[2][3][4] The Blaser R8 is a truly modular system built around an aluminium alloy receiver frame, offering differing stocks and barrels of varying length and thickness.

Optionally a steel receiver frame can be ordered that increases the weight by approximately 550 grams (1.21 lb).

[3][4] Different bolt heads for different groups of calibers are user changeable and the barrel has a quick-change design which lets the user switch barrels using two screws and a hex key, making the Blaser R8 a modular firearm.

The Blaser R8 straight-pull bolt action locks by a 14-lug radial collet in a 360 degrees groove in the barrel and is designed to withstand pressures significantly exceeding the Mauser 98–type bolt-action rifles.

[6] The stressed parts are made out of hammer forged steel and plasma nitrided to provide corrosion resistance and mechanical strength.

Compared to the preceding R93 rifle series for additional safety the barrel has been thickened at the critical part, the groove has been enlarged and the locking angle of the collets has been steepened from about 50 to almost 90 degrees.

The R8 lock up was successfully tested at the DEVA institute laboratory at 1,450.0 MPa (210,300 psi; 14,500 bar) piëzo pressure.