 1.75
meters (5.5 feet).

In the same manner, the heights of the crossmarks at 600 m and 800 m
correspond to a target of approximately 1.75 m (5.5 feet) height at the
respective range.

34 35
OPTICAL SIGHTS OPTICAL SIGHTS

Figure 41 Optical reticle

1 Point of aim at 100 and 200 meters.

Figure 42Optical sight elevation adjustment on the SL8-1
2 Lead mark for firing at targets moving from left to right at a
speed of approx. 15 km/h (9 mph) at a range of 200 meters.
Windage Adjustment
3 Horizontal line to determine whether rifle is canted.
• If the weapon’s point of impact is too far to the right, turn the windage
4 Circular reticle (interior diameter = 1.75 meters/5.5 feet size
adjusting screw counter clockwise in the direction of the “L.”
target at 400 meter target range) and aiming point approx. 400
• If the weapon’s point of impact is too far to the left, turn the windage
meter range.
adjusting screw clockwise in the direction of the “H.”
5 Point of aim for firing at 600 meter range.
6 Point of aim for firing at 800 meter range.
7 1.75 meters/5.5 feet size target at ranges X. NOTE: One graduation changes the point of impact by approx.
2.3 centimeters (1.0 inch) at a range of 100 meters
Adjustment of the optical sight
If a sight adjustment becomes necessary, this may be done by vertically
or horizontally adjusting the optical sight with the 2.5 mm Allen wrench
from the HK Tool.

Elevation Adjustment
• If the weapon’s point of impact is too high, turn the top adjusting
screw counter-clockwise in the direction of the “T.”
• If the weapon’s point of impact is too low, turn the top adjusting screw
clockwise in the direction of the “H.”

NOTE: One graduation changes the point of impact by approx.

2.3 centimeters (1.0 inch) at a range of 100 meters

Figure 43 Optical sight windage adjustment on the SL8-1

36 37
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Cleaning and Preservation HK SL8-1 Combination Tool:
All the necessary tools to adjust and field strip the SL8-1 are part of the
To clean and maintain the SL8-1 self-loading rifle you may use: HK combination tool.

• The HK cleaning kit caliber .223/5.56 mm

• Off the shelf cleaning kits caliber .223/5.56 mm
• Cotton patches and soft tissue
• Chloride and acid-free cleaning and preservation fluids

NOTE: Do not use steel tools or brushes to clean your SL8-1 or

synthetic materials like nylon when the weapon is hot. Keep
cleaning solvents away from the painted surfaces of the SL8-1, to Figure 44 HK Combination Tool
include the safety/selector and the “safe” and “fire” symbols. Proper
cleaning and maintenance of your SL8-1 will extend the life of the 1. Allen wrench 2 mm (iron sight, windage adjustment)
rifle. 2. Allen wrench 2.5 mm (iron sight, elevation adjustment,
Optical sight, adjustment)
Normal Cleaning 3. Allen wrench, 3 mm
4. Allen wrench, 4 mm
You should do this after every firing of the gun: 5. Allen wrench, 5 mm (Allen head screws buttstock/receiver
and buttplate adjustment)
1 • Remove magazine 6. Phillips screwdriver (cheekpiece adjustment)
2 • Set the SL8-1 safety/selector lever to “safe” and ensure the 7. Allen wrench, 6 mm
chamber is clear 8. Screw driver, 5 mm
3 • Use nylon brush and soft tissue to clean the outside
4 • Lock bolt to the rear and run a bronze bristle bore brush NOTE: Failure to use these metric tools may cause damage to the
soaked with solvent several times through the barrel; follow with SL8-1 screws.
clean patches
5 • Apply a light coat of oil to the barrel
6 • Following cleaning, check function of all parts
7 • Set the SL8-1 safety/selector lever on “safe”

Major Cleaning (To be conducted after firing 1,000 rounds or if

exposed to or submerged in water):
1 • Clean chamber and barrel extension with chamber brush
caliber .223/5.56 mm
2 • Take bolt group apart and clean its parts
3 • Disassemble the gas system and clean the gas piston
4 • Field strip magazine and clean it
5 • Apply light coat of oil to all moving parts including the metal
rails in the receiver
6 • Reassemble the SL8-1 and check function
7 • Set the SL8-1 safety/selector lever on “safe”

38 39
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Stoppages and Malfunctions
In the event of stoppages on the SL8-1, the weapon is to be considered
loaded until the actual cause of the stoppage has been determined. Stoppage, Fault Cause Remedy
During the elimination of stoppages, safety precautions are to be taken Cartridge case not Chamber dirty Clean chamber
into account. extracted or ejected
Extractor or or extractor Contact HK for repair
spring broken
If in the event of stoppages on the SL8-1, the cartridge fired from the
SL8-1 is not ignited; the bolt assembly does not close completely; or the Ejector or ejector Contact HK for repair
spent cartridge case is not ejected; then the following steps must be spring damaged
taken immediately
Insufficient bolt recoil Unload: Use cocking
1 •
Put the SL8-1safety/selector lever on “Safe” lever to retract bolt.
2 •
Remove the magazine Remove cartridge case.
3 •
Unload the SL8-1 Check for smooth
4 •
Ensure that barrel, cartridge chamber and receiver are free operation and check
of obstacles chamber for fouling.
5 • Determine and eliminate the cause of the stoppage If required, clean
chamber.
No cartridge fed by bolt Magazine not properly Insert magazine properly
Stoppage, Fault Cause Remedy
inserted or engaged.
Cartridge is not ignited Ammunition fault (dud) Recock SL8-1
(dud round)
Magazine loose Check magazine catch
Tip of firing pin damaged Contact HK for repair
and lugs on magazine
or broken
housing. If required,
contact HK for repair.
Hammer spring damaged Contact HK for repair
or broken
Follower spring worn Replace or repair
Bolt fails to open Cartridge case stuck in Unload: retract bolt to
magazine
after being fired chamber due to deform- eject cartridge case,
ation or dirty chamber clean if fouled. If
Magazine lips damaged Magazine housing
required, contact HK
damaged. If required
for repair
contact HK for repair.
Gas system fouled or Clean gas piston.
Magazine well damaged Return magazine well to
defective If required, contact HK
HK for repair
for repair
Bolt does not stay open Magazine follower Replace magazine
Bolt does not close Cartridge chamber dirty Clean chamber
after last shot spring worn follower, or spring
completely, cartridge
not properly seated Barrel extension dirty Clean barrel extension
SL8-1 trigger cannot be Sear broken or Contact HK for repair
pulled with hammer compression spring
Cartridge damaged Replace cartridge
cocked worn
Recoil spring worn Contact HK for repair
Magazine stuck in Magazine damaged Replace magazine
magazine well
Incomplete cocking Release cocking lever.
Magazine catch Contact HK for repair
movement Let it snap forward
defective
without riding it forward.

40 41
PARTS LIST & EXPLODED DIAGRAM PARTS LIST & EXPLODED DIAGRAM

Figure 45
SL8-1 Rifle
Caliber .223

Item Description Part Number Item Description Part Number

Rifle, SL8-1 complete 219-477 25 Bolt head 219 562

1 Housing 219-479 26 Extractor axle 214 644
27 Extractor 205 406
Barrel, complete (2-5) 217 906 28 Extractor spring 205 407
2 Barrel 217 907 29 Rubber pin for extractor 214 662
3 Barrel retaining nut 205 378 30 Roll pin 928 389
4 Gas block 217 919 31 Ejector 205 408
5 Roll pin, gas block 927 605 32 Spring, ejector 205-411
6 Piston, complete 205 381
7 Piston rod, complete 205 384 Bolt head carrier complete (33-38) 217-909
8 Mounting Rail 217 947 33 Spring, cocking handle 205 393 Item Description Part Number Item Description Part Number
9 Flat Headed Screw (3x) 986-785 34 Fork 205 394
10 Washer (3x) 214 112 35 Bushing 205 473 52 Buffer 205 452 70 Elbow spring, left 205 201
11 Threaded Washer 214 113 36 Cocking handle 205 395 53 Hammer spring, right 205 428 72 Safety lever, right 205 437
Front sight, complete (12-14) 217 933 37 Rivet 205 210 54 Hammer 217 936 73 Safety lever, left 217 945
12 Front sight 217 796 38 Bolt carrier 217 910 55 Hammer spring, left 205 429 74 Recessed axle 205 202
13 Front sight base 217 795 39 Cam Pin 205 390 56 Notched disk 217 614 75 Clamping pin 988 371
14 Roll pin, front sight 928 747 57 Index plate 205 419 76 Axle (3x) 205 469
15 Flat headed screw (4x) 988 428 Firing pin retainer, complete (40-41) 205 412 58 Compression spring 205 418 77 Actuator axle 205 424
40 Firing pin retainer 205 413 59 Sear complete 205 439 78 Magazine release spring 205 369
Rear sight complete (16-24) 217 925 41 O-ring, firing pin retainer 983 411 59a Slide 219 411 79 Magazine release 205 368
16 Roll pin, rear sight 987 695 42 Firing pin 205 391 60 Sear spring 217 917 80 Axle 205 469
17 Rear sight guard 217 992 43 Recoil spring complete 205 445 61 Trigger spring 217 918 81 Magazine well 219 478
18 Spring, elevation adjustment 217 504 62 Trigger 217 934 82 Locking pin, complete (2x) 214 125
19 Rear sight housing 217 991 Buttstock assembly complete (44-76,79) 219 535 63 Bolt catch spring 205 466 83 Hand guard complete 219 551
20 Rear sight aperture 217 997 44 Screw for check rest (2x) 988 372 64 Bolt catch 214 879
21 Spring, windage adjustment 217 518 45 Cheekpiece 217 948 Magazine complete (10 rounds) 219 472
22 Flat Spring 217 515 46 Cheekpiece spacer 217 916 Locking lever, complete 219 094 83 Magazine Housing 219 473
23 Screw, elevation adjustment 217 505 47 Buttstock 219 538 65 Locking lever spring 214 616 84 Follower 219 474
24 Screw, windage adjustment 217 517 48 Spacer, Buttplate 219 537 66 Locking lever 219 095 85 Follower spring 219 475
49 Buttplate complete 219 539 67 Bolt 214 615 86 Magazine floor plate 219 476
Bolt complete (25-42) 219 560 50 Allen Screw, Buttstock (4) 217 903 68 Locking lever 214 613
Bolt head, complete (25-32) 219 561 51 Back plate 219 536 69 Elbow spring, right 217 946 HK Combination Tool 988 49

42 43
SL8-1 SPECIFICATIONS FIREARM SERVICE RECORD

Caliber .223 Remington SL8-1 Rifle Serial Number ___________________________________

Operating Principle Gas operated, short stroke piston, rotary

Number of Cumulative Total Maintenance &
locking bolt
Date Rounds Fired of Rounds Fired Users Name Remarks
______________________________________________________________________________
Mode of Fire Semi-automatic
______________________________________________________________________________
Feed Device Single-stack polymer magazine,
______________________________________________________________________________
10-round capacity
______________________________________________________________________________
Sights Adjustable iron sights. and detachable MIL-
STD-1913 rail available for the attachment of ______________________________________________________________________________
accessory targeting devices ______________________________________________________________________________

Rifling 6X lands & grooves, right hand twist, ______________________________________________________________________________

I turn in 7 inches
______________________________________________________________________________

Length (overall) 38.58 inches (980 mm) ______________________________________________________________________________

Barrel Length 20.80 inches (528 mm)
Sight Radius 17.65 inches (448 mm) ______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
Width (overall) 2.36 inches (60 mm)
Height (overall) 9.84 inches (250 mm) with 10-rd magazine ______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
Weights
• Overall 8.60 pounds (3.9 kilograms with magazine) ______________________________________________________________________________
• Magazine 2.47 oz. (70 grams) 10-round, empty
______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

44 45
46
 HK USA #701475 5/00
®

In a world of compromise, some don’t.

Remember, firearms safety begins with you. Read and follow all safety information in the
operators manual. Store all firearms in a safe and secure location. Keep firearms away from
children. Always be a safe shooter.

Heckler & Koch, Inc. Heckler & Koch GmbH

21480 Pacific Blvd. D-78722 Oberndorf/Neckar
Sterling, Virginia 20166-8903 Postfach 1329
United States of America Germany
Tel. (703) 450-1900 Tel. 011-49-7423/79-0
Fax (703) 450-8160 Fax 011-49-7423/2280
www.hecklerkoch-usa.com www.heckler-koch.de