Airgun Shooter is proud to be in partnership with The British Association for Shooting and Conservation
working for airgunners
FEBRUARY 2015
www.basc.org.uk
INE THE UK’S BEST MAGAZ S FOR ALL AIRGUNNER
RM8
r e t o o h S
W E T E S T W A LT H E R ’S L AT E S T R O T E X
WIN
A BIG-BORE
HATSAN HOW TO TAIL YOUR SQUIRREL
NV
PLUS…
REMINGTON 1911 RAC THE NEW ARMEX BLACKOUT COMETA 220 v WEIHRAUCH HW99S £3.99
KIT TO HELP YOU HUNT
24/7
● RWS HOBBY .22 FLAT-HEAD ● MAKE A DIY BREECH BLOCKER ● VINTAGE DUELLING CO2 PISTOLS
001 Cover FEBRUARY 15_color.indd 1
19/12/2014 16:10
2
002.indd 2
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 11:46
AIRGUN SHOOTER
003.indd 3
3
19/12/2014 11:45
CONTENTS February 2015
ON THE COVER
26 FIELDCRAFT:
SQUIRREL TAILING
61 KITBAG: NIGHT VISION
12 TEST: WALTHER
ROTEX RM8
38 PISTOL REVIEW:
52 AMMO TEST:
RWS HOBBY .22
REMINGTON 1911RAC 10
AIRGUN SCENE
12
TEST: LATEST WALTHER
News and new releases, including a new Russian PCP
Nigel Allen The editor reports back after trialling the new, game-changing Rotex RM8 multi-shot PCP from Walther
WIN
A SPORTSMATCH OPM WORTH AT LEAST
£33.95!
18 POST BAG
Readers air their views on a plethora of topics, including the mysterious case of the flying white pigeons!
34
WORKSHOP: RATCATCHER
38
GARDEN TEST: CLASSIC COLT
41
SHOOT-OUT: LIGHTWEIGHTS
Lyn Lewington A step-by-step rebuild of Crosman’s popular 2250 CO2 Ratcatcher Nathan Kingsley Remington’s latest 1911RAC is an eight-shot CO2 take on Colt’s famous handgun Mark Camoccio A lightweight bout between the Spanish Cometa 220 and German Weihrauch HW99S break-barrels
20
HUNTING: BARACUDA
47
DIY: BREECH BLOCKER
24
FREE COMPETITION
52
AMMO: RWS HOBBY
26
FIELDCRAFT
Simon Everett There are many ways to de-tail a squirrel – here’s one of them
54
SHOP TALK: ALLSPORTS
HUNTING: WOODLANDS
56
29
4
Ian Barnett With .20 rapidly becoming his favourite calibre – Ian’s put H&N Sport’s Baracuda into a field scenario We’ve got a big-bore, heavy-hitting Hatsan up for grabs!
Mat Manning You don’t have to shoot at dawn or dusk to bag your quarry – and Mat seizes the moment to get a result on a hastily grabbed session
David James A step-by-step guide to construct a system for the easy cleaning of barrels on sliding breech guns Simon Everett A look at RWS’s famous lightweight wadcutter in .22 calibre
56
We find out about Ron Meadows’ Gloucestershire gun emporium
SUBSCRIBE TODAY…
…and save up to 64% on the full UK subscription rate (including gift RRP) – plus get a free dual-colour head lamp and LED keyring torch worth £27.90!!
AIRGUN SHOOTER
004-005 Contents February 1025_Rev9CK.indd 4
18/12/2014 14:08
41 HEAD-TO-HEAD: COMETA 220 v WEIHRAUCH HW99S
CONTENTS: FEBRUARY 2015
20 FIELD TRIAL:
H&N BARACUDA .20
80 GEAR:
CULLING FERALS
66 SHOOTER PROFILE: BARRY SMITH
47 DIY:
BREECH BLOCK 59
THE AIRGUN 100 INDEX
Our official analysis of what’s been selling through the UK’s gun dealers over the past four weeks...
61
GEAR: NIGHT VISION
66
SHOOTER PROFILE
69
PEST CONTROL: GARDEN RATS
56
GET THIS HEAD LAMP
FREE
After-hours hunting is almost a necessity at this time of year – and here’s a pot-pourri of night vision kit to help around the clock
Barry Smith Meet the Essex boy who shoots the competition circuit in both calibres! Mat Manning An unexpected rat infestation necessitates a hunting job a little too close to home
72
MEDIA SHOP
75
READERS’ CLASSIFIEDS
77
TEST: ARMEX BLACKOUT
29 HUNTING: TAKING
OPPORTUNITIES 80
KITBAG: FERALS
84
VINTAGE: RARE GIFFARDS
88
DEBATE: .177 v .20 v .22
90
FIELD SHOOTING: RISK ASSESSMENT
92
PREVIEW: THE BIG ONE
Grab a discounted shooting book or DVD for your shooting library
Grab a used bargain, or make money from your old kit in our free-to-list advert section
Nigel Allen A new Hammerli variant that comes complete with a scope and rather impressive silencer
PLUS BONUS KEYRING TORCH
004-005 Contents February 1025_Rev9CK.indd 5
Pete Wadeson Pete highlights some useful kit to have at your disposal… when feral disposal is the task in hand Phil Bulmer Possibly the rarest ever gas-gun find – French duelling practice pistols from the 19th century Nigel Allen With the aid of Hawke’s ballistic software, the editor questions the theoretical effectiveness of a trio of calibres… Ian Barnett (ft. Eric!) Hunting can be risky business. With the help of ‘Eric’, Ian explains what to watch out for What airgunners can expect from the 2015 British Shooting Show at Stoneleigh…
AIRGUN SHOOTER
5
18/12/2014 14:09
6
006.indd 6
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 15:36
AIRGUN SHOOTER
007.indd 7
7
19/12/2014 15:36
Blaze Publishing Limited Lawrence House, Morrell Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 5SZ T: 01926 339808 F: 01926 470400 E:
[email protected] W: www.blazepublishing.co.uk
EDITOR’S VIEW
Front cover: A winter hunt with the Huntsman Editor: Nigel Allen
[email protected] Deputy editor: Mat Manning Sub editor: Catherine Kaye Graphic design: Lynne Stephens Publisher: Wesley Stanton Assistant publisher: Ruth Burgess Production manager: James Folkard Advertising design: Steve Dawson Marketing manager: Sara Farmanfarmai Advertising sales manager: Toni Cole Cover photography: Optical Art SUBSCRIPTIONS Standard UK rate: 12 issues – £59.88 For special offers and overseas subscriptions please visit www.airgunmagazine.co.uk Distribution: Distributed to the newstrade by Comag Magazine Marketing, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7QE T: 01895 433800 Copyright © Blaze Publishing Limited 2014. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the publishers in writing. The opinions of the writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to edit submissions prior to print.
If you have an idea for an article, our team will be pleased to hear from you. Contributions are always welcomed, and should be sent by email to
[email protected]
‘RESERVE’ YOUR MAG Give this form to your newsagent so that they can put a copy aside for you
Name:
Please reserve a copy of AIRGUN SHOOTER for me every issue
Address:
Postcode:
F
ebruary’s cover-dated issue is most definitely one of calibre! That’s because the topic of pellet dimensions very much runs as a thread throughout the editorial in this issue – and given that the subject is always a hotly debated one, I’m expecting quite a bit of feedback from many of you! Since Ian Barnett’s been trialling the .20 calibre in his new Weihrauch, he’s made no secret of the fact that he can’t understand why it stayed under his radar for so long – and he’s had many a long conversation with me, extolling the virtues of a 5mm round. His .20 hunting experiment continues on page 20. Mind you, he and I will have to agree to disagree on this one – and I’m half expecting to receive a more formal communiqué from a ‘Mr Barnett of Norfolk’ in the postbag in response to the trajectory comparison analysis I’ve pulled together on page 88. It’s probably why I’ve always stuck with either .177 or .22 – I just can’t see what all the raving is about when it comes to .20. (I’m sure plenty of you will side with Ian, though…) Mat Manning tackles both his pest control jobs this month (pages 29 and 63) with sub-12ft/lb .22s – whereas he normally favours the smaller calibre. Meanwhile, competition shooter Barry Smith can’t make his mind up – so he shoots HFT in both .177 and .22, as you’ll learn when you read our profile on him on page 66! Any paper-punchers of the same persuasion, on the other hand, may like to check out Simon Everett’s ammo test on page 52 – because he’s been analysing the performance of the flat-headed Hobby in .22 , wadcutter designs usually being reserved for the exclusive use of .177 target shooters. Just to redress the balance, the Hatsan 1000S Striker that’s up for grabs in our freeto-enter competition over on page 24 will come to the lucky winner in… wait for it… .25 calibre! Talking to the importers, Edgar’s, it seems that the big-bore sub-12ft/lb guns have quite a following – a sentiment also echoed by BSA Guns, who tell me there’s been a real run on them lately. Oh, and to throw a curve-ball into the trajectory equation, the fascinating and very rare CO2-powered duelling practice pistols that Phil Bulmer’s featuring on page 84 come in yet another calibre – 8mm… which is almost twice the size of the 4.5mm BBs Nathan Kingsley’s been shooting out of his new Remington 1911RAC blowback pistol on page 38! Nigel Allen
Tel: NEWSAGENT: AIRGUN SHOOTER is published by BLAZE PUBLISHING every fourth Thursday, 13 times a year, and is distributed to the newstrade by COMAG
To get every issue from your newsagent
008 Editors view_Rev3CK.indd 8
BEST NEW MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR
working for airgunners www.basc.org.uk
Airgun Shooter is proud to be in partnership with The British Association for Shooting and Conservation
Next issue (March 2015) is on sale at newsagents between 29 January and 26 February – or subscribe on page 56
16/12/2014 09:52
AIRGUN SHOOTER
009.indd 9
9
19/12/2014 12:20
AIRGUN SCENE ● AIRGUN S The latest products, gossip and news from the airgun world
PUMP IT UP!
Range Right has just launched a powerful new stirrup pump – and described as the ‘most powerful airgun pump in Europe’, the AirRam can deliver pressure to a staggering 350BAR! CNC-constructed from stainless steel and brass, the AirRam features built-in particle and moisture filters to keep your airgun’s internals safe – and its £149 asking price includes a 500mm filling hose, super-stable folding feet and a full spares kit to maintain optimum performance. And, for shooters who like to keep their kit hidden, it’s even available in a camouflage finish. www.range-right.co.uk
GRIPPING STUFF
Such is the popularity of the CO2-powered AirForceOne Trophy that we featured last month, we now learn that Range Right is distributing a .25 (6.35mm) calibre version of it, price £179. Due to be released to gun shops in January, the singleshot SixThreeFive model will feature the Trophy’s acclaimed bolt-action loading system and claims a muzzle energy in excess of 5ft/lb. What’s more, it’ll be sporting the Trophy’s new chequered grip. www.range-right.co.uk
AIRGUN INSURANCE GunPlan is offering an insurance package to keep airgunners and their equipment safe. Tailored to meet shooters’ needs, it’s underwritten by Lloyds of London and costs £20 per year. For that, the policy includes £10 million personal liability, up to £20,000 cover for theft and accidental damage to shooting gear, and up to £50,000 personal accident cover. Airgun Shooter readers can check it out at www.gunplan.co.uk/ags
KEEP IT WARM
Stanley Vacuum Mugs from John Rothery offer a handy way to transport hot drinks when you’re out with your airgun this winter – and you don’t even have to put your gun down to take a swig as the push-button mouthpiece can be opened singlehandedly. Backed up by a 25-year guarantee, the 350ml mug costs £24.99 and will keep liquids hot for four hours and cold for 20 hours; there’s a 470ml version for £29.99 that extends hot/cold performance to six/24 hours.
August 2014 solution
NV BINOS
Just arriving too late to include in our NV round-up on page 29, we felt we still had to bring you news of these new 2.5x40 Bushnell Lynx binoculars – they take night vision to the next level as they even feature a built-in infra-red torch for after-dark viewing out to 80 metres! Weighing in at just 482grams, they’re rubber-armoured and draw power from two AAA batteries. They’ll run for up to 20 hours with the IR switched on, or up to 70 hours with it turned off. What’s more, put on the protective lens caps… and these £595 binos can also be used in daylight. www.edgarbrothers.com
COMPETION WINNERS
Congratulations to Averil Ford from Nuneaton – lucky winner of our August 2014 competition prize of a Walther LGU. Meanwhile, winner of the Hatsan Striker 1000S in July’s competition and secretary Iceni Marksmen Air Rifle Club, Barry Warren, is pictured left with his spoils – and there’s a big-bore Hatsan up for grabs in this month’s free-to-enter competition… over on page 24.
10
AIRGUN SHOOTER
010-011 Airgun Scene February_Rev4CK.indd 10
18/12/2014 14:17
UN SCENE ● AIRGUN SCENE ● AIRGUN SCENE The British Association for Shooting and Conservation
www.basc.org.uk 01244 573000
FAC FEE RISE
FOR SHOOTERS OF KALIBR
TRUNDLING TARGET
Anyone looking for a reactive target without the hassle of pull-cords or moving parts should check out the Jack Pyke Walking Target. Land a pellet on one of the four double-sided discs and the target walks backwards, presenting you with another shot just that little further away. Its allsteel construction will stand up to countless strikes from airgun pellets… which happens to make its £9.95 asking price all of a steal! www.jackpyke.co.uk
XS78 UPGRADE
The original grooved butt plate on the XS78 from Sportsmarketing has been replaced with a softer rubber recoil pad with a stippled finish for extra grip. The upgrade should make the CO2-powered air rifle’s handling even better. www.sportsmk.co.uk
The KalibrGun Cricket range of Czech-made PCPs is now officially available in the UK via Cheshire Gun Room. The distinctive bullpups feature CZ’s high-grade barrels for outstanding accuracy and are powered by KalibrGun’s acclaimed regulator, which can deliver more than 340 super-consistent shots per fill in .22 calibre. These eye-catching airguns come in a variety of configurations with a choice of wood or synthetic stock and 12- or 14-shot magazines. Prices start at £1,000. www.cheshiregunroom.com
NEW BROCOCK
It’s all go up at Brocock’s new Staffordshire factory... because we’ve just learned they’ll be unveiling a brand new, limited-run rifle to their already established and recently tweaked range of PCPs. While we don’t know its price, we can tell you it’s called the Contour XL Forest Green Special Edition… and it’s expected to arrive in gun shops as early as February! Besides its Soft Touch Minellimade ambi stock coming in green, this Brocock rifle will also carry a cylinder finish in matching colour – and it will be supplied with two, sixshot rotary magazines and a silencer adaptor (1/2in UNF). It’s also worth noting that Brocock is one of the few PCP gunmakers who ‘properly’ cater for both right- and lefthanders. Their popular Concept and Contour rifles, and Grand Prix pistol can be supplied with a bolt dedicated on either side of the breech, amply shown by this ‘southpaw’ Grand Prix S6 Elite. www.brocock.co.uk
Government proposals to increase firearms licensing fees – the first rise in 13 years – are considered to be fair by the BASC. Though the proposals will really only affect shooters of high-powered (FAC-rated) air rifles, the fee is set to rise from £50 to £88 for new certificates, and £44 to £68 for renewals. Initially, suggested increases were significantly higher, but the BASC rejected this and its chairman, Alan Jarrett, has since welcomed the government’s initiative to involve stakeholders and ‘do the job properly’.
PEAK PRESSURE
Hill Air Pumps are considered by many to be the finest available – and the Sheffield outfit are claiming their new Mk4 model as their best yet, with the highest-ever output volume and easiest-ever pumping effort! This ‘fourth generation’ stirrup pump of theirs – complete with the patented Dry-Pac system that removes 90 per cent of moisture to prevent internal corrosion – is stacked out with a host of new features, like a longer hose and redesigned footplate. The Hill Air Pump Mk4 retails at £185, comes with a limited lifetime warranty, and can be field stripped in minutes for quick and easy maintenance. www.airriflepump.com
Last call for the British Shooting Show, taking place over three days on Valentine’s weekend at its Stoneleigh, Warwickshire venue. Turn to page 92 for a more detailed preview of ‘The Big One’!
AIRGUN SHOOTER
010-011 Airgun Scene February_Rev4CK.indd 11
11
18/12/2014 14:17
Potential game
CHANGER
It’s one of the cheapest PCPs on the market, but as it carries the Walther logo, Nigel Allen still has high expectations of the new Rotex RM8. After a few thousand rounds with the German gun, here’s his no-holds-barred report…
“I
f it’s any good, it has the potential to be a real game changer...” that swells out in a beavertail-style manner. Like the grip area, it’s been That was my initial reaction when I was first tipped the wink on lavished with some fine, laser-chequered panels – and I have to tip my Walther’s low-cost PCP sporter, formerly referred to by those who hat to the stock designer for the inclusion of wraparound panels that add were party to its secret development as ‘Project Rhino’. immense style as well as practicality. Indeed, I reckon Walther could bring Now, of course, it’s been launched to the airgun world, and is officially out a deluxe version of the RM8 in walnut – at (say) £525; I think it would known as the Rotex RM8 – a suffix indicating the rotary, eight-shot magazine get many takers. system that this new buddy-bottle bolt-action runs. But is it any good? And Part of the forend’s swell is to cater for the RM8’s compact buddy-bottle can it compete 10-shot Gamo Coyote – another recently released PCP priced up front. It’s filled to the recommended 232BAR maximum charge via a at even less (£399) and which I tested back in October 2014’s edition? plug-in probe that locates in a hole adjacent to the integral manometer On first picking up the RM8, I felt it was quite heavy. Yes, the weight’s under the forend. Armex, the UK importer of the Rotex RM8, recommends manageable, even with the mandatory scope on board – but because most that the buddy-bottle is not unscrewed, by the way. of the Rotex’s mass is centred around its middle, you’re duped into thinking The probe is supplied (standard 1/8in BSP fitting) and is steel – though I it’s heavier than it truly is. have to say that its rough finish is no match to the brass bling we usually see Another ‘first impression’ I was left with was the absolutely stunning finish probes made from. The on-board gauge is bog-standard to look at, with no of the rifle. While I’m sure £420 is a lot of money to many airgunners, in the colour coding to assist the user – but let’s not forget the rifle’s price here! PCP world, it’s bottom end. Yet the RM8 leaves you with a distinct feeling The gauge also consistently tallied with the more expensive gauges attached that it’s worth a lot more than its actual price tag. If Walther’s UK importers, to my charging gear. Armex, had told me it was £675, I wouldn’t have doubted them – the RM8’s The Walther’s wood-to-metal fit is absolutely astounding – I’ve seen overall standard of engineering, componentry and finish really is that good. worse on PCPs costing three times as much. There’s a plastic – but well moulded – ‘fillet’ to bridge the unsightly gap normally left between buddyKeen airgunners will no doubt see many parallels with a couple of bottle and action, and you couldn’t fit a fag paper in the gaps where the existing guns, namely Walther’s AirMagnum 850 and BSA’s R10. The Rotex RM8, however, is a very individual rifle once you begin shooting it – though I wouldn’t blame any designer for mimicking those two rifles anyway; they’re both great guns! The RM8’s beech stock is a masterpiece for a rifle in this price bracket – although I suspect the deeply undercut belly of the butt may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Sporting a well-fitted, ventilated butt pad, the stock is ambidextrous in that there’s a dual-sided – and somewhat angular – ‘hog’s back’ cheekpiece, with no thumb muscle cutaway evident on either side of the quite chunky grip. Of sporter configuration, the grip is quite vertically raked and offers a cutaway for ‘thumb-up’ shooting if you find it too much of The Rotex RM8 a handful to wrap your thumb ‘around’ it. sports a beautifully Either leading hand is taken well care of by sculpted forend a very chunky, but beautifully sculpted forend that swells out
12
AIRGUN SHOOTER
012-016 Test Rotex RM8_Rev8JR.indd 12
17/12/2014 11:30
TEST: WALTHER ROTEX RM8
BSS AD
The forend‘s wraparound laser-chequered panels combine style and practicality…
The chunky, vertically-raked grip offers both thumb ‘up’ and ‘around’ options
…and there‘s a ‘hog’s back’, ambidextrous cheekpiece
A plug-in probe and integral manometer assist the charging process
AIRGUN SHOOTER
012-016 Test Rotex RM8_Rev8JR.indd 13
13
18/12/2014 17:27
The wood-to-metal fit on the RM8 is astounding
bottle and breech fit into the stock. ‘Gaps’ couldn’t be a more inappropriate word, actually – there simply aren’t any. It’s this level of attention to detail that certainly inspires confidence in the rifle. I must admit to expecting a few corners to be cut on a £420 PCP, but aside of a plastic safety catch, there’s no evidence of any cost-saving. Actually, that safety catch is perfectly fit for purpose. Manually operated, it’s resettable and even carries a ‘lock’ mechanism in the middle of its face to avoid accidental disengagement – you can only turn it ‘off’ with a deliberate push. The breech block may borrow the look of the AirMagnum’s, but again it’s perfectly tailored for the RM8, containing both the eight-shot rotary magazine and the side bolt. The latter lifts up and pulls back relatively easily to cock the strike hammer, although it’s best to return it courtesy of a good thrust forward with the palm of your hand. The return cycle indexes the magazine. As there’s no anti-double facility, you need to get that part of the cocking procedure sorted to make the most of the RM8’s fast-action characteristics.
The manually operated safety catch carries a ‘lock‘ mechanism to avoid accidental disengagement
While the action is alloy and anodised matt black, the bolt is blued steel – and it’s plenty long enough to get a good grip, yet not so long as to get tangled with your shooting jacket when out in the field. It needs to be drawn back to extract the magazine drum from the left of the breech, an action which requires the magazine-release glider to be slid back. (It automatically slides forward with the bolt upon re-insertion of the mag should you forget.) A word about the magazine, because Walther has come up with something I can see a lot of other gunmakers wanting to copy. Like the magazines of many of Umarex’s CO2 models, the RM8’s has no moving parts – but what it does have is a neat pellet-holding system. Rather than opt for the usual O-ring type band to harness the pellets in situ by their waists, the RM8 mag uses a fatter, rubber ‘gripper’. The advantage of this gripper innovation is that you can use just about any pellet – long-bodied or short, waisted or ‘bullet’ – in the magazine, without any issues. This is great news because although the simpler magazines are less prone to ‘mechanicals’, they do suffer compatibility issues with some
1
3
2
4
Sequence above: Lift up the side bolt and pull back to cock the strike hammer [1]. Slide back the magazine release switch [2] and extract the mag for loading [3]. After re-insertion, load the first shot with a good thrust forward of the bolt, using the palm of your hand [4].
14
AIRGUN SHOOTER
012-016 Test Rotex RM8_Rev8JR.indd 14
17/12/2014 11:31
...which uses a rubber ‘gripper‘
The mag has an innovative pelletholding system...
TEST: WALTHER ROTEX RM8 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Rotex RM8 MANUFACTURER: Umarex/Walther, Germany DISTRIBUTOR: Armex ● www.armex.co.uk ACTION: Multi-shot buddy-bottle PCP CALIBRE: .177 and .22 (tested) MAGAZINE: 8-shot rotary, removable FILL PRESSURE: 232BAR SHOTS PER FILL: 150 (model tested) OVERALL LENGTH: 952mm BARREL LENGTH: 500mm (including muzzle weight) WEIGHT: 3.85kg (excl. scope) TRIGGER: Two-stage, fully adjustable SAFETY: Manual, resettable SIGHTS: Scope only (not supplied) STOCK: Ambidextrous beech sporter with chequered grip and forestock LENGTH OF PULL: 360mm
The well-engineered inside of the Rotex
pellet brands, thus limiting your choice of ammo. Not so the RM8, however – you get simplicity and pellet choice. As this was a new rifle to me, I wanted to put a few thousand pellets through my RM8 sample before penning this report. I can tell you in all that time I haven’t experienced one jam-up; the aluminium indexing pawls on the drum are well cast, and the ball-catch indenting system appears to align the magazine’s chambers and bore perfectly because I also experienced no accuracy concerns. Of course, the Rotex comes with a Lothar Walther barrel, so accuracy is pretty much a given when paired to its recoil-free firing cycle. Putting numbers on accuracy, I was able to print sub-20mm groups out to 30 yards with the best-matched diets – those being Air Arms Diabolo Field (5.52), Defiant Ogive (5.52), Rangemaster Sovereign (5.52), Webley AccuPell and Weihrauch Magnum. Power varied – the 21.6-grain Magnum
POWER: Up to 11.75ft/lb according to pellet SRP: £419.99
topped 11.75ft/lb, while the 14.5-grain AccuPell gave away a good 1ft/lb to that. AADFs and the Sovereigns returned around 11.1ft/lb output, with Ogives giving 11.4ft/lb. At long range, it was really only the AADF and Sovereign that could cut it – the Magnum’s lower velocity figure and the AccuPell’s low-energy output definitely made them more susceptible to wind drift, although the Ogive gave the best two a decent run for their money. While I wouldn’t call it a hindrance, I felt that the Rotex RM8’s firing cycle also contributed to the ‘thinning out’ of capable ammo for the more distant work. In some respects, perhaps, this is where the price differential will become apparent when comparing the RM8 with, say, a £750 PCP. I split metal and wood and inspected the ‘innards’ – they’re clearly very well engineered, if not super-high-tech. My test runs over the chrono revealed that although there’s no regulator, you do get a good 100-plus shots within a very narrow min/max power range. As you can see from the graph over the page, a 232BAR fill-up produced a short spike in the early phase, with a gradual tail-off as the rifle shot through the buddy’s charge. Interestingly, the rifle was at its most consistent between 200 and 135BAR, so this was from where in the charge I undertook my sample rifle’s accuracy tests. However, the importer’s claim of ‘up to 180’ shots seemed a little on the long side to me, and although the very well laid out user’s manual suggested
AIRGUN SHOOTER
012-016 Test Rotex RM8_Rev8JR.indd 15
15
17/12/2014 11:31
TEST: WALTHER ROTEX RM8
refilling at 70BAR, my gun’s chrono performance indicated it needed refuelling around the 100BAR mark. In terms of the handling, I detected some movement in the action as the hammer strikes – and possibly even bounces on – the main valve. I also noticed a change in the muzzle report as the gun counted down its charge. This manifested itself in a different characteristic to the muzzle flip, making it hard for me to keep a consistent follow-through. Even ‘recoilless’ guns need that once you push the limits for distance, although it’s not going to have any detrimental effect over typical airgun ranges. On the upside, the Walther’s trigger does its bit to assist you. It’s a beautiful unit, with a weight adjustment screw accessible through a hole in the trigger guard – but my rifle’s factory setting was plenty good enough to leave well alone. The blade is curved and wide enough to promote both a good feel and light let-off – I doubt even Mark Camoccio will moan at this one (and he’s fussier about his triggers than me!). Up front, you may be fooled that the RM8 is packing a freebie silencer – but it’s a freebie 550 gram muzzle weight, attached to the 15mm OD barrel via a grubscrew. Sliding it off reveals that the knurled end cap is actually screwed to a 1/2in UNF muzzle thread (on the barrel, not the weight), so you could add a silencer in lieu of the weight to keep the rifle’s balance. I shot the rifle without the weight, and didn’t like it – way too much muzzle movement. I fitted an Air Arms Q-Tec silencer, but still didn’t like it – the combo became way too long! However, as there’s really no need for sound suppression on the already quiet Rotex, I’d say stick with what Walther have given you. So, after a few thousand rounds and a couple of months getting to know Walther’s new PCP, do I think the Walther Rotex RM8 is a game changer? The short answer is ‘yes‘. Although it’s got stiff competition from the sub-£400 Hatsan AT44 and new Gamo Coyote, its own price tag is also going to make the RM8 a significant rival for the PCP models sitting just above it, price-wise.
I won’t go far as to say it’s a £420 PCP that will outshoot a £650-plus PCP at long ranges, but if you only shoot out to 30 yards or so, you’d have to ask yourself why you’d want to buy anything more expensive. You may even consider dipping a toe into the PCP water if you’re a stalwart springer fan, too. The Rotex RM8 is attractive, well built and a good performer to boot – and it carries one of most respected names in the business. Most of the other guns you can say that about… also cost a shed-load more. ●
NOTE: Subsequent to this article being produced, Walther has renamed the Rotex model suffix to RM8. As the rifle originally supplied for test purposes bore ‘R8’ markings, we have digitally removed reference to this in all the images so as not to make any trademark infringements. The Walther’s breech will now be marked up with Rotex RM8, as shown above.
Above: The RM8 brings stiff competition to the PCP market, says Nigel The trigger is weight-adjustable via a screw within the guard
16
Left: It‘s the barrel that‘s threaded – not the muzzle weight
AIRGUN SHOOTER
012-016 Test Rotex RM8_Rev8JR.indd 16
17/12/2014 11:32
AIRGUN SHOOTER
017.indd 17
17
19/12/2014 12:21
your WIN
A SPORTSMATCH OPM WORTH AT LEAST
£33.95!
Dear Editor
LETTERS
Send your letters to: The Editor, Airgun Shooter, Lawrence House, Morrell Street, Leamington Spa, Warks, CV32 5SZ – or email
[email protected], remembering to include your full name and address
Sportsmatch is considered the best scopemount maker in the business – so we’ll reward the best letter each month with a double-clamp, one-piece mount in either 25 or 30mm, Medium or High configuration! (State your preference).
Lead is dead! That’s my view… after years of cleaning its dirty residue from my barrels and washing it from my hands, I’ve now switched to lead-free ammo after 10 weeks of testing. Prometheus, ThUnder BOLT, RWS Hyperdome and H&N FTT Green in .22 all gave excellent performance from an SMK XS19 out to my 30-yard zero range. Best of all, these lightweight pellets have a trajectory similar to that of lead .177s. Neil Edwards, Wrexham
www.sportsmatch-uk.com
RWS’s new Hyperdome is just one of the ‘green’ pellets that’s convinced Neil Edwards to go lead-free
I’ve noticed a significant increase in the percentage of white feral pigeons on my farmyard shoots over the last few years. The majority of birds were grey, brown or mottled when I first started shooting on these permissions – but I reckon more than 90 per cent of the ferals I see now are white. Why is this? M. Bennett, via email
Mat Manning replies: I’ve noticed exactly the same thing, which is peculiar becaus e you’d assume that the white ones are most likely to attract the attention of predators . It could be that white ferals have a dominant gene, but I wo nder if their success could actually be because predatory birds like buzzards and sparrow hawks mistak e them for gulls – which can be quite aggressive birds – and leave them alone?
Five years ago, I was granted permission to shoot on four separate areas of land owned by a local farmer. He doesn’t live on any of these sites, and I’ve not had any contact with him since. Should I get this permission renewed or does is stand forever unless withdrawn? William Dewick, Suffolk Mat Manning replies: It is wise to renew your shooting permission annually, in case factors like new land uses or change of ownership need to be considered. This permission should take the form of a written agreement between you and the landowner (or whoever controls the shooting rights) signed by you both, and explaining where you are permitted to shoot and what quarry you are permitted to target.
18
WINNER!
Having just taken up airgunning and not really having a gun shop nearby, I really enjoyed your roundup of targets (Aiming for Fun, January issue), some of which I’ve since acquired via mail order. But may I add my own warning after getting hold of some Firebird Airflash targets? They are seriously loud – so probably best not used in the garden or on the farm near nervous livestock! Nevertheless, they’re tremendous fun. Paul Allan, via email
ing After returning to airgunn by ed pris sur after 40 years, I was ing Go . uns airg n der the price of mo route, I down the ‘affordable’ joined and purchased an SMK XS19 . um For un the UK Chinese Airg a go Taking their advice, I had ing it uild reb p, e-u tun DIY a at kit that with an aftermarket spring guide ing spr , hat included a top XS19 My ! ult res and e… and lub noise any dly now shoots with har te. ura acc dly dea is or recoil and the and ly’ Wil lsh ‘We , Thank you lads on the forum! Martin Allars, Chingford
The editor replies: Good advice, Paul. Also, you’ll be pleased to hear that from next issue, our Letter of the Month prize will be the innovative Flip-Target featured in the same round-up.
If it hadn’t been for Simon Everett’s test on the .177 VMXPell (Ammo in Action, January issue), I don’t think I would ever have discovered this fabulous hunting pellet! From the name (which I assumed was derived from ValueMax) and low price, I’d thought it just a plinking round – but, after seeing Simon’s results, I took a punt on a tin. Out of my Air Arms TX200 springer and Daystate Regal PCP, they’re incredibly accurate over 35 yards, and have superb stopping power (for a .177) against quarry. J. Robbins, via email
AIRGUN SHOOTER
018 Letters_Rev3CK.indd 18
16/12/2014 14:58
AIRGUN SHOOTER
019.indd 19
19
19/12/2014 12:22
Scoring in the
FIELD
H&N‘s Baracuda pellet (right) is significantly longer than their FTT
Ian Barnett continues his .20 calibre hunting experiment, this time trying out the heavyweight H&N Baracuda under field conditions…
A
Ian‘s moving long shadow alerted a flock of woodpigeons
20
few weeks ago I put my back out, lifting a box full of lightweight decoys into the X-Trail, of all things! For two weekends, I was out of shooting – so with full mobility restored after far too long a lay-off period, I felt very invigorated to pull up at the Old Hall today. I set off with a light bag and a hungry rifle... It was a cold, bright morning; rain was forecast for later. Quietly, we made our way through the wood, announced by a salvo of woodpigeons exploding from the canopy overhead. They’d actually been alerted by my long shadow moving along the floor under the low sun. We were only a few strong gales away from a bare canopy now, and I pondered on the approaching roost-shooting season. This wood was marked for future attention. I’m still shooting the .20 calibre Weihrauch 100K-T, but readers will recall that I’d initially discounted the H&N Baracuda pellet on my first documented outing with this rifle. The truth was, I didn’t even try it. I felt its 13.6-grain weight would result in too much of a ‘lobbed’ trajectory (and so negate the point of dropping down to .20 from .22 calibre). Instead, I opted for H&N’s FTT – an 11.4-grain roundhead. Since then, a regular correspondent has been on at me to at least try the Baracuda – so that was today’s agenda. The pellet is significantly longer than the FTT, so I was intrigued as to how it would perform. First task was therefore to re-zero my combo. It only took five minutes; the windage was perfect, and I only had to adjust the elevation turret eight clicks ‘UP’ to strike the centre of a Birchwood Casey Shoot N’C disc at 30 yards. Though there’s no commercial shoot on this permission, there are about a dozen pheasant feeders dotted around its 1,000 acres as the landowner runs a couple of invitation shoots. They’re topped up by the tenant farmer and an estate cottage tenant, so I tend to keep a wary eye on the feeders during my patrols. Today, I noticed someone had a put a straw bale close to one of the feeders – but I didn’t notice the grey squirrel pecking around all the spilled feed. Dylan, however, had clocked it – and he launched at the rodent before I could stop him.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
020-022 Hunt IB 20 cal HN Baracuda Field Trial_Rev4CK.indd 20
16/12/2014 15:28
FIELD TRIAL: H&N BARACUDA .20 .20 BARACUDA
A guilt-ridden Dylan hides behind a bale after chasing a qrey squirrel before his master could stop him
The carpet of moist leaf-fall may hide a twig that will crack underfoot...
H&N Sport’s Baracuda range is quite extensive – it comes in .177, .22, .20 and .25 calibres, offers varying head designs and is also available in nonlead guise. The .20 lead version is a smooth-sided diabolo that weighs 13.58 grains, and comes in tins of 250. Its conically pointed head has been designed for better aerodynamics, maintaining good in-flight accuracy characteristics and penetration. It’s also been made from a special alloy with an external greasing that avoids lead foul-up in barrels. SRP: £6.95 (per tin of 250) from gun shops
...but that‘s how Ian successfully landed his first squirrel of the day!
The squirrel leapt onto the bale and up into tree above before I could get a bead on it. Dylan then hid behind the bale, waiting for his master’s stream of profanity to abate, followed shortly thereafter by an extended lesson (for such a mature student) to remind him what the ‘sit‘, ‘stay‘ and ‘leave‘ commands mean! A slow recce around the estate perimeter was just what I needed to blow out the cobwebs. It was also great to catch up on the small, subtle changes that had happened during my short absence. Most obvious was the leaf-fall; I now had that carpet of moist vegetation to cushion my gait. But that layer often hides a myriad of booby-traps – cracking the odd twig or two, no matter how quietly you try and progress, is inevitable! Actually, it’s not always a bad thing, providing you have your wits about you. That crack will often move a roosting woody out onto a branch, make a coney sit up or set a squirrel on the run. So rather than wince, I’ve learned to ready the rifle and look about me.
That’s how our first squirrel was landed today: a hidden twig cracked under foot, a flash of grey fur appeared on a tree trunk some 25 yards away… and the critter was dropped with a Baracuda in the back of the head. Dylan retrieved, and I examined the shot-strike. Clean, with no exit wound – my first despatch with a .20 Barracuda had been humane, clinical. Near the wood’s edge, I could see the flash of black and white, so crept behind a leaning oak, laid Dylan down and watched more closely to see what was going on. The winter cherry and mountain ash trees along the drive were both in full fruit, with a host of birds feeding on the crop. The avian diners included a pair of magpies, on which I kept my scope trained for ages. But with buildings behind them, I wasn’t able to get a shot away. Soon, though, I was distracted by a commotion further into the wood – dozens of birds were sounding their respective alarm calls:
AIRGUN SHOOTER
020-022 Hunt IB 20 cal HN Baracuda Field Trial_Rev4CK.indd 21
21
16/12/2014 15:28
FIELD TRIAL: H&N BARACUDA .20
FLIP TARGET
This freshly dug burrow above the waterline suggests a mink may have taken residence in the garden wood
jays, jackdaws, blackbirds and, as we approached, I could hear even the wrens and tits fussing. Fox or sparrowhawk, I wondered? Not sure which, I stopped near a drainage brook to watch the area. Dylan lay beside me, his nostrils quivering. But he wasn’t bristling – his response to fox – so I guessed it was a sparrowhawk. I set my bag down under a yew tree by the babbling brook for a hot soup break and noticed a freshly dug burrow, just above the waterline on the opposite bank. At about 13cm across, it wasn’t really big enough to be a rabbit’s – and they wouldn’t usually dig so close to water, anyway. Further examination showed the throw of earth bore prints, but from the other side of the stream I couldn’t see them clearly enough. I led Dylan to the water’s edge, but he showed little interest; that told me it definitely wasn’t rabbit. Rat, perhaps? Well, if so, it was the biggest lair entrance I’d have ever seen! No, I think we might have a mink in the garden wood, which could explain all the earlier agitation among the wood’s birdlife. Of course, never having shot a mink before, I’ll be keeping an eye on this new ‘den’... Sadly, the weatherman had got it right. The rains broke and I pulled on my Paramo rain smock – though I had an element of natural cover. The canopy in the garden wood is thick year-round due to the many conifers that mingle with deciduous and exotic trees; I didn’t have to leave unless it really hammered it down. Dylan’s thick coat can endure a couple of hours‘ rain and, like me, he’d rather be wet than caged up – so we stayed on. I was hoping for some pigeon control to test the Baracudas, but the grey stuff had clearly chosen a different refuge today. Eventually, I flicked the Weihrauch’s safety on and we went walkabout. I’ve often written that squirrels dislike rain and will curl up in the dreys when the heavens open. Generally, that’s true – but there is one exception. Much like rabbit kits, grey squirrel young often venture out without their parents for a bit of exploration and mischief. Today, Dylan and I watched in frustration as many of the kits cavorted and chased high in the canopy, sending small showers of raindrops cascading down into the wood. One youngster finally made
22
This is a new practice target that’s simply ingenious. It flat-packs for easy storage, and clips together in seconds to offer a multi-aimpoint target that you can ‘walk’ around your range; it’s always reset to another one of its 55mm diameter paddles after every strike. There are four ‘weights’ of target to suit your gun’s power and the distances you shoot at – though the lightest 150 Cadet Shot version is probably the most versatile for hunting practice. It doesn’t need any repainting thanks to its impact-resistant polymer coating, Polex. SRP: £29.99 W: www.range-right.co.uk
the mistake of pinning wide on a conifer trunk, legs akimbo and looking down at us, side on. As the squirrel’s aspect wasn’t a good one for a head shot, I chose to go for the engine room – a heart/lung strike. The whump of the Baracuda’s impact immediately confirmed a clean kill, and the grey tumbled into the leaf litter. Again, examination of its carcase showed a clean entrance, with no exit of the pellet. All the pellet’s energy had been dissipated into the pest’s nervous system for maximum shock effect – and I really want to test the Baracuda on avian quarry now. I’m still thoroughly enjoying my .20 hunting experiment, too. This calibre’s flatter trajectory is certainly adding a lot of confidence to my shooting – and having such a reliable gun as the HW100K-T helps enormously. Today, I spent the final half-hour plinking at my (ingenious) Flip-Target to finish off my pellet reserves. It was always a case of ‘14 shots, 14 strikes’ with each mag. If it hadn’t been for the Old Hall’s sundial, I’d have missed dinner! ●
A timely reminder for dinner!
AIRGUN SHOOTER
020-022 Hunt IB 20 cal HN Baracuda Field Trial_Rev4CK.indd 22
16/12/2014 15:28
AIRGUN SHOOTER
023.indd 23
23
19/12/2014 12:26
FREE TO ENTER: COMPETITION
. . . N I W . . . N I W . . . N I W . . . N I W . . . WIN A BIG-BORE HATSAN STRIKER 1000S
This big-bore, hard-hitting Hatsan Striker 1000S could soon be coming your way for absolutely nothing! (Scope not included in prize package)
The spring-powered, break-barrel Striker 1000S from Turkish gunmaker, Hatsan has won many admirers since it was launched a few years back for its stylish, practical looks, accuracy and on-the-limit power. Now, it’s also available in .25 calibre – the ultimate calibre for short-range ratting and feral culling… and we’re giving you the chance to grab one of these big-hitting Hatsans for absolutely nothing! Our 6.35mm calibre prize comes with hi-viz, soft-grip insert panels on the grip and forend of its ambidextrous synthetic sporter stock – giving it striking visual appeal as well as a highly practical performance. Of course, it’s stacked out with all the other features that have won the Striker 1000S such a following, too – from its adjustable trigger and automatic safety through its stylish muzzle brake to its fully adjustable, fibre-optic Tru-Glo open sights. For close-range pest control, the Hatsan Striker 1000S is the ultimate critter-stopper – and as good a value as it is when bought from your local gun shop, you could bag yourself one without paying a single penny for it! All you have to do to stand a chance is take part in our free, easy-to-enter competition below…
HOW TO ENTER
Find the five differences between the two images opposite. Then either send us this page with those differences marked and the form below filled in… or email us brief descriptions of the differences to:
[email protected], putting ‘Airgun Shooter 065’ in the subject bar. Remember to include your name, address and age declaration that you are over 18 for the entry to be valid. (Under 18s must have the entry countersigned by an adult.) You can also enter online at www.airgunmagazine.co.uk – click on the competition tab and follow the instructions. In the event of a tie, the winning entry will be drawn from the editor’s shooting hat. Name: Address: Postcode: Tel: Email: I am over 18 years of age. Signed: Post your entry to: Hatsan Striker Competition, Airgun Shooter 065, Lawrence House, Morrell Street, Leamington Spa, Warwks. CV32 5SZ. Prize must be collected from Blaze Publishing in person to enable photos and competition audit to take place. Image(s) of the winner may be used in editorial and for future promotions. Winner will be announced in a forthcoming issue. Only one entry per household. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older, or have their entry form countersigned by an adult. Entry closing date: 11 March 2015
24
AIRGUN SHOOTER
024 Competition Hatsan Striker_Rev3CK.indd 24
16/12/2014 15:37
AIRGUN SHOOTER
025.indd 25
25
19/12/2014 12:27
Squirrel
DE-TAIL
If you don’t use your shot squirrel for either bait or the dinner table, its tail can be passed on to fly fishermen for use in fly tying – but only if properly prepared. Simon Everett explains how...
T
he grey squirrel is an important target for the airgun pest controller. It causes a huge amount of damage to trees, stripping the bark, and takes eggs and nestlings of small birds – so keeping their numbers in check is a necessary part of countryside management. Of course, we‘ve also heard on the news more recently that in certain parts of the country, culling grey squirrels is important for the conservation of the red squirrel, which is intolerant of the pox virus that is passed on by greys, who happen to be immune to it. These days, many hunters like to ‘use’ their shot quarry, whether it’s for the pot or pelt – and though many people find squirrel meat delicious, it’s not high up on most British chefs’ menus! So, if you don’t bring them to the plate, how best to use your harvested squirrel? Well, they make good bait for bringing in the corvids… and their tail hairs are perfect for fly tying. Even if you don’t fish, there will be plenty of fly-tyers like me who’ll take them off your hands. However, you must ‘tail’ your tree-rat correctly – and here’s how...
THE DE-TAIL
Having shot your squirrel, look for a straight stick as thick as your finger. Cut it to around 15cm; I’ve used hawthorn here. Trim off the thorns and then split the stick, lengthwise, into two halves with your knife. Now work the tail-hair away from the base, where you’re about to cut, so that you’ll be able to see what you’re doing [1]. With your knife, run a light cut through the skin of the tail at the base [2]. This is where a properly sharpened knife pays dividends – you’ll just need to stroke it across the skin.
26
Once a ring has been cut around the base of the tail, work the skin back with your fingers, just enough (but no more) to place the flat sides of your sticks against the tailbone [3]. Place the middle of each stick half either side of the exposed area [4]. Then, grip them with your strongest hand clasped as shown; your other hand should grip the haunches of the squirrel [5]. Squeezing the sticks against the exposed bone, pull the sticks away from the body [6]. If you do this in one swift motion properly, what should happen is that the tail will be cleanly stripped off the bone, which remains on the animal [7].
PRESERVATION
Once the tail is off the bone, you need to preserve it so it doesn’t rot – and there are various curing methods. Also, no fly-tyer will thank you for introducing mites or other pathogens that may attack the other materials in their collection! The easiest way is to simply put the tail in the freezer, flatly wrapped in a piece of kitchen paper. This method helps keep the skin supple so it is easy to select the hairs to cut for tying the fly. You can also preserve it in a sealed bag with some Borax, but this makes the tail go hard and crinkly, so it’s more difficult to work with. Commercial squirrel tails tend to be stick-mounted to keep them straight. Often it’s a thin sliver of bamboo – although gamekeepers of old used yew twigs. However, you can no longer prune yews as most are now protected through Tree Preservation Orders – besides which, yew is poisonous and can cause skin rashes. ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
026-027 Fieldcraft Tailing_Rev4CK.indd 26
16/12/2014 15:44
FIELDCRAFT: SQUIRREL TAILING 5
Left, inset: These are the hairs that fly fishermen love to use
1
6
2
7
3
4
Right: Job done – one tail, ready for curing and then passing on to a grateful fly-tyer
AIRGUN SHOOTER
026-027 Fieldcraft Tailing_Rev4CK.indd 27
27
16/12/2014 15:44
28
028.indd 28
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 14:37
Seize the
HUNTING: TAKING OPPORTUNITIES
MOMENT
Dawn and dusk may be the prime times for quarry activity – but even if you can’t be there for the magic hours, you still don’t have to miss out on the action. Mat Manning proves the point…
S
uccessful air rifle hunting hinges on making the most of whatever opportunities you are presented with – a point which was certainly brought home during a recent visit to one of my woodland permissions. Given the choice, I favour dawn and dusk sessions when it comes to planning my hunting trips. These transitional periods between day and night often bring a flurry of activity, enabling me to optimise my time in the field. At daybreak, diurnal species can be encountered as they head out to feed after waking up hungry, while it’s not unusual to encounter nocturnal species like rats still out foraging for scraps before they bed down for the day. Conversely, if you make for the countryside at sundown, you’ll often find rabbits venturing out for their night-time feed in the fading light, and squirrels scampering round in search of lastminute morsels to set them up for the long night’s slumber that lies ahead. Except it’s not always that simple! Most of us can’t pick and choose when to head out shooting, because our available field time is dictated by factors such as work and family. And so it was for me on a recent sunny morning. Despite having the freedom to shoot for the main part of the day, the children’s school run was going to cut short my session at both ends. Pondering how best to spend my time, I recalled the gamekeeper on one of my permissions recently remarking on an apparent rise in squirrel and corvid numbers in the woods. Although his comments were friendly enough, I know his closing line of “I’ll probably see you on the estate soon…” was a subtle way of saying “so you’d better sort it out for me”! Even if I can’t always pick and choose my hunting trips to coincide with seemingly perfect conditions, I know I stand a far better chance of bagging something by getting out there and trying to make things happen, than by lingering at home and wondering what might have happened ‘if only‘ I’d made the effort. So, after dropping off the kids, I swapped my jeans and trainers for camo trousers and wellies, pulled on my Jack Pyke Hunter’s jacket and headed for the woods… Although it was a chilly morning, the blue sky and gentle rays of early winter sunshine had certainly brought the wildlife out. I passed three roe deer as I turned onto the estate drive, and a squirrel bounced across the track in front of me as I made my way into the woods.
Above: Mat headed out along an open ride, where clear ground made for quiet stalking
AIRGUN SHOOTER
029-032 Hunt MM Seize the moment_Rev2CK.indd 29
29
16/12/2014 15:59
That fleeting glimpse of a bushy-tail wasn’t the only sign of quarry; the air was filled with the croaking of crows and the chatter of jackdaws as I readied my gear and loaded my backpack before trekking away from the car. The keeper certainly hadn’t been kidding about the abundance of corvids! I wandered quietly along one of the more open woodland rides. The lack of cover means it does leave a hunter rather exposed, but there are fewer fallen leaves and twigs on this route than in the woodland proper, so it lends itself to stealthy stalking as long as you move slowly. It was a real pleasure being able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the mid-morning woodland as I drifted along with eyes and ears peeled. Apart from the occasional drumming of a woodpecker, the sounds were dominated by the squawking of jackdaws, and I eventually broke off from the ride to head in the direction of the vocal little corvids. As expected, the going was much crunchier underfoot as I weaved my way through the tangle of fallen branches and leaves between mature oak, ash and beech trees. I managed a brief glimpse of a flock of five or six jackdaws, but the flighty birds clocked me long before I got within striking distance, and flapped off towards a lofty stand of towering ashes. Although I didn’t get a shot, I quickly spotted what had lured them to the area. In a clearing in the woods was a row of three feed hoppers, packed with grain to sustain the keeper’s coveted pheasants and prevent them from straying. The smattering of white droppings suggested that the jackdaws had easy access to the feeders, and had been helping themselves. So I knew this place was worth committing some time to; the jackdaws were still in the vicinity, and it was also squirrel territory. If I could find somewhere to dig in, I’d stand a decent chance of bagging something once peace returned to the woods following the disturbance caused by my arrival. Throwing up a camo screen would, I felt, only cause more noise that was likely to make the jackdaws even more suspicious, so I looked around for natural cover. A fallen tree provided a handy backdrop, at a point from which I could cover two feeders and several of the treetops that loomed above. Its main trunk also made for a welcome
30
back support, and the remains of its protruding roots would help to break up my outline. Furthermore, owing to the fact that I was on the most sheltered side of the woods, some of the hazels were still holding a lot of their yellowing leaves. This unseasonal foliage provided more cover, albeit scant and, more importantly, a decent veil of shade that would help to blur my camo clothing and head net into the surrounding landscape. Once I’d settled into position, a quick glass-round with the binos confirmed that the jackdaws were still perched up in the distant ash trees. Scanning the closer boughs, I also noted a couple of squirrel dreys, and hoped that one or two of their residents might fall for the temptation of the grain before I had to leave. As it happened, I didn’t have to wait very long. Confirming what greedy little critters grey squirrels are, one began to descend a large oak tree about 15 minutes after I’d hunkered down. I hesitated for a moment, wondering whether the muzzle blast from the Air Arms TX200 HC might spook the jackdaws. No – this was too good an opportunity to waste. Following the squirrel through my scope, I steadied the crosshairs on its head as it lingered about halfway down. The ‘pap’ from the TX’s muzzle was followed by the much louder ‘crack’ of lead connecting with bone as a .22 pellet found its
AIRGUN SHOOTER
029-032 Hunt MM Seize the moment_Rev2CK.indd 30
16/12/2014 15:59
HUNTING: TAKING OPPORTUNITIES ONE-PIECE WONDER Even if you shoot a smooth-shooting springer like the TX200, it’s necessary to ensure your scope is securely mounted to recoiling airguns – otherwise the kick will cause them to creep and you’ll lose zero. Mat’s one-piece mount from Sportsmatch provides a rugged and reliable coupling between receiver and scope, and leaves nothing to chance – in fact, it’s guaranteed not to creep on spring guns. It’s also made in Great Britain and has a lifetime warranty. What‘s more, Sportsmatch’s comprehensive range covers all scope and dovetail sizes. SRP: From £33.95 FROM: Gun shops ● www.sportsmatch-uk.com
Top left: Pheasant feed hoppers lured jackdaws and grey squirrels to the area Top centre: A quick scan through the binos confirmed that the jackdaws were still close by Above: The handy backdrop of a fallen tree and its protruding roots helped to break up Mat‘s outline Left: A grain-stealing squirrel got the proceedings under way
SHARP SPOTTERS A decent pair of binoculars is a real asset when it comes to keeping tabs on your quarry. Recently, I’ve been trialling Tasco’s Sierra 10x42 binos. They’re compact enough to stow in your kit bag, yet provide a sharp, bright image, thanks to their multi-coated optics. Finished in a black impact-resistant rubber coating with ribbed grip panels along the sides, they’re water- and fogproof, making them more than capable of standing up to the rigours of hunting.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
029-032 Hunt MM Seize the moment_Rev2CK.indd 31
31
16/12/2014 15:59
HUNTING: TAKING OPPORTUNITIES
Main image + inset: Mat manually disengaged the TX‘s Safe-Lok ratchet to avoid noise Below left: Not a bad bag for the least productive part of the day... Below right: The fallen tree makes for a perfect chopping board
32
mark, ending the squirrel’s grain raid before it had even reached the woodland floor. I pulled down the TX200’s underlever while simultaneously pressing the Safe-Lok ratchet with my other hand to prevent any noisy clicking from the anti-beartrap mechanism. Once the sears – and anti-beartrap – had engaged along with the automatic safety catch, I then thumbed a pellet into the breech and returned the underlever. Then I took another scan through my binoculars to confirm the jacks were still there. In the uppermost boughs of the ashes, they didn’t seem unduly perturbed by recent events – a good sign. But I had to wait well over an hour before the cackle of nearby jackdaws snapped my attention back from watching a pair of buzzards soaring high overhead. Two of the little black corvids jinked through the treetops above me, coming to settle in the higher limbs of a beech tree, about 30 metres from where I was hiding. Jackdaws are fragile birds – certainly when compared with carrion crows or woodpigeons – and, although twigs prevented me from taking a head shot, I managed to crumple one with a wallop to its heart-and-lung area. The thud of the impacting pellet sent the remaining jackdaw flapping away as I reloaded, but it soon returned, wheeling back over me. To my surprise, the agitated corvid glided back down into the trees and started hopping from branch to branch, seemingly trying to get a better view of its fallen comrade. I followed it through the Hawke until it delayed long enough for me to get a shot away. I touched off the trigger at the right moment and made it a brace of the black stuff. After seeing the jackdaw swoop back, I wondered whether I might just be treated to a full-on corvid funeral wake, with the rest of the clan flapping in for a closer look. It’s something I’ve seen crows and magpies do on countless occasions, so I was hopeful – but it didn’t happen this time. The remaining jackdaws refused to leave their posts up in the ashes; not for their fallen mates, nor for the chance to snack on the gamekeeper’s grain. But before I had to leave, I managed one more squirrel to make it a brace of both fur and feather. While it was a thoroughly enjoyable few hours in the woods, I’m going to have to get back with hide-building gear and decoys to make a proper impression on these corvids if I’m to satisfy the keeper. But at least I’d made a decent start, and I was going home with a couple of squirrels’ tails that would be gratefully received by a trout fishing friend who uses the fibres to tie his fly-hooks. ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
029-032 Hunt MM Seize the moment_Rev2CK.indd 32
16/12/2014 15:59
AIRGUN SHOOTER
033.indd 33
33
19/12/2014 12:38
in the
WORKSHOP with LYN LEWINGTON
With the CO2-powered Crosman 2250 ‘Ratcatcher’ apart for its seal change and service, Lyn dismantles the main valve and explains the step-by-step rebuild procedure… 1
4
3
2
34
L
ast month, I went through the strip-down procedure of the popular, mid-powered, CO2-fuelled Ratcatcher rifle from Crosman – but before I begin my step-by-step rebuild, I’m going to explain how to take apart the main valve assembly. You will recall that upon extracting it from the action, it was clear why the rifle was leaking – the main seal which the CO2 capsule sits against was badly damaged [1]. To check the O-ring and firing valve on the inside of the brass main unit, it needs to be dismantled. Do this by wrapping some masking tape around the body and then clamping it in a vice, the jaws of which are lined with either wood or lead for added protection (to the valve unit). Then place some mole grips around the brass body to loosen the cap [2] before fully removing it to expose the components of the valve [3]. With disassembly complete, it’s important to ensure all the components are spotlessly clean before reassembly [4]. This is vital if you’re fitting any new seals or O-rings, and I’ve found the best solution (literally!) is brake or clutch cleaner, which can be bought from any auto centre. You can see the cleaned, new valve unit in [5].
AIRGUN SHOOTER
034-036 Workshop Ratcatcher Rebuild_Rev4CK.indd 34
16/12/2014 16:14
WORKSHOP: CROSMAN 2250
TRANSFER PORT
COCKING STUD
7
5
8
6
To reassemble, reverse the disassembly process. Note the much better sealing surface of the new main gas seal [5]. The next job is to clean inside the cylinder to remove any dirt, oil or (as in this case) bits of broken off seal. Use a piece of clean, lint-free cloth on the end of a rod. With that done, you can then refit the main valve assembly. Push it in, ensuring the screw on the underside of the cylinder can be refitted (in the forward-most hole of the pair of holes that are close together) [6]. However, don’t fully tighten the screw just yet. Now insert the strike hammer, ensuring its hole aligns with the slot in the action so that you can refit the stud which connects with the cocking bolt; it’s the shorter side from the shoulder that pushes into the hammer. You can also insert the transfer port [7], ideally with a fresh O-ring in place. Refer to your disassembly notes to ensure the port fits in the correct way around – the longer side from the shoulder should protrude. You should also fit a new O-ring onto the pellet seating probe, before inserting it into the housing of the breech/barrel assembly. Lowering the whole of the breech housing onto the cylinder [8], marry up the cocking bolt/probe assembly with the stud you pushed into the hammer body in the action. Once together, the breech/barrel assembly and action can be held in place by refitting and gently nipping up the small hex-headed bolt that locates in the hole through the pellet loading trough [9].
9
AIRGUN SHOOTER
034-036 Workshop Ratcatcher Rebuild_Rev4CK.indd 35
35
16/12/2014 16:15
WORKSHOP: CROSMAN 2250
13 10
11
Next, push in the long hammer spring, followed by the cylinder end cap, lining up the hole in the cap with the corresponding one in the cylinder. This will allow you to also locate the rearsight assembly along with the bolt that holds everything in place [10]. Don’t fully tighten this bolt yet, however – you’ll need some play in the breech housing so that you can slide the barrel collar over the barrel and cylinder [11]. Once the latter is positioned in place over its locating hole in the top of the barrel, fully tighten the bolts in the pellet trough [9] and end cap [10]. Finally, the collar’s retaining grubscrew can be tightened down [12]. Don’t be too heavy-handed, though – all the Crosman’s threads are easily stripped. To reassemble the safety catch, I put a dab of grease onto the ballbearing and its tensioning spring before refitting them into the hole in the trigger section of the cast grip frame – the ball goes in first [13]. This helps not only to lubricate them properly, but stops them rolling away as you marry the cylinder assembly to the grip frame. Screw the small plate back on to the front of the trigger guard [14] so that you can then attach the forend section via its two stock bolts – job done. The Ratcatcher is now fully serviced, with healthy seals. In this particular gun’s case, it no longer leaks gas and its shot-to-shot consistency and power output are once again restored to the manufacturer’s stated levels. ●
12
36
14
AIRGUN SHOOTER
034-036 Workshop Ratcatcher Rebuild_Rev4CK.indd 36
16/12/2014 16:16
AIRGUN SHOOTER
037.indd 37
37
19/12/2014 12:38
On the
GUN RAC!
Nathan Kingsley enjoys Remington’s derivation of a Colt classic – the 1911RAC – and explains how to field-strip and maintain it…
J
ust as in the world of bullet-shooting firearms, many air pistols share huge similarities among model ranges – and the £99.95 Remington 1911RAC that I’ve recently been enjoying is no exception. If you read my report in July 2014’s edition, you’ll see the Remington shares striking similarities with the Swiss Arms P1911 blowback, itself a derivation of the Tanfoglio Witness. Just like these, Remington’s Taiwanesemade 1911RAC is based on the much copied M1911 classic semi-auto from Loading the mag Colt – and it’s very authentic in weight, is a bit of a tricky operation dimensions and feel. It runs off a standard, 12g CO2 capsule that also powers a blowback action – the slide cycles after each shot like the real McCoy, giving quite a kick in the hand. This is one of the draws of blowback gas guns, and combined with the hefty 1kg weight of the 1911RAC, it makes for quite a realistic shooting experience. In fact, all it lacks is the ‘bang’ – the 4.5mm steel BBs spat from its 100mm smoothbore barrel don’t leave with much of a muzzle crack. The upside is, with the deployment of safe, anti-rebound backstops, this particular 1911 can be enjoyed in the confines of your back garden. Even out to 10 yards, the BBs travel through the air at a fair rate – around 325fps – and are accurate enough on your typical plinker’s target, even though the combat sights are fixed.
38
As with many blowbacks, the CO2 capsule sits in a carrier within the grip-frame, where the gas flows once the neck is pierced by a solid turn of the hex-headed bolt at the base. Released via a push-button behind the trigger on the left side, this carrier also incorporates the springloaded, 18-shot magazine. There’s a ‘knack’ to loading the mag: you have to pull down on the sprung plunger with your thumbnail to expose the port midway down. Then, with the carrier held under tension and with the top of the carrier pointing slightly down, you can drop in your 18 rounds one by one. A speedloader helps if you have one – but it’s still a tricky operation. There are two safety mechanisms on the 1911RAC – a manual (and well-marked) lock catch at the left rear of the frame, and a grip safety incorporated into the backstrap. The latter is automatically disengaged once you hold the gun on aim in your palm. To fire the first shot, the top slide needs to be manually drawn back, after which trigger-pulls automatically re-cycle the slide until, after you’ve let rip with the 18th shot, the slide locks in the open (back) position to signify the Remington’s emptied its payload. As blowbacks go, the 1911RAC certainly ranks up there with the best of them. The authentic resin grips are very tactile and the slide-back trigger falls to the pad of your index finger very nicely through the pull sequence; you won’t get tired on even the longest sessions. Whether shooting fast or slowly, the Remington’s got a very satisfying recoil and I confess that the all-metal action kicking away, even with a two-handed grip, is quite a turn-on! I also rather like the fact that, with so many metal parts, the gun looks even better the more you fire it as its grey finish gives way to more of a rubbed, silvered look on the componentry that moves.
1
2
AIRGUN SHOOTER
038-039 Pistol Remington 1911RAC_Rev6CK.indd 38
18/12/2014 16:23
PISTOL REVIEW: REMINGTON 1911RAC REM OIL Available in dropper bottles, pumps and aerosols, Rem Oil not only cleans grime from exposed metal surface, it displaces nonvisible moisture from metal pores, protecting against rust and corrosion. It also contains an exclusive Teflon formula which creates a long-lasting film on moving components, thus reducing wear and keeping actions running smoothly. SRP: £1.99-£7.99 W: www.sportsmk.co.uk
Left: The 1911RAC is field-strippable, which makes for easy maintenance
Which brings me nicely onto the topic of maintenance. Just like their firearm counterparts, all CO2 guns – and especially blowback pistols – need to be well looked after to continue functioning correctly, without jamming or their seals failing. In the case of the 1911RAC, Remington includes a very comprehensive owner’s manual that goes through everything from loading to unjamming – but seeing as this pistol is field-strippable, I thought I’d show you the step-by-step procedure on how to undertake routine maintenance. With the magazine removed and the pistol empty of BBs, the top slide should be moved back so that its disassembly notch – the smaller one, behind the slide stop notch – on the left-hand side of the top slide is positioned above the slide’s stop bar [1]. Then, pushing the stop bar’s pivot with your finger from the right-hand side of the frame [2], extract the slide stop from the left [3] while slowly
releasing the tension on the top slide. Don’t let go, else the top slide will shoot off in true Johnny English style! You can then pull the top slide forward until it slides right off the grip-frame [4]. Although the top slide can be further dismantled, it’s not really necessary – and it’s a job best left for a competent gunsmith, in my opinion. However, it is advisable to drop some light oil – I use Rem Oil – into the pistol’s action [5] to keep things working smoothly. However, don’t lubricate the rectangular gas seal on top of the magazine/capsule carrier [6]. The silicone lubricant additives that are in the CO2 capsules themselves will ensure they don’t dry out. Properly looked after, the Remington 1911RAC semi-auto blowback will give you years of trouble-free use, not to mention hours of fantastic fastfire fun. ●
FIELD STRIPPING THE REMINGTON
OIL POINTS
3
5
NO OIL
4
6
AIRGUN SHOOTER
038-039 Pistol Remington 1911RAC_Rev6CK.indd 39
39
18/12/2014 16:23
40
040.indd 40
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:40
Light
COMETA 220: WEIHRAUCH HW99S
ENTERTAINERS Mark Camoccio goes head-to-head with a pair of lightweight springers from Germany and Spain – each of which is clearly capable of punching well above its weight!
COMETA
v
220
WEIHRAU CH HW99S
L
ightweight rifles are not only the preserve of junior and lady shooters, but those who also want to minimise effort. The trouble is, in the spring-gun market, smaller models usually come with reduced power – unless you’re talking about the two continental break-barrels I have here. With the correct ammo, both the Spanishmade Cometa 220 and German-built Weihrauch HW99S produce power in abundance. So, let’s see how they shape up; whether they’re ‘fit for purpose’ and if their very different asking prices make sense in today’s very competitive market…
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The HW99S looks every inch a Weihrauch – for that, read solid, well-engineered; a serious workhorse that’s built to last. Although this rifle is badged the HW50S in Weihrauch’s other markets – and delivered as a low-powered beginner’s model – the HW99S UK variant is pushing the 12ft/lb legal muzzle energy limit, despite its scaled-down action (in comparison with Weihrauch’s usual heavyweight HW models). It’s very well engineered, too, with a smartly detailed stock. Cometa is also a well presented Spanish brand of springer – but what really stands out with the revamped Model 220 is the ultra-matt finish to its beech stock. While it’s quite unusual these days, I love the way the natural grain shows through. An angular trigger guard and that space-age foresight assembly all come together nicely, too. We’re definitely looking at two stylish contenders here. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★✩✩
Main image left: With its compact dimensions and perfectly shaped forend tip, the Cometa 220 (shouldered) ‘just feels right‘ The 220 sports a space-age foresight assembly
AIRGUN SHOOTER
041-044 H2H Cometa 220 v Weihrauch HW99s_Rev4CK.indd 41
41
17/12/2014 10:01
A front section of stippling and a panel of chequering on the HW99S‘s forend assist grip
TAKING STOCK
Proportions are never more important a factor in stock design than on a model designed to be manageable – and in this area, both score highly, featuring slimmed-down pistol grips that youngsters, ladies and small-frame shooters will be able to handle without too much challenge. The Cometa’s attractively stained beech stock may lack chequering – and show a few machining marks under the varnish – but its configuration is such that it doesn’t affect its handling. Its sleek forend and nicely curved tip is perfectly shaped for a comfortable leading hand grip – though at the shoulder end, as smart as I think the butt pad is, it’s still a bit hard for my liking. Weihrauch sources its HW99S stock from Italian stockmaker, Minelli – and while its dark lacquer finish is nice to the touch, it loses some of the subtle grain pattern. Again, sleek styling is ideal for its intended audience, with another low profile design to maximise use of the open sights. What really stands out, though, are those panels of chequering on both the pistol grip and forend: they feature a front section of stippling and a panel of chequering, all precision-cut by laser. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★✩✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★✩✩
OPEN SIGHTS
Given that these guns will be snapped up by juniors or novices, the inclusion of open sights is a good thing – and both guns’ come well appointed, though go about their business in different ways. Cometa opts for the more modern fibre optics in a mix of metal and plastic, with the bright red foresight element of its hooded foresight matching between green dots straddling the adjustable rear’s notch. Weihrauch’s offering is all metal and traditional, with the added bonus that the rearsight leaf can be rotated to one of four notches to suit the foresight post. Though the sight picture is ultra-precise because of this, it’s perhaps not so good in poor light. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★★✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
The Cometa has a resettable rear safety catch – just nudge it off, forward
SCOPING UP
The Cometa 220 comes with a slightly shorter compression cylinder, so there’s fractionally less space to play with in terms of mounting a scope on its 114mm long, 11mm wide dovetail rails. As well as adding arrestor pin holes for anti-creep-scope mounting, Weihrauch extends the dovetails on its longer HW99S to 162mm. But, regardless, either rifle benefits from the use of fairly compact scopes, for two reasons. Firstly, too large a scope can spoil the balance by disproportionately increasing the all-up weight. Secondly, too long a scope could foul the breech area as the barrel ‘breaks’ in order to swing through its cocking arc. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★✩✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
COCKING CYCLE
A sharp jerk breaks open the Cometa’s breech, and a continuous, fairly easy downward sweep completes the cocking stroke – though my test gun exuded a little spring noise during the cocking stroke. The HW99S’s cocking effort was fractionally easier and it felt a tad smoother – and the end of the procedure was signified with a reassuring ‘clunking’ noise as the safety catch and trigger mechanism engaged. If you’re a fan of fine engineering, you’ll love the sound – though you may be less appreciative of it if you’re a hunter! Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
TRIGGER AND SAFETY
Despite having automatic safety catches, neither rifle has an anti-beartrap system, so they can each be de-cocked should you want to take tension off the spring. While perhaps not so desirable in a training rifle, it’s a handy feature that’s particularly appreciated by field shooters. The Cometa’s resettable rear safety catch is reminiscent of yesteryear’s Feinwerkbau Sport. It’s easily nudged forward to render the action live, whereupon the trigger operation is wholly acceptable, despite a crudely shaped blade. Fairly light and predictable is all we can ask of such a straightforward design – and it worked well for me. ...while the HW99S rearsight‘s leaf can be rotated to one of four notches to suit the foresight post
The 220‘s green fibre optics straddle its adjustable rearsight‘s notch...
42
AIRGUN SHOOTER
041-044 H2H Cometa 220 v Weihrauch HW99s_Rev4CK.indd 42
17/12/2014 10:01
COMETA 220: WEIHRAUCH HW99S Tension and keeper screws both help take up wear in the 220‘s breech jaws
The HW99S features the Rekord‘s familiar pop-out safety catch
For such a lowly priced model in the HW line-up, I was pleasantly surprised to see Weihrauch’s famous Rekord unit adorning the HW99S, backed up by the usual pop-out safety catch (non-resettable). It responds well to fine adjustment, and is a very sophisticated unit that has been a benchmark for decades. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
OVERALL BUILD
Where build quality is being compared, any gun that goes up against a Weihrauch is in for a stiff contest – but Cometa has a fine tradition for solid, dependable and well machined products. Yes, side by side, the Weihrauch just shades it for its deep-lustre blueing – but as far as attention to detail is concerned, the Cometa also impresses. Take their respective breech arrangements, where any wear in a breakbarrel’s breech jaws can limit the life of the rifle. Weihrauch supplies its HW99S with the usual oversized axis bolt – but Cometa actually goes to the trouble of machining in a breech tension screw, as well as a keeper screw in the 220. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★✩✩
HANDLING
Technical aspects are important, but there’s no substitute for hands-on evaluation on the range – and with these guns being deemed lightweight sporters to suit a wide gamut of shooters, handling is of particular importance. On shouldering the Cometa, I immediately noticed how comfortable its stock felt, and with compact dimensions including a less raked pistol grip, the end result is less of a reach to the trigger. That promotes a more relaxed trigger finger, which in turn encourages correct trigger technique – couple all that with the 220’s perfectly shaped forend tip… and I’d say the Cometa ‘just feels right’! Mind you, shouldering the HW99S is no less a pleasant experience, but there’s no denying that its trigger reach is more geared to the larger hand. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★★✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★✩✩
The Cometa‘s angular trigger guard...
The HW99S‘s breech pivots around an oversized axis bolt
...and the HW99S‘s sophisticated Rekord trigger
AIRGUN SHOOTER
041-044 H2H Cometa 220 v Weihrauch HW99s_Rev4CK.indd 43
43
17/12/2014 10:02
COMETA 220: WEIHRAUCH HW99S
...but the HW99S's is more geared toward the larger hand
The 220‘s less raked pistol grip means an easier reach to the trigger...
Below: The HW99S‘s action has a very slick feel
ACCURACY AND PERFORMANCE
Though the .22-only Cometa is billed as producing a muzzle energy of around 11ft/lb, my sample chrono’d somewhat lower than expected – 9ft/lb with JSB-made AADF. This figure, however, rose to 10ft/lb when I switched to Daystate’s Rangemaster Li and RWS Superdome. Accuracy-wise, there was no shortfall, however – and the ’Domes proved best, with 25mm groups at 30 yards. What really stood out, though, was the remarkably civilised, muted firing characteristic of the 220 as its piston released; I reckon Cometa are utilising some form of synthetic spring guide because the lack of significant recoil and resonance was most impressive. Nevertheless, the HW99S was just that little bit better. Its action had an even slicker feel, and the lack of any significant recoil and spring ‘twang’ converted into 15mm groups over 30 yards with AADF roundheads, which crossed my chrono’s sensors around the 11ft/lb mark. Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★✩✩✩ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
VALUE FOR MONEY
Generally, Weihrauch’s rifles are priced at the upper end of the spring gun sector – so I’d say the HW99S looks particularly good value at £234. Take a close look at the Cometa’s asking price, though – nearly £100 less than the Weihrauch‘s. Given its many attributes, it’s difficult not to conclude that the 220 has to represent nothing short of stonking good value for money! Cometa 220 ★★★★★★★★★★ Weihrauch HW99S ★★★★★★★★★✩
Cometa 220 Weihrauch HW99S
81/100 86/100
FIN VERDAL ICT
As I’ve so often said in these comparison tests, either rifle here would make a great choice, regardless of the final scoring. There’s no doubt that both Cometa’s 220 and Weihrauch’s HW99S are extremely well made performers. They straddle both the needs of the beginner and experienced shot, offering a relatively lightweight sporting gun with a modicum of energy into the bargain. Okay, maybe you’ll accuse me of sitting on the fence, here – but I’ve got good reason to! The final tally finds in favour of the super-compact Weihrauch, but having handled them both, it would be a hard call to make for me. This particular Cometa is astonishingly good value for money and is arguably more compact, making it ideal for youngsters and ladies alike.
44
AIRGUN SHOOTER
041-044 H2H Cometa 220 v Weihrauch HW99s_Rev4CK.indd 44
17/12/2014 10:02
AIRGUN SHOOTER
045.indd 45
45
19/12/2014 12:43
46
046.indd 46
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:44
Making a
DIY: BREECH BLOCK
BREECH BLOCK Ever found it a juggling act to clean the barrel of your underlever? David James’s ingenious breech block makes life so much easier – and here’s how to make one…
H
aving noticed that the groups from my spring-powered Weihrauch HW97 were opening up a bit, I decided its barrel needed cleaning. However, getting at the rifling of this underlever is a bit of a tricky business as you have to hold a fully cocked gun while attempting to pass a pull-through over the baffles of the silencer and down the bore… all while still holding the lever firmly in your other hand! The obvious solution was to have both hands free to work on the rifle in a cradle – so after pondering over the problem for a while, I came up with a solution using a little wooden block. Once placed into the loading bay, it completely stops the breech from closing on you. As there are a number of underlever models with sliding breech systems like my HW97’s on the market, I thought I’d show you how to make this handy gadget, which I simply call a breech block. Obviously, the sizes I give here are relevant to my Weihrauch (56mm long x 30mm wide, with a space between the bottom of the breech bay and bottom of the barrel of 15mm). You’ll need to adapt measurements to suit different models. I have a wood-turning lathe in the workshop and turned my own dowel out of a piece of hardwood oak to a diameter of 28mm, which
Cleaning the barrel of an underlever with a pull-through can prove rather tricky, but this small piece of wood makes the job a doddle!
AIRGUN SHOOTER
047-049 DIY Breech block_Rev4CK.indd 47
47
17/12/2014 10:19
10 mm
14 mm
56 mm
5
1
allows 2mm of slack inside the rifle’s breech bay. If you don’t have access to a lathe, go to your local DIY store and buy a length of wooden dowel in the diameter you need. Try to get ash, beech, mahogany or oak as these woods are the strongest. The wooden dowel needs to be squared off at the end you’re going to be working on – but at this stage, it’s best not to cut the dowel to the exact length (56mm in my case) as it then becomes a little too short to work with. We first have to mark up the piece; mine is shown in [1]… First, bisect the end of the wood with a perfect cross, the centre of which is at the centre of the dowel’s diameter [2]. Where the four points of this cross meet the outer edge of the dowel, pencil in parallel lines (of at least the finished length you’ll be working to) back along the edges. The easy way to do this is butt the dowel up against a thin piece of waste wood placed on the workbench, rotating the dowel so that each of the crosses outer points line up with the edge. At each point, mark a line which will then be perfectly parallel [3]. Then pencil-mark the overall length of the dowel (56mm in my case) and make a second mark 10mm ‘in’ from this [4]. To draw perfectly square lines around the dowel, use a stiff piece of card wrapped around it as a guide [5]. Now you need to make a template to mark the angled face of the breech block. Take another piece of card, fold it in half and mark a roughly 60-degree line from the creased edge. You can use a protractor, but the angle doesn’t need to be dead-on. Cut this out with a pair of scissors so that, when folded out, you have a V-shaped piece of card [6]. Roll this card template around the dowel with the apex of the ‘V’ cut lined up with the inner line you pencilled in earlier and draw down the angled edges with your pencil [7] so that the lines meet up with the parallel lines along the side of the dowel. You’ve now got the shape of your block marked up and ready to cut out. Cutting out the angled face is tricky. You’ll need to clamp the dowel to a bench or in a vice, then use a fine-tooth saw to cut the angle just shy of the parallel lines [8]. When that’s done, cut down from the end piece along these parallel lines [9] to ultimately remove the section. Take care not to ‘overcut’ it. You can use a chisel to finish off the faces of this cut, or wrap some fine sandpaper around a wooden block to sand the flat surfaces smooth and take any sharp edges off. At this point, the breech block can be cut to length [10] and the edges smoothed off with sandpaper. Remove the pencil marks by rubbing down with fine wire wool and palm in some linseed oil [11] to help seal the grain. Job done! To use the breech block, pull back the underlever far enough to drop it in to the breech bay, and then gently ease back the lever until the inner cylinder comes to a halt on the block (see previous page). You can now set the gun in a cradle and safely use both hands to clean the barrel with a pull-through. ●
48
2
6
3
7
4
8
AIRGUN SHOOTER
047-049 DIY Breech block_Rev4CK.indd 48
17/12/2014 10:20
DIY: BREECH BLOCK
9
10
11
AIRGUN SHOOTER
047-049 DIY Breech block_Rev4CK.indd 49
49
17/12/2014 10:20
50
050.indd 50
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:45
AIRGUN SHOOTER
051.indd 51
51
19/12/2014 12:46
Ammo in
ACTION
Simon Everett puts popular airgun pellets to the test. This month: RWS Hobby Sport Line .22
E
xpensive, high-performance pellets are essential if you’re hunting at longer ranges or in outdoor silhouette competitions – but you don’t need to spend a fortune on your ammo for vermin control out to mid-ranges or plinking situations. The shorter ranges involved here mean that there’s less distance for any ‘weaknesses’ in a pellet’s performance to have time to show up. RWS’s Sport Line Hobby is a flat-headed pellet that’s unashamedly designed for economical practice over shorter range shooting. The .22 tested here – which has a ‘lid weight’ of 11.9 grains – is very light for the bigger bore, and less lead means the cost can be kept down. You’ll pay around £6.50 for a tin of 500, which is dirt cheap considering it comes from a big-name German pellet manufacturer. My test tin was actually crammed to the brim with 519 pellets – and all but two were in perfect condition. Of waisted (diabolo) design, the Hobby’s flat head has a slight bevel to the edge and a ribbed skirt. Its finish is very bright and clean, and there was no evidence of swarf in the tin, either. However, the weight of my specimen was all over the place – with a random sample of 50 pellets returning figures from 11.7 to 12.3 grains. I must say that the variance of over half a grain surprised me, as I’ve always been happy with the Hobby’s performance down the years. But, of course, we mustn’t forget that this is a practice pellet, unashamedly produced to provide more plinks for your pennies.
52
TESTING CONDITIONS
Given its credentials, I waited for an almost calm day to undertake tests on the Hobby. What little breeze there was came from behind my shooting position – and though these near-perfect conditions aren’t really representative of a typical shooting day, I was mindful that I wasn’t trying to prove the performance of a long-range round here.
DOWNRANGE ACCURACY
Actually, it’s almost unfair to assess a Hobby’s performance much over 20 yards – and testing a lightweight, flat-headed out to 50 yards is only being carried out for the sake of consistency within this ammotesting series. Nonetheless, while its wadcutter head configuration is primarily for punching out clean, easily measured holes in paper targets, vermin hunters – especially rat shooters – use them for the high level of shock this non-penetrating head imparts. So… disregard the Hobby’s drop at long range – and I’ll also admit that I gave up trying to get any chrono figures beyond 35 yards because I was shooting my CED chrono to pieces! Suffice to say, at 25 yards, the Hobby’s grouping was well within the realms of humane hunting, making it ideal for ratting and farmyard vermin control. The holes printed at 50 yards are just a few of the pellet strikes – some actually missed the card altogether, so it’s not really a ‘true’ group.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
052-053 Ammo2 RWS Hobby 22_Rev4CK.indd 52
17/12/2014 11:19
AMMO TEST: RWS HOBBY .22 25 yds
SPECIFICATION PELLET: RWS Hobby Sport Line .22
35 yds
DISTRIBUTOR: RUAG ● www.ruag.co.uk TYPE: Flat-head, waisted diabolo CALIBRE TESTED: .22 (5.5mm) AVERAGE WEIGHT: 11.97 grains (sample tin) USES: General plinking, close-range target shooting and hunting SUPPLIED: Tin of 500 SRP: £6.49 per tin
DOWNRANGE PERFORMANCE STATISTICS RWS HOBBY SPORT LINE .22 PERFORMANCE AT…
MUZZLE
25YDS
35YDS
50YDS
Average velocity
599fps
482fps
423fps
-
Average power
9.54ft/lb
6.18ft/lb
4.76ft/lb
-
Energy retained
100%
64.78%
49.9%
-
N/A
+ 50mm
0
- 81mm
Rise/fall from zero
Right: Accuracy and drop-off at 25, 35 (zero) and 50 yards, in minimal wind. Note that many of the strikes at 50 yards were outside the acceptable group size for hunting – and the absurdly high strike point at 25 yards is because the zero range is set for 35 yards for continuity in this series of pellet assessments. Further testing found that 22 yards would have been the ‘ideal’ zero range for middistance vermin control
50 yds
WEIGHT CONSISTENCY – RWS Hobby .22
To be honest, by 35 yards, I felt I’d pushed the Hobby to its very limit of ‘usable’ range and I wouldn’t risk using it on live quarry beyond 25 yards. At 50 yards? Well, this just isn’t a pellet that was ever designed to be effective that far out…
FALL OFF
To reiterate, the 35-yard zero that’s used for all these pellet tests is for the sake of continuity – and it effectively created an artificially exaggerated flight arc, with the drop at 50 yards some 81mm (for what it’s worth). The mid-flight arc was also heightened – an equally eyeopening 50mm above the aimpoint!
VERDICT
With a more realistic zero of 22 yards, you’ll get perfectly useful results for dealing with rats and ferals inside farm buildings and outhouses. For this kind of hunting – and certainly for plinking – the Hobby Sport Line is an affordable and effective alternative to more expensive pellets. Additionally, being quite a short design, they ‘feed’ well in magazinedriven airguns. ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
052-053 Ammo2 RWS Hobby 22_Rev4CK.indd 53
53
17/12/2014 11:19
Talking
TALKING SHOP: ALLSPORTS OF GLOUCESTER
SHOP
We have a natter with Ron Meadows over the counter of his gun shop, Allsports of Gloucester Gun shops are the backbone of airgun shooting, without which our sport wouldn’t prosper in the way it does. While shooters often concentrate on the latest guns and gear, it’s the people behind the counter at our local airgun dealership who influence our wants and service our needs. They’re the cornerstone of our industry; the unsung heroes without whose encouragement, assistance and expert advice many of us would be lost. With around 2,500 registered airgun dealers throughout the UK, Airgun Shooter goes behind the counters to find out a little more about what makes them tick… Q Allsports of Gloucester seems to have been around for ages – what’s its history? A Well, the shop was actually founded way back in 1957, and I bought it in 1967. Significant expansion was carried out in 1976, when the new-look shop was launched by shooting journalist Geoff Thomas, who described it as “the finest and best-stocked” he’d ever seen! We were even one of the first shops to display guns on long racks. Of course, things have changed a lot over the years – especially with the arrival of modern precharged airguns – but it’s all part of what makes the job interesting. Q Aside of you, who are the key personnel at your place, then? A We don’t have key people; everyone is vital to what we do – and their long service means they really know their jobs. John Dempster, our general manager, has been with us for 47 years; our secretary Eve Grigg has clocked up 43 years; Fred Beaumont has served for 23 Allsports staff always examine and years and gunsmith Martin Grainger has been with us for 14 years. check guns prior to delivery, zeroing Q So a team of five experts with almost 200 years of them in the shop while the customer combined experience. Is that what sets your gun waits, when possible shop apart from the rest? A Customers, manufactures and suppliers have real confidence in us A Easily – we only go for brands that have stood the test of time; – no one is ever kept waiting for goods or payment. Also, we do those we have confidence in. And we also favour suppliers who are not sell guns in boxes. We sell guns out of boxes; examined and co-operative when it comes to honouring guarantees. checked prior to delivery. When possible, we also like to zero them in Q What’s the best thing about being the owner of the shop, while the customer waits. We have an extensive range of Allsports of Gloucester? second-hand airguns, too – and in most cases we offer a guarantee A It has to be the uncertainty of each day, wondering what surprises of 12 months. Effectively, we want it to be just like buying a brand lie in wait. For example, a recent purchase we made was a collection new airgun. Q Does Allsports of Gloucester cater for airgun of 67 guns, together with 63 pieces of taxidermy. It meant burning shooters in any other ways? the midnight oil, but every member of the team was involved and A Yes. We also provide gun servicing and tuning and, of course, we it created a lot of laughs and interest from our customers. For 48 hours, though, the shop looked more like the aviary at London Zoo! carry a huge stock selection – a vast range of airgun pellets and targets, plus accessories including air bottles, pumps and scopes. We also have Allsports was one of the first shops to an arrangement with a local dive centre display guns on long racks to provide bottle filling and servicing. I’d like to think we’re the one-stop shop for airgun shooters. Q How do you decide what airgunning brands make it on to your shelves?
54
AIRGUN SHOOTER
054 Talking Shop Allsports_Rev3CK.indd 54
17/12/2014 10:24
AIRGUN SHOOTER
055.indd 55
55
19/12/2014 14:29
OF THE YEAR BEST MAGAZINE LAUNCH
N U AIRG Shooter
SPECIAL
OFFER
SUBSCRIBE TODAY + SAVE UP TO 64% + GET A FREE COAST HL4 DUAL COLOUR LED HEAD TORCH AND BONUS G4 KEYRING LED TORCH PERFECT FOR NIGHT HUNTING
BONUS
G4 Keyring LED torch
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE:
056-057 SUBS Feb 65 2015_Rev2.indd 56
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
WORTH
£27.90! Current subscribers can also take up this great offer by extending their subscription today!
Dual Colour Red/White 144 lumen light output; white LED 6 hour 15 minute runtime 57 metre (186 ft) beam distance Front dual switch; each colour controlled independently Hinged attachment to position beam Impact and water resistant Weight 4.4 oz. / 125 g (including batteries)
www.airgunmagazine.co.uk or www.virtualnewsagent.com 15/12/2014 19:52
Please fill in your name and address below. Then tick the box of either Deal 1 or Deal 2. I am a current subscriber
I am a new subscriber
I confirm I am 18 years old or above
Your name Address
Postcode Telephone No.
DEAL 1 SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGE VALUE £87.78 YOU PAY £32.50 YOU SAVE £55.28 (over 62%)
+
GET 12 ISSUES OF AIRGUN SHOOTER MAGAZINE
+
A FREE COAST HL4 DUAL COLOUR LED HEAD TORCH AND G4 KEYRING LED TORCH WORTH £27.90!
DEAL 2 SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGE VALUE £92.77
Email
D EA L 1 Please send me 12 issues of Airgun Shooter PLUS my FREE COAST HL4 dual colour head torch and BONUS G4 keyring LED torch. I am paying £32.50 by credit or debit card.
WORTH £87.78
D EA L 2
Please send me 13 issues of Airgun Shooter PLUS my FREE COAST HL4 dual colour head torch and BONUS G4 keyring LED torch. I am paying £32.50 by annual Direct Debit.* *Offer available by Direct Debit only
WORTH £92.77
SUBSCRIBE BY PHONE:
01926 339 808
056-057 SUBS Feb 65 2015_Rev2.indd 57
Signature
Please set up a direct debit payment for £32.50
LTD
Direct Debit Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay by Direct Debit Service user Number
2
5
4
3
8
9
ref. No. (For official use only)
Please fill send to: to: Blaze Publishing Ltd, Lawrence House,House, Morrell Morrell St, Leamington Spa, Warks. CV32 5SZ CV32 5SZ Please fillininthe theform formand and send Blaze Publishing Ltd, Lawrence St, Leamington Spa, Warks.
Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society
Postcode Account holder(s) name(s) Branch sort code
+
FREE
Your statement will read Blaze Publishing Ltd.
CVV no (last 3 digits on reverse)
Address
GET 13 ISSUES OF AIRGUN SHOOTER MAGAZINE
PLUS EXTRA ISSUE
Start Date / issue no
To the manager (Bank Name)
+
Offer available by Direct Debit only
Expiry Date
If paying by cheque please make payable to Blaze Publishing Ltd
YOU PAY £32.50 YOU SAVE £60.27 (over 64%)
A FREE COAST HL4 DUAL COLOUR LED HEAD TORCH AND G4 KEYRING LED TORCH WORTH £27.90!
Please debit my Switch/Maestro/VISA/Mastercard £32.50
Bank/Building Society account No.
PLUS EXTRA ISSUE
FREE Tick here if you do not wish to receive information about other Blaze Publishing magazines
INSTrucTIoNS To your BANk or BuIlDINg SocIeTy. Please pay Blaze Publishing ltd Direct Debits from the account detailed on this instruction, subject to safeguards assured by the Direct Debit guarantee. I understand that the instruction may remain with Blaze Publishing ltd and if so, details will be passed electronically to my Bank or Building Society.
Signature
Date
Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions for some types of account.
Offers apply to UK residents only and whilst stocks last. Publishers reserve the right to offer alternative gift. Direct debit option not available by phone or internet. Savings are based on cover price and postage.
Quote Reference AS065
TWO GREAT DEALS TO CHOOSE FROM
RETURN THIS FORM TO: Blaze Publishing Ltd, Lawrence House, Morrell Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 5SZ 15/12/2014 19:52
58
058.indd 58
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:51
the AIRGUN The official Blaze Index of what’s selling in this month’s airgun marketplace
INDEX: AIRGUN 100
100
Every four weeks, Airgun Shooter‘s market analysis team survey 20 different gun shops to establish the last five airguns each has sold. These 100 responses are then ranked, giving you an official snapshot of what airgunners are spending their cash on right now… MARKET REPORT
T
he Weihrauch HW100 has once again notched up the most votes in our official sales chart to hold on to the top spot for a second successive month – but while that may come as no surprise to regular marketwatchers who’ve been following the raging success of this German-built PCP, the gun that’s nipping at its heels most certainly will raise a few eyebrows! The runner-up in this month’s chart (which very much reflects pre-Christmas sales) is quite different – it’s the new, CO2-powered Webley Mark VI, a £199 replica that’s true to the original Service Revolver in almost every way. Its six-shot chambers even take dummy shells that are marked ‘Webley 455’ – and the fact that it’s fended off competition from several top-end PCPs is an early indication that this new Webley BB gun is going to be a guaranteed till-ringer through 2015. In third place, it’s the ever-present BSA R10 Mk2 multi-shot PCP, while the remaining slots go to springers – the highly-popular new Remington Express break-barrel sporter just pipping Weihrauch’s second offering, the HW97K underlever stalwart, into fourth. Could this be an indication that belts are tightening and the affordable end of airgunning is going to be the more buoyant – at least in the springgun sector – in the run-up to the UK’s general election this May? We can’t predict, but what we do see is that a few of the regular guns are finding it tougher than ever to fight off the ever-increasing arsenal of good-quality models gracing the racks of gun shops across the UK. This survey showed no fewer than 48 different models in dealers’ respective ‘last five’ sales – so it’s clearly a good time to be an airgunner contemplating on what gun to acquire next. Just knocking on the door of our official Top Five was a plethora of PCPs, including the Air Arms S410, Brocock Contour, Daystate Regal, Gamo Coyote and Walther Rotex RM8. Only a couple of springers were in amongst them – the Gamo Stalker Barricade and Stoeger X20S. ●
Information compiled to week ending 12 December 2014
059 Airgun 100_Rev2CK.indd 59
TOP OF THIS MONTH’S AIRGUN CHARTS
NEW ENTRY 1 2 3 4 5
TOP
5
Weihrauch HW100 Webley Mark VI Service Revolver BSA R10 Mk2 Remington Express Weihrauch HW97K
FILLING TIME With the survey of this month’s randomly-selected dealers seemingly highlighting the popularity of the precharged pneumatic (over a springer), we asked traders whether airgunner are going for stirrup pumps or scuba bottles when it comes to keeping their PCPs topped up. The answer? A a big thumbs-up for… bottles. Gun shops said shooters like the speed and convenience of air on tap, plus the peace of mind provided by clean, dry air from a compressor – and the test regimes a diver’s tank requires isn’t a deal-breaker. While some gun shops offer a filling service to a punter’s gun from on-site, largecapacity tanks, most airgun shooters are buying their own bottles to stay self-sufficient. Our analysis suggests scuba models from Midland Diving Equipment and Hydrotech are among the biggest sellers. Where shooters are plumping for manual filling, it’s Hill and Webley that seem to be the pumps of choice for shooters, although sales of models by FX, GunPower and Hatsan are steady. With impressive new pumps to be imminently released by Hill and AirForceOne, this particular market may yet make a violet swing in 2015, however.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
59
17/12/2014 10:31
60
060.indd 60
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:53
Turning out the
KITBAG: NIGHT VISION
LIGHTS
More and more hunters are taking advantage of the extreme stealth provided by night vision gear. Here’s a round-up of some great spotters, sights and illuminators for lamp-free nocturnal forays… PITCH BLACK FIELD MASTER
SRP: £385 W: www.pitchblacknightvision.co.uk
NITE SITE VIPER
SRP: £449
The Viper is an add-on night vision unit that fixes to your scope so you can hunt in the dark without having to re-zero. It provides sufficient illumination for shooting over airgun ranges, and for spotting out to 100 metres. Attachment is quick and simple: connect the camera to the rear of your scope with the supplied sleeve, clip the LCD screen and illuminator module to your scope tube, strap on the battery, wire it up… and you’re ready for action. Just go carefully with the scope sleeve the first few times you put it on – its tight fit can dislodge the rubber ring from the ocular lens on some scopes. Your crosshairs and sight picture appear on the 3.5in display screen, with the integral infra-red LED providing illumination to cut through the darkness. The unit weighs 572g, is water resistant and has a run-time of up to seven hours. You can even plug into the 3.5mm four-pin jack to video what you see through the scope on your hunting trips. Guaranteed for two years, the Viper kit includes camera module, LCD screen with integral illuminator, scope clamps for 25mm and 30mm tubes, recoil clamp, two scope sleeves, battery, mains charger and a pack of screen filters to reduce shine-back onto your face. The whole lot comes in a tough black carry case.
W: www.nitesite.com
The Field Master is a complete kit that brings night vision shooting within the reach of shooters on a tight budget. However, don’t be fooled by its modest price-tag; this impressive package delivers serious performance. Apart from allowing you to shoot in complete darkness, this digital unit produces clear colour images in daylight, allowing round-the-clock shooting without having to switch between optics. Its 5x magnification is perfect for blatting rats around the farm or sniping rabbits at longer range, and also gives a wide enough field of view for spotting and swift target acquisition. Weighing just over 800g, the unit features a flip-out 4.3in highresolution colour screen, and an on-board battery that gives a run time of up to 12 hours. The reticle can be customised, with a wide variety of colours and aiming points to keep you on target whatever the range or light conditions. Zeroing is a bit of a fiddle, as you use the stubby joystick at the back of the unit to scroll through the on-screen menu, then shift the reticle to correspond with the point of impact – but full instructions are supplied, and it doesn’t take long to master. The Field Master comes with a 1000-lumen torch and an Osram Oslon Black T20 infra-red emitter, enabling viewing distances of over 200 metres in total darkness. Both are supplied with remote switches, are power-adjustable and fit to the unit’s integral Weaver rails. The package also includes mounts, batteries and mains chargers.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
061-064 Comparison NV_Rev5CK.indd 61
61
18/12/2014 14:47
HAWKE 5x40 DIGITAL MONOCULAR This compact and ruggedly built digital monocular is an affordable handheld NV spotter that’s great for use alongside conventional lamping gear. Spot your quarry through the monocular, stalk in under the cover of darkness… then flick on your lamp and take the shot once you’re within range. Weighing 400g, the compact unit boasts 5x optical and 8x digital zooms, and a built-in infra-red illuminator, which is adjustable to give just the right level or brightness for use in low light conditions and out to 200 metres in complete darkness. The rechargeable battery gives a run-time of up to 90 minutes, or 60 with the illuminator on. There’s a hand-strap for secure grip, dioptre focus wheel for optimum sharpness, a soft eye-cup for comfortable viewing and a Weaver rail that allows attachment of a tripod. This monocular doesn’t just allow you to watch quarry after nightfall, you can also record it by taking high-resolution images or video at the push of a button. Data is stored on the on-board hard drive, and can be either played back through the device or transferred to your computer via the supplied USB cables. The kit includes AV cable, USB charge and transfer cables, carry-case, pouch, lens cloth and rechargeable battery.
SRP: £199 W: www.deben.com
NIGHTMASTER VENOM STRIKE
The Venom Strike is not just an infra-red illuminator – you can add interchangeable head units to give white, red and green light, as well as the IR light that boosts the performance of your night vision device. It really is just about as close as you can get to a single torch to cover all air rifle hunting scenarios. The glow-in-the-dark tail cap and optional remote switch both feature rotary dials to adjust brightness, so you can get exactly the level you need – and the torch even remembers how you set it so it won’t default back to full power after being switched off. The head of the torch twists in and out, moving the convex lens back and forth to focus the beam from a wide floodlight to a tight spot with virtually no noticeable spillage. The Venom Strike weighs 225g and is housed in a tough, waterproof shell of aircraft-grade aluminium. It has a run-time of up to four hours, and can be locked onto your telescopic sight with a mount that uses a single locking knob for quick and easy attachment. Although NV shooters will be most interested in the powerful LED IR unit, the more conventional lighting options should also prove very useful. We found the white light best for long-range work out to 300 metres, with the red and green lights proving useful for targeting wary quarry – all were great for tasks like reloading magazines and paunching rabbits. SRP: Torch only (IR) - £124.95; IR kit - £149.95; Additional coloured LED section - £44.95 W: www.venomstrike.com
PULSAR DIGISIGHT N750A A serious night vision scope with a serious pricetag, the Pulsar N750A may not be the first choice for hunters on a tight budget – but it’s worth saving up for if you want top performance. Its square-profile body is adorned with numerous buttons – but it’s not a complicated sight and is quick and easy to use in the field. It’s also packed with handy features, including no fewer than 13 very sharp reticles! Various combinations of crosshairs, mil-dots and illuminated central aiming points mean there’s one to cover virtually every situation – and you can even save settings for different guns, ammo or ranges! The image is produced by a highly sensitive CCD array, optimised to the infra-red spectrum, and transmitted to a 640x480 pixel OLED display with adjustable SRP: £1,299.95 (dovetail mount £49.95) brightness and contrast, making for exceptionally clear viewing. The unit provides 4.5x magnification, which can be boosted to 6.75x with the digital zoom. There’s an on-board infra-red illuminator, which can be turned up or down via the five-position on/off switch. Weighing 1.7kg and measuring 340mm in length, the standard N750A comes with Weaver female mounts, so you’ll need the optional dovetail mount to fit to a standard scope rail. The Pulsar has a video out jack for recording, and the kit includes a wireless remote control, four AA batteries as well as recharging gear.
62
W: www.thomasjacks.co.uk
AIRGUN SHOOTER
061-064 Comparison NV_Rev5CK.indd 62
18/12/2014 14:48
KITBAG: NIGHT VISION BUSHNELL EQUINOX Z 4.5x40 This digital monocular from Bushnell is excellent for spotting quarry, whether you’re working in complete darkness with night vision sights, or stalking into range with a lamp. It offers 4.5x magnification, which can be boosted a further three times with the built-in digital zoom to give 13.5x magnification for detailed observation. The 40mm multi-coated objective lens produces a good-quality image, not only in monochrome NV format by night, but also in colour by day. The on-board infra-red illuminator is sufficiently powerful for viewing out to 300 metres, or you can clip a more powerful unit to the integral Picatinny rail to increase range further. The Equinox Z runs on four AA batteries, giving up to 14 hours’ continual use with the illuminator switched off; up to seven with it on. The controls are simple to operate, and allow illuminator power and image brightness to be turned up or down at the press of a button. This handy monocular also offers the option to record photographs or video to an SD card, so you can capture your after-dark action. The Equinox Z weighs 623g, is encased in a rugged waterproof, shockproof, rubberised housing that’s very comfortable in the hand, and incorporates a tripod mount. The kit includes carry-case, wrist strap, USB and video out cables, plus a lens cloth.
SEEING WITHOUT NV
Although night vision allows you to see in the dark, you also need a quickly accessible source of conventional light to navigate your shoot safely. The bright image created by NV optics is fantastic for spotting and shooting quarry, but it can take your eyes a long time to re-adjust to the dark after you switch them off – and that’s when you need an auxiliary light to hand, especially if you’re on the move.
JACK PYKE CLIP-ON CAP LIGHT Small, lightweight and helpfully hands-free, this little lamp clips to the peak of your shooting cap, saving you from having to fumble around in your pockets when you’re plunged into darkness. Finished in olive green and operated by a simple on/off button, the cap light is powered by two CR2032 batteries (supplied) and its five LEDs provide perfect illumination for tasks like loading up and retrieving shot quarry.
SRP: £299 W: www.edgarbrothers.com
SRP: £6.95 W: www.jackpyke.co.uk SRP: £579.99 (Starfire illuminator); £699.99 (Firefly illuminator)
LED LENSER P7 GUN SET
W: www.starlightnv.co.uk
With a max power setting of 320 lumens, this pocket-sized torch can throw a beam out to around 300 metres, and brightness can be adjusted with a click of the switch – extending run-time to 50 hours on low power. It also features speed-focus, to quickly shift between a spot beam for distance work and floodlight for closer tasks. The set includes a scope mount – so you can use it for after-dark hunting assignments if your budget doesn’t yet extend to NV – plus batteries, belt holster, lanyard and interchangeable tail and stock-mounted switches.
SRP: £69.99 (kit) W: www.bisley-uk.com
STARLIGHT ARROW The Arrow from Starlight Night Vision slides onto the rear of your daytime telescopic sight, enabling you to see in the dark. Because this nifty DSA (Day Scope Adaptor) sees ‘through’ your scope, there’s no need to change sights or re-zero when the sun goes down – simply attach the Arrow and continue shooting with your normal reticule and aim points. Supplied with precision bushes to exactly fit your scope model, the Arrow’s mounting sleeve is secured to your telly via two screws. Attachment is relatively fast and fuss-free, and the connection is rock-solid, with no hint of play. Weighing 500g, the Arrow extends scope length by around 100mm when fitted. The eyepiece twists in and out to fine-tune dioptric focus and is shielded by a soft rubber eye-cup that prevents light ingress. Controls are easy to use in the dark – there’s a twist on/off switch on the side of the unit, and two buttons at the rear to click the brightness of the screen up and down. Powered by two 3.7v rechargeable Li-ion batteries, the Arrow has a continual run-time of four hours. The supplied infra-red illuminator fits to the Weaver rail on top of the device – a nice touch which means you can leave the illuminator in situ and don’t have to attach it via your scope. Arrow’s Starfire illuminator casts a beam that will comfortably cover airgun applications, and the uprated Firefly provides an added boost to cover long-range spotting and rim-fire rifles. The Arrow kit includes scope attachment adaptor, bush and attachment tools, illuminator, batteries and mains charger.
MORE NV KIT OVER THE PAGE
AIRGUN SHOOTER
061-064 Comparison NV_Rev5CK.indd 63
63
18/12/2014 14:48
KITBAG: NIGHT VISION
TRACER LEDRAY IR A low-priced, but powerful LED infra-red torch, the LEDRAY IR is a compact add-on that attaches to your digital night vision device to increase viewing range and image definition. High-performance LEDs as well as a sophisticated reflector and circuitry throw a beam of infra-red light out to 400 metres. The beam can be adjusted from a tight spot to a wide flood, and there are three power levels to cover everything from long-range spotting to close-range ratting. The basic unit is supplied with three AAA batteries, and can also run on one 183650 or two CR123A cells, giving a run-time of up to six hours. The torch weighs just 138g and is 122mm long. It’s waterproof and robust, featuring an antishatter lens and tough aluminium body with nonslip textured finish for improved grip. The kit also includes a Weaver mount that clamps to the torch’s 25mm tube, plus a lanyard.
SRP: £499.95 W: www.nightmaster.co.uk
NIGHT MASTER ATOM The ATOM is a clever little DSA add-on that converts your day scope for night vision. There’s no need to change scope or re-zero; just attach it to the rear of your usual telescopic sight, add an infra-red illuminator and you’re ready for action. Quick and easy to use, the ATOM is supplied with six different-sized shims to ensure a good fit between the adaptor sleeve and your scope. Once on, it’s operated by a simple on/off switch at the top of the device – there are no complicated controls to hinder your nocturnal hunting. In front of the switch, beneath a dust cap, is a socket that facilitates battery charging and can also be used to plug in an external battery if the two-hour continual run-time of the on-board cell isn’t enough for you. Moreover, the socket can be used to record video through the unit. The ATOM adds just over 100mm to the length of your scope and incorporates a rubber eye-cup which fits over the dioptre compensation wheel at the rear of the unit. The eye-cup features a concertina-type recoil ring to provide a comfortable fit and correct eye relief, and also prevents external light from spilling onto the rear lens and compromising the sight picture. The compact unit weighs just 180g (including adaptor) and comes with shims, scope adaptor, eye-cup and mains charger.
SRP: £69.95 (£89.95 with rechargeable battery and charger) W: www.deben.com
SRP: £399.95 W: www.thomasjacks.co.uk
ANOTHER ONE TO CONSIDER… Although Scott Country couldn’t get us a review sample in time for this round-up, their new ATN X-Sight boasts some impressive features. The digital day/night scope allows you to see in colour by day and in monochrome NV at night, and has a zoom range to cover everything from spotting to precision shooting. Its makers say its delicate sensors produce a very sharp image, and iOS compatibility with iPhone products facilitates electronic control and remote viewfinder, so friends can see what you see, plus the ability to record and share footage. Other features include GPS Geotag, e-compass, altitude sensor, WiFi connectivity, and image-stabilising gyroscope. The ATN X-Sight weighs 1.22kg, runs on two AA batteries, and costs £649 (3-12x) or £779 (12-18x).
64
YUKON PHOTON XT 4.6x42 The proportions and design of the Yukon Photon XT mean that your eye lines up with the sight picture in the same way as it would with your day scope – the absence of external screens or add-ons enabling you to shoulder and shoot your airgun without having to adopt a head-up stance or keep your head way back towards the butt off the gun. It may look more like a day scope than your typical NV device, but the Yukon Photon has no turrets – zero is dialled in via an easy-to-follow menu. The 4.6x magnification makes for precise shooting, which is further aided by a choice of reticles that can be switched between red, green and white. An on-board 810nm infra-red illuminator, with three-step power adjustment, makes for clear viewing to over 100 metres – and range can be further extended by fitting an external illuminator to the Weaver rail. Despite its impressive long-range potential, the Photon can be focused down to just 10 metres, making it ideal for ratting with the air rifle. This scope can also be used by day, and features an improved lens cap for enhanced daytime image quality. The unit weighs 620g, is 398mm long, and runs on two AA batteries, which give a run-time of up to five hours. It also has a video out facility for recording the NV action as it unfolds.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
061-064 Comparison NV_Rev5CK.indd 64
18/12/2014 14:48
AIRGUN SHOOTER
065.indd 65
65
19/12/2014 15:11
Beeza
GEEZA!
We catch up with an Essex boy who shoots HFT in both calibres…
AS BS
H
unter Field Target’s ‘generous’ scoring – where a point’s scored for a hit on the silhouette, doubling to two if it falls – is certainly one of the sport’s biggest draws. Another is the more general remit where equipment is concerned – unlike top-level FT shooting, you don’t have to invest in a fully fledged match rig complete with a mega-mag scope to take part in HFT. This means that HFT brings in more informal shooters, who don’t have the desire to be overserious about what they’re doing; for them, the most important factor is enjoyment. One such shooter is 40-year-old Barry Smith. As a fan of both .177 and .22 calibres, his take on the sport of HFT gives a very interesting perspective… ● Barry says that with a fully adjustable trigger...
66
Tell us a little about your background I’m a sunny Essex boy, born and bred! Married, with two lovely children, I’m a plumbing and heating engineer by trade. AS What set you on the shooting path? BS Around seven years ago, a mate of mine let me mess around with his air pistol and I caught the shooting bug, as they say! Since then, I’ve dabbled a little bit with a .177HMR and a .22LR and I also enjoy clay shooting now and again with my fatherin-law, in Cyprus, where he lives. They all shoot there. AS A shooter of all things, then. What about the airguns you’ve owned? BS I’ve owned several. From BSA: an R10, Scorpion SE and Ultra. From Air Arms: an MPR, TX200 and S200. And from Daystate: a Platinum – my favourite… when it worked! Its electronics were a little temperamental, but it had a lovely stock. I didn’t get on too well with the TX200 as springers aren’t my forte. I still use the Scorpion SE, in .22 calibre, as it’s fabulous to shoot – but my current competition rifle is the R10, in .177. AS Shooting both calibres – doesn’t that scramble your brain, Barry? BS Well, it’s all about doing your homework and learning the trajectory. The .22’s is obviously much harder to master, and you don’t get away with so much if you misjudge the target’s distance for sure – but I’ve had some reasonable results with this calibre. Of late, however, I’m enjoying competing in the Open ...and a height-modifiable butt class with .177 calibre. pad, the R10 feels just right AS Have you made any modifications to the R10? BS I’ve added an air stripper to the muzzle, which looks great – but my R10 is actually a
AIRGUN SHOOTER
066-067 FT Profile Barry Smith_Rev3CK.indd 66
17/12/2014 10:51
SHOOTER PROFILE: BARRY SMITH
Left: The BSA R10 in .177 is Barry‘s current competition rifle
AS BS AS BS
standard factory gun, with no internal mods. Its key feature is its totally free-floating barrel – and the R10’s fully adjustable trigger feels just right for me. Its amazing red-white-blue laminate stock also comes courtesy of BSA, from whom I have the privilege of some sponsorship. It’s the only one of its kind in the country, though I believe their new Gold Star Scorpion range will feature something like it. (Am I allowed to say that?) I know it looks flash, but laminate is more stable than walnut – and with a height-adjustable butt pad all part of the design, I’m well pleased. And the scope? Nothing fancy, but it does the job perfectly – a Hawke Airmax SR6 3-12x44. What about your results, then? I’ve won the Chris Cundey shoot before, plus quite a few open wins in .22 grade throughout the years – but one of my most satisfying results has to be winning the overall .22 Class in the 2013 UKAHFT National Series. That’s the beauty of the HFT class structure, though. It’s really encouraging for all-comers – ladies, two classes for junior age groups, .22 and recoiling classes. Having a dedicated .22 class means you don’t get penalised for using the larger calibre, and you only compete against other shooters using much the same kit. Actually, it’s really competitive between all the .22 shooters, which makes for some friendly rivalry at all the national rounds. I also won the National Series’ Round 8 Open class at Cambridge, but with .177. It’s great to be a part of Team BSA on the circuit, and we’re certainly beginning to get results.
Barry has added an air stripper to the muzzle of his otherwise factory-standard R10
AS BS
AS BS
You shoot for a manufacturer’s team, but what about your club? I’m a member of Kibworth Shooting Club and have previously been a member of Maldon and District AGC (MAD). I like to practise at least once or twice a week, if work and family commitments allow, and the atmosphere at Kibworth is great. You’re with like-minded enthusiasts, all enjoying your chosen sport together, sharing information and ideas along the way. What do you think of HFT, and how do you see its future? Hunter Field Target is just a really enjoyable hobby. I love the banter with the other guys and the ‘friendly’ competition – nothing too serious. I always have a good laugh, plus it gets me out and about in the fresh air, meeting and mixing with new people. I’m always looking to better myself with regards to the shooting, and there’s plenty to learn. As far as the structure of the target courses, I personally feel it’s becoming a bit stale. Some of the rules need addressing to liven the sport up a bit – make us shooters work even harder!
AS
What advice would you give someone thinking about taking up HFT? BS Just buy the very best gun, scope and gear you can afford; however, don’t rush into a purchase. Look Barry‘s Hawke Airmax SR6 3-12x44 scope does the job perfectly around and see what other people are using. Get their opinions, but do remember it may take you a while to find the right gun that suits you. And join your local HFT club to practise, practise, practise! Most importantly, though, have fun doing so…
AIRGUN SHOOTER
066-067 FT Profile Barry Smith_Rev3CK.indd 67
67
17/12/2014 10:51
68
068.indd 68
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:56
Tails from the
PEST CONTROL: GARDEN RATTING
HOME FRONT
An exceptional influx of rats in his garden brings Mat Manning’s usual field operations with the air rifle much closer to home…
Below: Caught in the act! A big rat makes it into the chicken run
A
s a keeper of garden hens, I have to put up with the occasional ratty visitor. The simple fact is that chickens and rats tend to go hand in hand – which is why it’s always worth considering poultry farms whenever you’re seeking out a hunting permission. Thankfully, my garden flock doesn’t attract anything like the number of rats you’d expect to find on an intensive poultry unit. For starters, it doesn’t offer anywhere near the amount of shelter and sheer volume of food that hungry rodents can expect to find on a commercial farm. But I like to think that my constant vigilance with the air rifle also helps keep these undesirable guests at bay. My first line of defence against the scaly-tails is narrow gauge wire netting, buried 25cm under the ground and reinforced with baseboards to make it tricky for rats to slip through or dig under. I also keep a Fenn trap set in a wooden tunnel on the outside of the netting. Every once in a while, though, an extra-determined rat does manage to bypass the deterrents – and such persistent critters then have to face my air rifle. It’s not challenging hunting, but it’s still essential pest control.
AIRGUN SHOOTER
069-070 Hunt MM Tails from home_Rev2CK.indd 69
69
17/12/2014 11:00
PEST CONTROL: GARDEN RATTING Left + inset: The rats managed to get past the fine mesh and sunken boards to get to the ready supply of poultry feed Below: Six rats in two evenings – Mat’s biggest ever backyard bag
Recently, my garden suffered its worst ever infestation of rats after I’d had a week away with the family. As there are strict rules dictating that traps are checked at least once every 24 hours, I left mine unset – and, typically, all this coincided with the first proper cold snap of the year. This meant that rats from surrounding farmland turned to bordering gardens in search of food and shelter – and found it in abundance in my chicken run. By the time we’d returned, there were two large holes linking a busy rat-run to my chicken feed. I even caught one in the act when I first went out to check on how the hens had been doing in my absence! Reckoning there were too many rats to rid quickly by the trap alone, I hastily stopped up the holes by healing in rocks and then pulled the air rifle from its gun cabinet the minute we’d fully unpacked. With the light starting to fade, I assumed the scavenging scaly-tails would soon be out in force for their night-time binge – and although the Weihrauch HW95K break-barrel springer is usually my go-to garden gun, this time I picked up the BSA Ultra SE instead. As it would soon be dark, its multi-shot magazine would prove handier for fast reloading in the gloom. Plus, I had plans to extend the session by clipping on a lamp if enough rats showed up. I set up my trusty old backpack stool about 15 metres from the chicken run. Although this stool is now on its last legs (literally), I still use it for ratting whenever I can. Familiarity is one of the key ingredients in accurate shooting, and sitting in the same position every time certainly helps with that. Once seated comfortably, I loaded up the Ultra’s mag and waited for the rats to arrive… The first taker of the evening came as something of a surprise – because it emerged from under the garden shed, and not from the hedgerow as I’d expected. It made a dash across the lawn, hesitated briefly by the blocked hole, then scurried across to the hedge. The lure of the chicken feed was obviously too much for the rat to resist, because it soon slinked back out and started scraping where the burrow had been. As it tried to scrape past the rocks, it gave me plenty of time to align my sights and touch off a telling shot. The pellet landed neatly into its head to get my rat-culling operation off to a great start.
70
Less than 10 minutes later, a second rat shot out from beneath the shed. This one also made a beeline for the blocked hole, but didn’t veer off towards the hedge. Instead, it lingered to sniff at its dead mate, which proved to be a fatal mistake. With two rats quickly accounted for, the light began to fade to the point that it was too dark to see through the scope. I nipped back into the house to clip on my Tracer Tri-Star Pro lamp and returned to the garden in the hope of more ratty action. Anyone who’s shot them will know that rats can be notoriously lampshy. That’s why I prefer to set up with a red filter, and I also dialled down the power of the Tri-Star Pro to soften its beam. In this garden environment, there was still enough power to the beam to pick out the glowing red eyes of a rat, peering out from under the shed. Taking full advantage of the relatively close range, and my supersteady shooting position on the stool, I picked it off. I then adjusted my position to specifically target the shed – clearly, this was where the rodents had decided to set up home while we were away. Over the next hour or so, I accounted for two more rats to take the evening’s tally to five before the action tailed off. I was back out again the following evening; I nailed one more (the only one I saw all night) for a combined total of six rats in two sessions – about the number I’d normally expect to despatch in the garden with the air rifle over the entire year! I disposed of their carcases on the bonfire. Since then, my tunnel trap hasn’t been tripped once, so I reckon all the scaly-tailed raiders have been brought to book by the Beeza alone. Mind you, I’m sure it won’t be the end of it. The temperature’s risen again, so I expect that the next blast of cold weather will send more rats into the garden. Only this time I’ll be ready for them when they come, and they’ll hopefully decide against setting up another rats’ nest under my shed. ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
069-070 Hunt MM Tails from home_Rev2CK.indd 70
17/12/2014 11:00
AIRGUN SHOOTER
071.indd 71
71
19/12/2014 12:57
MEDIA SHOP ● MEDIA SHO Our selection of the best airgun books and DVDs for your shooting library… with some special reader discounts, too!
EDITOR’S CHOICE
THE AIR RIFLE HUNTING COLLECTION – VOLUME 1 The Airgun Show
Capturing live hunting action on film is never an easy task, but having enjoyed watching Blaze’s new DVD compilation, The Air Rifle Hunting Collection, I can vouch that it certainly puts the viewer into the thick of the action; at times, I almost felt like I was shooting next to my old buddy and The Airgun Show presenter, Mat Manning! Volume 1 – which happily suggests we’re going to see some sequels – is both entertaining and informative. It comprises a two-disc DVD equating to more than two hours of the forays featured on The Airgun Show’s popular new YouTube channel, and you’ll be able to watch broadcast-quality coverage of Mat undertaking rabbit and grey squirrel hunting, ratting and farmyard pest control. Double Disc Set Apart from packing in plenty of hunting action through changing seasons, and featuring a variety of locations from dairy farms to sporting estates, this DVD set is full of useful tips to help the airgunner put more game in the bag. I’d say the viewer certainly benefits from Mat’s 25 years’ airgun hunting experience; he lifts the lid on some of his most productive tactics as he takes you through 14 varied hunting scenarios. Mat also narrates the reasons behind his pest control forays and provides a helpful insight into quarry behaviour, and how hunters can exploit wily pests’ weaknesses to make optimum use of their time in the field. Instructional sections cover topics such as hide-building, stalking and static hunting to bag bunnies and grey squirrels. And he also takes you on to the farm with corvids, feral pigeons and rats in the crosshairs – including some awesome night vision footage. As is often the case with airgun hunting, it doesn’t always go to plan, and it’s fascinating to watch Mat drawing on his knowledge of fieldcraft to make the most of those tough days when his quarry refuses to read the script – something which I felt added a real air of credibility to the DVD. This professionally produced collection is certainly DVD a must-see for any air rifle hunter who‘s missed the YouTube showing. Airgun Shooter price: £15
NEW
AIR RIFLE HUNTING THROUGH THE SEASONS
ADVANCED AIRGUN HUNTING
In a fresh approach for a hunting tome, Mat’s second book on the subject describes over 30 hunting scenarios that you’re likely to come across through the calendar. Covering all methods and the airgunner’s main quarry species, Mat comprehensively explains how to fill your bag… and then tempts you with a number of mouthwatering recipes – from rook pie to squirrel surprise! SRP: £19.95 Airgun Shooter price: £17.95
John Bezzant’s latest book does exactly what the title’s by-line suggests – it covers fitness training and marksmanship tests, as well as more conventional topics on taking quarry at longer-thannormal ranges. SRP: £19.95 Airgun Shooter Price: £17
A Guide to Fieldcraft Mat Manning
JHB
A Guide to Equipment, Shooting Techniques and Training John Bezzant
JHB
AIRGUN FIELDCRAFT
THE AIRGUN HUNTER’S YEAR
This 198-page book devotes chapters to each airgun quarry species, with further fact-filled chapters on topics like power and calibre, hunting with a dog, tracking and trailing, and the art of concealment (to name just a few). Beautifully illustrated with the author’s at-the-scene images, it’s one of the most influential writings on airgun hunting – and guaranteed to improve your own skill level as a hunter. Airgun Shooter price: £19.95
Through its 224 pages, Ian’s inaugural book takes you on an airgun hunting journey through a year, with each of its dozen chapters dedicated to a month where Ian recounts his personal hunting experiences in a most informative way. The chapters are packed with valuable information about quarry, technique and tips on what to look for when you’re out hunting. It’s a superb read from one of the most highly esteemed airgun hunters of our time. SRP: £20 Airgun Shooter price: £17
A Lifetime’s Hunting Advice Ian Barnett
KINDLE EDITION AVAILABLE
HB
Ian Barnett
JHB
BEST SELLER
TOTAL AIRGUNS – 2nd EDITION
The Complete Guide to Hunting with Air Rifles Pete Wadeson
NEW HB
AIR RIFLE HUNTING John Darling
The legacy left by the late, great John Darling – ‘The Hunter’. Probably the biggest-selling airgun hunting book of all time, this is the perfect way to learn your art: from the master himself. Providing blanket coverage of the sport, JD’s chapters on rabbits, squirrels, rats, mustelids, woodpigeons, corvids and doves rank as the most important airgun writings ever documented in a book. SRP: £16.99 Airgun Shooter price: £14.50
A re-written work of the author’s classic, now with 30 extra pages and better photographic illustrations. Contains a wealth of information – from choosing a rifle, ammo selection, sighting systems and accessories to proper, safe gun handling in the field, with a bias on the hunting theme, from basics to the law. A must-read… even if you had Pete’s first work. SRP: £25 Airgun Shooter price: £20.99 JHB
CORVID CHAOS David James PAL 118 minutes Double Disc Set
A double-disk DVD from David James, aka HuntersVermin on YouTube. Over two hours of superb hunting footage dealing primarily with corvid pest control, although there are also detailed sequences on rabbit stalking, woody decoying and hide building. The hot, new airgun hunting film that no true fieldsman should miss. SRP: £17.99 Airgun Shooter Price: £14.99
Air Rifle Vermin Control in Northern Ireland David James
PAL 123 minutes
Double Disc Set
The sequel to his best-selling first movie, this 123-minute collection of David James’s on-camera forays includes high-quality footage of not only corvid control, but also rabbit stalking, woodpigeon shooting and hide building. Chock-full of in-the-field hunting, the double-disc set comprehensively explains how to get the best from any challenge the air rifle pest controller may face. SRP: £17.99 Airgun Shooter price: £14.99
DVD
DVD
72
CORVID CHAOS II
AIRGUN SHOOTER EXCLUSIVE
AIRGUN SHOOTER
072-073 Media Shop Feb 15_Rev4CK.indd 72
17/12/2014 11:05
SHOP ● MEDIA SHOP
DISCOUNT ORDER FORM Something take your fancy? Order through us – by phone, online or by post – for the special Airgun Shooter discount on all items. TITLE
GAS, AIR AND SPRING GUNS OF THE WORLD W.H.B. Smith
Air Rifle Hunting through the Seasons
The latest 2010 printing of the airgun ‘bible’, first published in 1957. Contains 270 photos and operational drawings in its 279 pages, along with specs and test results of every major world manufacturer of its time. A comprehensive encyclopaedia for every airgun enthusiast, collector, dealer or historian. SRP: £22.50 Airgun Shooter price: £19 HB
AIR PISTOL SHOOTING
A Guide to Pistols and Techniques John Bezzant
£15 Mat Manning
£17.95
Advanced Airgun Hunting
John Bezzant
£17
Airgun Fieldcraft
Ian Barnett
£19.95
Ian Barnett
£17
Total Airguns 2nd Edition
Pete Wadeson
£20.99
Air Rifle Hunting
John Darling
£14.50
DVD
Corvid Chaos (1) DVD
David James
£14.99
DVD
Corvid Chaos (II) DVD
David James
£14.99
Gas, Air and Spring Guns of the World
W.H.B. Smith
£19
Air Pistol Shooting
John Bezzant
£10.99
Air Rifle Shooting
John Bezzant
£14.50
Custom Knifemaking
Tim McCreight
£12.50
Butchering Small Game and Birds
John Bezzant
£12.99
Pest & Predator Control
BASC
£14.50
Pest Control for the Smallholder
David Bezzant
£12.99
AIR RIFLE SHOOTING
for Pest Control and Rabbiting John Bezzant
JHBSB
✓
The Airgun Hunter‘s Year
NEW
Written by a journalist and self-sufficient shooter, this 192-page, hardback book covers everything from choosing your rifle to using it effectively for pest control. As well as general fieldcraft and examining the specific habits of individual quarry, topics include ballistics, range-building, gun-mounting, zeroing and maintenance. The author also considers the ethical aspects of the sport, including care of the quarry and how to despatch injured quarry humanely. SRP: £16.99 Airgun Shooter price: £14.50
PRICE
NEW
Aimed at pistol shooters who want to experience more than just the fun-gunning element of the sport, this 96-page softback carries colour photos and illustrations from the author as he helps you embark on a programme to become a better shot with an air pistol. There’s even a chapter on how to be quick on the draw – though more orthodox guidance covers grip, stance and trigger technique. SRP: £12.99 Airgun Shooter price: £10.99 SB
AUTHOR
NEW The Airgun Show – Hunting Collection (Vol. 1) DVD
Pest Control with the Air Rifle
Jim Tyler
£10.95
Rabbit Control
Jackie Drakeford
£12.50
Total plus £4 p&p (free on orders over £30)*
£
NAME ADDRESS
CUSTOM KNIFEMAKING
10 Projects from a Master Craftsman Tim McCreight A knife is an essential kitbag item, and by way of illustrated sketches, this 22-page book takes you through 10 projects, ranging from a lock-back folding knife to a simple kitchen paring knife… and you’ll probably have all the tools you need in your garage tool box! SRP: £14.95 Airgun Shooter Price: £12.50
POSTCODE/ZIP CODE
COUNTRY
TELEPHONE EMAIL SIGNATURE
DATE
SB
I enclose a cheque for _____________ payable to Blaze Publishing Ltd.
BUTCHERING SMALL GAME AND BIRDS Rabbits, Hares, Poultry and Wild Birds John Bezzant
NEW
HB
Newly published, this well-illustrated book is ideal for the many airgun hunters who would like to learn the correct techniques for getting their shot quarry onto the dinner plate. Covering all aspects of ‘butchery’, including how best to use and maintain knives, step-by-step photos support detailed explanations of important topics like hygiene, paunching, skinning, dressing, jointing and meat preservation. There’s even a chapter on how to turn rabbit pelts into shooting hats! SRP: £14.99 Airgun Shooter price: £12.99
PEST & PREDATOR CONTROL
Please debit my Switch/VISA/Mastercard/Maestro for _____________
No Electron or Amex please
Expiry date ______/______ Start date / issue no. ______/______ CVV no.
(last 3 digits on reverse of card)
Your credit card statement will read ’Blaze Publishing Ltd’.
*UK only. Overseas customers – call for best postage rates (+44 1926 339808)
BASC Handbooks
AS FEB-15
A 120-page guide from Britain’s largest shooting organisation, this book provides detailed advice on shooting, snaring, trapping, poisoning, the use of dogs, and humane despatch – plus the law governing pest species and, in particular, the General Licences that are frequently misunderstood by shooters. Very applicable to airgun hunters, this guide will also appeal to those with a keen interest in the countryside. SRP: £16.95 Airgun Shooter price: £14.50 HB
ORDER HOTLINE
By phone, online or by post
01926 339 808 www.virtualnewsagent.com
KEY: HB HARDBACK
SB SOFTBACK
JHB JACKETED HARDBACK
MORE TITLES AT: www.virtualnewsagent.com 072-073 Media Shop Feb 15_Rev4CK.indd 73
DVD FILM
Blaze Publishing Ltd, Lawrence House, Morrell Street, AIRGUN SHOOTER 73 Leamington Spa, CV32 5SZ, England
17/12/2014 11:05
74
074.indd 74
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 12:59
GUNS & GEAR FOR SALE It’s FREE for readers to advertise in Airgun Shooter. If you have an airgun or accessory you’d like to sell, simply send us in the form below (or email
[email protected] with ‘Airgun Shooter’ in the subject line) and we’ll include it in the next available issue… absolutely free. You can even include a photo if you want. IMPORTANT. The Guns & Gear For Sale service is reserved exclusively for readers undertaking private transactions. It is not a service for those who deal in guns by way of trade or business. It is the responsibility of readers to observe prevailing laws; transacting parties must prove they are over 18 years of age. Privately sold/bought airguns that are exempt from licensing – i.e. air rifles under 12ft/lb muzzle energy and air pistols under 6ft/lb – do not require a face-to-face transaction, but Airgun Shooter suggests that due diligence is undertaken and thus recommends it. We also recommend the inclusion of a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) – an assurance that the airgun offered for sale complies with the 12ft/lb (rifle) or 6ft/lb (pistol) power limits. You can download a CoC free from www.airgunmagazine.co.uk. In the case of an FAC-rated airgun, the transaction must be face-to-face, and you may need to liaise with the firearms officer of your local constabulary before committing to any transaction. The publisher reserves the right to amend and/or refuse an advert.
Rapid Mk1 .22, good cond, Vortex silencer, 2 large buddy bottles, 1 small spare tactical stock, spare 20in barrel, bipod, sling and swivels, Bushnell 3-9x50 scope, x12 mag, x20 shot, £700 ono. David Knox 07734 877260 (Middx) Original Model 50 .22, new spring fitted, good cond for age, classic air rifle, £150 ono + p&p. Buzz Bates 01736 600046
[email protected] (Cornwall) SMK S3 .22 air pistol, only used once, excellent cond, still in original box, approximately 500 pellets for this pistol also included. Any questions, please ask. Roy 01460 77914
[email protected] (S. Somerset) HW80 Venom Mk1 .177, thumbhole stock, silencer, sling, gold trigger, nice cond, approx 1983, £600. Wanted any model of BSA Model D or Lincoln Jeffries, anything considered. F Howe 07930 612612 (N. Wales) Wanted BSA Mercury MK2 stock, finish not important if no splits or cracks. Ken Rees 07753 423702 (N. Somerset) Walther LGV Challenger synthetic .177, shot only 1 tin of pellets, excellent cond, 2x moderator, buyer collects, try before you buy, £150, no offers. Richard Keates 07852 149760 cm-keates@ yahoo.co.uk (Norfolk) Weihrauch HW97K with Nikko Stirling Mountmaster scope, hardly fired since purchase in April 2014, £290 ono. James Cullen 07570 912674 (W. Sussex) Wanted Airgun Shooter issue 1 to complete collection. Barry Warren 07895 093568
[email protected] (Suffolk/Essex) Weihrauch HW30 .177, 4x32 scope, very good cond, £70. Clifford Vincent 01473 787454 (Suffolk) Daystate Mk 4 .177, Grade 3 walnut stock, Airstream Mk5 silencer, MTC 10-44 Viper IR scope, BKL mounts, sling and swivels, all keys and manuals, as new cond, £850 ovno. Andy 07511 771269
[email protected] (Suffolk) BSA Super Meteor Mk 3/4 .22, with period Tasco 4x20 scope, £60 + p&p; SMK XH53 .177 pistol, £20 + p&p; 20in .22 barrel for Theoben Rapid Mk 1, £50 + p&p. David Knox 01784 482055 (Berks) Logun Mk II .22, excellent cond, as new, £350. Andrew Polychroni 07527 892985 (London) BSA Mercury .177 Mk II, new piston seal and spring, does 10.5ft/lb, open sights, £150. Roger Archbold 07812 911441
[email protected] (Middx) Regulator for BSA R10 Mk2 .177, £150 and barrel shroud for same, £45, replaced during tune-up, both excellent cond. Greg Haddock 01225 764429
[email protected] (Wilts)
Weihrauch HW45 Black Star .177, little used, still boxed, Hawke red dot sight, unmarked, can swap for Crosman 2240 with cash difference, £200. John Hood 07890 781668 (Leics) HW100 .177, Sporter stock, 2 mags, Hawke Sport HD 3-9X50 scope, Haris bipod, silencer, beautiful walnut stock, mint cond, first to see will buy, f-to-f only, £600. P Schietaert 07549 761580 (W. Yorks) Weihrauch HW97KT .22, black synthetic, Hawke 2-7x32 mildot illum. scope, all in near-mint cond, £300. Peter Ilbery 07900 884471 (Oxford) Air Arms Jackal silencer, slide-over, £30 ono. Simon Martin 01473 258689 (Suffolk) Weihrauch HW77K .22, good working order, £160; BSA Cadet .177, £60; Enfield no. 5 Jungle Carbine Peep Sight, will fit on air rifle, £25. J P Sheehan 07747 327240 (Mid Glam) BSA Airsporter Mk II .22, good cond, £100; BSA Falcon .22, £50. M Jones 07415 298994
[email protected] (W. Mids) Gamo Knockdown Target and Case-Gard front rifle/pistol adjustable rest, both unused and unboxed, £25 each or £45 the pair, buyer collects. Allan Russell 07538 720290 allan-russell@ hotmail.co.uk (Herts) Park RH91 .22 recoilless rifle, mint cased example, with paperwork, rare twin piston gun, £400. Geoff 07821 283976
[email protected] (W. Yorks) Hebridean Night Vision monocular with attachment to convert day scope into night vision scope, was £300 new, will sell for £130 or swap for good cond Sheridan or Benjamin Franklin pneumatic pistol. J P Sheehan 07747 327240 (Mid Glam) Daystate Mk4 .177, grade 3 sportster walnut stock, Airstream Mk5 silencer, MTC 10-44 Viper IR scope in BKL mounts, sling and swivels, all keys and manuals, outstanding cond, £900 ono. Andy 07511 771269
[email protected] (Suffolk) Wanted HW45, .177 or .22, must be in good cond, price to include p&p if further than 40 miles. D Martin 01329 841654 (Hants) BSA Super Meteor Mk 3/4, recently had main spring and washers replaced, with period Tasco 4x20 scope, £60 + p&p. D Knox 01784 482055 (Berks) Anschutz 250 Match vintage rifle, cased, with accessories, mint cond, £400, would exchange for Match pistol; Haenal 302 .22 vintage rifle, new internal parts, good, smooth action, £130. Wanted Match pistol (eg BSF 20 Target), ring with details. D F Perkins 0115 9893639 (Notts) Daystate Mk4 .177, excellent cond, oiled walnut stock, Reflex silencer, shroud, Bisley adjustable shoulder support, three Daystate
Fill out the form below and send it to Reader Ads, Airgun Shooter, Lawrence House, Morrell Street, Leamington Spa, Warks CV32 5SZ – or email it to
[email protected] with ‘Airgun Shooter’ in the subject line. The item stays in until it gets knocked off by other items.
FREE TO LIST
.177 mags, on/off keys, charger, CD with instructions, JSR 6-24x50 AO/IR scope, £650 ono. John Slater 01189 668992
[email protected] (Berks) Daystate Mk3, new, L/H walnut T/H stock, 4-16x44 scope, fill adaptor, battery charger hardly used since new batteries and service, gunbag, HW silencer, excellent cond, buyer collects, £450 ono. David Bessell 07949 174570
[email protected] (Lancs) Webley Nemesis .177 pistol (original Webley co.), excellent cond, single shot, with plastic case and pellets, £85 ono. John Slater 01189 668992
[email protected] (Berks) BSA Superstar .177 Mk II, scoped, good cond, £180; El Gamo Center .177 Target pistol, in original packing with accessories, mint cond, £100; BSA Scorpion .22 air pistol, complete with cocking arm, excellent cond, £100. John Griffiths 01446 751155 (S. Glam) Crosman Phantom .22, Flambeau shaped hard case, 3-9x40 Bushnell scope, dusk/dawn Custom B2 .22, Buffalo River camo bag, 3-9x40 SMK scope + 4x32 Center Point scope, tripod, HCA, boxed, never used, mint cond (unwanted gifts), 500 Crosman pellets, 500 SMK Spitfires, 500 Wasp, £350 ono. D Clarkson 0208 3207685 (Kent) Weihrauch HW35L and scope, Webley Longbow and scope, BSA Superstar and scope, Original 45 and scope, Sharp Ace and scope, all very good cond, prices on enquiry. Wanted Venom Mach I air rifle, any info on Haenel Model Vie air rifle, any Sussex Sabo bullets. R G Hill 07910 842570 or 01384 821944 (W. Mids) NiteSite NS200, lithium battery, never used, cost £700 new, buyer collects, £300. P Busby 01420 543211 (Hants) Park RH91 .22 recoilless rifle, pristine cased example with instructions, rare twin-piston gun, £400 + p&p. Geoff 07821 283976
[email protected] (West Yorks) Best Fitting 7ltr bottle, long hose, carry handle, 4-year test, £175. Stuart Daniels 07928 502187 (N. Wales) MK 1 Rapid 7 .22 very good cond, scope + silencer, hardly used, buyer collects, £680. Wanted HW98 and HW80 stocks, with no cracks or repairs. Alan Morgan 07842 562976 (S. Wales) Swap Webley Mk 1 17 Groove Mk 3 circa no. 2283 1948, full W. A., very good cond, for BSA Stutzen in same condition. Mr M Evans 01695 570652 (Lancs) Daystate Mk 4 .177, grade 3 walnut sporter stock, Airstream Mk 5 silencer, MTC 10-44 Viper scope in BKL mounts, sling and swivels, all keys, manuals incl, outstanding cond, £1,000 ovno. Andy C‘ailceta 07511 771269
[email protected] (Suffolk) BSA Airsporter Mk 2 .22, GD24789, £120; BSA Cadet Major .177, £90; .177 air rifle, 43in long, metal butt plate, approx 1950-60, £75; all good cond. E Morel 01189 736589 (Berks) BSA Superstar Mk 2 .22 underlever, Simmons 3-9x40 scope, silencer, bag, only 60 shots fired, immaculate, £230. Peter Hocking 01323 725053
[email protected] (E. Sussex) Wanted NJR 100 and Galatian Mk II original, no mod please, working cond; also BSA Buccaneer in good cond. M Arbuthnott 01483 811377 (Surrey)
Item description
Your name Your address (we won’t print this – only your county, tel no and email)
Your telephone no Your email
Item price
AIRGUN SHOOTER
075 Reader Ads_Rev5CK.indd 75
75
18/12/2014 12:43
76
076.indd 76
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 15:34
A move to the
TEST: ARMEX BLACKOUT
DARK SIDE
The UK’s official Umarex importer has developed an interesting take on the company’s Hammerli Black Force 800. Nigel Allen gets some range time with the Armex Blackout…
I
t‘s almost exactly two years since the Hammerli Black Force 800 landed on our shores via Umarex’s UK distributor, Armex – and which we first unveiled in the March 2013 issue. The synthetic-stocked Hammerli break-barrel came in at £180, inclusive of a ready-to-shoot package that boasted a Nikko 6x40 scope and Force One gunbag. Armex’s latest development also uses a Black Force chassis. It’s called the Blackout – and while I’ll confess that I don’t go a bundle on the name, I’m certainly impressed with both the package… and the price. You see, the Armex Blackout arrives at the till even cheaper – just £159.99. For your money, you get a higher-specced scope, and in lieu of the gunbag and open sights comes Armex’s own Back-Draft silencer – 300 grams of mega sound suppression that’s been fitted to a barrel which has correspondingly been shortened on this variant. Having handled the original Hammerli outfit, I was quite surprised at what a difference the new front-end set-up of the Blackout made. All the excellent handling attributes of the original configuration remain in terms of its ergonomic gunfit. But in Blackout guise, the rifle seems to swing onto target with an almost gyroscopic stability – a characteristic that I put down to that huge Back-Draft can, which really stabilises muzzle wobble. I also love the sleek lines of its very practical stock, which provide sharp-cut chequering for a good hold, a hollow butt to
Above: The Blackout comes complete with a Walther 3-9x40 scope and Armex‘s Back-Draft silencer
WALTHER 3-9x40 The Blackout’s scope is of a much higher spec than you‘d normally expect in an ‘affordable‘ combo package – it’s a Walther with a 30mm tube that sports a stepless magnification range from 3-9x power and a light-gathering 40mm diameter objective. Although there’s no parallax adjustment – which is really only needed on higher-mag scopes – my test scope’s parallax appeared to be set at an airgunspecific 30 metres. Its crosshair is the Duplex type, with a thick-to-thin 30/30 reticle. The turrets offer 1/4MOA adjustment and can be clicked around without tools courtesy of their finger grips (see below). The eyepiece focus can be permanently set via a locking ring. In terms of image quality, there was some perspective shift at 3x (where the sight picture was the brightest and sharpest), and a slight blurriness at full 9x, but neither aberration caused me issues. For the record, I shot mainly on 7x power. My test sample was also supplied with double-screw Promounts – all in all, a telly that excellently matched the Blackout rifle.
Sharp-cut chequering on the stock imparts a very good hold
AIRGUN SHOOTER
077-079 Test2 Armex Blackout_Rev6CK.indd 77
77
18/12/2014 14:40
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Armex Blackout UK DISTRIBUTOR: Armex ● www.armex-airgun.com ACTION: Break-barrel, spring and piston CALIBRE: .22 only OVERALL LENGTH: 1,066mm BARREL LENGTH: 265mm WEIGHT (INCL. SCOPE): 4kg TRIGGER: Two-stage, adjustable SAFETY: Automatic, resettable SIGHTS: No opens. Combo supplied with Walther 3-9x40 STOCK: Black synthetic LENGTH OF PULL: 355mm POWER: 11.4ft/lb (with RWS Superdome roundheads) PRICE: £159.99, inclusive of 3-9x40 scope, mounts and Back-Draft silencer
The ergonomics of the ambi grip keep your trigger hand comfortable
keep weight down and shift the balance point to a ‘neutral’ position and an extended forend to suit a multitude of stances. Other attributes of the Blackout’s handle include an ambidextrous butt that’s about right for use with the supplied scope (but may be a bit low if you chose to switch to high mounts), a decent thumb muscle cutaway to keep your trigger hand comfortable and a recoil pad that’s been designed to minimise vibration transfer. My test rifle didn’t have much of a kick, but when you have a hollow stock that has the potential to amplify action resonance, a forgiving butt pad like this is certainly a good, precautionary move. For my trigger hand, the Hammerli’s grip area is absolutely spot-on, allowing my index finger to fall perfectly onto the relatively straightbladed trigger. It’s a two-stage affair that’s adjustable for pull weight – though my test model’s ‘creep’ increased the lighter I set it. I found a good compromise between weight and sear release, however, with a manageable first stage pressure and plenty of initial travel. It’s the kind of trigger you may have to concentrate on when zeroing up on paper… but which you’ll completely forget about once you’re ‘in action’ in the field. While the barrel length of the Black Force is 480mm, that of the Blackout is just 265mm, having been professionally shortened and recrowned in the UK by Armex’s appointed gunsmiths. There’s no choke to the muzzle, but I had no call to question the Blackout’s accuracy – my test rifle was capable of sending decent roundhead ammo into group patterns that were coverable by a two-pence piece (25mm) at 25 yards if I did my bit. And I certainly did ‘my bit’ more often than not courtesy of the combo’s shooter-friendly handling characteristics. The breech lock-up also helps on the accuracy front, because even though it uses the old Feinwerkbau Sport style of a ball-bearing and catch closure, everything remained very solid throughout the duration of my test period. I’m sure it’ll slacken up in time, but the breech block pivots around a bolt, rather than a plain old pin, so you can always tighten things up to account for normal wear.
The two-stage trigger is adjustable for pull weight
78
Despite the shorter barrel, cocking effort hasn’t increased on the Blackout, courtesy of the mechanical advantage offered by the BackDraft. I found the best way to cock the rifle, having tapped the end of the silencer to break open the breech, was to draw it back in one, quick motion. This automatically engages a safety catch at the rear of the action, which can be reset if required. The rifle can also be de-cocked should you not want to take the shot; there is no antibeartrap fitted. With power nudging the 12ft/lb limit, and good shot-to-shot consistency, I’d have no qualms recommending the Blackout for hunting work out to 30 or 35 yards in the right hands (and conditions) – and the fact that it comes ready scoped up and complete with silencer helps seal the deal. Unusually for an all-in-one combo package, the scope Armex supplies the Blackout with is far superior to your normal ‘budget job’ – and the fact that you can butt the rear mount tightly up against the Hammerli’s recoil plate means the supplied two-piece mounts will hold a good zero, with no fear of ‘creeping’. The Blackout’s other addition is of similarly high quality, because you’re getting the impressive Back-Draft silencer – worth £40 – thrown into the bargain! While it means you sacrifice the Black Force 800’s usual fibre-optic open sights, I’m more than happy with the trade-off. Besides, as well as a scope, Armex’s variation also includes a 1/2in male UNF muzzle adaptor. At a time when lots of Eastern-sourced airguns are driving down prices at the gun shops, it’s often quite difficult to make a final decision as to which model to plump for. However, the Armex Blackout makes a very good case for itself – and given the quality of its accoutrements, I think it’ll win a large army of fans. Aside of all that, it’s also a collaboration between a trio of the biggest names in the airgun business – and when Hammerli, Umarex and Armex come together, you can pretty much be sure that your investment is going to give a good return! ●
The breech pivots around a bolt and locks up via a ball-catch system
AIRGUN SHOOTER
077-079 Test2 Armex Blackout_Rev6CK.indd 78
18/12/2014 14:41
TEST: ARMEX BLACKOUT
ARMEX BACK-DRAFT
BACK-DRAFT SILENCER This really is a silencer and a half – literally… because it can be reversed so that you either have two-thirds of its void ahead of the rifle’s muzzle, or one-third. Made from matt black-anodised aluminium, the Back-Draft is a reflexstyle suppressor which not only dissipates escaping air from the muzzle, but also diverts the noisy muzzle blast back down the portion that sits over the barrel by way of a single, six-ported baffle located two-thirds – or one-third, depending how you’re running it! – down its 32mm diameter inner bore. This baffle is secured in place via three screws and its internal 1/2in UNF thread fits onto a male adaptor that’s grubscrewed to the muzzle of the Blackout’s cut-down barrel. In terms of the look and balance of the rifle, I preferred having the Back-Draft set to having just onethird ahead of the muzzle. I did, however, try both configurations with a sound meter – and while both ways muffled the muzzle report extremely well, my metered tests showed (as expected) that the longer the void in front of the muzzle, the better the sound suppression (see below). If stealthy shooting is important to you, the Back-Draft is seriously worth considering as a retro-fit addition for other hardware. It costs £39.99 and will fit barrels up to 16mm in outside diameter.
SOUND SUPRESSION – RECORDED DATA CONFIGURATION IN FRONT OF MUZZLE
NOISE LEVEL
113.5 dB-A
No silencer attached
111.9 dB-A
|
CHAMBER |
Back-Draft – 1/3 void
110.5 dB-A
|
CHAMBER
|
Back-Draft – 2/3 void
You can butt the scope‘s rear mount against the arrestor plate, and thus avoid creeping under recoil
The Armex Blackout includes a 1/2in male UNF muzzle adaptor
AIRGUN SHOOTER
077-079 Test2 Armex Blackout_Rev6CK.indd 79
79
18/12/2014 14:41
GEARING UP FOR…
Feral pigeon culling
Though not usually the most challenging form of hunting, culling feral pigeons still requires the pest controller to be suitably equipped. Pete Wadeson advises on the sort of kit you may need...
FOOTWEAR Tough environs require an equally tough pair of hunting boots – and most feral extermination jobs will test your footing to the limit. You need to be nimble, but protected, which is why I rate the Viper Elite-5 Boots. Lightweight and rugged, their high-leg design offers great protection, and they come in Multi-cam or Coyote finishes. The boots are fabricated from a mix of 1000D Cordura with an outer framework of cowhide suede leather, a generous rubber toe cap protector and heel guard. All materials are seam-sealed and double-stitched for extra security, while a padded collar and upper offer comfort and protection, further aided via a moulded EVA mid-sole. A Hydroguard membrane makes them fully waterproof and breathable, while their Vibram Multi-Sport rubber outsoles have an aggressive cleat layout to give good traction. They are also easy to clean. Anti-rust captive ‘D’-rings at the lower part of the ankle aid malleability when walking, and I like the fact that the first metal open hasp-type fastener is set well back so you can draw the boot snugly to your foot with the laces. Hasps continue up the calf for optimum comfort, too. SRP: £95 (UK sizes 7-13) W: www.viperkit.co.uk
SCOPE Feral clearances require good light-gathering optics, and while there are many models out there to suit, I’ve singled out Hawke’s Panorama 4-12x50 AO EV for a few reasons, not least its ‘Extreme View’ configuration. This gives 20 per cent more field of view – ideal when you need to ‘find’ feral targets among the clutter of the rafters and in the dark. The Panorama is built around a one-piece tube (25mm), and its adjustable objective lens focuses down to 15 yards. The knurled design of the magnification, quick-focus and parallax rings makes for easy use when wearing gloves. Coupled with the wide-angle EV optics, the Panorama’s 50mm front end is great for light gathering (helped courtesy of fully multi-coated lenses), and Hawke’s glass-etched half Mil-Dot reticle can be illuminated in red or blue to give the perfect aiming reference however demanding the lighting conditions. Each colour also offers up to five brightness settings. The multi-aim point reticle gives improved accuracy when in the ‘tricky trajectory’ territory of close-range shooting – and it’s compatible with Hawke’s free-to-download BRC ballistics software, so you can ‘blueprint’ the scope to your rifle/pellet combo. Threaded for a sunshade and proofed against the elements as well as recoil (if you’re using it on a springer), the Panorama is certainly a dependable telly when feral pigeon culling. SRP: 169.95 W: www.deben.com
C
ulling feral pigeons more often than not requires you to tackle roosting birds in abandoned buildings, barns or industrial units. Therefore, you not only need to have the right kit to target the birds in the dark, but suitable ancillary items that’ll help you combat the inhospitable areas in which they spend their nights. ●
80
AIRGUN SHOOTER
080-082 GUF Feral culling_Rev2CK.indd 80
18/12/2014 11:08
GEAR: CULLING FERALS
LAMPING KIT It is legal under the terms of the UK’s General Licence to use artificial light for culling feral pigeons (but not woodpigeons). However, because of the close ranges involved, you don’t really need a big rig as if you were going after rabbits. A tactical flashlight is the way to go – and I’ve recently been ‘going’ with the hi-tech, uniquely designed Nightmaster Venom Strike. Just 183mm long and made from black-anodised, aircraft-grade aluminium, it’s waterproof to IPX-8 standard – and the full kit includes the torch (with LED colour option of choice), high scope mount, an 18650 rechargeable battery, dual-bay mains charger, remote pressure pad switch plus spare ‘O’ ring seals. It’ll also power up via two CR123A Lithium batteries. Its modular design includes a very clever multi-function tail cap assembly or the alternative remote pressure switch, and the LED options include white, red, green or a dedicated IR LED for use with an NV unit. The unique tail caps of both the tactical switch and remote pressure pad unit include a glow-in-the-dark yellow/green on/ off switch for quick activation, around which is a rotary collar that controls the brightness of the torch. Spot to flood adjustment comes by way of the rotating head. It’s a very versatile light, with a throw of 600 yards at full power and a continuous run-time of around three hours with the supplied cell. The ability to change LEDs is a superb feature that avoids the need for filters, which would otherwise reduce the inherent performance of the light. Another neat feature is its ‘last-used’ memory function. SRP: £124.95 (kit); Optional colour LED modules - £44.95; 850nM IR LED - £64.95 W: www.venomstrike.com
AMMO Most feral pigeon culls will never extend ranges beyond middistances. However, as the bird is a tough cookie, you need a hard-hitting slug that won’t overpenetrate – and for maximum stopping power, I’d recommend SMK Black Flat. If your gun’s a .22, BS55 Flat tip the scales at 14.9 grains; the .177 BS45 Flat weighs in at 8.2 grains. They get their ‘Black’ nametag from the graphite particles added during the manufacturing process. This increases velocity to maximise the high shock factor imparted by the totally flat-faced head. As a result, you can feel confident of taking the ‘boiler room’ shots that you often have to deal with when shooting ferals tucked high up in the rafters. SRP: £3.99 (BS55 - 250); £2.99 (BS45 - 250) W: www.sportsmk.co.uk
HEADLAMP ALTERNATIVE SIGHTING If ferals have become ‘twitchy’ to the lamp and you have to carry out the cull in total darkness, then life’s been made a lot simpler thanks to NiteSite’s ingenious day scope converter unit – the entry level Viper version of which is a big favourite with airgun hunters. It takes around a minute to set up to a ready-zeroed combo, so it’s a good choice for feral work. The full Viper kit comes in a protective ABS carrycase and contains the camera module, scope-mounted LCD screen (90mm) with integral IR illuminator, 25mm and 30mm scope clamps, recoil clamp, two scope attachment sleeves, a Li-ion battery, mains charger, as well as a pack of screen filters. An update of the inaugural NS-50 model, the Viper’s display screen now incorporates an 850nM IR unit to boost the camera module’s see-in-the-dark capability to 100 metres if need be, though you can simply dial down the power for feral operations. The camera module simply pushes over your scope’s eyepiece via the supplied connector. The head-up display screen that clips to the body tube relays a clear monochrome image as seen through the scope. The system allows you to use all your scope’s on-board features, like the magnification, zoom and parallax – and though it takes a while to get used to shooting without your head on the stock, feral culling scenarios usually offer plenty of resting opportunities for the rifle; you then simply have to look at the screen, rather than shoulder the airgun. The Viper is water-resistant and comes with a video out capability should you want to record the shooting, and it has a run-time of up to 7.5 hours. Coming as a kit in a neat custom-fitted box, it only adds around half a kilo to your combo’s all-up weight, too.
A good-quality headlamp is always useful and one as compact and unobtrusive as the Princeton Tec Sync is ideal because it can be slipped into a jacket pocket when not required. Featuring an adjustable headband, the asymmetrical tilt-adjust ABS lamp casing measures 65x35x40mm and weighs just 83 grams, inclusive of its three AAA Alkaline batteries. The LED configuration includes an Ultrabright red LED flanked by a white Maxbright LED (spot beam) and a white Maxbright LED (flood). A twist power dial gives direct access to the red LED, then increments of rotation switch on the spot beam, the flood beam and a dual-beam mode – spot and flood at the same time when you require its maximum 90-lumen output. SRP: £34.95 W: www.whitbyandco.co.uk
www.princetontec.com
SRP: £449 (kit) W: www.nitesite.com
AIRGUN SHOOTER
080-082 GUF Feral culling_Rev2CK.indd 81
81
18/12/2014 11:08
GEAR: CULLING FERALS GUNBAG The kind of environment where feral culls take place is, sadly, the kind of place where you’re likely to add a few dents and scratches to your rifle’s woodwork – so a protective gunbag is a sound choice. If it’s got a few extra features to double up as a carry-bag, all’s the better – which is what draws me to Buffalo River’s Dominator PCP gunbag. Available in 42 and 50in lengths, it’s primarily designed for ‘buddy bottle’ PCP air rifles fitted with a large scope and bipod attached – but it also accepts most air rifles with NV optics aboard, or a conventional scope and flashlight mounted thanks to its generous size. At its deepest point, the Dominator measures 380mm, and it’s 150mm thick. Fabricated from Durable Ballistic Nylon, the generous internal foam lining and inner waterproof PVC skin can be removed for cleaning and will also open out fully for use as a shooting mat. External stowage consists of a full zip open pocket that extends right down one side of the bag, and the pouch extends towards the front. It also has two centrally positioned zip closure pockets on each side. SRP: From £48.49 (Black or Buffalo camo) W:
www.highlandoutdoors.co.uk
MULTI-TOOL Dirty jobs like feral culling require tough tools – and I’d never be without my Gerber MP1 in such situations, where you never know what you’re going to need your field cutlery to do next… Weighing just 227 grams, it opens out to 176mm – though it’s only 111mm when closed and fits neatly into its polyester sheath that sports a belt loop. The jaws of its distinctive plier heads are manufactured from 6150 Carbon Steel, which will be man enough for any ‘around-the-farm’ work, while its 420 High Carbon Steel blades hold a good edge for most tasks it’ll be called upon to undertake. As well as the ‘forged’ needlenose pliers, hard-wire cutters and wire strippers, the MP1 features a useful selection of professional-grade components, including three blades – fine-edge, serrated and utility – three screwdrivers with a universal magnetic extended bit driver, and a bottle opener. Its distinctive butterfly design helps avoid accidental closure by way of an integrated wedge lock, while its ergonomic G-10 textured composite handles feel very secure in the hand. SRP: £139.99 W: www.gerbergear.co.uk
LASER Many shooters like to integrate a laser into their hunting rig as it helps to either assess range and/or ‘train’ the eye on the quarry targeted. Hawke’s 20mm diameter Tactical Laser is manufactured from black-anodised aluminium – and even though it’s just 98mm long, its 5mW eye-safe beam has a 50-metre throw. More importantly, for the task of feral culling, its CR123A battery source projects a 10mm dot at 10 metres – ideal for close-range shooting in the dark. It can be zeroed to the gun via two, recessed grubscrews which can be locked once set. The kit also includes a Weaver accessory rail mount and a 25mm scope mount which will clear optics with 50mm objective lenses (like the Panorama). It can be set up with either an integral tail or remote switch and the laser is available with a red or green emitter. SRP: £29.95 (red); £49.95 (green) W: www.deben.com
82
AIRGUN SHOOTER
080-082 GUF Feral culling_Rev2CK.indd 82
18/12/2014 11:09
N U AIRG o Sho ter
DIGITAL EDITIONS AVAILABLE ON iPAD, iPHONE AND ANDROID VISIT
Stay tuned every other Thursday for what’s set to become the essential show for airgunners. Follow us at @ShootingShowTV
facebook.com/TheShootingShow
youtube.com/TheShootingShow
AIRGUN SHOOTER
083.indd 83
83
19/12/2014 14:43
Crowning
DUELS
In what must be one of the finest examples illustrating the history of airgun-making, Phil Bulmer throws some light on a pair of Paul Giffard CO2 duelling practice pistols from the late 19th century…
L
ook back in history, and in Stuart times it was perfectly acceptable for a lady to bare her breasts in polite company! By the Victorian era, getting your assets out for the lads was a no-no liable to land you in Holloway – yet duelling, the acceptable face of a glorified bar brawl (to the death), was not only acceptable… but honourable! Admittedly, by the mid-19th century, duelling was in decline in Britain, though our French cousins hung on to it until the early 1900s. This little history lesson brings me neatly on to the two pistols seen here – because duelling was, in fact, their purpose. Well, more accurately, duelling practice. They’re CO2 powered, and while you wouldn’t want to connect with any lead ball emerging from the barrel, any injury would most likely have been non-fatal. Historical records suggest that the element of duelling practice was afforded by firing wax balls instead of the more conventional lead, though it’s believed practitioners would happily shoot either! Even so, wax still came keen when it hit, so hand shields were fitted to pistols. One can only presume that padded clothing was also worn as an additional safety measure. (Don’t try this at home, folks…) Looking at these magnificent airgun pieces, I couldn’t help envisioning a nobleman honing his skills in preparation for being called upon to defend his honour. But at the same time, it seems almost too far-fetched that they were developed for this purpose; they could equally be just romantic objects of desire, but with a duelling premise. Indeed, the lack of wear exhibited on either of this pair, and no evidence of shot impacts on the guards, may suggest this was the Victorian equivalent of a fondue set or sandwich toaster – you know, stuff that initially sounds hugely desirable and fun… but the novelty evaporates at first use! Or perhaps they were simply a grandiose item for display purposes only? The early history of these particular pistols is unclear, though there is providence to confirm they made it to the UK from France around the time of the First World War. We know they’re French-made as the engraving on the top of their barrels translates to: ‘Made in France, armament and cycle works St Etienne‘. They’re difficult to date specifically, though the 1880s to 1890s would be plumb in the middle of production. This pair is attributed to the famous French engineer and inventor, Paul Giffard. He was responsible for 200 patented inventions, including the world‘s first successful CO2-powered gun. Although he’s likely to have sub-contracted work out to others – there was even a London manufacturing base up until 1894 – he worked on his compressed
84
Above: This pair of CO2-powered, duelling practice pistols come in a purpose-built mahogany case and are attributed to the French inventor Paul Giffard. They probably date from around the 1880s to 1890s
air/compressed gas guns between the 1850s right up until his death in 1897. Much of his work focused on pneumatic pump-up style guns, but to airgun collectors, he’s perhaps most famous for his work on CO2 rifles and pistols. The process of capturing CO2 and compressing it was quite a new science and Giffard was very much involved in the development of the technology, having been granted a patent for such a gun which used removable cartridges containing (among other things) ‘liquefied gas’ in 1872. This was followed by another in the 1880s that exclusively covered CO2 as a propellant. Convinced by its advantages of ‘silent deadliness’ over powderburning weaponry of the time, Giffard worked hard at trying to get his designs adopted by the military – and although he wasn’t successful, his R&D certainly caused the military establishment to sit up and take notice. It’s reported by the NRA museum – which holds some fine examples of Giffard’s work – that the famous gunmaking name of Colt shelled out a million bucks to acquire the American production rights, just to secure their own position should CO2 ever get a foothold in the military arms market. To any airgun collector, a ‘Giffard’ is a big find – and though pistols and rifles do surface from time to time, these ‘duellers’ in 8mm calibre are of most interest for a number of reasons. Firstly, they’re a matched pair of particularly high quality in their finish, and they also come cased in baize-lined mahogany with compartmentalised accessories, including
AIRGUN SHOOTER
084-086 Vintage Giffard duelling pistols_Rev3CK.indd 84
18/12/2014 11:24
VINTAGE: GIFFARD PISTOLS Left: The main valve, exposed after screwing off the removable CO2 cylinder Below left: Both pistols are intricately engraved. Note also the stamped information relating to the replaceable CO2 cylinder
Above: One of the pistols, prepared for practice! Although 130 years old, its fine condition suggests these guns were little used
Left: The foresight sits above the large-bored muzzle Right: The maker’s marks are engraved along the top of the barrel
AIRGUN SHOOTER
084-086 Vintage Giffard duelling pistols_Rev3CK.indd 85
85
18/12/2014 11:25
VINTAGE: GIFFARD PISTOLS
Above left: The trigger and its ornate guard exude the characteristic of French gun manufacture of the time Above right: Detail of the breech, case-hardened hammer and finely made rearsight
additional CO2 reservoirs. Presumably the combatants were planning on plenty of practice! Their sights are particularly refined, too – and the extensive engraving has clearly been undertaken by a skilled craftsman. The pistols’ hammers are attractively case-hardened and both the under-polish and blueing to the metal are superb; these guns are very much in the deluxe bracket. The additional heart-shaped hand guards are individually fitted, and not interchangeable. I’d love to fire these pistols, but the seals will undoubtedly have perished over the last 130-odd years. Doubtless it’s possible to have bespoke adaptors made to fit the detachable CO2 cylinder and a competent engineer could re-manufacture a method of sealing and filling the gun – though I’d question the integrity of such an old pressure vessel. Giffard himself offered a CO2 service exchange facility for the reservoirs, which might explain why the surface finish and stamping isn’t as refined as the rest of the gun. For those interested, the stamps refer to the weight when filled with CO2 and at empty (in grams, naturally). Of course, the likelihood is that these pistols would develop over 6ft/lb if they were made operable, so would cause a legal headache – but their role in the UK can really only be that of an antiquity firearm, which is where they shall sit forevermore. I’m a great believer in ‘living vintage’ where airguns are concerned, however – and I know that shooters in the States regularly fire old Giffards after overcoming the sealing and filling issues. Long may that continue… but for now, I hope readers – collectors and non-collectors alike – enjoy looking at what surely must be one of the finest examples that records the fascinating history of airgun-making. ●
Above: The heart-shaped hand guard, fitted to protect the dueller’s hand, is unmarked on both pistols Below: The hammer is case-hardened
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT My thanks to the owner of this historic pair. They’ve asked to remain anonymous as they don’t wish to receive any offers from interested parties – they’re definitely not for sale at any price!
BIBLIOGRAPHY Guns and Gunmakers – A Dictionary, 2001, by John Walter; NRA National Firearms Museum, USA.
86
AIRGUN SHOOTER
084-086 Vintage Giffard duelling pistols_Rev3CK.indd 86
18/12/2014 11:25
AIRGUN SHOOTER
087.indd 87
87
19/12/2014 14:13
Know the
SCORE
With the aid of Hawke’s ChairGun Pro ballistic software – and not a single pellet being fired – Nigel Allen goes behind the figures to see if .20 calibre really is the answer to the age-old calibre argument…
I
t’s been my intention for a while to undertake an in-the-field comparison of .177, .20 and .22 calibres at sub-12ft/lb and report my findings in an article. Unfortunately, it’s a task that’s easier said than done – trying to find three rifles all capable of the same power output in their respective calibre, with similarly shaped ammo, has been nigh-on impossible – and we’re not even accounting for using three identical scopes and testing on a day with consistently calm conditions from start to finish. Additionally, any information I’d gather from the practical test would be very specific to my particular set-ups, and may not be relevant to anyone else’s – rendering all my hard work a waste of time!
THE THEORY
It’s still an area I’m keen to explore, however – and with an apparent renewed interest in the UK of the ‘compromise calibre’, I’ve decided to approach the topic from a theoretical perspective. To me, ‘theory’ is always a good starting point; a basis upon which to build practical knowledge. And thanks to Hawke’s free downloadable ballistics
Figure 1: TRAJECTORY COMPARISONS
88
software program, ChairGun Pro, the massive task of data analysis can be made without so much as firing a single shot. For the purposes of this theoretical comparison of the three calibres, I’ve made a number of assumptions – the ‘constants’ if you like. Firstly, I’ve used ChairGun’s own pellet coefficients for ‘standard’ roundheads, based on an 8.4-grain .177, a 13.7-grain .20 and a 15.9-grain .22. All inputs assume these pellets exit the rifle’s muzzle at 11.5ft/lb; in velocity terms, that’s 785, 615 and 571fps respectively. I’ve also programed in the height of the scope above the rifle’s boreline as 1.48 inches, and downrange trajectories have been analysed between 0 and 60 yards, with the pellets’ rise and fall shown in inches. I’ve chosen to work in imperial measurements as ChairGun Pro can’t mix and match, and velocity/power figures are better identifiable in feet per second and foot pounds than they are metres per second and joules to most UK airgunners.
TRAJECTORY
The graph in figure 1 shows a direct comparison of the .177, .20 and .22 trajectories. As most airgunners will already know, the .177 has the flattest trajectory – but I don’t mind acknowledging my surprise at how much nearer the .22’s trajectory the flightpath of the .20 calibre roundhead is. I’ve often heard fans of the ‘twenty’ saying it’s got a trajectory as flat as a .177’s… but clearly it hasn’t! For a like-for-like comparison, I’ve overlaid the flightpaths with a common zero range – 30 yards. The data shows how high above the scope’s sightline the pellet will strike at distances closer than this zero range. The .22 needs the most hold-under (to account for the rise of around 3/4in), while the .177 needs the least – around only 1/4in. Again, you can see from the graph that the .20 pellet’s high point is closer to the .22’s curve than the .177’s, although we’re only talking about fractions of an inch at these distances. As most shooters will know, as well as a primary zero range, a pellet crosses the scope’s sightline twice, the first crossover point being confusingly dubbed the ‘secondary’ zero mark. You can see from the graph that the .22’s secondary zero is the closest (at around 8.5 yards), with the .20’s at 10 yards and the .177’s at 15 yards. This is always useful to know whenever you’re setting
AIRGUN SHOOTER
088-089 Trajectory 177 v 22_Rev3CK.indd 88
18/12/2014 14:59
TECHNICAL: THE CALIBRE QUESTION
up a scope for the first time, as you can get a ‘rough setting’ by firing at a closer target before fine-tuning things further downrange.
POINT BLANK RANGE
Time was that airgunners used to zero their guns at a set distance – usually 20 yards for a .22 and 30 yards for a .177. Since the advent of readily accessible and easy-to-use ballistics software like ChairGun, it’s become clear that there’s an optimum zero range to suit a particular rifle/scope/ pellet combo. ‘Optimal’ brings into play PBR – or point blank range. This defines the range-span in which the pellet will strike on the vertical plane within a given ‘hit zone’ size when the sights have been aimed dead centre of that zone. In the case of an air rifle hunter, the hit – or kill – zone into which you must be able to consistently place all your pellets is generally considered to be around 1¼in (32 to 35mm). Setting a PBR kill zone of roughly 1¼in in ChairGun, it’s easy enough to then calculate the best zero range for each of the calibre combinations. The trick is to keep manually adjusting the zero range figure until the peak of the trajectory curve doesn’t fall outside of the PBR range. The software allows you to do this visually – it’s really quite easy.
Above: The ChairGun ballistics software allows you to easily calculate the best zero range for your rifle/scope/pellet combo
Figure 2:
STRIKE FARCE
The coloured circles in figure 2 represent a hunter’s PBR (in 1:1 scale). In other words, when you’ve set your rifle to its optimal zero range, aim dead centre of these rings and your pellet will still strike within it between the ranges stated to the side. For example, zero the .177 rifle at 38 yards, and a dead-centre shot taken at any range between 5.6 yards and 43.2 yards will still successfully land within the intended kill zone. For a .20, a 31-yard zero allows a dead-centre shot to be taken with success between 4.7 and 35.4 yards. Likewise, a .22 zeroed at the optimal zero range of 29 yards will strike right between 4.4 and 33.2 yards with a dead-centre shot. Looked at another way, though, it’s clear to see that the .20 pellet again comes up a little short. When all three calibres are set to optimal zero ranges, a .177 has a PBR range-span of 37.6 yards (43.2 minus 5.6); a .20 has a PBR range-span of 30.7 yards; and a .22 has a PBR range-span of 28.8 yards. As you can see, the .177 has way more PBR latitude than the .22 – but the .20’s span is only marginally better than the .22’s… and a lot worse than the .177’s. On this theoretical analysis of trajectory, I’d still plump for the .177 every time – whether I was shooting knock-down silhouettes or live quarry. What this doesn’t show, of course, is how effective either of the calibres is when it comes to stopping power – but I can’t help thinking that .20 isn’t the answer to a hunter’s prayer. To me, its flightpath is so close to the characteristics of a .22, there’s absolutely no point changing! Well, at least in theory… ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
088-089 Trajectory 177 v 22_Rev3CK.indd 89
89
18/12/2014 14:59
Risky
BUSINESS
Safety in the field goes much further than just considering the fallout zone. With the help of his old friend Eric, Ian Barnett gives us the benefits of his professional role as a qualified risk assessor – and tells us what to look out for when hunting with the air rifle…
I
don’t take my safety or the safety of others lightly. My day job involves constant vigilance and risk assessment, so requires that I’m a NEBOSHcertified Health and Safety practitioner. While training for this, I was introduced to ERIC. ERIC is actually an acronym for the hazard control hierarchy – Eliminate, Reduce, Isolate, Control. So what, I hear you asking, has all this to do with airgun hunting? Well, when we’re out with the rifle, we actually need to instil the ERIC thought process in many scenarios. The first risk assessment to carry out should be around your capacity to own and use an airgun. Do you understand the capability of a rifle and the potential for harm? If you’re buying it for pest control purposes, you’ve already admitted that it can kill or injure. So just as when you sit behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, you should pick up a rifle and treat it at all times as you would your car; a useful tool, but with the potential to do great harm. The next hinges around your choice of hardware. The most dangerous mishaps – though I hesitate to call them that – result from the accidental discharge of a gun. There is never, ever an excuse for such a ‘mishap’ in my book. Most air rifles have a safety catch – and you should get into the habit of using it. Buying a rifle that doesn’t have one is, to me, like buying a car without brakes! The many ways you can apply ERIC to gun handling should come naturally; let’s look at them individually. Before you take a shot when stalking, ELIMINATE. There is a myriad of similar check your backstop for safety situations which demand that you consider in case you miss potential risk in order to suppress it. Thankfully, most of us do this without a second thought, often guided by our senses and fieldcraft skill. For instance, the sight of pigeons taking flight is a warning that another human may be in the wood.The sound of a dog barking tells us someone could be nearby. The smell of wood burning lets us know the forester is abroad. All are signs that we should adjust our behaviour and increase our vigilance to eliminate any potential problems. REDUCE. When stalking, ensure the rifle’s safety catch is engaged until it’s time to actually take the shot. Always check your backstop for safety before you pull the trigger, just in case you miss.
90
AIRGUN SHOOTER
090-091 Hunt IB Risk assessment in field_Rev3CK.indd 90
18/12/2014 11:51
HUNTING: FIELD SAFETY
Always remove the magazine and clear the barrel when passing your rifle through or over any barrier
If the gun has a safety catch, get into the habit of using it
ISOLATE. Lock your airgun in a cabinet at home to prevent anyone (especially inquisitive children) reaching it. Remove the magazine and clear the barrel when not shooting – and do the same when passing the rifle through/over any barrier. CONTROL. Carry the gun in a slip when not in use. Even with the safety on, walk with its barrel pointing down. Never cross a barrier carrying your gun. Never point a gun at anyone, nor should you aim at anything unless you intend to shoot it. There’s also another whole field of risk – one that’s often overlooked by many hunters. How many of you consider the hazards or consequences after the shot? By ‘after the shot’, I specifically mean the handling of shot quarry. Most will know the dangers of manipulating rats – diseases (like Leptospirosis/Weil’s disease) – so we don’t touch them without protection. Yet almost everything we pick up can carry a risk of infection. Pigeons can carry campylobacter, psittacosis, salmonella and E. coli. So can corvids, particularly if they’ve been scavenging on landfill sites or at waste transfer stations. The experienced pot-filler will check his rabbits for tapeworm egg sacs, knowing that we make the perfect host for a cestode (tapeworm). If you want to share your food with a long, blind worm wrapped around your gut, just handle the egg sacs while skinning out, and then sit down to smoke a cigarette or eat your sandwiches! Also, rabbits dig in the earth and often carry a soil-based bacteria called pastuerella multocida which causes septicaemia (blood poisoning). I’m afraid I’ve experienced this first-hand – but luckily I’m alive to pass on the warning; it can be fatal. Of course, none of these should put you off hunting – well, not if you think of ERIC! Wear disposable Above Even if you have the gloves while handling shot birds (Elimination); they cost pennies. Carry one of those small bottles of safety on, it‘s essential you walk with the barrel anti-bacterial gel in your gamebag (Control). And don’t touch your mouth or eyes after handling quarry pointing down until you‘ve cleansed (Reduce). There’s also the environment you hunt in to consider. Take precautions against biting insects like ticks, fleas, mosquitoes and midges. Both mozzies and ticks can carry borrelia, the bacteria Have disposable gloves that cause the very debilitating Lyme disease. and antibacterial gel to It’s nigh-on impossible to apply ERIC to the wood and field – because to ‘Eliminate’ would hand to reduce the risk mean never going there! Therefore, it’s essential that you Reduce and Control – applications of of infection, which is often overlooked insect repellent will help, as will post-hunt hygiene. Finally, health and safety protocols should also apply to the cooking and eating of shot quarry. Paunching in the field and immediate preparation of meat before it’s had a chance to become spoiled is imperative. There’s currently an interesting debate relating to the consumption of leadshot quarry following the release of a Swedish report (available on the BASC’s website). The report confirms higher lead content found in the blood of hunting families (who eat the meat they harvest) when compared to those who don’t hunt. Although this is more applicable to big game like moose, the Swedish report also suggests that you shouldn’t eat meat cut within 10cm of the bullet’s wound channel. Does that mean an end to eating shotgunned pigeons, rabbits or wildfowl? I doubt it. Of course my friend ERIC would change to steel shot (Eliminate). What about me? Well, as a hunter who uses the air rifle, I’ll try to stick to head shots when I’ve got edible quarry in my sights... ●
AIRGUN SHOOTER
090-091 Hunt IB Risk assessment in field_Rev3CK.indd 91
91
18/12/2014 11:51
Shooting on
PREVIEW: BSS 2015
SHOW
We preview this year’s British Shooting Show – now extended to three, action-packed days at its usual Warwickshire venue...
2
015’s show season kicks off in style with the British Shooting Show, taking place at its usual Stoneleigh Park venue in Warwickshire – but this year over three days, from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th February. So there’s no need to worry about Valentine’s Day arrangements – you can dedicate the whole weekend to your beloved. (Sport, that is!) The extensive show site has a veritable list of shooting exhibitors, with the organisers promising plenty of nearby parking and easy access between the halls, all of which are under cover to ensure the weather doesn’t dampen proceedings. This show has become a firm favourite with airgunners – and for good reason; there’s the ‘airgun megastore’ known as Airgun City! Here, you’ll not only get a chance to see the latest kit and chat to plenty of manufacturers, you can also get hands-on experience with stacks of hardware on dedicated have-a-go ranges. What’s more, the organisers tell us the airgun ranges have been revamped for 2015. The roll-call of major international gun brands on show is too long to list here, but from an airgunning perspective, it includes the likes of Air Arms, AirForceOne, Armex, ASG, BSA, Crosman, Evanix, FX, Gamo, Hammerli, Impact Airguns, Walther, Webley and Weihrauch. If you missed out on seeing the BSA Gold Star SE or Air Arms HFT-500 when launched at the Midland Game Fair, now’s your chance to see these latest releases, and many more, in the flesh. Even if kit of an older vintage is more your thing, classic and antique airgun displays will provide a nostalgic trip down memory lane, too. It’s not just about guns, though – the British Shooting Show features a huge array of accessories from exhibitors which, this year, include A1 Decoys, Best Fittings, Blade Tech, Deben, Gr8fun Targets, Hawke, Nikko Stirling, Rowan Engineering and RUAG Ammotec UK, to name but a few. The Night Master team will be showcasing their after-dark hunting gear, as will night vision specialists, Pitch Black, Nite Site and Starlight. It goes without saying that many exhibitors will be offering special ‘show only’ offers, to – so it’s a great opportunity to bag a bargain... and make sure you come over to the Airgun Shooter stand, too; we’ll have some special offers there! What’s made this event such a worthwhile trip in the past for many is it gives you the chance to try out different shooting disciplines, and this year you’ll be able to experience bell target, 10m pistol and practical pistol – plus there will be numerous competitions and free prize draws. Coaching experts from the ATEO will be offering advice and assistance to young shots and novices, and the BASC will be on hand to answer any of your sporting queries and to explain all the benefits offered by its airgun membership package. More exhibitors and attractions are being added to the list every day as the show looms closer, so check out the official website (www.shootingshow.co.uk) for all the latest updates and advance booking deals. We’ll see you there… ●
GETTING THERE – CV8 2LG Just off the A46 near Kenilworth, Stoneleigh Park is easily accessible from the M6 and M40 Motorways. Set your sat-nav to CV8 2LG… and then follow the signs as you near the showground.
92
AIRGUN SHOOTER
092 BSS preview_Rev2CK.indd 92
18/12/2014 11:56
AIRGUN SHOOTER
093.indd 93
93
19/12/2014 14:16
94
094.indd 94
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 14:17
AIRGUN SHOOTER
095.indd 95
95
19/12/2014 14:17
dealer directory
96
096-097.indd 96
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 15:01
AIRGUN SHOOTER
096-097.indd 97
97
19/12/2014 15:34
98
098.indd 98
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 14:18
AIRGUN SHOOTER
099.indd 99
99
19/12/2014 14:18
100
100.indd 100
AIRGUN SHOOTER
19/12/2014 14:19
