GTN issue 86

BEST BUYS

BSA R-12 CLX Bolt Action

BSA Guns have given their flagship R-12 CLX a bolt-action twist, and Mat Manning reckons it’s a

There is something very reassuring about owning a BSA airgun. Apart from being solidly constructed and very accurate, this British gunmaker’s air rifles have a pedigree which spans more than 160 years. And BSA airguns aren’t just built for function – they also happen to be very kind on the eye, usually featuring traditional styling with a contemporary twist. Indeed, my mate who helps me to photograph review guns always thanks me for making his job easier when I slip a BSA from the gun case.

BSA Guns recently updated their flagship PCP with the launch of the R-12 CLX Pro, a model which Mark Camoccio reviewed in detail in the last two issues of Air Gunner. This airgun boasts a raft of new features, including a slick sidelever cocking and loading mechanism. Hot on its heels follows the subject of this review: the R-12 CLX Bolt Action. It shares many of the features of the Pro but, as the name suggests, it is bolt-action, and with prices starting at £1,080, also costs a bit less.

The bolt-action variant of the R-12 CLX prompted a sharp intake of breath when I first lifted the lid on its box. This airgun is a real looker, and whilst it maintains the classic lines of the R-10, there are subtle differences. Apart from being fun, this airgun is also very accurate. Its excellent barrel, consistent power output and very predictable trigger make for really precise shooting, which is further enhanced by the control provided by its cleverly designed stock and good balance. Shooting from a bench in almost windless conditions, the R-12 was practically landing pellet on pellet at 30m, and still printing tiny groups that could be covered by a 5p piece at 40m.

The R-12 CLX Bolt Action is also a very handsome airgun. Looks may not be the be all and end all, but this Birmingham-made air rifle’s enviable aesthetics really set it apart from the tactical crowd, and will certainly bring an added element of satisfaction for those lucky enough to own this excellent new BSA.