Sauer 404

Lore & Background

The Sauer 404 was introduced in 2015 as a direct successor to the Sauer 202, sharing a similar external appearance but incorporating several upgrades. Unlike the 202, the 404 uses a manual cocking lever instead of a push-button safety, and its receiver accommodates both magnum and non-magnum cartridges without requiring a different receiver. Parts between the two models are not necessarily compatible.

The rifle features a modular barrel-change system. To change barrels, the forend is removed by unscrewing one screw with a 5 mm hex key or the included Sauer Universal Tool (also called the Sauer Universal Key or Sauer Universal-Schlüssel). Three additional screws are loosened, and a lever is pulled down 90 degrees to release the barrel. The new barrel can be hand-tightened, though SIG Sauer recommends tightening the three screws to 5 Newtonmeters. Only the bolt head needs to be replaced when changing cartridge groups, unlike the 202 which required a full bolt change.

The receiver has no scope-mount holes; instead, it uses a proprietary integrated quick-detach mounting system called the Sauer Universal Mount, which resembles two NATO rail slots but is not compatible with them. Original and aftermarket scope mounts are available for either rail mounts or traditional ring mounts. The magazine release button can be locked to prevent accidental loss of the magazine.

Reader's Guide

The Sauer 404 represents a refinement of the modular bolt-action concept established by the Sauer 202, emphasizing user-serviceability and adaptability. Its barrel-change system, requiring only a 5 mm hex key and a lever action, allows shooters to switch between a wide selection of factory chamberings—from medium cartridges like .243 Win and .308 Win to magnum rounds such as .300 Win Mag and .404 Jeffery—without specialized tools. The integration of the Sauer Universal Tool into the front sling swivel stud ensures that disassembly and adjustment tools are always on the rifle. The adjustable trigger, with four pull-weight settings and positional adjustment for reach and cant, accommodates different hand sizes and preferences. The manual cocking lever, replacing the push-button safety of the 202, provides a distinct operating feel. The proprietary Sauer Universal Mount, while not compatible with NATO rail standards, offers a dedicated quick-detach scope mounting solution. The 404's legacy lies in its practical, field-friendly design that prioritizes modularity and ease of maintenance, continuing Sauer & Sohn's tradition of precision bolt-action rifles.

Did You Know?

• The Sauer Universal Tool is a 5 mm hex key integrated into the front sling swivel stud.
• The trigger pull weight can be set to 550, 750, 1000, or 1250 grams (±50 g).