Biathlon competitors use a straight pull bolt action 22 cal long rifle firing weapon.
Here are some samples of Biathlon and standard straight pull rifles.
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Notice the built in magazine storage |
The straight pull bolt action rifle has been around since the beginning of the 20th century, most European bolt action rifles made today are straight pull, but it hasn't really caught on in the States. The idea of the weapon is that the sights stay on target better with a straight pull vs the lift pull design, but many say there is no difference. The reason the straight pull is used in Biathlons is that semi automatic rifles are not allowed.