tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52987289545485928352024-03-14T03:32:34.437-04:00North American Airguns“the shoot more, blog less place”Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-81188255630870835962010-07-16T22:26:00.009-04:002010-07-17T19:26:40.846-04:00Slinging Lead and the Disco- Part 1<span style="font-size: large;">Opinion:</span><br />
<br />
“the view somebody takes about an issue, especially when it is based solely on personal judgment”<br />
<br />
That is the basis for the majority of my blog, as such I cannot think of a better way to add balance then to offer an opinion other than my own.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TEESt4N-nJI/AAAAAAAAATg/tWAWx6GwdS4/s1600/thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TEESt4N-nJI/AAAAAAAAATg/tWAWx6GwdS4/s200/thumbnail.jpg" width="167" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Slinging Lead hails from Georgia</em></span></div><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Hence, my first guest contribution by none other then Slinging Lead:</span><br />
<br />
"Volvo,<br />
<br />
I have a propensity to be long winded at times. I have written a bit on the Disco but I don't know if it is too much or not enough. I have alot more to say but this is what I scribbled so far. You may want to make this a multi part blog...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>OK, let me get this out of the way first. The Discovery is not actually mine. It was a gift from me to Mrs. Slinging Lead on the occasion of her birthday. Some readers might liken this to Marge Simpson receiving a bowling ball with HOMER engraved on it. But I have an excuse... I mean explanation.<br />
<br />
While me and my neighbor were plinking in his backyard one sultry evening, my wife picked up my 1377 carbine and went to work. She was darn good and having the time of her life. "I want this for my birthday!", she squealed with glee. Being as shrewd as I am, I quickly realized the possibilities if I could turn my wife into a gun nut, instead of the discretionary-fund ombudsman that she had been when it comes to things I want to buy. But I realized she was somewhat impatient with all the cocking, and the pumping, and the loading for each shot. I figured if I got her something more streamlined, she would enjoy it all the more and become hooked.<br />
<br />
A few weeks later, while looking for something else entirely, I stumbled across a NIB Discovery with pump for the same price as most places were charging for the rifle alone. (The online retailer actually raised the price $30 the day after I ordered it.) I had an epiphany. I could air up the rifle for her, and she could shoot 40 or so shots without the hassle of pumping a stubby little lever several times for every shot. Perfect. It may have entered the very depths of my subconscious that I would also be able to shoot it myself every so often.<br />
<br />
I open the box after UPS dumps it carelessly and unceremoniously on my doorstep without a knock on the door much less the signature of an adult, and I am entirely underwhelmed. There's the plain stock, the shiny uneven stain, and the knothole, and the scratches on the airtube. How do you scratch metal with cardboard? But I will get to my cosmetic criticisms later, as by definition they are cosmetic, and have NOTHING to do with how the rifle actually functions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TEETUHKfmzI/AAAAAAAAATo/yMowp4XXkJs/s1600/georgia-state-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TEETUHKfmzI/AAAAAAAAATo/yMowp4XXkJs/s400/georgia-state-main.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Nothing like a Georgia Peach, but is the Disco one?</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Being the thoughtful and caring husband I am, I wanted to sight it in for her, so that it would be ready to knock down targets without frustration on her part. I plinked away a little with the stock fiber optic sites and was satisfied with my results at the short distance that I can actually use open sights. Then I bought a Leapers 4-16X50AO for it. It looked like the Hubble Telescope mounted to a Derringer. Not the scope for this rifle. My long distance results were encouraging, but not consistent.<br />
<br />
I decided on a smaller Bushnell I had, which happened to be non AO. It was her gun, after all not mine, so I wanted it to be light. Also I figured it would be easy to zero for the distance she would be shooting with it. Her birthday arrived, and we were both excited, and she tore the wrapping off the box and... she did a very fine job of pretending to be delighted.<br />
<br />
After much grilled chicken and some malted barley carbonated beverages, we decide to start shooting. It is shooting pretty good, but, "it's SO LOUD." she says. "I still like little SWAT better." (This is her nickname for the 1377.) Sigh, the best laid plans...<br />
<br />
more to come." by Slinging Lead.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Okay, so Slinging didn't send any pictures and all I could think of was Googling </em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Georgia....</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: red;">Can't wait to see what part two holds...Volvo</span></em></strong></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-32679654540850679142010-07-10T22:47:00.004-04:002010-07-11T22:54:23.917-04:00Discovery – part 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkrd0EI9BI/AAAAAAAAATA/CG0scjRjVMM/s1600/Disco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkrd0EI9BI/AAAAAAAAATA/CG0scjRjVMM/s320/Disco.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The family resemblance to the <a href="http://www.crosman.com/airguns/">160</a> is apparent, but<a href="http://www.archerairguns.com/crosman-160-airgun-parts-s/24.htm"> QC</a> is not the same</em></span></div><br />
Time for the main course. <br />
<br />
October 2008. After delaying the unveiling for a couple of days I pull the <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Benjamim-Discovery-.22-Caliber-PCP-Powered-Carbine-with-High-Pressure-Hand-Pump/14234837">Benjamin Discovery</a> out of the shipping box. I am impressed by the retail quality of the packaging. The slick graphics and heavy cardboard are striking.<br />
<br />
After removing the sarcophagus quality lid I go for the rifle and ignore the pump. The initial observation is of the fit and finish. The stock gave the feel of a Popsicle stick, lacking in both sanding and top coat. The fit is poor at best, gaps are clearly visible and most disturbing is it appears the top of the stock is cut to accommodate the gauge leaving the ability to see daylight around it. Next I clean the barrel and note that the bluing and metal polish is also in the poor category. Sigh. The towel I wipe the barrel with shows signs of rust, this particular rifle shipped directly from Crosman, so that is also a disappointment. The bolt is tiny and toy like and when I remove the plastic end cap the barrel flexes. Nothing evokes quality in the piece.<br />
<br />
In contrast, the pump appears a well made heavy duty bit, and I have no negatives to report. More robust feeling than the 4 stage FX pump I have, I would guess it is outsourced?<br />
<br />
It is at this point in the process I post my observations on the PA blog with the thoughts I will simply sell the rifle as LNIB. That report has mysteriously disappeared. I then decided the value would not change if I were to use it a little.<br />
<br />
Before continuing, I want to justify my visual inspection. The current “rifle only” cost at PA is $250.00 with a suggested retail of $299.00 so I use affordable .22 rimfires or similar priced airguns as my bench mark for quality. My sample falls far short of the expectations in either category. Please understand, I am not comparing it to my Webley Raider that could put many centerfires to shame. We’re not talking Marlins but the affordable Glenfields that I was hoping it would rival. For perspective, my Crosman 1077W was twice as nice in fit and finish and it sold for less than $100.00. <br />
<br />
Why is this important? Because this is a rifle for adults that could really influence our hobby. I'm not talking about the airgun enthusiasts that read blogs, with Crosman’s distribution the Discovery could end up in the hands of shooters that never considered airguns before. As is, if resellers leave them in the box it will stand a chance, if they put it in a rack with a price tag it will be hopeless. This was the best chance to convert firearm users in a long time…<br />
<br />
Filling the rifle with the hand pump is uneventful. A quick trip to the Chrony shows a max of 26 ft-lbs with a heavy pellet, which is very acceptable. Discharge is loud and not neighbor-friendly. The trigger will need work, but is not totally unusable.<br />
<br />
Once I put a scope on it, the Disco finally puts a small smile on my face. It is accurate. <br />
<br />
So that’s the meat of it. The Disco is an okay <a href="http://lowcarbdiets.about.com/od/cooking/a/goodcheapsteaks.htm">chopped steak</a>, but many will prefer to invest in a better cut, perhaps tender<a href="http://www.amazon.com/DArtagnan-Kobe-Style-American-Boneless-Minimum/dp/B0030DJAEG"> prime rib</a> or juicy T-Bone. One accomplishment of the <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Benjamim-Discovery-.22-Caliber-PCP-Powered-Carbine-with-High-Pressure-Hand-Pump/14234837">Discovery</a> was to bring an affordable PCP to market that would cause the competition to lower prices on the sweet stuff. The other is it’s a PCP that <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Benjamim-Discovery-.22-Caliber-PCP-Powered-Carbine-with-High-Pressure-Hand-Pump/14234837">Walmart</a> could sell.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkwMCq4cCI/AAAAAAAAATI/ZnvBJbYh98I/s1600/prime-rib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkwMCq4cCI/AAAAAAAAATI/ZnvBJbYh98I/s400/prime-rib.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkwYtIWJBI/AAAAAAAAATQ/G2OXdDdy7-U/s1600/cubed-steak-sm.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDkwYtIWJBI/AAAAAAAAATQ/G2OXdDdy7-U/s320/cubed-steak-sm.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Take your pick....</em></span></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-50022579568536490312010-07-08T18:49:00.016-04:002010-08-18T23:01:59.093-04:00Volvo’s bikes in the garage and the Disco - part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TD5ccOTuEQI/AAAAAAAAATY/uMS8yFZbsBo/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TD5ccOTuEQI/AAAAAAAAATY/uMS8yFZbsBo/s320/Beer+and+bikes+026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">Proof that this is Volvo's Garage</span></em> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLNLzubeXrs"> S60R</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>This was going to be the final segment of the Crosman Discovery, but I have been pondering Slinging Leads bike comments. It seems we spend money on what is important to satisfy the exact need we have. Most purchases make our pain go away and replace that feeling with happiness and contentment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
The key here is how we prioritize these needs. For me, a bike is about as high on the scale as the lawn ornaments my wife desires. Somewhere around 1991 I make the pain go away of her wanting to ride bikes together by picking up a pair of slick rides at Sears. I know they are not the cream of the crop but I also know we will not ride them much.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZREXxMcmI/AAAAAAAAARY/Z3GUUzNptaE/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZREXxMcmI/AAAAAAAAARY/Z3GUUzNptaE/s400/Beer+and+bikes+003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>and more...</em></span></div><br />
My<a href="http://forum.gon.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214532&stc=1&d=1228531768"> Lemon Crate</a> was a sweet way to travel back in the day but once I learned to drive I never looked back. I enjoy a bike ride about as much as a yearly prostate exam. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZR30liKoI/AAAAAAAAARo/cyuS8sdvH38/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZR30liKoI/AAAAAAAAARo/cyuS8sdvH38/s200/Beer+and+bikes+007.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZRnMMlf4I/AAAAAAAAARg/0kNWifearb0/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZRnMMlf4I/AAAAAAAAARg/0kNWifearb0/s200/Beer+and+bikes+005.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>and more...</em></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So what is my epiphany here? For people not over the top passionate about airguns, the Disco does serve a purpose. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is the Free Spirit of the PCP world.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>NICE!</em></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZVRm5chqI/AAAAAAAAASo/EABwsiUE6ic/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: red;"><em><img border="0" height="150" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZVRm5chqI/AAAAAAAAASo/EABwsiUE6ic/s200/Beer+and+bikes+014.JPG" width="200" /></em></span></a> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This review is a real Cliff Hanger!</div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZXUNlZZGI/AAAAAAAAASw/H-B0qJaGWkE/s1600/Beer+and+bikes+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDZXUNlZZGI/AAAAAAAAASw/H-B0qJaGWkE/s200/Beer+and+bikes+011.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-8551258739550029132010-07-07T23:32:00.000-04:002010-07-07T23:32:19.296-04:00Disco – part two<a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/31832616">Disco – part two</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDVDKIry4tI/AAAAAAAAAQw/8wa7ppP8b4o/s1600/crosman_discovery_22_with_pump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDVDKIry4tI/AAAAAAAAAQw/8wa7ppP8b4o/s400/crosman_discovery_22_with_pump.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Pretty in a picture</em></span></div><br />
I pick up where I left off yesterday looking for my Discovery review on the PA blog. Seems I was contemplating not opening the package until <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Original-Christmas-Classics-Red-Nosed-Reindeer/dp/B000R7G6JA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Christmas</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000R7G6JA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>:<br />
<br />
<em>“So I’m staring at the shipping box, should I wait for Christmas or open the Discovery today?”</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>“Volvo: I hate to say it man, but if it was purchased as a Christmas present you should wait,..</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Mr B”</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>“Volvo - I'd hate to waste two months of warranty (or the 30 day return, if you got it from PA). Unfortunately, I think that you HAVE to open it and give it a test. Randy”</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>“Volvo, of course open the Discovery and tell us about it. The warranty period seals the deal. I underwent major stress just waiting for my guns in the mail. In the house would have been impossible. Matt61”</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>“Volvo,</em><br />
<em>Please let us know how the Disco goes.</em><br />
<em>B.B.”</em><br />
<br />
Now I have to admit, I have no intention of waiting six weeks to test it out but I enjoy teasing my fellow blog members. Needless to say I hint at what is to come:<br />
<br />
<em>“Don’t know if I’ll make it, the rifle in the box is tormenting me like a heart beat under the floor.”</em><br />
<br />
<strong>But now here is the rub, my initial impression slash review is gone.</strong> <br />
Sad face. Perhaps it was a little too rough to be tolerated. The reason I was seeking out that original piece was two-fold: First, there is no need to reinvent the wheel, second and most importantly I cannot recreate the emotions that I felt when I first opened that box.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDVEXjVxqsI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/9Epz7Hmhh-A/s1600/benjamin_discovery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="127" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDVEXjVxqsI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/9Epz7Hmhh-A/s400/benjamin_discovery.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>My early model has the Walnut stock</em></span></div>This is all I can find, a follow up piece that hints at my disappointment:<br />
<br />
<em>... My initial impressions of the furniture on it have not changed. Since it is useless to offer problems without solutions – here is mine. Send the stock blanks to shop classes throughout the USA. Any 12 year old with a piece of steel wool and the desire to at least achieve a C- will make a better product. Win-win. </em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Sorry, but I need to get it out of my system. Putting more effort in the box than the stock is just sad. Let people make a product they can be proud of.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>The noise level is less than the Webley. I suspect the lower charge level is to thank.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>The pump is very nice overall. It lacks the moisture filter of the FX model, but seems to be every bit as sturdy. </em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>The open sights are fair at best, but since most will scope it that is of little consequence.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>I have not scoped it yet, so the accuracy remains to be seen. </em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>The dual fuel idea is intriguing, but it needs a couple items that are not included to run off of CO2. I do have to question the name. Since “dual fuel” ranges have been available for about a decade, I keep envisioning a range with gas burners and an electric oven.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Volvo</em><br />
<br />
BG Farmer tries to make it all better:<br />
<br />
<em>BG_Farmer said...</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Volvo,</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Send the stock -- nay the whole rifle and pump -- to me, and I will refinish the stock within 6 months to something which can be compared to a Weatherby Mark V. I won’t charge for this service, although ebony endcaps are extra:).</em><br />
<br />
So it seems a part three will be needed. Additionally I will have to pick up a <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Back-Future-Time-Machine-Mark/dp/B0021L8FM6?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">flux capacitor </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0021L8FM6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>and DeLorean to re-live the moment…Slinging, in many fine dining experiences the meat can be many courses away.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-12226527997811123372010-07-07T00:23:00.002-04:002010-07-07T00:35:29.610-04:00The road to Discovery…Part one<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDP7FjJXpgI/AAAAAAAAAQg/IzWA9TKoiWY/s1600/Disco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDP7FjJXpgI/AAAAAAAAAQg/IzWA9TKoiWY/s400/Disco.jpg" width="364" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">The photo helps stir my memory ... but I need more</span></em></div><br />
At Slinging Lead’s persistent request, I decided to revisit the Benjamin Discovery. I will venture up front, that he is more interested in his rebuttal than my ramblings, but honestly I relish a good debate. So on with the show.<br />
<br />
I decided that I would turn to the comments in the PA blog to refresh my memory on my experience with the Disco. While it has only been a little less than two years I can’t help but smile at the changes that have occurred as I search for my impromptu review among the comments.<br />
<br />
I know that the Disco comes after my Webley Raider but before the FX Whisper, which puts it in the fall of 2008.<br />
<br />
Here are some quotes from the golden era of comments:<br />
<br />
<em>“Wayne,</em><br />
<br />
<em>It is free to list and sell your rifles here:</em><br />
<em><a href="http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/">http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/</a></em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Kind of a pain to post pictures, but you can just e-mail them to interested parties. Most of the items I post sell in a few hours, so be careful of listing too much at once. You can get overwhelmed with e-mails. </em><br />
<em>Maybe try a couple of the rifles to see if you like it. You do need to include a price. You will also have to join first, which is painless.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Volvo”</em><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDP89C2vh1I/AAAAAAAAAQo/c-LYL60KDsw/s1600/fill+here.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TDP89C2vh1I/AAAAAAAAAQo/c-LYL60KDsw/s400/fill+here.jpg" width="365" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">This reminds me that the barrel actually flexes when you attach the fill probe</span></em></div><br />
I was explaining to <a href="http://www.network54.com/Forum/406412/search?searchterm=wayne+burns&sort=match">Wayne</a> how to sell rifles on the Yellow Forum. Wayne now has 15 PAGES of feedback on the yellow from buying and selling. Just a year earlier I was explaining the Blue Book of Airguns to him. They grow up so quick.<br />
<br />
He responds:<br />
<br />
<em>“Volvo,</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>I just did my first post, and I couldn't see how or where to add photos... it was easy to sign up, thanks..</em><br />
<em>With the price one can find used PCPs for, I think you got it right about the Discovery...</em><br />
<em>After using the Air Arms S410 with the broken mag for a month, (it was an easy fix, I shouldn't have waited so long), self indexing is not necessary for me.. I'll do a search and see what I find.. if anyone out there knows, give me a link..</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>thanks,</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Wayne,</em><br />
<em>AARR&R”</em><br />
<br />
By his reply I summarize that I am close, but have over shot the date slightly.<br />
<br />
<em>“Wayne</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>I still have not shot the Discovery yet. As you suspected, it may not be long lived with me. I have contemplated just listing it for sale as new in box and keeping my eyes open for another deal on a used PCP. </em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Volvo”</em><br />
<br />
<em>"Volvo,</em><br />
<br />
<em>Really appreciate the details and unbiased review of the disco. You've made me feel better about myself for not pulling the trigger on that purchase.</em><br />
<br />
<em>kevin"</em><br />
<br />
<em>"Volvo,</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>How nice. I thought you were going to sell the Discovery without opening the box.</em><br />
<em>Matt61"</em><br />
<br />
<em>"Bg Farmer,</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Tempting offer. Could you throw in a brass trigger? : )"</em><br />
<br />
He had offered to refinish the stock....<br />
<br />
<em>“Volvo,</em> <br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>My bias isn't solely based on your opinion.</em><br />
<br />
<em>Read an awful lot about the discovery. I really like the price, the package that includes the pump, mid-range report, etc. It just won't be my entrance into the pcp world. Can't quite put into words what my hesitation is. Guess springers are satisfying my craving right now.</em><br />
<br />
<em>Kevin”</em><br />
<br />
I still need to find that review. I am over shooting it, I just need to go back a few days. I will have it in my sights soon... I smile at the thought that Kevin shuns PCP’s…Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-83575975802309631362010-06-30T10:23:00.016-04:002010-07-09T22:54:16.415-04:00The BSF 55, a one night stand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtVnyi9hPI/AAAAAAAAAPo/bWUTtyDjoBU/s1600/BSF+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" ru="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtVnyi9hPI/AAAAAAAAAPo/bWUTtyDjoBU/s400/BSF+023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">BSF S 55 Deluxe</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Long ago and far away a Wischo 60 / 70 caught my eye in an Air Rifle Headquarters’ catalog. It was given playmate status with a two page centerfold spread. I looked at it longingly for hours, not quite the way I stared at the red swim suit <a href="http://stupidcelebrities.net/wp-content/farrah-fawcett10.jpg">Farrah Fawcett</a> poster, but I still wanted it bad.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtW3LfmimI/AAAAAAAAAPw/wK_dPXx9dk4/s1600/BSF+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" ru="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtW3LfmimI/AAAAAAAAAPw/wK_dPXx9dk4/s400/BSF+024.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">Last made in 1986 and once acquired by HW, the BSF's morphed into an R10 eventually..</span></em></div><br />
Unfortunately wants and needs don’t always come to fruition for a young teenager and I would neither date Farrah nor own the Wischo.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to 2010 and I find myself at an airgun shop that time forgot, and while I don’t spy a Wischo S 60, I do see a BSF 55 which is a kissing cousin. (Wischo was not a manufacturer, similar to Beeman) It hangs on the wall covered in dust, I would guess unnoticed by the average shopper that wants the latest Gamo, but Volvo is different. There is even a new in the box 55, but <a href="http://anotherairgunblog.blogspot.com/">Derrick38</a> is packing it up for Frank B.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXGcKGSdI/AAAAAAAAAP4/_o0y1qCL1JY/s1600/BSF+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" ru="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXGcKGSdI/AAAAAAAAAP4/_o0y1qCL1JY/s400/BSF+025.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">The trigger shoe is foreshadowing that the trigger is not so sweet, click on this and the other pics for a better view</span></em></div><br />
I nonchalantly check out the hang tag and see that this 98% example is marked at $155.00. Now that may match the Blue Book value, but in the real world it usually doesn’t work that way.<br />
<br />
Tom Gaylord gave these rifles the designation “The Four Horsemen”: the HW 35, Diana 45, BSF 55 and the FWB 124. Picking up any of them in near new condition for well under $200.00 means there is no need to fear losing any money.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXUrubz5I/AAAAAAAAAQA/C_wK3LImpMQ/s1600/BSF+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXUrubz5I/AAAAAAAAAQA/C_wK3LImpMQ/s400/BSF+026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">Accurate, but hard to shoot without breaking in the trigger with 30,000 pellets first. HW will also improve the sights.</span></em></div><br />
<br />
I have a blast at the shop as you may imagine and leave with the 55 under my arm. Once home, I find myself underwhelmed with the rifle. I have to admit it is very similar to when I picked up the Playboy Farrah that posed for in the 90’s. The memory exceeds reality. <br />
<br />
While it was a contender for the Crown in the 1970’s it is nothing special now. The shot cycle is jumpy and the trigger is no match for the Rekord and needs 1000’s of shots to smooth it out. It is hotter than the FWB 124 I owned and hits the mid 800’s easily with Silver Bears, but that’s about it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXgq8Bn5I/AAAAAAAAAQI/CGeGTRqlt3Y/s1600/BSF+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ru="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtXgq8Bn5I/AAAAAAAAAQI/CGeGTRqlt3Y/s400/BSF+029.JPG" width="136" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">I like small cuts like this, the R7 and HW50 are the same</span></em></div><br />
It would make a great collectors piece, but it is not the daily driver I am looking for.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtdzk_otII/AAAAAAAAAQY/V8GykWVLNK4/s1600/BSF+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ru="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtdzk_otII/AAAAAAAAAQY/V8GykWVLNK4/s200/BSF+034.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtdgmWFyNI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/eIXTxYKEnrs/s1600/BSF+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ru="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TCtdgmWFyNI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/eIXTxYKEnrs/s200/BSF+031.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Details</em></span></div><br />
I list it for sale the very next day and make a quick $100.00.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-42164776649922690662010-06-15T23:00:00.010-04:002010-06-16T23:13:35.249-04:00The not so Velveteen Rabbit and the .20 caliber pellet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBg7J6JAufI/AAAAAAAAAPY/PsvEOyWqiuA/s1600/bunny+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBg7J6JAufI/AAAAAAAAAPY/PsvEOyWqiuA/s400/bunny+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="background-color: white; color: red;">Less plastic than the bunnies in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Playboy-Sexiest-Amateur-Home-Videos/dp/B001FFBI6O?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Playboy</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001FFBI6O" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></em></div><br />
Six years ago the yard of my newly built home was comprised of dirt and scattered stone from the temporary drive. Having it rock hounded and grass planted was the first milestone in its development.<br />
<br />
Once the lawn came in it was certainly better than the moon-like surface it replaced, but it was an almost sterile environment. That would change quickly with almost weekly plantings, I tried not to go overboard, but admittedly I am a bit of a plant junkie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgu3pogYuI/AAAAAAAAAPA/FhdswA45Nts/s1600/sheridan+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgu3pogYuI/AAAAAAAAAPA/FhdswA45Nts/s400/sheridan+001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">The original .20 caliber platform</span></em></div><br />
Now under contrary circumstances, my reaction may have been different, but seeing the first rabbit in my yard I felt joyful, even proud that I turned the former waste land into a habitat worthy of a visit from Peter Cottontail. Shortly after, I would discover a nest of bunnies under a Barberry bush in my front yard. I was like a proud father, and punished the murder of crows that attacked one of my babies. <br />
<br />
Soon, I would care for bunny nests in the front yard and back a couple times a year. The backyard nests I would fence off to protect from Petey, who has no hunting skills but a strong prey drive. I still feel bad for Speedy my daughter’s gerbil, but I'll save that story for a later date.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgvIUPdb3I/AAAAAAAAAPI/-Gt7Ai8I2J4/s1600/sheridan+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgvIUPdb3I/AAAAAAAAAPI/-Gt7Ai8I2J4/s400/sheridan+009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Pretty, but this one would not group even after being sent back to Crosman, because of that I would seek out a .20 caliber R7 to use all the pellets I had stockpiled</em></span></div><br />
Now some of you may see where this is headed. A half a decade of nurturing bunnies led up to my current garden frustration. Previously, I ignored the munched flowers and vegetables as the amount was minor. But this year things changed, I planted my third pack of green beans and was less than happy about it. The planting wasn't due to such a large garden, but the constant eating as soon as they sprouted. The pepper plants were stripped of all leaves and the cabbage was turned into an appetizer. Now this may not seem so bad, but the Irish half of me relishes fresh green beans and potatoes cooked with ham and served with a thick slice of crusty bread slathered in artery clogging butter. Meanwhile, the Italian half demands fried peppers and sausage on a chewy bun.<br />
<br />
So I order the hit. Since this is personal, I will take care of it myself. Timing will be the key; my family must know nothing about it due to delicate sensibilities and my desire to not hear their whining. The other piece is that the rabbit must be caught in the act. Of the dozens I have helped raise most stay in the outer perimeter of the property. The garden is very near the house, and this guy displays fearlessness that I respect, but it will also certainly be his downfall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgwd_5BiTI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ZTi0-8E5zlo/s1600/IMG_5468%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBgwd_5BiTI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ZTi0-8E5zlo/s400/IMG_5468%5B1%5D.JPG" width="125" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Now this twenty caliber shoots</em></span></div><br />
I keep a close eye out and spot him chomping on the flowers that dot the outside edge of Eden, but he takes off at full speed when I open my patio door. Score one for the bunny. Another week passes and I peek out the bedroom window as soon as I awake. He is there, stripping the leaves off a new pepper plant. The circumstances are ideal, I am home alone. <br />
<br />
According to <a href="http://www.beemans.net/field%20use.htm">Dr. Beeman</a> you need 5 ft lbs of energy to kill a rabbit, so starting out at 7 ft lbs the .20 caliber R7 would seem to be up to the task at the modest distance I anticipate this shot to be. But I have to admit I am hesitant, I have always used much greater power when eliminating critters. I walk quickly and determinedly but don't run, being out of breath and shooting a light rifle is not a winning combination.<br />
<br />
A quick check before I load shows he is still wreaking havoc on my tender young plants. A single Beeman \ H+N FTS will be the prescription for his illness. I make it out the door unnoticed and get into position. Prior to going outside I dialed in the distance on the AO scope which I estimate at just less than 40 feet, and set the corresponding number for the elevation from memory.<br />
<br />
He is facing me sideways and the eye makes a tempting aim point, but I want him to be able to have an open casket so I pick a point about inch behind the eye. I am standing and shooting off hand, but at this close distance I have little doubt about connecting. The R7 pops and sounds so mild outside, I am sure no one is the wiser. I believe this .20 caliber version makes even less noise than the .177.<br />
<br />
The rabbit goes down instantly and after a brief bout of back leg twitching has expired. I am happy that the R7 performed so well. On closer examination I find the entrance wound exactly as planned, and no exit wound. I still can't say that I would pick an R7 as a primary hunter, but it certainly can be called on to protect a backyard if needed. I would think that the Eastern Cottontail is at the top end of its limit, with the key being surgical precision. I would deem body shots out of the question. I wipe the Beeman R7 with an old oil stained t-shirt and give it a nod as I stand it up in the rack. <br />
<br />
Forgive the lack of an actual kill photo. Perhaps a Jack-a-Lope would need confirmation, but I don't feel the need to show small game once it has been terminated. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBg72Cp1yfI/AAAAAAAAAPg/29XRgFzokto/s1600/bunny+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TBg72Cp1yfI/AAAAAAAAAPg/29XRgFzokto/s400/bunny+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>In a better place, fyi the Mums to the right should be a foot tall by now...</em></span></div><br />
I find a nice shady spot by a hosta, and say a few simple words, Petey looks on with curiosity. I imagine I hear a bell as the bunny gets his wings and goes off to that endless garden in the sky.<br />
<br />
<strong>Recap on the .20 caliber R7:</strong> <br />
<br />
My example shoots just a little faster then these numbers published by <a href="http://www.straightshooters.com/ourtake/ottestr7.html">Straight Shooters</a>.<br />
I think the FTS are the ideal given the power level; also they are second only to the Beeman Double Gold FTS in accuracy.<br />
<br />
<strong>Update:</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
I am playing this video non-stop in my garden. I think I can give the R7 a rest.<br />
<a href="http://www.justaguything.com/how-to-skin-and-prepare-a-rabbit/">Not funny to a bunny</a>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-86347884642555971552010-06-07T19:45:00.001-04:002010-06-07T19:45:19.754-04:00ArrivederciWell, it was bound to happen. Endless deadlines, cantankerous editors, and writers block - all the greats have suffered these perils of fame.<br />
<br />
I guess I could deal with it like Hemingway, but that is perhaps a tad harsh. Mostly it’s that darn 399 book that keeps distracting me. Anyway, I am going enter a state of semi retirement on the blog. I do foresee numerous well timed come backs, but until then I leave you with this impromptu guest blog from Orin.<br />
<br />
His style is unique in that it is written in the form of a comment, and the pictures have little to do with the story line. Utterly brilliant I must say. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So without further ado, here’s Orin: </span><br />
<br />
I think I need to keep adding smiley faces to my sarcastic comments so people know I'm joking. Come on guys... FT scope on a plastic, CO2-powered 1077? I wasn't even able to get a rise out of anyone? S.L. – I might need you to pass me some tips.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TA2CvvrG4VI/AAAAAAAAAOw/D922TFeKXOs/s1600/Zoo+09+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TA2CvvrG4VI/AAAAAAAAAOw/D922TFeKXOs/s400/Zoo+09+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Spotted these so grabbed the 1077</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The huge scope looks absolutely ridiculous on the 1077, of course. For some reason, I never took the time to find the best pellet for this gun. I went through about 20 different types last night and discovered that it prefers Beeman FTS Double Golds and Kodiaks/Baracudas. Talk about expensive tastes for a $50 gun! Anyway, I was shooting from 20 yards at standard 10m rifle targets. Normally, the black centers make it really hard for me to see hits, even at 3-6x but at 24x, I had no problem making out my groups. As silly as it looks, it was certainly functional for pellet preference testing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TA2DWl7n3jI/AAAAAAAAAO4/iBUDHP3yWMQ/s1600/Zoo+09+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TA2DWl7n3jI/AAAAAAAAAO4/iBUDHP3yWMQ/s400/Zoo+09+001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Then saw this and ran back in the house for the Benji XL</em></span></div><br />
<br />
As soon as my 30mm Weaver mounts come in, it'll go on the Benji Trail XL for a while so I can do some 100-yard accuracy tests. Then who knows… maybe on a tripod for a spotting scope.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-80759866861904565272010-06-05T22:46:00.002-04:002010-06-07T19:49:23.999-04:00Daisy \ Avanti 747<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsHx5rFvuI/AAAAAAAAAOY/FVEO2GuP2K4/s1600/747+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsHx5rFvuI/AAAAAAAAAOY/FVEO2GuP2K4/s400/747+001.JPG" width="383" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">Stock grips are plastic</span></em></div><br />
Rifles have always out number pistols in my collection by about 10 to 1. Why? I find even the most humble of long guns will out shoot the best pistol in my hands.<br />
<br />
This has nothing to do with the accuracy the pistol may be capable of when locked in a vise, what I am referring to are real world situations. I doubt I am alone in this, my smooth bore <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daisy-Avanti-Champion-499-rifle/dp/B0018L9O9I?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Daisy 499 </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0018L9O9I" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />will put the rifled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daisy-Avanti-Triumph-Match-pistol/dp/B0018L9P2O?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Daisy 747</a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daisy-Avanti-Champion-499-rifle/dp/B0018L9O9I?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0018L9P2O" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0018L9O9I" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> to shame which is the reason pistol targets are enormous in size when compared to rifle cousins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsIOk0Cv_I/AAAAAAAAAOg/zClFZZ1nwXY/s1600/747+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsIOk0Cv_I/AAAAAAAAAOg/zClFZZ1nwXY/s400/747+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="color: red;"><em>Side lever is easy to use</em></span></div><br />
So why buy pistols? First it does allow economical practice in the home and can be challenging in a much smaller space. Shooting a scoped rifle at 15 to 21 feet for an extended time would be about as exciting as watching a peeled apple turned brown, whereas you can entertain yourself with a pistol nicely.<br />
<br />
In comes the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daisy-Avanti-Triumph-Match-pistol/dp/B0018L9P2O?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Avanti 747</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0018L9P2O" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />. It is a single stroke pneumatic, and as such its power is derived from a single stroke of a side lever, which I find one of the best power plants for a pistol. This gives it a calm firing cycle without the need for CO2. However as with most benefits, it does have a down side. The power plant needs a good bit of real estate and makes for a fairly large size. If you want to simulate shooting your little .380 this is not the ticket. If I had to compare it with a firearm counterpart I would say the target style .22 rimfires that Browning, Ruger, and others make are closest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsIfAng6uI/AAAAAAAAAOo/y-TXfzyex9s/s1600/747+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="211" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAsIfAng6uI/AAAAAAAAAOo/y-TXfzyex9s/s400/747+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Sized like a .22 rimfire target pistol</em></span></div><br />
It has a solid feel other than the plastic factory grips which I replace with a nice after-market set from <a href="http://www.rbgrips.net/">RB</a>. I think this also helps the balance, which is a little front heavy in stock form. As I touched on it is a pleasure to cock, load and shoot. The barrel has a <a href="http://www.lothar-walther.de/249.php">Lothar Walther </a>pedigree, so you can only blame yourself when you miss. With <a href="http://www.pyramydair.com/site/articles/formulas/">energy</a> at about 2 ft lbs, you should not consider hunting at all and any pest larger than a mouse at 7 feet should be given a pass.<br />
<br />
Multi Pump pneumatics will offer more power, but are slow to reload and want to bite fingers, spring power pistols can be hunters but will be more difficult to shoot and louder, CO2 can provide faster action, smaller size and often greater power, but more noise, expense, and the hassle of being at the correct temperature come into play.<br />
<br />
So where does the 747 fit in? It can occupy an evening nicely dispatching makeshift targets indoors or out that would be like shooting fish in a barrel with a rifle. Its quiet low power operation also means you will mostly go undetected and the inevitable misses are contained with ease. <br />
<br />
Summary: Relaxing target shooting and plinking with the confidence that when you miss it is your fault and not the pistol are its hallmark.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-61096131059298387282010-06-02T23:07:00.007-04:002010-06-04T13:05:04.113-04:00Beeman HW97K - part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcaS3W221I/AAAAAAAAAN4/nu_6Kp5UfyA/s1600/HW97K+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="195" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcaS3W221I/AAAAAAAAAN4/nu_6Kp5UfyA/s400/HW97K+033.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Need to not miss? Then this is it. <a href="http://www.springgunning.com/">Paul Watts </a>tuned HW97K</em></span></div><span style="color: red;"><em></em></span><br />
<br />
I had planned on blogging my Daisy 747 next, but AlanL’s fever for serious spring rifles has pulled this one up in the queue. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Accuracy</span></strong><br />
<br />
This is a tricky subject, I would dare say most HW air rifles have a similar potential, the issue is the shooter realizing that potential. That is the key to the 97. First the barrel is less than a foot long. That means the time you need to stay on target is greatly reduced. It is still important to follow through once you squeeze the trigger, but not like one of those 18 inch babies need. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcad_A8OvI/AAAAAAAAAOA/7dS1E5n2s8c/s1600/HW97K+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcad_A8OvI/AAAAAAAAAOA/7dS1E5n2s8c/s400/HW97K+028.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Short and sweet</em></span></div><br />
Next, it is a fixed barrel so lock- up is not a concern. That barrel will be in the exact same spot every time you aim down range.<br />
<br />
Heavy weight. While it may benefit humans to carry less poundage, a spring rifle profits from the extra load. Let’s face it, when you pull the trigger you start a mechanical reaction that a lighter rifle will transfer to the shooter. If you doubt this, shoot a BSA Lightning XL, fine little gun but it jumps like a cat that’s had its tail stepped on. The HW97K just lays there. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcaowtRi6I/AAAAAAAAAOI/QZsw3w9iyJA/s1600/HW97K+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcaowtRi6I/AAAAAAAAAOI/QZsw3w9iyJA/s400/HW97K+036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Way Smooth </em></span></div><br />
Now all of this doesn’t mean squat if the trigger is not up to snuff, but no worries are needed when it comes to the Rekord unit. They are good from the factory and amazing when tuned properly. The key is that they remain predictable at lower settings, so oopies are rare.<br />
<br />
I’ll finish this up with one more post, but in the meantime here is video of the latest offering. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://gunmart.net/video/weihrauch_hw97k_-_thumbhole_stock_version">http://gunmart.net/video/weihrauch_hw97k_-_thumbhole_stock_version</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcf95FoN_I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/Kr_P-tJWJts/s1600/HW97K+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAcf95FoN_I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/Kr_P-tJWJts/s400/HW97K+026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Goodies in the box</em></span></div><br />
By the way, sorry about all the background clutter in these photos, but you can click on them for a better look. Just for fun, see if you can spot the FX Whisper’s magazine. One of the FX Cyclone’s magazines sits on its absolute favorite pellets – the discontinued AccupellsVolvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-39584818444127212202010-06-02T00:02:00.001-04:002010-06-01T23:54:57.298-04:00FX Whisper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXF2T7vgGI/AAAAAAAAANg/F4T_wWLNhvc/s1600/FX+Whisper+002+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="158" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXF2T7vgGI/AAAAAAAAANg/F4T_wWLNhvc/s400/FX+Whisper+002+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>We already know it's quiet, but what else?</em></span></div><br />
<br />
The Stock:<br />
<br />
So I am at the market and I see dried plums, but I recognize them as prunes. I feel the same way about polymer stocks, just a fancy name for plastic but once I get past the looks I have to admit I like the fit of the Whisper. The thumb hole and light weight are a winning combination. It is much easier to hold on target than the average rifle, and I have to give it one thumb up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXGoSpzKQI/AAAAAAAAANw/zn1su17bkgw/s1600/FX+Whisper+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXGoSpzKQI/AAAAAAAAANw/zn1su17bkgw/s320/FX+Whisper+007.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Magazine can be a pain</em></span></div><br />
The Action:<br />
<br />
The magazine stands proud of the receiver, perhaps too proud. When this happens you’ll need high scope mounts to clear it and while you’re at it you might as well mount a large scope. The magazine itself is auto indexing and that is a positive since working the bolt only needs to feed the next pellet rather than rotate the magazine also. The downside of this is that the magazine requires a video to learn the operation and spares are over $70.00 each. Here are the official directions: “With the magazine’s clear cover facing you, turn the cover anti-clockwise against spring pressure, all the way round until it stops. Still holding the cover against the spring-loaded mechanism, flip the cover over and load a pellet SKIRT first into the one visible chamber. The cover is now held in place, and the mag can be flipped back again and pellets loaded conventionally, head first into all the remaining chambers in turn; finally closing the cover.”<br />
<br />
<br />
It also is difficult for thick man fingers to load; one out of every 48 pellets goes in backwards and gives me fits.<br />
<br />
What happens next in my first days with the rifle is a negative that turns into a positive. I decide to clean the barrel and loose a patch in the rifle. I cannot retrieve it after numerous attempts and accuracy is shot. The good? It forces me to disassemble the rifle and remove the patch that is in the spring with the baffles. In doing so I learn a good bit about what makes a Whisper whisper quiet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXGXt7yBDI/AAAAAAAAANo/XbzqBRZiNko/s1600/FX+Whisper+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAXGXt7yBDI/AAAAAAAAANo/XbzqBRZiNko/s320/FX+Whisper+006.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>If you need to go with high mounts, get a big scope</em></span></div><br />
Shooting:<br />
<br />
Accuracy is top notch with heavy pellets, but anything less than a Kodiak or a CP heavy is not good due to the power level of over 20 ft lbs in .177. Since the magazine holds 16 shots and the bolt is easy to work, it burns ammo and air quickly. <br />
<br />
Overall – very nice.<br />
<br />
Here is a video of a guy reviewing one, unfortunately he shoots at a metal pellet trap so you can’t tell how quiet this baby is. This ain’t no <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gamo-Whisper-Classic-air-rifle/dp/B002MPIRCY?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Gamo Whisper</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002MPIRCY" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gunmart.net/video/fx_whisper_pcp_air_rifle/">http://gunmart.net/video/fx_whisper_pcp_air_rifle/</a><br />
<a href="http://gunmart.net/video/fx_whisper_pcp_air_rifle/">VIDEO HERE</a>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-38850213593686787182010-06-01T00:37:00.004-04:002010-06-01T02:00:16.499-04:00Sounds of Silence - part 4<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Sounds-Of-Silence/dp/B00136LSQK?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Sounds of Silence</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00136LSQK" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<a href="http://namericanairguns.blogspot.com/2010/05/sounds-of-silence-part-three.html">Part 3</a><br />
<a href="http://namericanairguns.blogspot.com/2010/05/sounds-of-silence-part-two.html">Part 2</a><br />
<a href="http://namericanairguns.blogspot.com/2010/05/sounds-of-silence.html">Part 1</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR8eqhUTzI/AAAAAAAAANY/PMWuSguRGYk/s1600/DSCN0201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="257" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR8eqhUTzI/AAAAAAAAANY/PMWuSguRGYk/s400/DSCN0201.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Petey bringing in the latest news on airguns</em></span></div><br />
I have to admit I am hesitant to actually post my dB results. I cannot stress enough that you can’t take these numbers and use them to compare the dB ratings Straight Shooters uses, PA posts or anyone else. What you can do hopefully is not be surprised by a future purchase. <br />
<br />
That said, I divide my results in categories with a representative example of each.<br />
<br />
<strong>Group 1</strong><br />
<br />
This category hurts in the confines of the basement without hearing protection. I take one for the team to learn this. There is a momentary numbness after you pull the trigger, you hear nothing until your ears recover. Any PCP that has an unaltered barrel and fires at over 20 ft lbs should be assumed to be similar.<br />
<br />
CB long from a revolver is 113 dB<br />
<br />
Webley Raider at 22 ft lbs is 107 dB<br />
<br />
The reason I decide on the CB long in the rimfire category is it has PCP like energy at around 30 ft lbs. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR02GL_PkI/AAAAAAAAAMw/p1gLvKagHpw/s1600/367227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR02GL_PkI/AAAAAAAAAMw/p1gLvKagHpw/s320/367227.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center"><span style="color: red;"><em>These are on the high end of the scale</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Group 2</strong><br />
<br />
The Crosman Discovery at 24 ft lbs is at 102 dB<br />
<br />
This faction is what I like to call really loud but not painfully so. The Disco sits alone here due to its unique low pressure fill, and is the exception to the above rule in number one. Some high powered CO2 guns come close to this level.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR2CIZJSkI/AAAAAAAAAM4/zUzn5GQ0mmA/s1600/804798crosman_discovery_22_with_pump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR2CIZJSkI/AAAAAAAAAM4/zUzn5GQ0mmA/s320/804798crosman_discovery_22_with_pump.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The all in one Disco</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Group 3</strong><br />
<br />
These are the high powered spring rifles. The range from the mid 80 dB's to just over 90 dB. Keep in mind even the pellet used makes a difference, and since a large part of the sound is mechanical, moderators like the one included by the factory on the RWS 40 make for little change. <br />
<br />
The Beeman R1 .22 cal carbine at 18 ft lbs is 91.4 dB<br />
<br />
RWS 40 in .177 at 15 ft lbs is at 86.7dB<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR2vL889XI/AAAAAAAAANA/Nj8YliQLMpk/s1600/RWS+40+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="155" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR2vL889XI/AAAAAAAAANA/Nj8YliQLMpk/s400/RWS+40+047.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The RWS 40 came with a factory muzzle brake, but it makes little difference</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Group 4</strong><br />
<br />
This category is any of the mild shooters under 10 ft lbs that have a spring. I find most Springer’s terribly predictable. More power means more noise. Light for caliber pellets also are louder. A dry fire will bump it up to the next category.<br />
<br />
The Beeman R7 at 7-8 ft lbs ranges from 76.1 dB to 76.6 dB<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR3Svc_QVI/AAAAAAAAANI/DZRt_3_vvkE/s1600/Diana+27+-+Hy+Score+807+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR3Svc_QVI/AAAAAAAAANI/DZRt_3_vvkE/s400/Diana+27+-+Hy+Score+807+015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>This Diana 27 is in the same group as the R7</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Group 5</strong><br />
<br />
This is the group I have dreamed of. I mentioned the other day that I asked a few retailers for input, what I left out was that I also asked FX directly. While the English was not perfect, they responded quickly with a recommendation that the FX Whisper in .177 was by far their most quiet air rifle. Since I have posted numerousness photos of it, obviously I took their advice.<br />
<br />
OLD STYLE FX Whisper .177 was 69.3 dB at over 21 ft lbs <br />
<br />
The FX Whisper accomplishes this with an oversize shroud and built in baffles. With almost 3 times the energy of the R7 and less noise, it is an eerie feeling shooting it. “Ping” is the only sound and then a smack at the target. They even sell “de-pingers” if you want to take it down another notch. I have to speculate that any rifle that is also endowed with a large shroud ending in 6 inches of baffles will be in this group too. That would include some of the BSA's and the relative newcomer from Crosman, the Marauder. <br />
<br />
Sadly, the new FX Whispers have a shorter shroud without the baffles, but at a lower price. I think they are missing the mark by changing the rifle in this way; it’s called the Whisper after-all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR5YjlAwfI/AAAAAAAAANQ/w8mPCt1kDWo/s1600/FX+Whisper+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="158" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAR5YjlAwfI/AAAAAAAAANQ/w8mPCt1kDWo/s400/FX+Whisper+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Whisper quiet</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Group all its own -The FX Cyclone</strong><br />
<br />
Because the Cyclone offers 3 power settings and ½ threads on the muzzle it spans groups 3 – 5. It has a small diameter shroud, so once again these results should apply to similar products.<br />
<br />
Needless to say power varies with the pellets used, but with Kodiak's I get: <br />
<br />
Low – 14.2 ft lbs at 73.5 dB<br />
<br />
Medium – 22.3 ft lbs at 84.8dB<br />
<br />
High – 31.8 ft lbs at 88.3 dB<br />
<br />
High and no pellet is 89.5 dB.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, more muzzle energy means more noise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TARz5gDkB4I/AAAAAAAAAMo/dsezV7otuuQ/s1600/cyclone3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="145" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TARz5gDkB4I/AAAAAAAAAMo/dsezV7otuuQ/s400/cyclone3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Cyclone's little shroud helps keep the noise down</em></span></div><br />
<br />
As you can see the simple thin factory shroud is effective, the middle setting offers the same power as the Webley Raider with much less noise.<br />
<br />
Now if I were to hazard a guess at what an LCD could do for it, I would estimate 68.8, 72.9, and 75.8. WOW. That would be something else to have 30+ ft lbs that comes in with less noise than an R7.<br />
<br />
Need really quiet? Just look for a PCP with a fat shroud that extends well beyond the actual barrel and find out if factory included bits and pieces in that extra length. <br />
<br />
<strong>In the end, nothing beats the PCP noise \ power ratio.</strong>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-15155936369703395142010-05-31T00:02:00.005-04:002010-05-31T01:00:26.638-04:00Sounds of Silence - part three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMTDgLFDSI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/bA3S78yfdMQ/s1600/ph7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMTDgLFDSI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/bA3S78yfdMQ/s400/ph7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Obsessive–compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a personality disorder which involves an obsession with perfection – I would guess it may be hereditary. Volvo with one of his older brothers, but more important the plastic on the furniture is perhaps foreshadowing. Will poor Volvo be destined to chase airgun nirvana forever?</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As Orin suggested in his comment, this post is a little soap opera like. Please forgive the indulgence. Just try to keep in mind this experiment involved researching and buying the sound meter, purchasing rifles, and hours of testing for the results. This is nothing like grabbing the R7 and spending 10 minutes shooting at a target and then blogging the outcome.</div><br />
My testing scenario was to place the meter at rifle height and about 3 ½ feet to the side. The muzzle was about a foot behind the meter. The meter had a setting where it would capture and hold the highest level noise until reset. All this was done indoors.<br />
<br />
For the purpose of this report, I am only considering unaltered factory rifles. PA has a link about add ons and the possible complications. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pyramydair.com/site/articles/silencers/">http://www.pyramydair.com/site/articles/silencers/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMa4tqrMLI/AAAAAAAAAMY/ZZdS17Oky78/s1600/DSCN0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMa4tqrMLI/AAAAAAAAAMY/ZZdS17Oky78/s400/DSCN0234.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Slinging Lead,</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Yes we have a pet, meet Petey the fierce <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Douglas-Cuddle-Toys-Plush-Cockapoo/dp/B003JTXURY?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Cockapoo</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003JTXURY" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div>My bench marks were a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/22-Long-Rifle-Winchester-Ammunition/dp/B000ESNP4Q?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">.22 rimfire </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000ESNP4Q" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />on the high side and an R7 on the low side. I want to find out if a straight barreled PCP is as loud as firearm and what if anything makes less noise than a Paul Watts tuned HW30 \ R7. <br />
<br />
It's getting late, I guess I will finish this tomorrow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMcPfD62EI/AAAAAAAAAMg/DpDTRh0B1Ws/s1600/r-1+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAMcPfD62EI/AAAAAAAAAMg/DpDTRh0B1Ws/s400/r-1+010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Stop back to find out how this one does, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beeman-R1-supermagnum-air-rifle/dp/B0006F5BXA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Beeman R1 </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0006F5BXA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />.22 cal carbine</em></span></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-39727274638009898902010-05-30T00:56:00.004-04:002010-05-30T10:59:56.136-04:00Sounds of Silence – part two<div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="left"><a href="http://namericanairguns.blogspot.com/2010/05/sounds-of-silence.html">Part one</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHoxl5JiKI/AAAAAAAAAL4/wKzh07ciq90/s1600/FX+Whisper+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHoxl5JiKI/AAAAAAAAAL4/wKzh07ciq90/s400/FX+Whisper+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Do you hear what I hear?</em></span></div><span style="color: black;">The best place to start is usually at the beginning, so why am I looking for a quiet air rifle?</span><br />
<br />
Living just outside the city limits, I am allowed to discharge an air gun; however I prefer to draw as little attention to myself as possible. Nothing sinister, just looking to be <em>neighbor friendly</em> as it is often called.<br />
<br />
At the time I begin my search, I am a Springer only man, and have learned that an increase in power usually means a like increase in noise level. Pretty simple stuff, but I am considering the dark side, and those rules need not apply.<br />
<br />
I begin by e-mailing four of the large on-line retailers and get varying responses. I ask for the quietest without regard to cost. At the time I have yet to hold, let alone shoot a PCP. Unfortunately, when updating my PC, I lost many archived e-mails or I would share the responses.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHrOUV-yiI/AAAAAAAAAMA/WVSfu--um4M/s1600/FX+Whisper+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHrOUV-yiI/AAAAAAAAAMA/WVSfu--um4M/s400/FX+Whisper+007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Magazine is a pain to load</em></span></div><br />
I asked this question on a few occasions that spanned a couple years. The results change along with the rifles in stock. Most humorous answer goes to Pyramid Air for recommending a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sheridan-Blue-Streak-CB9-rifle/dp/B0002IKE7Y?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Sheridan</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0002IKE7Y" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> C9.<br />
<br />
Seriously?<br />
<br />
I think this was probably a result of their expansion, in contrast to the many dealers that are smaller boutique shops that are intimately familiar with the products, PA may have outgrown this for more of a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gamo-Paper-Targets-100-pack/dp/B00066ZXO6?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Target</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00066ZXO6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> type experience. This is further complicatedly by the fact dealers only recommend the brands that they sell. <br />
<br />
I decide that apparently, I will need to figure this out for myself. <br />
<br />
I'll admit I entered the PCP world like an old lady at a swimming pool. I dipped just a toe in with the oh so safe purchase of the used Webley Raider. At only $395.00 I could not lose. Next in my line up was a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Benjamin-Discovery-Pre-Charged-Pneumatic-Rifle/dp/B002G3QO1I?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Crosman Discovery </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002G3QO1I" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />from FogDog at 50% off with free shipping.<br />
<br />
While the two rifles shared very little in common, what they both did have was a loud report. Very loud. I like the PCP idea well enough, but certainly not the accompanying noise. The Raider was the worst, I guess partly due to the fact that it operated at a higher pressure with a shorter barrel. <br />
<br />
In any case, liking PCP's but not the noise only further fueled my pursuit. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHr_UwCWzI/AAAAAAAAAMI/18sC-U4oAvo/s1600/FX+Whisper+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TAHr_UwCWzI/AAAAAAAAAMI/18sC-U4oAvo/s400/FX+Whisper+006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Little more power than I care for with this scope </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>About that time I decide to invest in a sound meter. Now before you start typing some advice about how you need really high tech equipment and a lab or some other wisdom, my goal was to find out how my rifles compared to EACH OTHER because as the shooter it is difficult to tell. I was just looking for a buddy that can stand beside me and listen while I shoot. Having few friends willing to come over and stand in my basement at all hours, I pick this electronic device instead. I am not concerned if my readings cannot be used to compare with someone else’s results.<br />
<br />
Sorry if I come off a little harsh, but I have already heard enough negative feedback on using sound meters. <br />
<br />
Next comes the results.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-7167337526891185092010-05-29T00:01:00.003-04:002010-05-30T01:32:03.254-04:00The Sounds of Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACPJEYuKTI/AAAAAAAAALg/ZAT6rryDBfE/s1600/FX+Whisper+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACPJEYuKTI/AAAAAAAAALg/ZAT6rryDBfE/s400/FX+Whisper+001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Is this the Holy Grail of quiet?</em></span></div><br />
<br />
So I forgot to get a blog ready for today. <br />
<br />
<br />
My plans were to address the noise issue that many airgunners are concerned about, and I will. Part of my testing involved a sound meter like Paul C. uses, but with a different placement during the shot. I reasoned that few people actually hold an ear next to the muzzle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACPfRJEdWI/AAAAAAAAALo/lKwEXidiGqY/s1600/FX+Whisper+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACPfRJEdWI/AAAAAAAAALo/lKwEXidiGqY/s400/FX+Whisper+005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>I get a cleaning patch stuck in the baffles, the new versions lack this feature</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em><br />
</em></span>In my search for quiet power, the FX Whisper in .177 was on my short list. I’ll let you know how it and several other rifles scored.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACP7IA_CII/AAAAAAAAALw/MQdNGqLBY9k/s1600/FX+Whisper+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/TACP7IA_CII/AAAAAAAAALw/MQdNGqLBY9k/s400/FX+Whisper+008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Scope is low as it can be </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em><br />
</em></span>Have a Great Memorial Day Weekend.<br />
<br />
</div></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-92137590264376038492010-05-26T00:00:00.011-04:002010-05-26T09:47:16.300-04:00Airgun Gizmo’s:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x_0YW_lQI/AAAAAAAAALY/KSHHQV6ZiWc/s1600/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x_0YW_lQI/AAAAAAAAALY/KSHHQV6ZiWc/s320/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+012.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Click click click</em></span></div><br />
“A gadget, especially a mechanical or electrical device considered to be more complicated than necessary”<br />
<br />
My mother would tell us “all things in moderation”. Simple advice, but surprisingly truthful. Like most youngsters, I would need to learn for myself. The legal drinking age was 18 at the time. I found a couple drinks made me a much better dancer at the Agora or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Urban-Cowboy-John-Travolta/dp/B00005JKVA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Urban Cowboy</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00005JKVA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />, but when I first partook in a little more than a moderate amount, the results were as expected. One night when I was arriving home at a late hour I took exacting pains to avoid waking the dog which in turn would wake everyone. I held on to the car for support and tried to close the car door with just a thud. It works ok, but the thumb of my right hand has been closed in the door. Not so bad, I can just open the door, but it is locked. If you can picture the scenario I need my keys that are in my right pants pocket. <br />
<br />
For fun, hold your kitchen counter with your right hand and try this seemingly simple exercise. To further complicate things this is young Volvo with skin tight <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heidi-Klum-Jordache-Blue-Flare/dp/B00307GY9G?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Jordache Jeans</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00307GY9G" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00005JKVA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />. I eventually release my throbbing thumb, but not until I first drop the keys trying to unlock the door using my uncoordinated left hand. Too bad there were no remotes for car doors at the time, my thumb is black and blue for about a month and serves as a gentle reminder.<br />
<br />
So to summarize the long rambling intro: a Chrony, scale, AO scope, and Chairgun software are all good in moderation. Just don't over indulge, you could hurt your thumb.<br />
<br />
<strong>Chrony</strong><br />
<br />
Good:<br />
<br />
• Test any gun on arrival to establish its health<br />
<br />
• Find out the results of a tune, good or bad<br />
<br />
• Determine pellet energy to learn usable hunting range<br />
<br />
• Find the sweet spot quickly for a PCP<br />
<br />
Bad:<br />
<br />
• Shoot a PCP from full to empty and publish the results<br />
<br />
• Expect the gun to shoot at published velocities and complain when it doesn’t<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzh861AKI/AAAAAAAAAKw/JxXJL3VAhXc/s1600/IMG_5644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzh861AKI/AAAAAAAAAKw/JxXJL3VAhXc/s400/IMG_5644.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Good old F-1 is still going strong</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzLtc71sI/AAAAAAAAAKg/NmzPe-0J_-U/s1600/IMG_5642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzLtc71sI/AAAAAAAAAKg/NmzPe-0J_-U/s400/IMG_5642.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">The back has taken many hits from long distance shots, but it still works fine! </span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xztQtM9rI/AAAAAAAAAK4/wurRqMokwFk/s1600/IMG_5645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xztQtM9rI/AAAAAAAAAK4/wurRqMokwFk/s400/IMG_5645.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>This is what saves the Chrony from certain death</em></span></div><br />
<strong>Scale</strong><br />
<br />
Good:<br />
<br />
• Critical part of the energy calculation ( .25 caliber Rhinos are about 2 grains below advertised weight)<br />
<br />
• Judge pellet quality based on consistency<br />
<br />
Bad:<br />
<br />
• Weighing everything all the time<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzDfpKMbI/AAAAAAAAAKY/KXjHQDqJdOM/s1600/IMG_5641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xzDfpKMbI/AAAAAAAAAKY/KXjHQDqJdOM/s400/IMG_5641.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy .22 Cal, 18.1 Grains.... close enough</span></em><br />
<br />
</div><strong>Chairgun</strong><br />
<br />
Good:<br />
<br />
• Spend as much time on it as I do on exercise<br />
<br />
Bad:<br />
<br />
• Spend as much time on it as my kids spend on their cell phones<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hawkeoptics.com/us/chairgun/index.php"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">GET IT HERE</span></strong></a></div><br />
<strong>AO Scopes</strong><br />
<br />
• It’s all good<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x76tI_LSI/AAAAAAAAALI/uoUq5wv0S2s/s1600/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x76tI_LSI/AAAAAAAAALI/uoUq5wv0S2s/s400/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Actual view of target</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x8YeDgULI/AAAAAAAAALQ/LRJmwWzqc3Q/s1600/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="157" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_x8YeDgULI/AAAAAAAAALQ/LRJmwWzqc3Q/s400/graduation+and+emilly+erica!+011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Close up</em></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xy93KMvUI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/kTgw9I1hffY/s1600/IMG_5640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: red;"><em><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xy93KMvUI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/kTgw9I1hffY/s400/IMG_5640.JPG" width="400" /></em></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: red;">Click the elevation up to here</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xy2ddEYII/AAAAAAAAAKI/3KiX-EUYcAo/s1600/IMG_5639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xy2ddEYII/AAAAAAAAAKI/3KiX-EUYcAo/s400/IMG_5639.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>No need to change windage</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xylg2m4qI/AAAAAAAAAKA/VctO9CbSgUs/s1600/IMG_5636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_xylg2m4qI/AAAAAAAAAKA/VctO9CbSgUs/s400/IMG_5636.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The results.</em></span></div><span style="color: red;"><em></em></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><em>Now if this was a big Gamo target I would forgive you for yawning, but this is a ten meter bull’s-eye. (<a href="http://www.pyramydair.com/s/a/National_Target_5_Bull_Center_Air_Rifle_Target/1050">they come five to a sheet</a>) You can see the .22 caliber pellet above is larger than the aim point and the numbers are tiny like a pen tip. If this was a 20 + ft lb PCP you should also make faces. But the rifle was my current R7, a .20 caliber with a 3 x 9 Bushy. The shot for this was made last week, the R7 is fantastic for “fake” long distance practice. </em></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><em>Pay no mind to the bird feeder to the left or the fact that the R7 can hit an English Sparrow in the eye at that distance. </em></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Now, give me your good and bad gizmo list</span></strong></div><br />
<br />
<em></em>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-84628261575214144652010-05-25T00:15:00.008-04:002010-05-25T00:15:00.091-04:00Webley Raider - two shot - Part two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_coaqpcqNI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/WXfvCmh-I-8/s1600/raider+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="176" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_coaqpcqNI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/WXfvCmh-I-8/s400/raider+007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The Raider with the usual bench clutter, click for a close up</em></span></div><span style="color: red;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">PCP No. 1, day 4 - Thursday</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"></span></strong><br />
<br />
Until the fill probe arrives, I'm at a standstill. I add a board to the bottom of the pump to increase stability. It's an old drawer front sample finished in maple toffee, and I attach it with antique bronze hinges. Any scrap of lumber would work, but I fuss with it like an expectant mother in the nursery.<br />
<br />
Since this is downtime, I would like to at least partially explain my purchase of the Webley. The power level is attractive, along with what appears to be a very simple design, so my assumption is that not much can go wrong. The size and weight are also close to my ideals.<br />
<br />
My first "adult" spring airgun was a Webley that I ordered directly from England in the '70s. Given the demise of Webley's UK operation, I assume the opportunity for UK-made Webleys will become increasing difficult. Finally, I had two offers to purchase it at the price I paid before I even received it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_co2NHo1cI/AAAAAAAAAJY/z602ZRTrUew/s1600/raider+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_co2NHo1cI/AAAAAAAAAJY/z602ZRTrUew/s320/raider+053.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Shoots cheap Gamo Hunters well...</em></span></div><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>PCP No. 1, day 5 - Friday</strong></span><br />
<br />
The fill probe is here. The rifle has 50 bar in it and needs to go to 190 bar. It's apparent that shooting the rifle down so low has its disadvantages. I add air in groups of 20 strokes and find it to not be overly strenuous.<br />
<br />
At 150 bar, a knob is turned on the pump to keep the final strokes on par with the first. It seems to work. It takes 103 strokes total before the rifle is fully charged. Eureka! I think many adults would be able to fill a PCP at their own pace with a hand pump. My guess is the scuba tank option probably allows anyone capable of just holding a rifle to shoot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cpPWdrxnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/iZwSlCJl8Hc/s1600/raider+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cpPWdrxnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/iZwSlCJl8Hc/s320/raider+005.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Note the two shot mag, also feel of this stock is wonderful. </em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>In the future I will wish I could combine it with the FX Cyclone action for the perfect PCP</em></span></div><br />
I check the scope settings by shooting a group at a little over 13 meters. This is the longest indoor range I can accommodate. The 5 shots are fired quickly, and the result is ok but nothing noteworthy. The big upside is that once the rifle is filled, the rest of the procedure is effortless.<br />
<br />
Since the Raider is no longer available, I don’t think tons of statistics will be that beneficial, but here are a few.<br />
<br />
The manual states that the non-FAC version will provide about 60 12-foot-pound shots. I get 30 shots that range from 21.4 to 23.8 ft lbs with 14.3-grain JSB Exacts.<br />
<br />
Each shot requires about 2.7 pumps. That's not too bad, considering the power is at the level of a tuned Beeman R1. For lack of an onboard gauge, I simply count 30 pellets out and put them on deck in the lid of the tin. When they're gone, I know it's time to start pumping. It takes about 81 strokes. I was concerned about variation in velocity, but POI does not seem to change much with a spread of 32 fps.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cpmscoVRI/AAAAAAAAAJo/MIOLfTe6fC4/s1600/raider+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cpmscoVRI/AAAAAAAAAJo/MIOLfTe6fC4/s320/raider+050.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>FX hand pump with Volvo's base</em></span></div><br />
The results of one of the 30-shot strings with .22 caliber <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/JSB-Diabolo-Exact-Express-Grains/dp/B002HS3I3Y?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">JSB Exact Jumbo Express</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002HS3I3Y" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>:<br />
<br />
Shot 1...839<br />
<br />
Shot 10...844<br />
<br />
Shot 20...849<br />
<br />
Shot 30...806<br />
<br />
And just for fun, shot 40 is 742 fps.<br />
<br />
I try some <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/GAMO-Round-Caliber-Hunter-Pellets/dp/B002APN0V4?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Gamo Hunter pellets</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002APN0V4" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>. At the 36 feet I am shooting, 3 pellets make a single oversized hole. That is better than some of the "quality" pellets I tried. The Gamos are not very pretty, but often give acceptable results. Once again, the scope is an older, inexpensive 3-9s set on 6x.<br />
<br />
The 2-shot clip would be appreciated in the field; but from a bench, using it as single shot is actually more efficient.<br />
<br />
This may seem odd, but working the bolt is one of my favorite parts. It's very satisfying and something spring rifles don’t offer. Once, toward the end of the session, I instinctively smacked the end of the barrel to break the rifle open. Old habits die hard.<br />
<br />
Final thoughts<br />
<br />
I think a PCP would be the best way to convert a firearm shooter to airguns. The ability to bench the rifle, not worry about hold, mount a scope with no more difficulty than mounting one on a rimfire and the lack of recoil make for a user-friendly platform. Once you become acquainted with the process, a PCP is not as daunting as many make it sound.<br />
<br />
If I could design my own PCP, my priorities in the order of importance would be quiet operation, adjustable power, onboard gauge, multiple shots, less than 7 lbs., about 40" long and easy to refill. (<em><span style="background-color: white; color: #a64d79;"><strong>Sounds like an FX Cyclone, I just don't know it at the time)</strong></span></em><br />
<br />
If you want an air rifle with the power of the magnum spring guns, the feel of a recoilless match rifle, and handy size, it seems a PCP would be hard to beat.<br />
<br />
My final conclusion: I would recommend one to a friend.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_csTLP7NcI/AAAAAAAAAJw/D0sl0PvDzvw/s1600/raider+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_csTLP7NcI/AAAAAAAAAJw/D0sl0PvDzvw/s400/raider+024.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Rack #3</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Five professionally tuned Springer’s, three by <a href="http://www.springgunning.com/">Paul Watts</a> and two by <a href="http://home.comcast.net/~peterdragin/index.html/">Rich in Mich</a>. Could they someday all be replaced by a single PCP?</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Left to right: HW97K .177, HW30S .177, HW50S .22, FWB124D .177, BSA Lightning XL .25</em></span></div><span style="color: red;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><br />
<em></em></span>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-59220932261874707082010-05-24T00:08:00.011-04:002010-05-24T08:26:56.005-04:00Webley Raider - two shot - Part OnePreface<br />
<br />
<br />
This is taken from my notes for a guest blog I wrote for PA a couple years ago. While I would guess the original is lost or will be in the format transition, it is now preserved for prosperity. The topic is my first venture in the PCP world - a Webley Raider.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cl4Llom3I/AAAAAAAAAIw/A9-5qOiCYAw/s1600/raider+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="122" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cl4Llom3I/AAAAAAAAAIw/A9-5qOiCYAw/s400/raider+017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>The stock on this rifle is a perfect shape</em></span></div><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">PCP No. 1, day 1 - Monday</span></strong><br />
<br />
A late appointment meant I did not get home until about 8:00 pm. I saw the box still on the front stoop. The wife and kids have learned the long boxes are for dad, so they seldom bother to bring one in, much to my chagrin.<br />
<br />
After dinner, I opened it up, my wife commented it was different and she liked the looks of it. My youngest said I better not be spending their Christmas present money. (No, I’m not).<br />
<br />
BG_Farmer, I would guess you would not approve. It has gold on the trigger guard and fill plug. Also, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/plated-trigger-Webley-Tomahawk-Longbow/dp/B002IYJBRE?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Webley Raider </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002IYJBRE" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />in gold on the side. I’m guessing that's what attracted the wife to it. I prefer blued, but I ordered it sight-unseen for $395. <br />
<br />
An attached 2-shot magazine means you can't check to see if a pellet is loaded, so I fired it to make sure is was empty. "Dad, that's too loud. Go downstairs."<br />
<br />
In the confines of the basement, it was even louder. So, a PCP with no shroud means getting the hearing protection out of your range bag. This rifle won't work like the spring guns for late night shooting or suburban backyard critter protection.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cmSm0sv4I/AAAAAAAAAI4/7YY1T50muvs/s1600/raider+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cmSm0sv4I/AAAAAAAAAI4/7YY1T50muvs/s320/raider+015.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>I forget this scope is dead, killed by my Webley Patriot years ago</em></span></div><br />
I use the <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/2-Pk-Tibet-Almond-Sticks/dp/B0034JOXMK?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Tibet Almond stick </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0034JOXMK" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>that I apply to the stocks of all used guns. A heavy application hides most scratches. I put it on the entire stock and let it sit overnight. The rifle has nice blue/black on the metal and a wide, flat forearm similar to a centerfire varmint rig. Little over 7 lbs. without a scope and 37" long. Other then “new old stock” this Webley is no longer available. Best I can tell it was offered for about 7 years.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;"><strong>PCP No. 1, day 2 - Tuesday</strong></span><br />
<br />
In the morning, I put a quick coat of wax on the stock. With the 2-shot magazine, I can't run a couple patches down the barrel. I also give it a generous rub down with Beeman MP-5 on the outside metal. A quick wipe with an old white t-shirt reveals no rust, so I'm happy. <br />
<br />
That evening, I decide to put a few shots over a Chrony. The rifle has no fill gauge, which means one less part to fail, but it also means I have no clue how much air is in it. The Webley manual says the maximum fill is 200 bar, but they recommend 190 bar. It really doesn’t matter, as I have no hand pump for it yet. <br />
<br />
I try a .22 pellet (14.5 grains according to my scale), and it averages 850 fps. My <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shooting-Chrony-F-1-Chronograph-green/dp/B001BR3364?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Chrony</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001BR3364" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> lacks the printer, so I just shoot a short string to get an idea of the charge in the rifle and its performance. The basement PC takes me to the energy calculator on the Pyramyd Air site, where I learn that the energy with this pellet is 23.27 foot-pounds.<br />
<br />
I picked a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-736186M-Trophy-6-18x40-Riflescope/dp/B0034L1G1Y?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">6-18x Bushnell Trophy </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0034L1G1Y" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />scope that's too long for most of my current spring rifles but will fit fine on the Webley. It was originally on a Beeman R1, and then moved to a Patriot. My first shot at about 36' misses the Gamo trap altogether, as does the second.<br />
<br />
I go to plan "B"....an old, larger Beeman quiet trap at 24". The round strikes low and left. I dial in as much up and right as I can. No use. It's at the limit of its adjustable range. I then recall the Patriot killed this scope years ago. It was late, so I’ll try again this evening.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cnFz88YWI/AAAAAAAAAJA/IvfvO4PVUGA/s1600/raider+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cnFz88YWI/AAAAAAAAAJA/IvfvO4PVUGA/s400/raider+008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Usual deep Webley blue, looks like the JM lubes are watching the newcomer</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">PCP No. 1, day 3 - Wednesday</span></strong><br />
<br />
The pump has arrived. In my search for a hand pump to fill the PCP, I learned the following:<br />
<br />
Limited selections are available, which is further reduced by what is actually in stock. I ended up ordering an FX 4-stage pump that claims to lower the effort needed to fill the rifle. Additionally, I based my decision on not much more than I recognize the FX brand name and the unit is available immediately. Sold.<br />
<br />
When I open the shipping box, I quickly surmise that my request for “the piece that connects the rifle to the pump” has been denied. My disappointment is furthered by a non-specific, one-page sheet for assembly and use. I have to thank the yellow forum members as they explain the seemingly extra part is a moisture filter and actually post a link to Pyramyd Air with the fill probe I'll need along with a picture of it.<br />
<br />
I ordered the last piece of the puzzle just before midnight.<br />
<br />
Earlier in the evening, I replaced the malfunctioning Bushnell Trophy 6-18x with a lesser <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-Banner-Rifle-Multi-X-0-25MOA/dp/B002G1PU2Y?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Bushnell 3-9x </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002G1PU2Y" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />that did light duty on a Beeman R7. The first shot is close, and I'm spot on in about 5 shots.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cnysTJVYI/AAAAAAAAAJI/AkyQo37dQQ8/s1600/raider+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cnysTJVYI/AAAAAAAAAJI/AkyQo37dQQ8/s400/raider+016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Lots of bling</em></span></div><br />
I start with Crow Magnums. As they drop an inch below the aimpoint, I switch to JSB Exact Jumbo Express, which puts me back on target. Finally, I put H&N Match in the rifle and shoot them, starting at an inch high to more than an inch below the bullseye.<br />
<br />
Even with hearing protection, I realize the discharge noise is greatly reduced. I take off my earmuffs, and the rifle now sounds like my Daisy 922. A quick check shows the H&N Match are down to 497 fps. I'm done until I can charge the rifle.<br />
<br />
I shoot an HW30S as if to show the Raider the beauty of self-sufficiency.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-69858532642638948502010-05-23T00:47:00.020-04:002010-05-23T21:44:29.061-04:00Hammerli 850 AirMagnum - Part Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_dG_nJiS2I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/9GZ9OoK6k6g/s1600/850%2520AirMagnum%2520Scoped.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="101" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_dG_nJiS2I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/9GZ9OoK6k6g/s400/850%2520AirMagnum%2520Scoped.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>12 ft lbs with most pellets in .22 caliber</em></span><br />
<br />
</div> I run it through all the normal paces; accuracy-wise it is about a 7 + on a scale of 10. I would venture this is more a result of shooting the CO2 too quickly than the rifle's capability. When CO2 is shot quickly it cools down, and delivers less energy. This means the point of impact will change and become progressively lower. With an eight- shot magazine this is easy to do. I decide to use it for some backyard shooting and bring it outside with me while cutting the lawn. I let it lean against the house while I perform this most important of husbandly duties. It is early spring and less than 70 degrees outside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_SwM6KB4tI/AAAAAAAAAIY/X0YD3NGBX_w/s1600/850+RSW+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_SwM6KB4tI/AAAAAAAAAIY/X0YD3NGBX_w/s320/850+RSW+004.JPG" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>I remove the scope and try a red dot plus laser </em></span></div><br />
After about an hour I return and take aim at a random target and pull the trigger. Nothing. The sun has heated the CO2 and caused the valve to lock up as the pressure is too high for it to work. The best thing to do is to put it back in the basement and allow it to cool. I'm sure it would be fine by tomorrow, yes that would be best, but I start to question myself. Did I mistrack my shots? Did it leak? Hmmm. Let’s see, I start to unscrew the cylinder and I hear just the slightest hiss. Maybe it is almost empty? I give it a big turn and the blast is huge as the entire 88 grams empties out. The smell of CO2 is unmistakable.<br />
I know I have just blown the seal out, but I use a another 88 gram cylinder to confirm it. It empties immediately as soon as it is installed.<br />
<br />
I call Greg at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Umarex-Real-Action-Marker-1R/dp/B00169DYN4?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Umarex</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00169DYN4" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> and send the rifle for a vacation in Texas. The repair is free if I pay shipping both ways. Interestingly Umarex blames the Crosman CO2 for the issue stating it is full of dirt. Once back in my hands, I admit I am concerned about using it outside. I give it a try again and the same thing happens, an hour in the sun and she will not shoot. It is then relegated to an indoor shooter only and becomes a platform for laser sights, and all sorts of testing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_caKSW8eII/AAAAAAAAAIo/EMnfGlXcgAw/s1600/CRAirSource2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_caKSW8eII/AAAAAAAAAIo/EMnfGlXcgAw/s320/CRAirSource2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div align="center"><span style="color: red;"><em>Big and pricey, but dirty???</em></span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div>Conclusion, these guns have (or had) a cult- like following, and are commonly converted to hold air instead of CO2, but with the continued price drops on PCP's that comes with greater competition, I think that is less of a strong suit. As far as using them with CO2, care must be taken to keep the rifle within its optimum operating range, which means not too hot or too cold, kinda like Goldilocks’ porridge.<br />
<br />
I rate it as an okay and accurate enough plinker, but would still pick a PCP over it for the versatility. Also any economy of the lower initial cost is soon lost with the 88 gram cylinders. Bulk fill would lower the expense. Check here for more info: <a href="http://www.the850store.com/">The 850 Store</a>.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-63277388880554555612010-05-22T00:01:00.004-04:002010-05-22T10:45:44.783-04:00Hammerli 850 AirMagnum - Part One<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000R5LKYS" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000R4AHJI" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hammerli-850-AirMagnum-Combo-rifle/dp/B000R4AHJI?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Hammerli 850 AirMagnum</span> </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000R4AHJI" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_Su0URRUWI/AAAAAAAAAH4/WPgjXI_TUzE/s1600/850+RSW+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_Su0URRUWI/AAAAAAAAAH4/WPgjXI_TUzE/s400/850+RSW+001.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>I use it as a test bed for assorted sights...t</em></span><em><span style="color: red;">hat is one funky stock to my eyes</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>CO2 has never been my first choice as a power system and polymer stocks don't really do it for me either. As I have said before, I am not a blow-up doll kind of guy. It need not be fancy in grain or species, but I do like the feel of real wood.<br />
<br />
So then why would I order an 850 which combines both features that I don't care for?<br />
<br />
I am intrigued by the number of shots the 88 gram <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crosman-Gram-Airsource-Cartridges-Pack/dp/B0006605R6?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Crosman Air Source </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0006605R6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>is said to offer, and I am getting lazy in my old age. The 8-shot capacity magazine is also an attraction when compared to all my single-shot rifles. When I pull the trigger the RWS is new to the market and in short supply. Pyramyd Air is out, and having been fooled before by the ever-changing in-stock dates, I look elsewhere and grab one at Airguns of Arizona. When delivery takes a little longer than expected, I am happy to hear they are testing all the rifles first to make sure they hold CO2 before shipping, and the first one for my order was leaking. They also supply their usual Chrony results at no additional cost and throw in a box of .22 caliber <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crosman-Premier-Grains-Domed-625ct/dp/B000B5A5NG?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Crosman Premiers </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000B5A5NG" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />because of the delay, which was only a week. Very nice touch. .<br />
<br />
I do order the optional muzzle brake from PA along with some extra magazines. I pass on the overly expensive 12 gram cylinder adapter. Bulk fill is also an option for these.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_SvA3VagKI/AAAAAAAAAIA/hckyR1ohENM/s1600/2143GBP4MEL__SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_SvA3VagKI/AAAAAAAAAIA/hckyR1ohENM/s320/2143GBP4MEL__SL500_AA300_.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="color: red;"><em>This slips over the muzzle and is for looks only</em></span></div><br />
At the time I am working less than two miles away from home and have learned to watch the UPS tracking information on line. As soon as it shows delivered, I hang a sign on the door and run to pick it up. I can't bring it into my workplace with me but I can get a good peak at it in the trunk. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cZ9-ZQMPI/AAAAAAAAAIg/0xR6WInT_DE/s1600/UX2251006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_cZ9-ZQMPI/AAAAAAAAAIg/0xR6WInT_DE/s320/UX2251006.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>I pass on this 12 gram CO2 adaptor for $99.00</em></span></div><span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="color: black;">The packaging is attractive with a retail quality and the RWS 850 is nestled in protective foam that makes me shiver when the rifle is removed.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">Once home I find it is much louder than a comparable spring rifle with the same power. I attach the muzzle brake but this does not change the sound level. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">The metal work is good, but the stock is a disappointment even for plastic. The feeling is hollow like a cheap drug store Easter Bunny. The slip-on cover over the CO2 cylinder does not inspire confidence as to its suspected long term serviceability. The overall stock shape itself is rather odd looking.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">The Crosman Premier pellets work well, but the challenge is knowing when to discontinue shooting. I shoot one full cylinder over a Chrony just to decide on an ideal stopping point. I track the number of shots by noting the number of fresh magazines that go in. It is simplistic, but works well. I have four magazines that hold a total of 32 rounds. I can load that set of 32 five times. When I have 5 slashes it is time for a new Air Source container. 160 is far short of the advertised 250 shots. I guess they did not consider the shots should hit the point of aim.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">Stay tuned for more...</span></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-60338826140744561022010-05-19T00:01:00.007-04:002010-05-20T22:07:03.851-04:00Direction of the Blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_IaHzgvUMI/AAAAAAAAAHw/gP3a7sxnKvc/s1600/road-signs-and-traffic-light.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_IaHzgvUMI/AAAAAAAAAHw/gP3a7sxnKvc/s400/road-signs-and-traffic-light.png" width="365" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Do they make a blog GPS???</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>First let's look at the History of the blog. Like most great concepts this began as an accident, wanting to avoid typing my name in with every post when blogging I needed a blogger account, but while signing up for the account I also created a blog. Oops. It would sit for months unused like most of my power tools. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_DAizgaTxI/AAAAAAAAAHg/QTQ_HGwH59Y/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_DAizgaTxI/AAAAAAAAAHg/QTQ_HGwH59Y/s640/untitled.bmp" width="403" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Speaking of history, Volvo's grandfather and socios in the new country...</em></span></div><br />
<br />
Then as a light-humored joke, I decided to post it as an alternative to the PA site which had just undergone major change. <br />
<span style="background-color: white;"></span><br />
Suddenly I realized I had a blog. For better or worse I could actually share over 30 years of shooting air rifles. While some kids dream of playing professional football, I had always wanted to be <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Classic-OConnor-Worldwide-Hunting-Adventures/dp/1935342096?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Jack O'Connor</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1935342096" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />. I often skipped eating at school to save my lunch money for the latest<span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: yellow;"></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Life-1-year/dp/B000BW56WO?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Outdoor Life </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000BW56WO" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />magazine. Sure, blogging is a far cry from writing a real column about an African Safari, but not so different then yelling at the TV<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001V5J7OI" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /> on a Sunday afternoon by many an armchair quarterback.<br />
<br />
Based on a suggestion earlier this week new blogs will post on Saturday and Sunday and not on Thursday and Friday. I would like feedback when possible on the blog content also. Thanks, this could be as good as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Girls-Gone-Wild-Top-Hottest/dp/B001REZM2Y?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Girls Gone Wild</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001REZM2Y" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
<br />
My thoughts have been to inject less commonly available data and sample targets and more personal opinion. I know this goes against what a reviewer usually does, but that is the point. I don't think there is a need for more of the same. I also want to focus more on the drawbacks which are normally not talked about. More of a consumer guides approach if you will, but<span style="background-color: white;"> </span>without an overload of the dry data that turns a juicy piece of meat into a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Durkee-Roasting-Roast-12-Count-Packages/dp/B0025VQRHM?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">dry pot roast</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0025VQRHM" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />. (yes, this link is a joke too)<br />
<br />
Now this may change if I ever get reseller or manufacturer sponsorship, in which case I will love everything. But for the time being, I will be like a food critic with irritable bowel syndrome, no need to read between the lines here. <br />
<br />
Also, I don't have a proof reader, so if you notice spelling or grammatical mistakes, please point them out in a separate comment so I can edit the blog and remove the comment once it is corrected.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_DEnciXvGI/AAAAAAAAAHo/ujqc3YgdQ_Y/s1600/r-1+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_DEnciXvGI/AAAAAAAAAHo/ujqc3YgdQ_Y/s400/r-1+022.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>If you want just one rifle, and hate PCP's - this is it - any guess?</em></span></div><br />
Let’s face it, glowing reviews are all too common, and typically the reviewer does not actually live with the product for any great length of time. I am not faulting these guys for their bias; when your paycheck depends on it or you have real paid advertisements things are different and it is hard to be brutally honest.<br />
<br />
Me, I've got no problem being brutal, unless I'm being paid to be nice. Example: The stock is nice, the lack of sanding and finish allowed me to scratch my poison ivy with it. Two thumbs up!Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-51254997379349070492010-05-18T00:40:00.012-04:002010-05-18T00:40:00.165-04:00Webley Patriot \ Beeman Kodiak - Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=5298728954548592835&postID=9093715918352859794">Part One</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CdhWrm8cI/AAAAAAAAAG4/hN3KnRVURaM/s1600/Patriot+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CdhWrm8cI/AAAAAAAAAG4/hN3KnRVURaM/s400/Patriot+006.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><br />
Shooting.<br />
<br />
I have an old Beeman quiet trap that included <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beeman-Ballistic-Putty-5-lbs/dp/B003M4U1AA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">ballistic putty </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003M4U1AA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />which is much more durable than the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gardner-Bender-DS-110N-Duct-Seal/dp/B000BO8XD6?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">duct seal </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000BO8XD6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />that is popular now. It is actually tough enough to contain a standard .22 LR round out of a pistol. But at the time I do not know that. I take extreme precautions half expecting the Patriot to blow through the trap and cinder block wall behind it.<br />
<br />
This is a big rifle. Certainly if you have buddies that rib you because you are an adult and still play with “BB” guns, hand them this. I know it works because I did it. Cocking the Kodiak takes a sharp smack to the barrel just to break it open, not knowing this they will look like 9 year old girls trying to open a pickle jar. At that point, you can advise them to stick with their firearms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CdzX8FScI/AAAAAAAAAHA/EyMibtPUPOw/s1600/Patriot+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CdzX8FScI/AAAAAAAAAHA/EyMibtPUPOw/s400/Patriot+011.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Beeman \ Williams sight added</em></span></div><br />
At least until they are man enough. <br />
<br />
Holding the Patriot it becomes clear where the power comes from. While not as heavy as even the stubby HW97K, it is a big rifle. The receiver tube is huge; it feels like it is built to a 125 % scale.<br />
<br />
It likes a middle weight pellet in .25 caliber for producing the best sustainable energy, which is not uncommon in most springers. It is also not accurate with the perfect rounds; I even try making it a shotgun loading 2 and 3 of them at a time. Interestingly the total energy remains about the same, which is lower than pellets at just over 24 ft lbs. It comes close with some pellets, but falls shy of the magical 30 ft lb number. I mark the best, as you can see from my notes on the pellet tins. (The 26.4 gr averaged about 702 fps)<br />
<br />
Scoping the rifle proves short lived, as it sends the 18x Bushy to an early grave in no time. Rather than challenge it with another scope to devourer, I put a Beeman aperture sight on it. This makes for a much better match in my mind, also keeping a scope out of the way when muscling the 50 + lb cocking effort and reducing the bigness feel. I believe Tom Gaylord said it best when he one time likened holding the Patriot to feeling like a kid shooting his father’s gun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CeEYXsWrI/AAAAAAAAAHI/VWih9FZLZA4/s1600/Patriot+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CeEYXsWrI/AAAAAAAAAHI/VWih9FZLZA4/s400/Patriot+012.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Classic good looks</em></span></div><br />
Accuracy is on par with the R1, which means excellent.<br />
<br />
So what's the conclusion? I think the pellet tins tell the story, after about 5 years I still had pellets from my original order left. I just never found it to be “the one” when I reached for a rifle, and this was long before I started buying and selling airguns just to test drive them. I had bought the Patriot to use, but when? It was without a doubt not a plinker like the R7. Long range went to the flatter shooting HW97K and my R1 and I were such good buddies, it always went hunting with me. The Patriot seldom left the gun safe; I dare say the same thing happened too many of those Smith and Wesson 44 magnums.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CeUivJZ2I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/4ORuymV3y2k/s1600/Patriot+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CeUivJZ2I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/4ORuymV3y2k/s400/Patriot+013.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Smack the end of the barrel to open it</em></span></div><br />
Conclusion,<br />
<br />
You would not use a sports car to haul a load of mulch home, you would want a truck. Personally I would have it delivered. The point is the Patriot was made with very specific uses in mind for which it excels. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_C5bPpvZSI/AAAAAAAAAHY/YnNC6vOEbTo/s1600/pellets_001%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_C5bPpvZSI/AAAAAAAAAHY/YnNC6vOEbTo/s400/pellets_001%5B1%5D.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>About 1/2 my .25 caliber pellets</em></span></div><br />
Now if you are in an area that makes firearm ownership difficult or perhaps you must have more power and only a Springer will work, it would fill the bill nicely. Or maybe you're a 320 lb football player that finds smaller rifles unsuitable. It certainly is a wonderful niche air rifle. But for me, it would be the first air rifle I ever sold. With PCP's becoming common place and now the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Benjamin-Marauder-Rifle-Repeater-1000/dp/B001S9U7AA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Crosman Marauder </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001S9U7AA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />offering over 45 ft lbs in .25 caliber the niche for it seems even smaller.<br />
<br />
For clarity, it is important to point out that my Patriot was made in the UK, and that the latest versions were made in Turkey. The reports on the Turkish guns have been all over the board, so buyers beware. <br />
<br />
With my usual good timing I sold the Patriot in the photos just before Webley closed their doors, so I asked $395.00 for it which seemed reasonable at the time. They are easily selling for $200 to $300 more now for a UK version. <br />
In any case, eventually I would turn those funds into my first PCP, which I’ll cover soon.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-90937159183528597942010-05-17T00:32:00.007-04:002010-05-17T01:18:57.446-04:00Webley Patriot \ Beeman Kodiak - Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CbkiuJLlI/AAAAAAAAAGY/tF9spbUXFI8/s1600/Patriot+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CbkiuJLlI/AAAAAAAAAGY/tF9spbUXFI8/s400/Patriot+007.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Man sized and then some</em></span></div><br />
When <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Collectors-Magnum-Enforcer-Blu-ray/dp/B001608QVS?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Dirty Harry </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001608QVS" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />proclaimed the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Smith-Wesson-Magnum-Metal-Sign/dp/B0014A0XSO?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">.44 magnum </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0014A0XSO" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />as the most powerful handgun in the world, he may not have been 100% correct but it captured our attention. As a wide eyed 11 year old I too wanted to own something labeled as the most powerful in the world. <br />
Side bar, the .44 magnum is but a pup compared to some of the big revolvers currently available.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_Cb6c0oY4I/AAAAAAAAAGg/CWnVkbrM4YE/s1600/Patriot+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_Cb6c0oY4I/AAAAAAAAAGg/CWnVkbrM4YE/s400/Patriot+008.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Nice fit and finish</em></span></div>Never having been a big handgun fan my interest waned in the .44 by the time I was of age to own one. What did capture my attention though was the Beeman Kodiak. Billed as the most powerful spring rifle in the world when it was introduced it was to the airgun world what the 44 magnum had been to revolvers. Unfortunately, the retail price was $699.00 which was beyond what I was willing or able to pay.<br />
<br />
I continued to settle for my trio of R1, R7 and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Weihrauch-HW97K-Blue-air-rifle/dp/B0020H0Y9I?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Beeman HW97K </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0020H0Y9I" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />and would just occasionally just pull out an old Beeman catalog and daydream about the rifle. I have to give kudos to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Book-Airguns-Robert-Beeman/dp/1936120038?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Dr. Beeman </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1936120038" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1886768773" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />on the marketing. With a warning on how powerful the gun was stamped on it along with the Kodiak name it inspired thoughts of hunting the huge bruin it was named after. Also he recommends .22 caliber for those not ready to move to the power of the .25. It was clear a man would want one in .25, and that caused shooters to need a whole 'nother pellet collection. Well played.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CcS0cU9tI/AAAAAAAAAGo/0f7fGImF7cM/s1600/Patriot+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CcS0cU9tI/AAAAAAAAAGo/0f7fGImF7cM/s400/Patriot+009.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>It showed up with a small ding above the trigger</em></span><br />
</div>With the advent of the Internet, airgun retailers seemed to pop up over night. Modems became quicker and on-line shopping was actually a viable option. Browsing the web I find a company called Pyramid Air and stumbled across the .25 caliber Webley Patriot for $415.00. I grab a Beeman catalog just to be sure, and it is a match. Like Beeman usually did, they had simply re-badged a European rifle.<br />
<br />
The big rifle arrives about a week later, but is single boxed and has some slight damage to the package. Sure enough, I find a corresponding ding on the left side of the Patriot. Sigh. I don't return it but advise PA that I would gladly pay an extra $5.00 for double boxing to ensure safe delivery in the future. I am just too excited to send it back once it is in my hands.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CckYizB-I/AAAAAAAAAGw/rKbZvviXW3g/s1600/Patriot+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S_CckYizB-I/AAAAAAAAAGw/rKbZvviXW3g/s400/Patriot+005.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>UK made</em></span></div><br />
First impressions, the bluing is as deep and rich as any firearm, fit and finish is very good and it actually includes an acceptable manual. And it is big. Seriously big. The only fault I can find other than the ding is that the cocking linkage has a little rattle to it like some pump shotguns.<br />
<br />
Anxious to test it out I forgo mounting a scope at first and break out the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shooting-Chrony-F-1-Chronograph-green/dp/B001BR3364?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Chrony</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001BR3364" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />. I also ordered a selection of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/UMAREX-25-Caliber-Superdome-Pellets/dp/B0017N9104?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">.25 caliber pellets </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0017N9104" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />along with a single tin of prefect rounds that are copper coated. You can't help but notice that size and heft of the .25 cal ammo. They make .177 look downright puny, which makes sense since they are about 1/ 3 the weight of these monsters. <br />
<br />
Next post we shoot it.Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-79643632165215814582010-05-14T01:30:00.011-04:002010-05-14T11:24:28.162-04:00The Ruger Single SixThis is for Matt61<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcCnpZDiI/AAAAAAAAAGA/yiqZitAPK8k/s1600/IMG_5472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcCnpZDiI/AAAAAAAAAGA/yiqZitAPK8k/s640/IMG_5472.JPG" width="388" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Good sights for when not shooting from the hip</em></span></div><br />
The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Galco-Single-Action-Outdoorsman-Holster/dp/B00162NTIQ?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Ruger Single Six </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00162NTIQ" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002AWX2QU" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00162NTIQ" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />is not a pellet pistol, but it is my favorite pellet rifle accouterment.<br />
<br />
Here is why. <br />
<br />
The first time I took to the woods with my trusty <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beeman-Supermagnum-Air-Rifle-rifle/dp/B0018LB6IK?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Beeman R1</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0018LB6IK" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />, I must admit I felt naked. Not the good naked either like when I’m home alone and want to get a little cleaning done. No, this was the Dr. office naked when they have a new female intern and, well we’ll just leave it at that.<br />
<br />
If I had grown up in Europe, I would guess this would be normal, but packing only a single shot pellet rifle on the edge of Appalachia just doesn’t seem right.<br />
“<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Deliverance-Deluxe-Jon-Voight/dp/B000RTB0R6?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Deliverance</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000RTB0R6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />” without a doubt left a lasting impression in my memory bank.<br />
<br />
My first security blanket came in the form of a 9mm pistol. It certainly filled the comfort category, but that was it. It almost seemed a little silly sitting under a hickory tree scanning the tree tops with my R1, while 15 rounds of 9mm and a back up magazine rode on my hip. There is a certain Feng shui to outdoor apparel, and that was not it. <br />
<br />
In comes the Ruger. It feels right, looks good, and makes sense. (if you may need to contend with Bears, you will want to up the ante.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcaEjr-MI/AAAAAAAAAGI/n5Mdy_ux1i0/s1600/IMG_5477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcaEjr-MI/AAAAAAAAAGI/n5Mdy_ux1i0/s400/IMG_5477.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Ready to go</em></span></div><br />
Versatility and tradition are the strong suits here.<br />
<br />
Colibri offer 20 grains at 375 fps. CB longs give a 29 grain slug 710 fps. Next up are standard .22 long rifle and even .22 Magnums pushing 40 grains at about 1550 fps out of a six and 1/2 inch barrel.<br />
<br />
I am able to practice in my basement with the Colibri which are no more powerful than an R7, or the CB longs which come in well under most PCP’s energy levels.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcsuj-GVI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/xlRqbJqTEwA/s1600/IMG_5470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-zcsuj-GVI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/xlRqbJqTEwA/s400/IMG_5470.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="color: red;"><em>Colibri should not be used in a rifle</em></span></div><br />
The standard .22 long rifles make the most sense to carry in the field, good economy and performance for plinking if things get boring or I just need a break. Lastly, while not my first choice, used for self defense in a revolver the .<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Big-Rock-Sports-Rimfire-Magnum/dp/B002Z8E6FA?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">22 WMR </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002Z8E6FA" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />is the best of the small bore handgun cartridges. <br />
<br />
Plus I can play “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shane-Alan-Ladd/dp/0792163710?ie=UTF8&tag=northa-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Shane</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=northa-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0792163710" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />” when no one is watching…Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5298728954548592835.post-72347162863765654422010-05-13T00:03:00.007-04:002010-05-13T12:42:40.981-04:00The Beeman Pell SeatPreface<br />
If you enjoy this Blog, I would appreciate anyone that can lend a hand spreading the word. I have provided the incredibly cute photo of me with a colt if that helps. Thanks!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.straightshooters.com/general%20shooting%20items/b7199pellseat.html">The Pell Seat</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tdZ2ufH7I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/tc8_4eiHlz0/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tdZ2ufH7I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/tc8_4eiHlz0/s400/untitled.bmp" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Volvo with his first ride</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Ever buy a pair of size 36 waist pants and find they are too tight, and another 36 is a tad loose? Or how about an XL t-shirt that seems a little snug and then the next XL makes you feel like you’re swimming in it?<br />
<br />
Pellet rifle barrels and the corresponding pellets can have the same issues. <br />
<br />
The most challenging I ever came across was a BSA Lightning XL in .25 caliber, loading a pellet in it was like trying to stuff me in a size two cocktail dress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-thZ4d0HRI/AAAAAAAAAFY/MVuYd9b9_m8/s1600/pell+seat+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="86" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-thZ4d0HRI/AAAAAAAAAFY/MVuYd9b9_m8/s400/pell+seat+001.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Use the round end</em></span></div><br />
I’ll admit the BSA is an extreme example. Seems the British are hesitant to give up the old number 3 bore size for the actual .25 caliber the Germans embrace. This is where a pell seat becomes a necessity instead of a luxury. Typically things won’t be so extreme, but the point is the pell seat will help any time the fit is tight.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-th5BcXCpI/AAAAAAAAAFg/_Z9CT0LRhSs/s1600/pellets+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-th5BcXCpI/AAAAAAAAAFg/_Z9CT0LRhSs/s400/pellets+001.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>These won't fit in a .25 cal BSA without help</em></span></div><br />
Next, if the breech and pellet are a good match, it can be used to get a consistent seating depth which in turn reduces velocity variance. A pellet seated too deeply will normally provide less velocity, which in turn affects the point of impact. At the same time the ball end can smooth the skirt for a good seal and keeps the pellet out of harm’s way when the barrel slams shut.<br />
<br />
Lastly, the pointy end can be used to experiment with seating depths if you are so inclined. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Keep in mind some barrels will have the opposite ailment and will be so large that the pellet falls out when you close it. The best solution for them is to find a chubby pellet that is accurate. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tibEEFE5I/AAAAAAAAAFo/l8H9U8Vk4EU/s1600/Patriot+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tibEEFE5I/AAAAAAAAAFo/l8H9U8Vk4EU/s400/Patriot+007.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tizZU3QoI/AAAAAAAAAFw/ewOFN_r9vIs/s1600/Patriot+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_myY4q7WpSzk/S-tizZU3QoI/AAAAAAAAAFw/ewOFN_r9vIs/s400/Patriot+011.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><em>Coming soon...Big and bad...you can click these pictures!</em></span></div>Volvohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11300847249508497209noreply@blogger.com16