INCORPORATING:
GUNMART.NET LARGEST GUN & SHOOTING KIT REVIEW SITE ON THE WEB
32 PAGEs inside ▶ Hunting ▶ Firearms ▶ Night Vision ▶ Reloading and much more!
40 YEARS AS THE UK’S BIGGEST & BEST SHOOTING MAGAZINE
MILITARIA Re-enactment, Antique Guns and Places of Interest
ME E R T X T R O C S THE E
A S K C PA
H C N PU e s o p r u p i t l u A rugged m rom Hatsan f o t u a i m e s
0 8 770956 660191
kV
The Alecto M
Y C A R U ACC ANTEED GUAR
9
A modern classic from Webley
Volume 40 August 2021 £4.75
RO P 5 A T L E D E S N E F E E D E L R E I F N L I A O D REC
GM08.21/CV1/f
GM08.21/21/ga
CONTENTS
AUGUST 2021
IN THIS ISSUE 39 YEARS AS THE UK’S BIGGEST & BEST SHOOTING MAGAZINE
G U N M A R T. N E T Gun Mart is published monthly by Aceville Magazines Ltd, and goes on sale the third Thursday of the month preceding the cover date. PUBLISHER: Tony Phelps EDITORIAL: MANAGING EDITOR Ed Jackson EDITORIAL AND FIREARMS CONSULTANT, VIDEO, WEBSITE, AND MAGAZINE Pete Moore Email: shootingsports1@outlook.com EDITORIAL & ADVERTISEMENT OFFICE 21-23, Phoenix Court, Hawkins Rd, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY. Telephone: 01206 506247 Fax: 01206 500226
028
E-mail (Editorial only): editorialpr@gunmart.net E-mail (Advertisement only): vanessa.english@aceville.co.uk
074
ADVERTISING TEAM: GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER VANESSA ENGLISH – 01206 506247 E-mail: vanessa.english@aceville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER ZOE BAKER - 01206 506248 SENIOR ADVERTISEMENT EXECUTIVE SARAH COLLINS - 01206 506242 ADVERTISEMENT EXECUTIVE LUKE SEYMOUR – 01206 506244 SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES – 01293 312215 E-mail: gunmart@servicehelpline.co.uk
080
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: BRUCE POTTS PRINTED IN THE UK NEWS TRADE SALES Frontline Ltd. Tel: 01733 555161 EDITORIAL - Care is taken to ensure that the contents of the magazine are accurate, but the publishers do not accept responsibility for any errors that may occur. Articles published in this magazine are based on contributors’ personal experiences using specific tools, accessories and equipment, and should not be relied on as a guide to safe practice in conditions over which the publishers have no control. Readers should satisfy themselves as to the safety of specific guns, ammunition and uses. Readers should also familiarise themselves with all relevant legislation before attempting to purchase or use any gun. If in doubt, ask at your local police station, or consult one of the shooting associations. SUBMISSIONS - Readers are invited to submit articles, letters and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend any submissions, and cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage. Articles published will be paid for at our normal rates. ADVERTISEMENTS - Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, investigate any written complaints.
4
NEWS
006
News: The latest information from the shooting industry
008
Kitbox: Essential products and information for the well-equipped shooter
010
GUN MART WEBSITE DIRECTORY: The essential online listings for the sporting gun
038
Gun Test: Pete Wadeson tests the Stoeger XM1 and comes away more than a little impressed
042
Skills: Mark Camoccio sheds some light on tricky kneeling shots
048
Gun Test: Mark Camoccio takes a look at an impressive pistol from Webley; the Alecto MkV
FIELD CUTLERY
054
This month’s round-up of all the best cutting-edge tools of the trade
012
Special: What to see at The Game Fair
016
Best on Test: Our expert reviewers bring you a selection of shooting’s top new products
060
Wardrobe: Our round-up of what the well-dressed shooter in the field is wearing
Gun Test: Chris Parkin gets comfy behind a precision rifle from Daniel Defense; the Delta 5 Pro
100
Reloading Basics: Mark Underwood discusses light strikes and primers
022
FIREARMS
AIRGUNS
028
Gun Test: Mark Camoccio tries out a popular break-barrel sporter from Kral; the Devil
106
Gun Test: Jules Whicker takes a closer look at Brocock’s most powerful PCP; the Commander XR Magnum
032
Ammo Test: Bruce Potts thoroughly tests the new Baracuda Light pellets from H&N
112
Product: Hawke Endurance 1500 LRF
126
Product: A selection of products for the keen shooter
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
AUGUST 2021
CONTENTS
EDITOR'S COMMENT
086
SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE DELIVERY STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR! GUNMART.NET/SUBSCRIBE
112
106
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
070
074
Gun Test: Chris Parkin tests the Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera Night Vision: Bruce Potts casts his eyes over a new thermal scope from ATN; the Mars LT
080
Scope Test: Chris Parkin gets his hands on the technically tantalising Swarovski dS Gen II riflescope
086
Reloading: Bruce Potts explores the benefits of Meplat Trimmers
090
Product: Pete Moore looks at an effective, adjustable comb system that you can fit yourself
130
Gun Test: Bruce Potts casts his eyes over a Hatsan Escort Xtreme semi-auto shotgun
138
Ammo Test: Bruce Potts tries out Hull's Partridge Cartridge
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
140
Museum Visit: John Norris looks at the new museum for the Royal Logistic Corps
150
Re-Enactment: John Norris takes a detailed look at the US Army’s M3A1 37mm Anti-Tank Gun
160
The History Makers: Derek Landers continues his history makers series and takes an in-depth look at Pedersoli
162 INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
1000s
OF REVIEWS & VIDEOS AT
So here we are with the August issue of the magazine. For those of you planning on going to The Game Fair 2021 at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire from Friday 23rd July to Sunday 25th July, I have included a 3-page article featuring the top things to see and do there. Starting in the airgun section, Mark Camoccio has reviewed the Kral Devil and the impressive Webley Alecto MkV air pistol. He has also written a piece about kneeling shots, so if you are keen to improve your shooting skills then this is well worth a read. I have also included a review of H&N's Baracuda Light pellets by Bruce Potts and an article about the Stoeger XM1 by Pete Wadeson. This month Chris Parkin has been busy writing about two precision-type rifles. The first is the Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro and the second is the Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera, which hails from the land down under. He has also reviewed the new Swarovski dS Gen II riflescope. For those interested in a 50 ft/ lbs FAC rated airgun, there's a review by Jules Whicker of Brocock’s most powerful PCP; the Commander XR Magnum. The shotgun section includes a test of the Hatsan Escort Xtreme semi-auto shotgun by Bruce Potts and he has also taken a good look at Hull's 12-gauge Partridge Cartridge. This issue also sees John Norris talking about the new museum for the Royal Logistic Corps and the US Army’s M3A1 37mm Anti-Tank Gun. While Derek landers takes an in-depth look at Pedersoli. Enjoy, and as always, safe shooting!
Ed Jackson Managing Editor
GUNMART.NET AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
5
NEWS
GUN MART
news
THIS MONTH ON
All the latest news and views from the shooting world ECO FRIENDLY › Following the October 2020 ban of coal tar pitch clay pigeons, market-leading British manufacturer CCI International has launched its revolutionary Eco Clay target. Made of natural materials, it is completely free of outlawed PAH chemicals and contaminants as independently certified by Bureau Veritas. It has the added advantage that the binding resin biodegrades in water as verified by Exeter University, providing all Eco Clays with an ECHAREACH classification as an ‘environmentally friendly clay pigeon’. Established in 1982, CCI manufactures more than 100 million clays each year, so were well placed to produce a brand new PAH free clay. After extensive research and development, the new product has been
CCI has launched its revolutionary Eco Clay targets
comprehensively tested by CCI who are delighted with its performance. The new range is made to ISSF standards meaning they are identical in weight and size as coal tar pitch clays and perform exactly the same way, with an extremely low ‘no bird’ rate. They are available in eight colours and six sizes. World champion clay shot George Digweed MBE together with Olympic gold medallists Peter Wilson MBE
and Richard Faulds MBE have endorsed them in their respective disciplines and beyond. George commented: “Without doubt the finest environmentally friendly clay available in the world today. Every club wanting the best should use them. They are a total game-changer. For me the Eco Clay ticks all the boxes - it leads in consistency and quality. This new clay will secure the future of the sport.” Contact eco@cci-international.com
TV We have some exciting new content appearing on Gun Mart TV this month. The latest uploads include: Ruger American Hunter in 6.5 Creedmoor Tikka T3x Super Varmint Roughtech Cerakote Rapid Air Weapons RAW HM 1000X Air Arms S510 R Ultimate Sporter Carbine Kral Devil Walnut spring air rifle review Webley Alecto MkV Ultimate Carbon, Stable Sticks, Quad Stix Gamo Whisper Sting Hill Mk5 PCP pump Airguns for Beginners 4 - Scope Mounts New videos are being added all the time so check out the channel: www. youtube.com/GunMartTV
NEW AIRGUNS! › Range Right Ltd of Harrogate is delighted to announce an exclusive distribution agreement with Reximex of Turkey, which started manufacturing airguns and shotguns in 2015. They set out with the principle of producing world-class products using the latest R&D technologies. They make a wide range of PCP air rifles and the first models for the UK market have just been unveiled; 6
The Myth from Reximex is one of the new models arriving in the UK
the Myth, Pretensis and Regime. There are more to follow including an exciting range of PCP pistols, which are due for launch at the end of July.
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
The Reximex range represents the perfect combination of amazing value for money with no compromise on quality. Innovative designs and
robust manufacturing standards result in this brand being one that everyone's going to be talking about! www.range-right.co.uk
NEWS
KEEP IT SHARP › The Knife Sharpener Guy is the sole supplier at UK events of the world-famous AnySharp Knife Sharpener. The company is very proud that this product has recently been awarded the ‘Queens Award for Enterprise’. Stepan Hrycak has been The Knife Sharpener Guy for 15 years and has seen the rise in popularity year on year of this innovative and patented product. With many celebrity chef endorsements, it really is ‘The Worlds Best Knife Sharpener’ and is an ideal gift for both cooks and outdoors enthusiasts. The company are delighted to once again have the opportunity of meeting customers face to face. They will be located in the Totally Food Area at The Game Fair 2021 at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire from Friday 23rd July to Sunday 25th July www.theknifesharpenerguy.co.uk
GREAT SUCCESS › Leading Ross-on-Wye gun shop R&B Sporting smashed sales, attendance and plenty of clay targets at their recent open weekend in June. Held at the superb South Worcester R&B Sporting’s open weekend Shooting Ground, the smashes all targets! weekend welcomed a huge variety of visitors, from novices taking advantage of the ‘Have-a-Go’ stand to more experienced competition shooters after the next addition to their gun cabinet. Representatives from Beretta, Browning, Caesar Guerini, Blaser and Webley & Scott were busy throughout the weekend, with visitors having the chance to try demo guns on the Compak stand on site. Many people took the opportunity to get fitted with their own bespoke hearing protection with the team from Mercury Custom Plugs and get the latest news and advice on licensing and ammunition from the BASC stand. Rob Farquhar, Director, R&B Sporting commented: “Following all the postponements and cancellations of recent times we were so grateful to be able to host this event. There was so much enthusiasm to chat, compare and test out shotguns - it was by far our best ever open event and the sun shone all weekend!” Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with one visitor commenting: “Great to be able to talk, compare and try potential new guns. Big thanks to the R&B team for putting this on, inviting the trade stands, the mini layout and the free clays and cartridges for trying all those guns. All the best at the Game Fair, maybe see you there.” R&B Sporting will be on Gunmakers Row, stand J643 at The Game Fair 23-25th July. www.rbsporting.co.uk
QUICKFIRE Are you a UK-based shooting club with news to spread? Important event dates? Announcements? Competitions won by members? Then let us know at editorialpr@ gunmart.net and we’ll let the rest of the shooting world know! › Following the re-launch of their successful dog accessories range last month, Le Chameau partnered up with the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, in order to raise funds and give back to our four-legged friends. They managed to raise £2640 from web orders across UK, FR and DE. www.lechameau.com
The AnySharp Knife Sharpener is an innovative and patented tool
LOOK WHAT WE'VE GOT › As a result of night vision (NV) and thermal imaging (TI) equipment becoming more affordable, it's becoming more and more popular with hunters. NV devices give the shooter the ability to see in low light conditions. The technology operates by capturing the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum (which is invisible to the human eye) and converting it into an image that the user can then see. In the most basic terms, TI allows you to see an object’s heat radiating off itself. It records the temperature of various objects in the frame, then assigns each one a shade of colour. Kirklees Gun Shop now stocks products from ATN, InfiRay, Pard, Hikmicro, Pulsar and Sightmark. www.kirklees-guns.co.uk
Kirklees guns now stocks a large selection of night vision and thermal equipment
› As part of an ever-growing number of educational and practical courses, BASC has launched the Game Shooter Certificate 1 (GSC1). Intended for the novice gun, the course provides an insight into and a wider understanding of game shooting. The day and a half-long course will give participants the knowledge to improve success and ability in the field. www.basc.org.uk › As demand for birds shot with non-lead ammunition continues to grow, the British Game Alliance (BGA) has launched a pioneering new register for BGA-assured lead-free shoots, so that dealers, processors and stockists can source game to service this growing market. Shoots simply fill out a short questionnaire on the BGA website. www.britishgamealliance.co.uk/ lead-free-register › Wild and Game sells game meats and charcuterie, heritage breed meats, cheeses and a wide range of pies, pasties, sausages and ready meals. For the second year running, they are celebrating achieving an AA rating from the British Retail Consortium Global Standards, which is a coveted and stringent food safety standard. www.wildandgame.co.uk
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
7
NEWS
KIT BOX All the finest kit and caboodle for the seriously savvy shooter…
Performance and style › Swazi Apparel has launched their new ladies Sable Vest. Made from their three-layer AEGIS windshield stretch fabric, not only will it keep you warm, but it will allow your body to breathe. Featuring a low cut back for all-round weather protection, this water repellent garment is complemented by two discreetly placed
zipped pockets for added protection against the elements. Adorned with the Swazi logo on the body’s full-length zip tab, it’s paired with a discreet Swazi clan logo on the chest. Davey Hughes, founder and creative director of Swazi, commented: “After seeing a rise in demand for ladies’ vests, we set about creating one which
The new Sable vest is available in black and sizes 8-22
not only was built with performance in mind but one that complimented the female form. Its low cut back helps prevent draughts, while the intelligent AEGIS windshield fabric provides wind protection and breathability, making it a garment you’ll not want to leave the house without.” www.swazi.co.nz
PRICE: £160.00
Ear Pro
PRICE: £129.99
The ISOtunes Sport ADVANCE provides awareness and active gunshot noise attenuation
› Founded in 2016, ISOtunes is a family-owned consumer safety brand, specialising in hearing protection with enhanced audio and communication technology. As a global industry leader, they promise to provide safe and innovative products to those who work and play in loud environments. ISOtunes earplugs and ear defenders allow the hardest workers to listen to what they want, when they want, no matter their environment. As part of the ISOtunes Experience, customers are guaranteed superior quality, technology, and customer service with every brand interaction. With a product suited to all loud environments, from construction, through to woodwork, lawn-care, farming/ outdoor and shooting, ISOtunes provides unparalleled hearing protection through its SNR certified noise isolating technology. Not only does ISOtunes offer this protection, its TSC products have a built-in microphone that contains noise suppression and echo cancellation technologies that block steady-state noises like mowers, blowers, fans, vacuums, tractors, motors and engines, so the wearer can increase productivity by taking calls in loud environments. uk.isotunessport.com 8
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
From Field to Larder › Deer stalking entails much more than walking the countryside with a rifle; there is a great deal to be considered before lacing boots and donning a green fleece. It is often said that the real work starts after the trigger has been squeezed. The Complete Deer PRICE: Stalker – From Field £20.00 to Larder by Larry Fowles looks at all The ISBN for Larry's new book is aspects of the pursuit, 9781785008542 with clear explanations accompanied by advice, images and anecdotes. In addition, there is a unique reference chapter of all potential conditions a deer may suffer from, with full descriptions and images, plus advice on suitability for entering the food chain. Specific coverage includes: laws, leases and obtaining a FAC, the necessary equipment in this technological age, deer species, deer senses, shot placement, the importance of bullet design and its effect on the carcass, stalking activities by month, sticking, initial evisceration, inspection, recovery and hygiene. There is also info on who needs to register as a food business and inspecting the carcass. www.crowood.com
NEWS
Take-down › John Rigby & Co. has announced the latest limited edition of its popular Highland Stalker bolt-action rifle. Benefitting from the same premium craftsmanship and materials as its stablemates, the ‘Adventurer’ boasts a take-down action, making it the perfect choice for even the most luggagelimited of expeditions. Only 12 will be made. With ‘Adventurer’ engraved on the rear scope ring and ‘John Rigby & Co.’ on the front ring, each rifle will also have its serial number inlaid in gold on the trigger guard and ‘X of 12’ on the magazine
PRICE: £POA
Rigby releases limited edition take-down Highland Stalker ‘Adventurer’
floor plate. Their deluxe Turkish walnut stocks will be inlaid with silver ovals, will have traditional rounded grips with handfinished chequering and a Rigby oil finish, plus will measure 14 ½ inches at the
For the kids › Swazi Apparel has developed a range that's perfect for adventurous kids who are always on the move and need tough clothes that can keep up. Made from 280-gsm polar fleece and featuring a high collar, longer back and snug cuffs, the Bush Shirt is perfect for colder weather. The long zip makes it a breeze for pulling on/off while allowing kids to cool down without the need to remove the whole shirt.
(£45, Sizes: 2-12, Black / Navy / Olive.) The Micro Shirt is ultra-soft and ultralightweight yet durable. The breathable material allows moisture to wick away and it is cut extra-long to prevent it from riding up during movement. (£39, Sizes: 2-12, Iron Sand / Marine Blue / Petal Pink / Waxeye Green / Wisteria.) The Bush Pants, made from 280-gsm polar fleece, are comfortable and warm
centre, including a black leather-covered recoil pad. Chambered in .30-06 and with a plasma-nitride finished 22” barrel, the ‘Adventurer’ will feature a standard front foresight with a removable protector
hood, a fixed 65-yard rear sight, and two folding leaf sights regulated to 150 and 250 yards. Each rifle comes with a limited edition take-down canvas case and cleaning accessories. www.johnrigbyandco.com
Swazi now offer a fun and functional kids range
with deep pockets. The elasticated waistband with a belt makes them easy to pull on and gives kids great freedom of movement. (£39, Sizes: 2-12, Black / Olive.) Perfect for keeping little noggins warm, the Hasbeanie is super soft and made from 210-gsm microfleece. (£16, Sizes: S-M, Black / Iron Sand / Marine Blue / Petal Pink / Waxeye Green / Wisteria.) www.swazi.co.nz.
PRICE: FROM £16.00
GM08.21/27/a
Lintran K9 award winning dog, gun and equipment transport systems
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
9
WEBSITE DIRECTORY ADVERTISE HERE FROM £25 Contact our advertising department now on 01206 506247
For an insight into our range of services visit: www. swillingtonshootingsupplies.co.uk
Silencers and Precision Shooting Supplies
www.jacksonrifles.com
Rifles, Shotguns, Ammunition, Optics & Accessories
www.vikingshoot.com
www.daveyandson.co.uk
www.browning.com
Sporting Guns & Accessories
www.shootingsuppliesltd.co.uk
Leading supplier of Air Rifles and Pistols and all accessories: Plus we have an indoor test range to allow our customers to try various guns Opening Hours: Tue - Fri 9AM - 5PM Sat 9AM - 4PM Sun 10AM - 1PM
GEAR UP FOR ACTION 01937 833757 www.wighillparkguns.co.uk | info@wighillparkguns.co.uk
The Aladdin’s Cave for shooters Over 1,000 guns in stock NEW & USED www.fenlandruralsports.co.uk
www.military1st.co.uk
LAMPING, NIGHT VISION, THERMAL IMAGING www.nightmaster.co.uk 01535 610066
www.ruag.co.uk
EVERYTHING FOR SHOOTERS AND COLLECTORS
www.henrykrank.com
YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUNS AIRGUN REPAIR SPECIALIST
www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk
Europe's biggest & best shooting retailer. www.sportsmanguncentre.co.uk
UK's premiere retailer of shotguns, rifles, optics & shooting clothing & accessories.
www.yorkguns.com
Advertise online www.gunmart.net VERY COMPETITIVE RATES Visit our website or call us 01206 506247 WEBSITE DIRECTORY 08.21/a
GM08.21/29/a
NEWS
THE GAME FAIR 2021
Eyes Front!
Head over to The Shooting Line to have a go at some clays
We look at the top things to see and do at The Game Fair 2021
After last year’s cancellation, The Game Fair will be bigger and better than ever this summer, the wide array of family-friendly features and attractions ensuring that there is something for everyone. It will be held at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire from Friday 23rd July to Sunday 25th July.
The Shooting Line The Game Fair boasts the most comprehensive outdoor shooting exhibition held anywhere in the UK. You might be an expert shot or a complete novice, The Shooting Line welcomes people of all abilities. Run by E.J. Churchill, visitors have the opportunity to take part in a shoot out with competitions, have-a-go stands and demonstrations. As always, BASC will be on hand providing one-to-one lessons for 30 minutes and a shorter ‘shooting experience’ for newcomers that lasts 10 minutes. There will also be the opportunity for visitors to test leadfree sustainable shotgun cartridges from brands like Eley, BioAmmo and Joker. The CPSA will be offering visitors 12
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
There will be a lot of shops, so bring plenty of shopping bags!
have-a-go clay shooting at 10 targets with an instructor. Designed for all abilities, there is no minimum age but you do need to be at least 1m tall.
The Fishing Village Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone who has only recently taken up the sport, there’s plenty for you to enjoy in the new-look Fishing Village. You will be able to pick up expert tips on the specially made Casting Pool, with demonstrations from the likes of Charles Jardine, Hywel Morgan, his teenage daughter Tanya and Italian casting instructor Paolo Ercoli. A
dedicated fishing theatre – dubbed the Landing Stage – will play host to talks from the likes of Marina Gibson, author Henry Giles and David Lyons from the fishing and mental health charity, Tackling Minds. The Veniard fly tying team will be giving demonstrations of their art and there will be a string of exhibitors, showcasing everything from the latest tackle to top fishing destinations around the world.
Have-a-go activities There are so many fun engaging activities visitors can get involved with. That could be taking aim in one
NEWS
THE GAME FAIR 2021
of the clay shooting competitions or picking up a longbow to try some archery. Or perhaps you’d like to cast a line on Ragley’s stunning lake while receiving top tips from the experts or slow down to do some letter carving in the traditional crafts area. The falconry area gives visitors the chance to handle some spectacular birds of prey including hawks and buzzards. Head to the gundog area and get the family pet involved too by entering your pooch into one of three fun have-a-go competitions, the Scramble, Open Scurry and Junior Scurry, as well as BASC’s own Scurry competitions with daily prizes awarded.
The Falconry Village Sponsored by Qatar’s Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S’hail), the largest falconry show in the Middle East, the Falconry Village at The Game Fair features a huge selection of birds of prey. Run by CJ’s Birds of Prey, the flying ring will feature exciting demonstrations plus there will be specialist traders, artists and UK falconry clubs on hand to give advice.
VIP packages with chef James Martin James Martin returns to The Game Fair’s onsite restaurant ‘The Enclosure’ for a third consecutive year, to create a
If you like angling, then head to the new-look Fishing Village
game-based menu inspired by the best of British ingredients. By upgrading to one of three VIP packages (silver, gold or platinum) you’ll have exclusive access and the chance to meet James. Packages also include priority parking, access to The Orion FX Lounge and entry to The Game Fair. To make your experience even easier there’s also a shop & drop service across all packages so you can collect your Game Fair goodies when you’re ready. For the ultimate luxury experience and to enjoy yet more sumptuous food, the Platinum package includes a Champagne breakfast and a three-course lunch. Packages start from £99 per person.
celebrated novel. It follows three high-flying men who set themselves a shooting and fishing challenge to end their boredom. Taking place in The Clarence Court Main Arena on Saturday night from 6 pm, expect relaxed seating, whisky and wine, with a wonderful introduction from Buchan’s granddaughter Ursula, who will tell the audience more about her grandfather’s extraordinary life and her own novel 'Beyond the Thirty-Nine Steps'. Seats are very limited. Tickets are £20 and available in advance only. Visitors must also be holders of entrance tickets to The Game Fair.
Open-air cinema
The Clarence Court Main Arena
Settle down to some big-screen entertainment and enjoy a very special screening of 'John Macnab' at the openair cinema. In partnership with The British Film Institute, this little-known BBC film from 1976 is a three-part dramatisation based on John Buchan’s
A jam-packed itinerary includes an amazing variety of exciting competitions, educational demonstrations, thrills and occasional spills to keep visitors entertained all day every day. Watch the Shetland Pony Grand National, hound parades, If you like food, be sure to check out The Field Kitchen Theatre and The Totally Game Area
Lots will be going on at The Clarence Court Main Arena
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
13
NEWS
THE GAME FAIR 2021
There will be loads of trade stands to visit
There will be a lot of activities visitors can get involved with, like archery
Visitors can have-a-go with their own dog in the scurry, pick-up and scramble events
scurry driving, mounted Pony Club games and gundog demonstrations.
The Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre The effervescent host of Fieldsports Channel, Charlie Jacoby, will compère three days of lively discussions and TV-style chat shows, which will include some meaty political debate at the theatre, supported by Carter Jonas. There will also be a smattering of talks and book signings.
The Field Kitchen Theatre Visitors can watch some of Britain’s top game chefs, such as José Souto and Rachel Green plus Juanita Hennessy from MasterChef give cookery demos throughout the weekend. The indoor theatre is a celebration of food, where visitors of all ages will be able to watch and learn how to prepare tasty game dishes. It’s also a chance to find out about food provenance, sustainability and best practice from chefs and those who shoot, fish, hunt and forage.
Totally Game Area Yet another new and exciting addition for 2021, The Totally Game Area focuses on educating people about eating and cooking with game. Visitors can buy tokens (£3 each) and redeem them for a huge variety of tasters (one token per taster). Hosted by the British Game Alliance, 16 small producers including Exmoor Game, Taste of Game, and Wild & Game will be there offering everything from venison burgers and pheasant or rabbit goujons to pigeon kebabs and 14
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
partridge tacos. Aimed at taking the mystery out of game, visitors can learn how to kill, skin, prepare and cook it.
Camping & glamping With holidays to far-flung places uncertain, there’s never been a better time to enjoy a staycation. Visitors are welcome to bring their own tent or bring along a caravan, motorhome or horsebox on one of the new 10x10 pitches. Canvas bell tents are available either unfurnished, basically furnished or outright luxurious. For an enhanced camping experience, consider the baby tipi package that includes a proper double bed and carpet. Open for five nights, the campsite has all the necessary facilities including toilets, showers, an on-site shop as well as catering concessions and a bar. Very limited availability left so book soon!
50 students from two local landbased colleges (Moreton Morrell and Pershore) under the watchful eye of horticultural and landscape lecturer Mike Roberts. The quadrant design is divided into a ‘Water-Wise’ area which will demonstrate new ways rainfall can be harvested, drought-tolerant planting and sustainable drainage.
Shopping For three days every year, The Game Fair becomes one of the biggest retail areas in the UK, with nearly 1,000 stands – with 230 new brands exhibiting for the first time. All the big country brands will be in residence, with exciting new product launches and unbeatable showonly deals. As ever, a number of small independent retailers will be offering their unique, artisan products too. GM
Information: Gundogs Gundog lovers can have a go with their own four-legged friend in the scurry, pick-up and scramble events. Over the course of the weekend, there’s a jampacked programme of events from the long-established Home International Competition to the HPR Home International and the Gundog Working Test Challenge, both new for 2021. The latter is aimed at amateurs and will award £2,000 to the two overall winners.
• • • •
•
•
Game Fair Gardens This year’s 30x17m show garden will showcase how ‘smart’ a garden can be using modern technology. The garden is being created by around
•
WHERE: Ragley Hall, Warwickshire WHEN: Friday 23rd July to Sunday 25th July TICKET PRICES: ADULT: £29 in advance for one day (gate price £35) or £58 for three days (three days for the price of two). FAMILY (2 ADULTS AND UP TO 3 CHILDREN): £69 in advance (gate price £80) for one day or £140 for three days. CHILDREN (8-16): £10 in advance for one day and £30 for three days. CONTACT: The Game Fair - www.thegamefair.org
NEWS
GM08.21/78/a
GM08.21/48/g
25TH & 26TH SEPT 2021
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
15
NEWS
BEST ON TEST
BEST ON TEST Our experts bring you reviews of the top shooting products and services
| Hill Mk5 Airgun Pump › I've used a Hill Airgun pump for many years, so that puts me in a good position to confirm that they really are super reliable. On test here is the very latest Mk5 version, which comes flatpacked in a protective box. It can be purchased on its own or with the optional Dry-Pac moisture filter.
(Left) The new gauge is super clear and goes up to 300bar (Right) Hill doesn’t supply the end piece/ adaptor, but sourcing one is simple enough
amount of effort required to use the pump and that it's faster and easier to service. In addition, I also happened to notice that the body tube is narrower on the new model, and with 3/4lb less weight to lug about, that has to be a bonus for many. Look at the new gauge and you'll also notice that the Mk5 can pump to a higher 300bar (4500psi) when compared to 250bar with the previous model, so plenty of plus points.
Putting it together With effectively just five constituent parts to put together, assembly is very simple and didn't take long at all. My test pump came complete with the Dry-Pac system, which needed filling before use. The medium comes in a sachet and rather resembles mustard seeds.
Moisture As mentioned, I'm a huge fan of airgun pumps, yet there's no denying that one of the drawbacks is that, as the pump sucks in air from the atmosphere, some moisture is inevitably present. Hill lead the field with their Dry-Pac pod, and this extra is worth every penny, as the medium absorbs up to 95% of the moisture from the air, which could find its way into the airgun. One final consideration is to source the end piece adaptor, as irritatingly, Hill leave this off. A Foster snap connector is only a few quid, either from Hill's website or from outlets such as Best Fittings, and thereafter, connection is easy. As I say, 16
The Hill Pump Mk5 is arguably the best in the business, note the Dry-Pac moisture filter
In use
PRICE: £149.00
I couldn't help finding it an irritating omission, yet given the plethora of different adaptors used by different manufacturers, you can see Hill's logic. Adopt the quick
snap connectors available, and charging becomes easy.
Claims So what's new here? Well, Hill claims a 20% reduction in the
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Hill Mk5 Airgun Pump Max Fill Pressure: 300bar/4500psi Price: Pump only - £149 (guide) Pump including Dry-Pac - £175 (guide) Contact: John Rothery Wholesale www.bisley-uk.com
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
On test, I ran it alongside my Mk4 model, filling an Air Arms S510 R from 150 to 250bar. Whilst overall strokes were 69 with my old model against 71 with the new, the modest effort is still a feature. Negatives are that it isn't quite as stable as the old one, and I still find the handles too hard on the hands. But minor gripes aside, it's difficult not to conclude that this is still arguably the best pump on the market. It's extremely well made, easy to use, and sports that highly efficient Dry-Pac moisture trap. Bear that in mind and stump up the extra £25. You won't regret it. GM REVIEWER: MARK CAMOCCIO
NEWS
BEST ON TEST
| Professionals Choice Cleaning Equipment › I clean a lot of rifles and have been using Professionals Choice cleaning equipment from Hannam's reloading for the last few months. As a result, I thought it would be a good idea to share my experiences.
with effective 'lubrication' and cleaning power.
Impressive simplicity
(Main) Professionals Choice Cleaning Equipment (Left) These are the patches that seem to have a secret edge, speeding up cleaning with soft flexibility (Right) The cleaning rod includes a freely spinning handle
On offer
Twill, Knit and Flannel weaves are available, the latter being my favourite. These are quite thin and after assessing which gives the best fit in the barrel (some rifling patterns seem unduly tight regardless of similar bore size), these seem to have a secret. Their
woven structure is strong yet incredibly soft and flexible, seemingly melting into the grooves and lands of the bore. They are also absorbent and carry the solvent past the magazine and abutments without leaving drops behind, reaching the barrel
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Prices:
Contact:
Professionals Choice Cleaning Equipment Rifle Rod 36: .22 - 6.5mm (inc. free jag) £36.95 6.5mm Nylon Rifle Brush: £2.60 6.5mm Bronze Rifle Brush: £2.65 170 Square Flannel Patches 1.25” : £2.80 800 Round Flannel Patches 1.50” : £8.90 Hannam's Reloading - hannamsreloading.co.uk
REVIEWER: CHRIS PARKIN
uk.hawkeoptics.com
GM08.21/13/a
There is a range of bare, stainless steel cleaning rods, which come in calibre ranges of .17-.20, .22-6.5 and .270 upwards. I was using the middle .22-6.5mm rod size, which came supplied with a spear point jag in a chosen size. The rod measures 36”/915mm in length and shows a 4.5mm diameter. It's uncoated and therefore unable to have dirt and debris embedded into its surface, which may abrade your bore. The black aluminium handle is free running on bearings, allowing smooth rotation throughout the stroke without undue effort. With a broad range of jags as well as nylon and bronze brushes available, as well as shotgun and pistol specific gear, all bases are covered. I was particularly impressed by the patches, which are available in both round or square shapes and a multitude of sizes. They can be purchased in small or large bag quantities from ¾” to 3”.
After the patches have taken the primary firing residue away, I use the black nylon brushes for deep cleaning, where the application of aerated solvent and repeated strokes assists with ingrained copper residues. I’m happy with the durability of the 6.5 brushes supplied too, they haven’t degraded or folded any bristles, and with a steel, rather than brass wound core, don’t dissolve and therefore don’t indicate 'false positives' themselves. Inspecting what comes out of the muzzle with every soaked patch after a fixed number of shots and soak time in the barrel, tells me a lot of how a barrel is performing. I found these patches were cleaning barrels more quickly, with fewer used and less soaking time. I hate cleaning guns and anything that speeds up the process is well worth it in my opinion. Cleaning is a part of shooting too easily ignored until it’s too late, so take a look at the extensive Professionals Choice range and see if it fits your needs. GM
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
17
NEWS
BEST ON TEST
| Viper VX Backpacks
PRICE:
PRICE:
PRICE:
£42.95
£54.95
£51.95
The Viper VX Buckle Up Charger Pack, VX Express and VX Vortex all have specific attributes to suit specific situations and requirements
› Considering Viper already has a very comprehensive range of backpacks, it might seem strange they’ve added another series to their roster. However, the new VX series follows more of a sport/leisure theme, while including a definite tactical element. They’re manufactured from 700D Polytech material, which is the company’s own blend of denier and nylon weave. This gives them a tough and smooth outer stretchy shell, plus high resistance to abrasion, wear, and weather.
Clunk click Measuring 35 x 24 x 22cm and weighing 0.54kg, the Viper VX Buckle Up Charger Pack consists of the main body compartment and one front lower compartment. Both are expandable, which means that the carrying capacity can be boosted from 2 to 14 litres. It will work in conjunction with any Viper VX Buckle Up system and also due to it having a large MOLLE panel on the back, the shoulder straps are not only adjustable but fully removable. Both straps also have twin elasticated loops on the outer edges. 18
while internally, there’s a bladder pouch and a bladder/ comms outlet at the top.
Go fast The VX Express Pack has a 15-litre capacity, weighs 0.56kg and measures 44 x 24 x 15cm. The main compartment can be accessed using the twoway full-length zips or what is termed as ‘an express opening system.’ The latter consists of a horizontal grab handle positioned top/ front of the rucksack. When this is pulled outwards, it will quickly draw down both zips, whereupon the pack fully opens out. You then have access to five internal zipped compartments (four of which are of an open mesh design) plus a useful tear away grab bag. The latter measures 18 x 20 x 4cm and has a Velcro sealed main compartment and two outer mesh pockets, which makes it an ideal place to store something like a first aid kit. On the pack itself, there are two Velcro fastened Spandex side-pockets, each with a single MOLLE panel positioned above. There is also another large panel on the front, towards the base,
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Due to its expandable design, the VX Charger can be adjusted from a capacity of 2 to 14 litres
which considerably helps expand the bags overall versatility. The well-padded rear panel is covered with full 3D mesh for better grip and ventilation, plus the two adjustable shoulder straps are fully padded and include D-ring attachment points.
In a whirl Measuring 45 x 32 x 12cm and weighing 0.68kg, the 15-litre VX Vortex main compartment is accessed via a double two-way zip. Internally, there’s an elasticated top nylon sleeve and directly behind a
dedicated bladder pocket. The back panel features 3D mesh padding and the chest harness consists of two padded adjustable shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap. The upper section of the straps includes elasticated loops for extra carriage. There are two zipped Spandex pockets on the front and one elasticated pouch on the left-hand side of the bag. There is a MOLLE panel on the other side and some compression straps. GM REVIEWER: PETE WADESON
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Colours: Prices: Contact:
Viper VX Buckle Up Charger Pack, VX Express Pack and VX Vortex Pack. Titanium, Black, Green, Coyote and V-Cam The VX Charger is also available in VCBK £42,95, £54.95 & £51.95 respectively Thatchreed Ltd - www.viperkit.co.uk
BEST ON TEST
NEWS
| Klean Kanteen TKPro
PRICE: £39.95
750ml Shale-Black › Klean Kanteen is a very popular American manufacturer of drink and food containers, who first made their mark almost a decade ago by offering a safe, healthy alternative to plastic or aluminium lined liquid containers. This initial ‘break-through’ soon became a fast and still expanding range of drinking vessels deemed as safe, healthy, lightweight and reusable bottles, free of Bisphenol A (BPA) and other toxic substances. To complement their very comprehensive roster, they now bring us the TKPro 750ml insulated flask. Like other versions they produce, it’s manufactured using safe, durable, high-quality materials. The body is made
of 18/8 food-grade stainless steel and the electropolished interiors don’t retain or impart flavours. It’s fully leakproof as well as shatterproof and the company’s Climate Lock double-wall vacuum insulation system is just one feature that makes it so effective. This alone keeps contents hot for up to 28 hours or iced for up to 90 hours. The TKPro also has an integrated double-wall, 305ml, stainless steel cup that features a TK Closure internal thread design, that considerably increases thermal performance. This refers to the highly innovative, new age thread structure of the twist and pour cap, which also has a 360° pour-through design.
This streamlined, easily packable product, is finished with a highly attractive and practical, chip-resistant Klean Coat finish in Shale Black. GM
One of the best performing insulated flasks available
REVIEWER: PETE WADESON
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Contact:
Klean Kanteen TKPro 750ml Shale-Black £39.95 Whitby & Co - www.whitbyandco.co.uk
| BKL 1” Ring Mounts › BKL Mounts are a highquality brand, made in the USA, and they now manufacture a range of designs to cater for the shooting enthusiast who values quality along with creative design. The BKL 1” rings are a single strap mount and include the classic BKL design of a single piece base, which is a near-perfect fit over an 11mm dovetail rail. If it comes up a bit tight, then the mount can be adjusted by removing the base screw, then screwing it into the spacer hole from the other side. This gently forces the jaws apart. Slide the mounts onto the rails and then tighten them in the normal way. The matt black finish is smart and practical, plus the level of machining is equally impressive.
PRICE: £23.99
PRICE: £21.99
BKL's 1” ring mounts
Available in standard height or as a High version, indicated by the 'H' suffix in the model name, these mounts are perfect for precise and true scope mounting. Once fitted, they offer peace of mind. GM
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name:
Prices: Contact:
BKL 1” Ring Mounts Standard (BKL257MB) High (BKL257HMB) £21.99 (BKL257MB) £23.99 High (BKL257HMB) Optics Warehouse www.opticswarehouse.co.uk
REVIEWER: MARK CAMOCCIO AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
19
NEWS
BEST ON TEST
| Hazard 4 Multi Pistol Carrier semi-rigid, giving all-around protection and making the whole bag free-standing and self-supporting. One of the dividers has elasticated loops on it and a smaller sub-divider is also supplied, making the carrier useful for responsibly transporting a knife collection or other valuable items. There are, of course, plenty of attachment points on the outside of the bag, should you wish to add extra gear, but this would actually compromise its greatest feature, which is its compactness. Quality is great, as you would expect from Hazard 4, and this is a very cleverly thought out carry option. It's just a pity we no longer have the option to own multiple pistols! GM
PRICE: £127.95 (Above) The Hazard 4 MPC is a high-quality carrier that has a semi-rigid build (Left) It's surprisingly roomy and can be sub-divided to suit your gear
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Contact:
Hazard 4 Multi Pistol Carrier £127.95 Military 1st - www.military1st.co.uk
REVIEWER: MARK UNDERWOOD
GM08.21/56/g
› Although this particular item is described as a multi pistol carrier (we should be so lucky!) it is actually a really useful and compact way of transporting a variety of kit. The large and wellpadded main compartment can be split up using the supplied cushioned dividers, into whatever configuration suits your needs. Being large, yet compact, the bag will easily accommodate ear and eye protection, a good quantity of ammunition and some magazines. The dividers ensure everything is held safely in place and the fold-back top flap gives you full access to the contents. The zippered top flap is semi-rigid, with a separate zipped compartment inside to hold paperwork. The base of the bag is also padded and
20
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/49/f
NEWS
THE WARDROBE
THE WARDROBE All the finest kit and caboodle for the seriously sartorial shooter…
Jack Pyke Ashcombe Technical Fleece Jacket › We often see the word ‘technical’ applied to certain products, particularly in respect of clothing. However, is this just jargon to fool us into thinking the garment superior to others or a valid use of the phrase? So, to assess this, let’s first inspect the material the Ashcombe Technical Fleece Jacket is manufactured from and in this case, it’s 100%, Polyester Fleece.
The garment
The Technical Fleece Jacket is ideal as an outer layer and equally useful as a mid-layer
Access is via a front zip opening, which also sensibly includes a chin guard. The high stand-up collar rises up at the back to provide extra protection and the action cut boasts a waist drawstring cord for a tailored fit. Storage is catered for by a zipped breast pocket and two zipped side pockets (all zips include pull assists). Another laudable feature is the thumb cuffs. They’re useful when you require full protection between upper garment and gloves and/or when full gloves aren’t required, they can serve as an unobtrusive alternative to fingerless gloves. An extra pinch of style is added due to the fleece having contrasting sleeve panels and collar, with an embroidered Jack Pyke logo on the rear of the latter.
Wool substitute Fleece is made of an entirely synthetic material, which, of course, is polyester. Basically, it was invented to imitate wool and is a very good substitute, especially when used for outdoor clothing as it keeps you warm without weighing you down. It also dries quickly, allowing you to wear it in wet conditions. So, in that respect, it is quite technical. Also, note that polyester fleece is extremely warm because of its structure. The pile surface provides space for air pockets between the threads and this applies to both sides of the fabric. And, considering it first emerged from its niche as once being a ‘high-tech, high-performance’ textile, it can in many ways be classed Another laudable feature is the thumb cuffs
22
PRICE: £39.95 as technical. However, that applies to all polyester fleeces.
Weighty matters The fabric used in the Ashcombe Technical Fleece Jacket is rated at 230 grams per square meter (GSM). Fleece ‘weight’ refers to the loft and thickness of the material used in a jacket's construction. This means the weight here falls firmly into the mid-weight category, therefore the Ashcombe is
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
ideal as an outer layer for everyday wear and equally useful as a mid-layer in a layering system. Also, it must be noted the heavier the fleece, then the less flexible the garment is to wear. So again, the Ashcombe scores highly due to its warming properties being high in relation to it being very unrestrictive to wear.
Conclusion The Ashcombe Technical Fleece Jacket is a very stylish and versatile garment that offers comfort with insulation. It's lightweight, allows moisture to evaporate, while also blocking humidity from the outside. So technically speaking, it does what you’d expect, plus it carries a very reasonable price tag. GM
REVIEWER: PETE WADESON
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Sizes: Contact:
Jack Pyke Ashcombe Technical Fleece Jacket £39.95 S-3XL Thatchreed Ltd - www.jackpyke.co.uk
NEWS
THE WARDROBE
ShooterKing Huntflex Clothing
PRICE:
PRICE:
PRICE:
£259.95
229.95
£205.95
(Left) The Huntflex Jacket is hard-wearing, waterproof, windproof, breathable and quiet, (Middle) The Huntflex Smock is a great new take on a traditional design, (Right) The Huntflex Series trousers are very well featured
› The overall build of the Huntflex series of clothing consists of Sealgair Pro 250-G, Hunt Lite 3L Fabric, plus a Shoottex Plus Membrane. These afford a high breathability rating of 14,000g/ m2/24hrs and a waterproof rating of 10,000mm. Sealgair is an extra hardwearing fabric constructed from Cordura Nylon 66, which is not only very quiet but made to combat adverse weather conditions. Hunt Lite 3L is extremely lightweight, waterproof, windproof, breathable, highly stretchable, soft, and quiet. The three-layer construction (3L) makes it highly durable and it consists of an external shell fabric treated with DWR, the second Shoottex Plus membrane layer is bonded to the outer while a third soft, yet durable layer bonded to the second layer provides further durability, comfort, and insulation to the wearer. Forest Mist is a digital camouflage that combines six different colours and has been specially designed so that it conceals its wearer from
animal view, by adapting to varying light levels, as well as foliage and landscapes.
Main jacket The Huntflex Jacket features a front zip opening, an adjustable and detachable hood with buttons plus pullcords, YKK waterproof zips and zip hood, a rubber access port for audio cable/radio antenna, a chest pocket with waterproof zip and adjustable Velcro cuffs. It also boasts an additional Cordura lining inside the cuffs and lower hem, to help protect against wear and tear. The design features taped seams and a high collar for wind protection.
Match up
with an anti-slip band plus belt loops. They also include a YKK zip fly with a double button top. Storage is catered for by one waterproof zipped leg pocket, one open leg pocket, two zipped back pockets and two open hip pockets. The trousers include expandable leg zips for increased freedom of movement, as well as more breathability and ventilation. They are reinforced with Cordura Nylon for increased resistance to wear and tear. There are also adjustable Velcro straps on the legs for improved fit as well as pre-shaped reinforced knees, which provide unrestricted movement and extra strength. GM
The Huntflex trousers feature an elasticated waist
REVIEWER: PETE WADESON
zips are waterproof and feature zip hoods. This feature replaces the traditional zip baffle, improving access to the interior, whilst maintaining water resistance and blending the zip area into the fabric for an overall better look. The sleeves have been reinforced from the elbows down to the lower arms, whilst the elasticated cuffs have been designed to naturally fit closely to the wrists. The additional Velcro straps let the wearer adjust the cuffs to fit. The lower hem is also offset and has been designed to be shorter at the front, which reduces bunching and increases freedom of movement.
Super smock The Huntflex Smock implements an offset zipper that prevents irritation at the chin and neck. There’s also better access to the internal ammunition pockets, especially whilst in the prone position. It features an adjustable hood with pull cords, a chest pocket and a large front pocket with a flap. The pocket and chest
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Sizes: Colours: Price: Contact:
ShooterKing Huntflex Jacket, Smock and Trousers S-5XL Forest Mist Camo or Brown Olive £259.95, £229.95 and £205.95 respectively Thomas Jacks Ltd - www.thomasjacks.co.uk
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
23
NEWS
NOW ON
THE SPORTSMAN’S ASSOCIATION
SALE!
P.O. Box 2379, Salisbury SP4 4AW Admin/Membership - Tel: 07521 508076 Advice/Legal Matters - Tel: 07831 090744
www.sportsmanassociation.co.uk
THE ASSOCIATION THAT FIGHTS FOR ALL THE SHOOTING SPORTS! Public Liability has been increased to £10 million with no excess for any claim relating to a legitimate field sport and historical re-enactment. Personal injury cover is no longer offered. This represents the best value for money and the best reason to join or rejoin the Association. For details contact the office. ● Technical and legal advice on Firearms and Shotgun certificate applications and renewals and on other firearms related matters. ● Representing members in their dealings with police forces around the country. ● Represent shooting members on Home Office working parties from time to time. ● Membership of British Shooting Sports Council - we represent member’s views there. ● Provide an information service to our members via monthly newsletters (published in the shooting press), Internet Website and Internet Bulletin Board. ● Entitlement to vote at the AGM on Association Policy and membership of the Association Council. ● Reduced subscription to Shooting Sports and GunMart. ● Organise public marches, rallies and demonstrations. ● Easy to join. Just complete the form below and return it with your payment to the address above or phone us with your credit card details. ●
To join the Association please complete and detach this form and forward it to: The Sportsman’s Association, P.O. Box 2379, Salisbury SP4 4AW. Title (Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms / other): _____________________________________________________________________ First Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Surname: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ House No & Street: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Town:_________________________________________________________ County:_________________________________ Country: ______________________________________________________ Post Code: _____________________________
3 EASY WAYS TO ORDER
Daytime Telephone: _____________________________________________________________________________________
What Gun? 2019/20
Home Telephone: _______________________________________________________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________________________________ Date of Birth: ___________________________
I enclose full payment of £
as CASH ■ CHEQUE ■ PO ■
and also a donation of £5 £10 other £_______ Total £ _______________________________________________ OR - Please debit my Mastercard ■ Visa ■ Switch ■ Card Card Number: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
below and send to:
Security Number (Last 3 Digits): _________ Expiry Date (All Cards): ________________________________________
What Gun? 2019/20
Signature:________________________________ Date: _________________________________________________________ If you wish to pay by STANDING ORDER please telephone us for a form!
Please Select Membership Type
GUN, UNIT 6, THE ENTERPRISE CENTRE, KELVIN LANE, MANOR ROYAL, CRAWLEY, WEST SUSSEX RH10 9PE
Tick Here
Full Membership
£50 Membership Card, Full Voting Rights, Helpline Service, Special Subscription Rates to GunMart & Shooting Sports magazines - Shooting Insurance
Re-Enactment & Syndicate Membership (Shooting Syndicates) are available at special rates.
£40
OAP Membership (Over 65)
£40
Please send me
Expiry Date on card / If using Switch, please also give your Card Issue No.
£25
SIGNATURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
✂
ADDRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
................................................................................................... DAYTIME TEL. NO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Associate Membership
24
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Security No. (last 3 digits on back of card)
NAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trade Membership £100 As Full Membership. Free advertising for your Company on our Web Site
Send cheques or postal orders to: What Gun? 2019/20, GUN, UNIT 6, THE ENTERPRISE CENTRE, KELVIN LANE, MANOR ROYAL, CRAWLEY, WEST SUSSEX RH10 9PE GM08.21/5/a
Please phone our Headquarters Staff on 07521 508076 for details.
for £5.99 plus postage & packing.
(Your account will be debited in the name of Aceville Magazines Ltd)
As Full Membership but not voting rights
£25 Membership Card, Helpline Service, Special Subscription Rates to GunMart & Shooting Sports magazines. Shooting Insurance is not available to Associate Members.
2019/20
I enclose my cheque/postal order for £7.99 made payable to Aceville Magazines Ltd Or Please debit my Mastercard/Visa/American Express/Switch account the sum of £7.99
As Full Membership
Junior Membership (Under 18’s)
GM08.21/8W/a
1. Visit: www.gunmart.net 2. Call: 01293 312215 3. Post: Complete the coupon
Email:___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Gun Mart Magazine) in full accordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd may wish to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE phone email HAPPY to receive such information by post Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.
❏
❏
❏
NEWS
WEST STREET ANTIQUES Specialist dealer in antique arms and armour since 1986
www.antiquearmsandarmour.com
Email: weststant@aol.com Tel: 01306 883487
GM08.21/34B/a
Quality English Flintlock & Percussion Firearms, & Edged Weapons bought and sold
Please mention
when responding to advertisements NIL ILLIGITIMUM CARBORUNDUM
Official stockist of BSA Scorpion SE Stockists of B.S.A., AIR ARMS, WEIHRAUCH, WEBLEY, CROSMAN, COMETA, GAMO, UMAREX, BROCOCK, FEINWERKBAU, HATSAN, NORICA. PLUS SCOPES, PELLETS, TARGETS & ACCESSORIES
(24 hour answering service)
OPEN 10am to 5pm TUES-SAT • (CLOSED MONDAY)
GM07.21/W/a
www.gtshooting.wix.com/gt-shooting Tel/Fax 020-8660 6843
GM08.21/37/a
53, Chipstead Valley Road, Coulsdon, Surrey, CR5 2RB
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
25
GM07.21/K/a
AIRGUN DEALER GUIDE EAST YORKSHIRE
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Field Sports Supplies
PHOENIX
MICHAEL TAWN
WANTED PRE-OWNED AIR RIFLES & PISTOLS
www.tawnadoairguns.com
PURCHASE will depend on MAKE and Condition If you no longer use your air rifle it could be worth CASH!
AIRGUN SUPPLIES
UK’s largest stockist of Sportsmatch mounts
T: 01262 605512 M: 07778 342464
01945 420 770
BERKSHIRE
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
37 - 41 High St., Old Town, Bridlington, E. Yorks YO16 4PR
KC SPORTS
Firearms Dealers
Specialist in New & Secondhand Shotguns, Air Rifles, Ammunition, Rifles, Sec.1 Firearms
PRACTI CAL SHOOTI NG SUPPLI ES
practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk
www.freewebs.com/kcsport
Suppliers of Innovative and marketing leading Shotguns, Rifles, Airguns and accessories dedicated to the practical outdoor sportsman. Unit 17, Churchill Business Park, Churchill Road, Doncaster, South Yorks, DN1 2TF 01302 730052 | info@practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk
LEICESTERSHIRE
SURREY
ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
26 Barkham Road, Wokingham Berkshire RG41 2XP
Tel: (0118) 9781712
WEST YORKSHIRE YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUNS AIRGUN REPAIR SPECIALIST
www.leicestershire-airguns.co.uk
GENUINE ARMY SURPLUS AIR/CO2 GUNS AND PISTOLS • BUSHCRAFT KNIVES CADET, SCOUTING, MILITARY AND D.OF.E SUPPLIES
Unit 2, Queniborough Ind.Est LE7 3FP Thurs/Fri/Sat 10.00 am until 5.00 pm 07719787079
TRADING POST, ST MARKS HILL, SURBITON, SURREY KT6 4PJ
LINCOLNSHIRE
LEICESTERSHIRE
Tel: 0208 399 9995
COUNTRY SPORTING GUNS
61-63 Chapel St., Ibstock, Leicestershire LE67 6HF
www.countrysportingguns.co.uk Cannons Cottage, Punchbowl Lane, Brothertoft, Boston, Lincs. PE20 3SB
Tel: 01205 311246 Tel & Fax: 01205 369470 Mob: 07901 985799
Tel: 01924 764740 www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk
NORTH YORKSHIRE PICKERING GUNS www.pickeringguns.co.uk
www.ibstocktacktackle.co.uk
Huge array of new and used Airguns, Shotguns, Rifles and Ammunition. Part exchanges welcome.
01530 260901
Good selection of Shotguns, Air rifles, Pistols, Ammo, Accessories & Clothing. Now Stocking Impact Airguns Call for more details
Large Selection of Air Rifles, Shotguns, Rifles, Ammo and Accessories
Email: info@pickeringairguns.co.uk Tel: 01751 476904
ALL GUNS BOUGHT FOR CASH. ALL MAJOR BRANDS IN STOCK AT DISCOUNT PRICES
7-8 Birdgate, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AL Mon-Sat 9-5 pm. Closed Weds.
NORTH YORKSHIRE
WORCESTERSHIRE
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
DAVEY & SON EAST COAST FIELD & STREAM The Old Post Office, Wykeham, Yorkshire YO13 9QP New & Used Airguns & Air Pistols by all major manufacturers. Huge range of scopes and accessories and pellets. Plus stockists of clothing & footwear.
www.shootingsuppliesltd.co.uk
Tel: 01723 865039
38 Sherwood Road Bromsgrove B60 3DR (Just off the A38, 300yds from Morrisons) Shotguns, rifles, air guns, cartridges, ammunition, reloading equipment, scopes, accessories, clothing and footwear
www.daveyandson.co.uk
Tues-Sat 9am to 5.30pm Late night Fri ’til 7pm
NORTH WALES DRAGON FIELD SPORTS LTD
NORTH YORKSHIRE
NORTHERN IRELAND
Leading supplier of Air Rifles and Pistols and all accessories
Maryland Country Sports
Email: info@daveyandson.co.uk
SHOTGUNS, AIRGUNS, FIREARMS, AMMO EXPERT - FRIENDLY - CHEAP All Sorts of Ammo, Accessories & Clothing www.dragonfieldsports.co.uk 21 Pentre Felin, Wrexham LL13 7NB Tel: 01978 290990
01527 831261
• Extensive range of all leading Airguns, Scopes & Accessories • Come and see our showroom
Please call for our opening times
Mooredges Road, Thorne, Doncaster
Tel: 01405 741706
www.mooredges.com
TRADE MEMBER
18A Maryland Industrial Estate Crossnacreery, Moneyreagh County Down BT23 6BL
01937 833757
www.wighillparkguns.co.uk
Tel: 02890 448598 www.maryland-country-sports.co.uk
Your Guide to your local specialist Airgun Dealers You can have one of these spaces from just £30 Please contact our advertising department now on
01206 506247/506242/506246
AIRGUN DEALER GUIDE/08.21/a
Extensive range of new and used air rifles and air pistols. All major brands in stock. Good selection of airgun accessories. Used airguns always wanted for cash or part exchange, good prices paid.
AIRGUNS
KRAL DEVIL
Walnut
PRICE: £139.00
Sporter
Mark Camoccio tries out a popular break-barrel sporter from Kral; the Devil I don't mind admitting I love the traditional break-barrel configuration and undoubtedly some of that affection stems from my own 'first gun' experience. The sheer simplicity and stress-free nature of this type of airgun explains their continued popularity, and despite a plethora of alternatives being made available to today's airgun enthusiast, this time-honoured design shows no sign of relinquishing its 'best seller' crown. On show here is a slick little sporter from Turkish manufacturer, Kral. It's their Devil model, and in Walnut specification it's a real head-turner.
Visuals When I first opened the box, I was instantly reminded of an old favourite rifle from the late 80s, since there is more than a passing resemblance to the BSA Mercury-S. I've had an appreciation for a piece of walnut since my early days of touring gunshops with my father, trying to pick the very best piece of wood we could on whichever model of gun we had in mind at the time. And in the case of this Kral, the subtle matt finish applied to the wood is perfect as it allows the natural figuring to show though. Creamy yellow and brown hues combine well with plenty of figuring and colour contrast, and if the quality of the wood on my test example is representative, I would have to say the Walnut option is clearly the way to go, given the very fair asking price. 28
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Value for money Firstly, just consider the spec sheet, along with that appealing profile, and it's clear this Devil has much to offer. Starting with that chequered Turkish walnut stock, there's an articulated cocking linkage, adjustable fibre optic open sights, 2-stage trigger, in-guard safety catch and dovetail rails. Nice detail comes with those large panels of laser-applied patterning that cover the forend and pistol grip, and whilst they aren't exactly diamond chequering, the end result is still highly effective, not to mention attractive. The rifle stock technically shows a right-hand bias because the cheek piece is only defined on the left side. In practice, it's fairly shallow and with the grip being ambidextrous, there's no real block to lefties enjoying the fun.
Build quality An honest appraisal of this test gun has to highlight that the front screw in the trigger guard is missing and it doesn't appear to even have a hole drilled in
waiting either. Sloppy for sure, yet this detail apart, construction feels solid and robust, with the only plastic/ polymer used being the muzzle assembly and piston end cap. All the metalwork is treated to what looks like a parkerized/anodized finish. If it is chemical bluing, it's ultra matt, but at least it's evenly applied, if a little lack-lustre. The bottom line is that the finish will unsurprisingly be done to a price on such a cheap rifle, yet the overall machining and build quality here is well up to the mark.
Fibre optics Those fibre optic open sights are nicely done and the fully adjustable all-metal rear sight is particularly impressive, with clearly marked finger wheels for windage and elevation. A hood on the foresight bead would have been nice for protection, but hey. Use those sights and enjoy the simplicity and quick target acquisition afforded, and the true delights of the humble break barrel can be enjoyed as they should be. If
AIRGUNS
KRAL DEVIL
The extended forend makes for comfort in the aim, note the fully adjustable fibre optic rear sight
Laser-cut detail on the grips
Detail of the flashy muzzle assembly and foresight
The manual safety and 2-stage trigger are simple but effective
you fancy upgrading to a scope, then there's a good length of dovetail rail to play with too.
Handling Breaking the barrel is pretty easy and the subsequent cocking stroke is smooth and fairly effortless. Admittedly, the 18” barrel helps leverage, as does the moulded muzzle assembly. Just be mindful not to crush the foresight element when gripping that area. Push home a pellet into the breech, close the barrel and you're ready. The lock-up is particularly sweet, with a satisfying click builtin. In terms of safety, it's probably the best of both worlds, with an anti-bear trap device kicking in to block the barrel returning whilst cocked, yet the in-guard safety catch itself is manual, so can be ignored if necessary. There does seem to be some confusion regarding the listed weight of this model, but my kitchen scales had it tipping at 6.2lbs for the record, making it suitably portable and stress-free for a casual 'go-to' rifle. One final handling feature concerns the
The butt shows a right-hand bias, note the butt pad
trigger, which whilst a pseudo-2stage affair, isn't adjustable. That said, no great surprise on this grade of airgun, and in use, it responded well. Pull through the initial creep stage and the final release is actually fairly modest.
Facts & figures So what of the firing cycle? There's modest recoil on firing, yet my test gun did let go with a real 'twang', showing all the signs of a spring-piston power plant in desperate need of some grease and lubricant. But hey, have another look at that asking price! I'm often amazed at just how consistent many relatively cheap springers can be, and this Walnut clad Devil is a prime example. I shot several 10-shot strings over the chronograph with a variety of ammunition and was impressed. Webley Mosquito pellets posted a total spread of 8 FPS, whilst the ubiquitous Air Arms Diabolo Field clocked just 6 FPS. Brilliant consistency in anyone's book. As for accuracy, over 25 yards,
the Mosquitos just pipped it, with average clusters of 1” c-t-c. Highly acceptable results then.
Conclusion I liked the Kral Devil when I tested a synthetic stocked version a good few years back, but the addition of the rather attractive Turkish Walnut furniture, well and truly transforms the handling and feel of this popular sporter. I found it great fun to shoot. At around £139, it has to be seen as a budget model, but in this more civilized guise, for traditionalists like me, it represents excellent value for money. It is unlikely to disappoint as a starter gun or general-purpose budget sporter. Thanks to Range & Country Shooting Supplies in Sleaford (the only Premier Daystate dealer in Lincolnshire) for the kind loan of the test rifle. GM
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Type: Calibre: Weight: Length: Barrel: Stock: Trigger: Energy: Price: Contact:
Kral Devil Break barrel, spring-piston powered .22 test/ .177 available 6.2lbs 44.5” 18” Turkish Walnut sporter 2-stage, Non-adjustable 11.9 ft/lbs £139 (Guide) Range Right - www.range-right.co.uk
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
29
UK’S LARGEST STOCKIST OF
SPORTS
ATCH U.K.
Quality Scope Mounts 2 PIECE SINGLE SCREW
LTO30C
2 PIECE HIGH DOUBLE SCREW
HT08C
A = 13mm B = 16mm
A = 24mm B = 21mm
TO2C A = 19mm B = 16mm
TO4C A = 19mm B = 21mm LT031C A = 13mm B = 21mm
£11.95 2 PIECE HIGH ‘SEE THRU’
HST46C
£16.95 RAISING RAIL / ARRESTOR BLOCK
AB3
A = 29mm B = 21mm
2 PIECE HIGH EXTENDED
HET042C A = 24mm B = 21mm and 46mm ET09C A = 19mm B = 21mm and 46mm
£29.95
Increases/reduces eye relief by 25mm
2 PIECE HIGH 30mm
HTO36C
£16.95 2 PIECE HIGH 30mm EXTENDED
HET038C A = 21mm B = 21mm and 46
A = 16mm (overall height) B = 21mm
£8.00
2 PIECE DOUBLE SCREW 30mm
ATP61
ADJUSTABLE FOR ELEVATION
A = 22.5-23.8mm B = 21mm
ETO37C A=15mm B = 21mm and 46 Increases/reduces eye relief by 25mm
£47.50 1 PIECE DAMPA MOUNT FOR 30MM BODY TUBES
DM70 A = 23mm B = 110mm
Rubber bushes help prevent scope damage. Up to 56mm lens depending on rifle
OP15C
£65.99
1 PIECE MEDIUM ANGLED
A = 19mm B = 120mm HOP19C A = 24mm B = 120mm Includes 0.75mm of vertical taper
£33.95 1 PIECE HIGH ADJUSTABLE
AOP55 A = 27mm B = 110mm
Adjustable for windage and Elevation Suits up to 60mm lens dia. on most rifles
£38.95
£49.95 2 PIECE HIGH DOUBLE SCREW 13mm
HT08C 13mm
1 PIECE MEDIUM DOUBLE SCREW
A = 19mm B = 120mm LOP33C A = 13mm B = 110mm
DM60
1 PIECE HIGH DAMPA MOUNT
A = 22mm B = 110mm
Includes arrestor pin
Rubber bushes protect scope. Suits lens dia. up to 50mm without external parallax ring
A = 15mm B = 21mm
TO1C 26mm
£9.99
2 PIECE 9.5mm-11.5mm rails for 26mm TUBES
A = 17mm B = 16mm
Converts Weaver/Picatinny to 11mm. This allows the fitting of any of the other 9.5-11mm two piece Sportsmatch mounts. “A” = 12mm approx
£29.95
2 PIECE MEDIUM 15mm
A = 15mm B = 21mm
Suits Brno 15mm dovetails such as CZ527/Fox
HTO76
£83.99
OP39C A = 15mm B = 120mm
£52.95
HTO71 13mm
30mm MOUNTS FOR 13mm DOVETAILS
£39.99
£29.95 1 PIECE HIGH DOUBLE SCREW
A = 24mm B = 120mm
£31.95 SPIRIT LEVEL KITS
SP2
1 PIECE MEDIUM EXTENDED
OP12C A = 17mm B = 120mm HOP17C A = 24mm B = 120mm
Does not include arrestor pin
£32.95
Increases/reduces eye relief by 35mm
1 PIECE MEDIUM DOUBLE SCREW
OP43C A = 19mm B = 100mm
Fits all 30mm mounts
Fits all 1” mounts
£49.95 DOVETAIL ADAPT. FOR CROSMAN GUNS
1 PIECE HIGH 30mm
HOP40C
A = 27mm B = 21mm
HOP26C
SP1
£30.00 A = 21mm B = 120mm
30mm MOUNTS FOR 13mm DOVETAILS
HTO36C 13mm
£31.95
Ratcatcher, Rabbitstopper, 1322 & 1377 Overall height 28mm B 21mm
£36.95
TO49C
This is a Two Piece double screw mount adjustable for windage, elevation and height. The ATP66 can also be adjusted laterally so scopes can be perfectly centred with dovetails. The adjuster screws have a special anti vibration coating to ensure no loss of zero and easily withstand F.A.C rated spring air rifle recoil. Will clear 60mm lens dia. scopes on most rifles.
TO35C 13mm A = 15mm B = 21mm
OP25C
EXTRA HIGH 30M FOR 9.5 - 11.5mm RAILS
HT071
RB4
£31.99
15MM - 9.5MM DOVETAIL ADAPTER RAIL.
For Falcon and Titan Air rifles Reversible for diiferent models Does not include arrestor pin
SP3
£29.95 SWING OUT SPIRIT LEVEL KIT
A = 15mm (Overall Height)
LIKE THE RB5 BUT IN REVERSE
RB6
B = 21mm
TO6C 13mm A=19mm B = 21mm
Replaces top cap of any D/S 30mm Sportsmatch Mt. To create very solid mounting solution. Or use the bottom clamp provided, see picture, TM4 can be mounted on the tube of the scope! Q/D Thumb Screw leaves base ready for next time. TM3 same thing but for 1" Scope Tubes £33.95
ATP66
A = 21mm B = 21mm
£20.95
£76.99
£25.95 AIR RIFLE/RIMFIRE HIGH RANGE TO SUIT 30MM DIA SCOPES UPTO 60MM LENS DIA AND 9.5-11.5MM DOVETAILS.
A = 24mm B = 21mm
PROBLOX
TM4
TO35 A = 15mm B = 21mm
A = 25-27.5mm
Fully adjustable - height, windage, elevation, laterally (scope alignment) Anti vibration proof - no loose screws from recoil. A no compromise mounting system.
A = 27mm
A = 21mm B = 21mm
Allows use of iron sights with scopes up to 40mm lens dia. Does not include arrestor pin
9.5MM-11MM RAILS FOR 1” TUBES UP TO 56MM OBJ
ATP65
£26.99 TO50 A = 15mm B = 21mm
2 PIECE DOUBLE SCREW MOUNTS
With removable steel recoil arrestor pin. Especially suitable for CZ/Brno 17mm (large action) dovetails including the CZ550 and ZKK600/601/602
A = 23mm B = 21mm
£25.95
TO48
HT067
2 PIECE HIGH DOUBLE SCREW 30mm for WEAVER/PICATINNY RAILS
Also available as extended HETO68 £89.95
£61.95
TWO PIECE DOUBLE SCREW MOUNTS
With removable steel arrestor pin. Especially suitable for Tikka and other 15mm dovetails including early Brno Model 2.22lr B/A rifle.
TO54C A = 16mm B = 21mm
£20.99
2 PIECE WEAVER STYLE
Fits all 1” and 30mm mounts. Swing out design. Can be folded out of sight when not in use.
RB5
£31.99
9.5MM - WEAVER/ PICATINNY ADAPTER RAIL
Converts most air rifle and rimfire dovetails to Weaver/Picatinny allowing night sights, range finding scopes etc to be fitted. Allows loading on most precharged air rifles. Quick and easy to remove allowing rapid fitting of daytime scope. Includes removable arrestor pin. A = 19mm
£29.95
(0verall height) B = 21mm
TO78 30mm 2 PIECE MEDIUM WEAVER/PICATINNY 30mm A = 15mm B = 21mm Includes square section hardened steel arrestor bolt
£22.95 ATP72 A = 21 – 22.5mm B = 21mm W =134g Adj.up to 50 MOA
A = 21mm B = 21mm
£21.95
A = 15mm B = 21mm
£25.95
£20.99
2 PIECE WEAVER/PICATINNY 1"
Allows any 1" or 30mm scope to be fitted to Tikka and CZ527/Fox rifles. Any of our rimfire/air rifle mounts can be fitted to this rail.
TWO PIECE HIGH WEAVER/ PICATINNY 30MM ADJUSTABLE High tensile construction with a totally solid mechanism utilizing fasteners with a special anti vibration coating.
£81.95
£49.95
MOUNTS SENT 1ST CLASS RECORDED MAIL – PLEASE ADD £4.99 P&P – PRICES CORRECT 1ST JULY 2021
MICHAEL TAWN AIRGUN SUPPLIES
“The Barn,” Hannath Road, Tydd Gote, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 5ND. Callers by appointment only. PAYMENT BY POST. To order by post send full details of order, name & address, age declaration. Cheques & postal orders made payable to Michael Tawn airgun supplies (cheques will be fully cleared before goods are despatched). MOST DEBIT AND CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
Tel: 01945 420770 www.tawnadoairguns.com
RAPID AIR WEAPONS
HM1000 THUMBHOLE
RAPID AIR WEAPONS HM100 R/H .22 FAC (30ft lbs approx.) Walnut Thumbhole (certificate required) HM1000X L/H .25 FAC (46ft lbs approx.) Walnut Thumbhole L/H, adj. cheek piece (certificate required)
£1,725 SALE £1,499 £1,975 SALE £1,799
GENUINE R.A.W. PRODUCT WHILST STOCKS LAST
Theoben .177 inner and outer probe ................... £30.00 Theoben Rapid & HM1000 magazines .177 & .20£ 59.99 Theoben Rapid & HM1000 magazines .177 & .25 enter gun from R/H as per 7 shot mags. .................... £ 54.99
Genuine RAW .177 barrel with Carbon fibre skin, C/F Shroud/Mod. and HM1000 probe ..................... £399.00 RAW Picatinny rail mount for HM1000 and TM1000 accessory rail .................................................... £32.50
WHAT HEIGHT OF MOUNTS DO I NEED? To determine the height of mount you need for your scope and rifle combination, lay your rifle on its side. Now lay your scope parallel to the rifle, with covers on, in correct position for eye relief etc. Next, measure the distance between the narrow part of the profile of your dovetail (where the claw of the mount grips) and the bottom of the tube of your scope, i.e. where the scope sits in the rings (cradle of mount). This is known as the "A" height, see measuring diagram. This is the same as standing the mounts on a table and measuring from table surface to bottom of the cradle. Now you can see which mounts are available to suit your rifle and scope. If there are different height options, you can check their "A" heights from listing, and position your scope tube those distances from the narrow part of your dovetail. This will not only tell you which ones will be high enough but also show you, as close as possible, what your combination will look like with each available height.
SPORTSMATCH MOUNTS HTO73 30mm Suits TIKKA 15mm dovetails and early Brno e.g. model 2 .22 rifles. A = 20mm Price £32.00 B = 21mm TO84 30mm Suits TIKKA 15mm dovetails and early Brno e.g. model 2 .22 rifles. A = 13mm Price £32.00 B = 21mm
HTO74 30mm Suits CZ 15mm dovetails such as CZ527 and Fox. A = 20mm Price £35.00 B = 21mm TO85 30mm Suits CZ 15mm dovetails such as CZ527 and Fox. A = 13mm Price £32.00 B = 21mm
HTO75 30mm Suits CZ 17mm dovetails such as CZ/Brno 17mm including CZ550 ZKK600/601/602 A = 20mm Price £37.50 B = 21mm TO86 30mm Suits CZ 17mm dovetails such as CZ/Brno 17mm including CZ550 ZKK600/601/602 A = 13mm Price £37.50 B = 21mm
HTO81 1" Suits TIKKA 15mm dovetails and early Brno e.g. model 2 .22 rifles. A = 22mm B = 21mm Price £24.95
HTO82 1" Suits CZ 15mm dovetails such as CZ527 and Fox. A = 22mm Price £24.95 B = 21mm
HTO83 1" Suits CZ 17mm dovetails such as CZ/Brno 17mm including CZ550 ZKK600/601/602 A = 22mm Price £28.95 B = 21mm
SPORTSMATCH ATP34 For 34mm Diameter Body Tube, 9.5mm - 11.5mm dovetails and Includes easy fit arrestor pin. Adjustable for height and elevation. A = 24mm - 25.3 B = 21mm
Price £72.99
SPORTSMATCH AOP56
1 Piece Fully Adjustable Mount (both elevation and windage) for 30mm tubes and 9.5 - 11.5mm dovetails A = 25.5mm-27.5mm B = 110mm Weight: 192g. Locking screws include an anti vibration coating
Price £62.99
ATP90
2 Piece Fully Adjustable Mount (both elevation and windage) for 30mm tubes and WEAVER/PICATINNY0. A = 26.5mm - 29mm B = 21mm Price £99.95 Weight = 140g. Locking screws include ant vibration coating and locate onto hardened steel spigot.
MOUNTS SENT 1ST CLASS RECORDED MAIL – PLEASE ADD £4.99 P&P – PRICES CORRECT 1ST JULY 2021
GM08.21/41/f
MICHAEL TAWN AIRGUN SUPPLIES
“The Barn,” Hannath Road, Tydd Gote, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 5ND. Callers by appointment only. PAYMENT BY POST. To order by post send full details of order, name & address, age declaration. Cheques & postal orders made payable to Michael Tawn airgun supplies (cheques will be fully cleared before goods are despatched). MOST DEBIT AND CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
Tel: 01945 420770 www.tawnadoairguns.com
AIRGUNS
H&N BARACUDA LIGHT .177 PELLETS The new H&N Baracuda light pellets are equally good for FT use as they are in this V-Mach custom for vermin control
Effective
WEIGHT LOSS Bruce Potts thoroughly tests the new Baracuda Light pellets from H&N H&N are synonymous with excellent airgun pellets, offering a diverse range, style and calibre choice. Their Baracuda Match pellets are very popular and have just received a makeover. The new projectile is designated the H&N Baracuda Light, and as the name suggests, it weighs less than the Match pellet. Not only is the new ammo more affordable but it has also been optimised for FT and HFT, plus there is no reduction in quality. The rationale behind this reduction in weight is to achieve a higher velocity
and thus flatter trajectory, whilst also making them suitable for all airguns below 12 ft/lbs, so my old springers are in for a treat. Prices on the street are around £9.49 for a tin of 400 pellets.
Spec H&N Baracuda Light pellets are available in 4.50 and 4.51 head sizes. In old money, that's 0.1772” and 0.1776” respectively. This means that you can pick the specific pellet diameter that suits your rifle's rifling, and yes there is a difference, see the results. The pellets were very uniform and despite being
designated as a pointed design, they are more like a higher domed classic waisted pellet, with the waisted section longer than the head, and with a hollow cavity to the skirt to allow expansion and grip into the rifling lands. Made of a special lead alloy, these pellets are reasonably hard. This means that they can be manufactured to close tolerances, which is great for low standard deviations and therefore accuracy down range. It's also claimed that the alloy reduces lead fouling in the barrel but
a longer-term test would have to be conducted to substantiate that. Available in .177 calibre, each pellet weighs 9.57-grains and they are packed in tins of 400, with a nice twist grip closure. The new pellets are designed for sub 12ft/lbs airguns and work well in all types. They have a maximum distance rating of 50m from the manufacturer, but I can't see why they wouldn't work in a mild FAC rifle as well. Interestingly, the original Baracuda Match in .177 weighs 10.65-grains and has a ballistic coefficient (BC) of 0.024, whilst these
AMMO TABLE
Pellet (mm and inches) H&N Baracuda Light 4.50/0.1772 4.51/0.1776 Pellet (mm and inches) H&N Baracuda Light 4.50/0.1772 4.51/0.1776
32
Weight (grains)
Length (inch)
Head Diameter (inch)
Skirt Diameter (inch)
9.8 9.8
0.2537 0.2545
0.1763 0.1772
0.1845 0.1860
Muzzle Velocity (FPS)
Muzzle energy (ft/lbs)
Accuracy at 25 yards (inches)
SD on Velocity
Ballistic Coefficient
725.8 713.6
11.46 11.08
0.4103 0.3704
3.71 2.18
0.0202 0.0196
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
AIRGUNS
H&N BARACUDA LIGHT .177 PELLETS
Baracuda Light pellets have a BC of 0.018. I like that H&N offer BC values as it makes calculating down range trajectories much easier. However, being the proverbial doubting Thomas, I always test the ballistics myself, to get a true picture of things out in the field. 400 pellets per tin and available in 4.50 or 4.51mm diameters to match your barrel's rifling preferences
(LEFT) A fresh Baracuda light, (MIDDLE) one fired and recovered from a rabbit at 37 yards. (RIGHT) a .22 18-grain Baracuda
At 25 yards, the 4.50mm diameter pellets shot some groups that anyone would be proud of
The 4.51mm diameter pellets were even better!
The results If you look at the ammo table, you can see that both pellet diameters for an average of 10 pellets, weighed 9.8-grains and not the 9.57-grains, as advertised. No matter, the consistency was excellent, with no swarf in the tin at all and very few, if any, deformed skirts, which are the fragile part of any lead pellet. Also, the actual pellet diameters were both smaller than the advertised 4.50 and 4.51mm, however, they were consistent. The 4.50 pellets snugly fitted into my HW80 barrel, while the 4.51s were quite tight, requiring a gentle push to seat them. Velocity wise, I was impressed. The 4.50mm Lights produced an average velocity of 725.8 FPS and a very healthy 11.46 ft/lbs of energy. The tighter 4.51mm pellets achieved a slightly lower velocity of 713.6 FPS and generated 11.08 ft/lbs, which is still excellent. The best was yet to come with the accuracy test. I set up at 25 yards with the HW80 custom and shot off the bench with a soft cushion. The groups were minuscule, which is what I have come to expect from the V-Mach custom and H&N pellets. I shot five, 5-shot groups using the 4.50mm Baracuda Lights and the average group size was 0.4103”, while the slower and tighter fitting 4.51mm pellets grouped
even better at 0.3704”. They also produced better SD values as well. In the end, it just goes to show that thorough testing gives you a true indication of ballistics in your own rifle. During your testing, it's also worth checking out the BC values for each pellet. The advertised BC is 0.018, so I tested at 2 yards from the muzzle and then at 20 yards for velocities. I then calculated a true BC for the pellets when used in my rifle and the local environmental conditions. The BC worked out at 0.0202 for the 4.50mm diameter pellets and 0.0196 for the slower 4.51mm ones, so pretty damn close to the advertised value! The trajectories were very good too. When zeroed at 25 yards with the 4.50s and with an initial velocity of 726.0 FPS, you are -0.62” at 10 yards, -1.47” at 40 yards and -3.84” at 50 yards. The 4.51mm pellets figures are -0.60, -1.59 and -4.11 respectively and in real terms, that’s not too much elevation to judge or adjust for, which is nice.
Conclusion Another premium product from H&N at a very reasonable price point too. I love the fact that these slimmed-down Baracuda’s work better in my older style springers, producing some excellent velocities and accuracy too. They are equally good in PCPs and the performance makes them a great choice for target shooters. In my case, I will be using them in the future for a spot of rabbit/squirrel control. GM Contact: John Rothery Wholesale - www.bisley-uk.com
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
33
AIRGUNS
NOW ON SALE 2019 EDITION
• VINTAGE AIR RIFLES and Air pistols wanted. Also old signs, pellets and related items, collections purchased, Antique flintlock and percussions. Guns also wanted. Will travel. Tel: 01908 526666 / Mob: 07831 398114. (P)
ADVERTISERS
• TIKKA M595 .22 SYNTHETIC STOCK. Schmidt Bender 8x56 scope. Wildcat Evolution moderator. All in VGC 180 rounds ammunition £500. Also CZ 452 American .17 moderator Simmons 3-9x50 scope VGC looksbrand new £250. Call any time: 07938 639341. West Midlands. 08/21/g
21/23 Phoenix Ct, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY.
All advertisement copy must be received prior to the date shown below.
COPY DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 EDITION IS
• WEATHERBY MARK XII .22LR RIFLE, bolt or semi auto. Also wanted Weatherby O/U shotguns or Section 1 semi auto. Also required old Weatherby scopes . Call: 07949 341417. 08/21/g • PIGEON SHOOTING WANTED OVER CROPS or wood, experienced guns for over 40 years, willing to pay per day. Call: 07851 892699. Suffolk. 08/21/
01293 312215 OR VISIT:
www.gunmart.net
COPY DEADLINES • COUNTRY MAN WOULD LIKE, LOOKING FOR somewhere in Suffolk to do pigeon shooting, crops or wood, experienced shooter for over 40 years. Ex farm, willing to pay for. Call: 07851 892699. Suffolk. 08/21/g
Never miss
• DAISY MODEL 25 CENTENNIAL COLLECTORS EDITION. Limited edition slide action BB Air rifle commemorating 100 years of Daisy production. Genuine vintage rifle made in 1986. Mint collectors condition, walnut stock. Colour case, hardened locking levers. £145. Call: 01977 661671. East Yorks. 03/21/a
OR POST:
Gun, Unit 6 The Enterprise Centre, Kelvin Lane, Manor Royal, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9PE
• BSA AIRSPORTER .22 MK2 VGC, no rust or marks on metal. Stock is very good, but one small hole or forend, other than that its perfect. £150. Call: 07816 995624. Nottinghamshire. 03/21/a
(Cheques made payable to Aceville Magazines Ltd.) Please send me The Sporting Airgun Handbook 2019 edition for £8.99 + £2.00 postage. Please choose which year by ticking the box on the right. I enclose my cheque/postal order for £10.99 made payable to Aceville Magazines Ltd or please debit my Mastercard/ Visa/American Express/ Switch/Maestro account the sum of £10.99
To subscribe call:
01293 312215
When respondingPlease to advertisements please mentionmention
(Your account will be debited in the name of Aceville Magazines Ltd)
/
Tel: 01206 506247
• TESRO RS100 MATCH AIR RIFLE. Silver colour stock and barrel with grey laminate cheek piece and forend hand support. Fully adjustable match stock. Full Dioptre sights. Just four months old. Still under warranty. Totally unmarked mint condition. £1250. Call: 01977 661671. 05/21/f
TO BUY YOUR 2019 COPY PLEASE CALL:
Expiry Date on card
GM08.21/7/a
23rd July 2021
GUN MART
Security No: (last 3 digits on back of card)
If using Switch/Maestro, please also give your Card Issue No: or Valid from Date: SIGNATURE ............................................................................................................................................ NAME ...................................................................................................................................................... ADDRESS ................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................. POST CODE..............................................................................DAYTIME TEL. NO ...............................
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2019
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2016
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2017
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2014
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2015
Your order details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Shooting Sports Magazine). We will use your information to fulfill your subscription and communicate other information deemed relevant in connection with this service. Aceville Publications Ltd would like to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS . Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.
✂
34
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
SAGH 2019
when responding to advertisements
GM08.21/8A/a
Sporting Airgun Handbook 2018
To advertise in AIRGUNS please call Vanessa on 01206 506247
REMINGTON DUCK IN A TRUMPET BOX K/D
MILBRO KNOCK DOWN DUCK TARGET
103 HIGH ST, ETON, SL4 6AF
ATA AIRBOURNE
BSA R10
BSA LIGHTNING XL SE
S410 CARBINE
HW77K .22
HW110 LAMINATE
AIR ARMS S510 CARBINE
GAMO PHOX
ENFIELD SENTRY
HW100 BP
CROSMAN NITRO VENOM DUSK
GAMO VARMINT SWARM BARRICADE
GREAT DEALS!
RIFLES MODELS FOR ALL POCKETS & NEEDS WIDE RANGE OF SCOPES. NIGHT VISION & RANGEFINDERS A private space of 100sq metres, could be less, is all that is needed to set up a practical shooting target location, using any of the CO2 multi shot pistols. Perfecting accuracy of target selection and bullseye requires skills easily learned by anyone seeking an affordable, challenging leisure activity in their own garden. See our huge selection online, for the right pistol for you. JSB EXACT 4.52MM
AIR ARMS S510 CARBINE
10.34 GRAINS
BLASER .25G BB
WALTHER PPK
UMAREX SA10
FNX.45
WALTHER CP88
COLT SAA NICKEL
BENJAMIN TRAIL NP
HW 45 SILVER STAR
COLT M45
GAMO PT-85
GLETHCER NAGANT
ARTEMIS PP700
BEEMAN P17
GLOCK 17
BAIKAL MAKAROV
4.5mm MODEL PO8
SCHOFIELD 6"
6mm BB AK74
LEGENDS MP40
WE NOW STOCK 70 DIFFERENT AIR PISTOLS David_Eton103
Tel: 01753 800009 GM08.21/62/g
THOMPSON M1A1
GM08.21/47/a
GM06.21/43/g
AIRGUNS When Stoeger (a brand that is part of the Italian Beretta group) first came onto the airgun scene they did so with a small selection of spring-powered air rifles. They soon began a development programme which brought us a family of springers with a very efficient sound suppression system. These rifles were well priced, good quality and very practical. It was then becoming obvious that sooner or later they’d enter the precharged arena and sure enough they have. Step forward the Stoeger XM1 PCP. The name does sound like a bit of kit from Thunderbirds but it’s a very well thought out move forward by the brand. Before going any further, I must mention that globally the XM1 is a series of rifles and at present, in the UK we have the one option featured here.
STOEGER XM1
Bits and pieces The rifle comes bundled with a Stoeger branded 3-9x40 AO scope, 2-piece mounts, two magazines, a single-shot loading tray, two Picatinny rails, a sound moderator and a filling probe. There’s also a few other extras that I initially found a tad strange; an alternative blue colour pistol grip insert and an alternative height cheekpiece. These need full explanation so let’s now look at the stock, which will explain how the latter extras ‘fit into’ the XM1 equation. Incidentally, there’s a bipod available as an optional extra, which comes as two separate legs.
Slimline stock Straight out of the box the XM1 shows a low to medium height cheekpiece, black rubber butt pad with removable spacers and an overlarge thumbhole sits behind a steep drop-down
pistol grip. It’s here the ambidextrous ergonomic stock can be altered to suit your requirements and personal preference. The stock comes with an extra high ‘Monte Carlo’ cheekpiece cowl. This actually replaces the low/medium height or 'base cheekpiece' that’s ready fitted. They’re easily exchanged as both are held in place by two, small, recessed grub screws set on either side of the butt. The Monte Carlo cheekpiece is required for use with a scope, I mention this as in some territories an open sighted version of the rifle is available, so I presume the base cheekpiece is for use when you prefer ‘opens.’ Now the pistol grip is also interchangeable for a slightly fuller black cover. I say cover as the pistol grip cover (blue or black) is held in place by a single recessed grub screw and slips easily on/ off and secures in place with the aforementioned screw
located in the base of the grip. The difference in palm swell is negligible, so if blue’s the colour you prefer then in use, I’ll doubt most shooters will feel any noticeable difference by way of user interface and how much the grips alter your ability to control the trigger. They also have a term for this as it’s known as the 'Multi Grip System' (MGS).
Going forward Overall the XM1 has a slim stock, and this is most noticeable at the forend. The fore section is relatively lengthy in proportion to the metalwork and is quite straight with a slight taper towards the tip. There’s a run of fluting along the top edge and the underside the rifle has chequering. Incidentally, the same style of chequering is applied to both choices of pistol grip cover. This is termed as ‘ProAdaptive Chequering’, and despite the techno-jargon, the chequering
First Step Pete Wadeson tests the Stoeger XM1 and comes away more than a little impressed 38
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
AIRGUNS
STOEGER XM1
is actually well configured and gives a very secure hold. At the tip of the forend you have the option to fit the Picatinny rails supplied with the combo. Both attach to the synthetic moulding with two recessed hex head screws. Interestingly, they’re not of the same length or in fact design. The piece designed to fit on the right is a small run of standard Pic rail, while the one on the left is extended to serve as a magazine rack. This can hold three spare magazines and also uses magnets to hold them securely in place. For those who like to use a sling, rather than have standard metal sling swivel studs, the rifle has attachment holes at the very rear and front of the stock, which are integrated into the moulding.
Get your fill There is a forwardfacing, colour highlighted manometer (air gauge)
to help you keep a check of your air reserves, and the rifle is charged via a fill probe inserted into the fill hole located on the underside of the air reservoir. This in turn needs attaching to the fostertype coupling (supplied) before being attached to an air supply. From a recommended 200bar fill, I found the .177 test rifle’s regulated internals returned approximately 40+ full power shots, while the .22 is rated at approximately 60+.
By design The XM1 has a quite unique bolt handle and while the operation is straightforward, the design is quite radical and works a treat. Rather than a ball ended configuration, the rifle has an angled paddle shape handle or 'Ergonomic Bolt Handle' (EBL). Not only is the shape unconventional but it also has raised grip
aids. Some will like this feature as it really does give a secure hold for cocking, although, admittedly, a standard ball ended design would have sufficed. To cock, you simply lift up the bolt and pull fully rearward, where it locks very positively in place. Now you can remove/insert a magazine or indeed install the single-shot loading tray. A noteworthy feature of both magazine and tray is that they secure in place by a magnet, similar to the design that Daystate use. Once removed, the 9-shot magazine's (7-shot in .22) perspex cover plate needs to be rotated anti-clockwise against spring tension, then reversed so the back is facing you. Once this is done, you can place the first pellet into the exposed chamber skirt first and this locks the cover plate in place. Next, carefully turn the magazine back around so the cover plate is
again facing you, then drop a pellet into each chamber as they appear. Finally, turn the cover back to return it to its original position. When all are filled, you simply slide the magazine back into the lefthand side of the action, push the cocking bolt forward and turn it down to its original position. A very positive system that throughout the test worked faultlessly. For thoroughness, I also used the tray, which fits exactly into the housing and is capable of guiding any shape of pellet directly into the tube.
Good glass & mega-moderator The optic is surprisingly good quality. It has uncovered finger adjust turrets that work very positively and it features a standard duplex reticle. The AO ring and zoom work very smoothly. The rifle came with the next piece of praiseworthy kit already fitted; the
Details of the low to medium height cheekpiece, black rubber butt pad, spacers, pistol grip and thumbhole
The forend is quite straight with a slight taper towards the tip
The Picatinny rail that secures to the left of the stock is extended to serve as a magazine holder
Rather than a ball ended cocking bolt the rifle has an angled paddleshaped cocking handle
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
39
AIRGUNS
STOEGER XM1
PRICE: £395
The Stoeger XM1 is a highly proficient performer, plus it's lightweight and handles well
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Type: Stock: Trigger: Length: Barrel: Weight: Calibre: Price: Includes: silencer/moderator. This was a revelation as I wasn’t expecting it to be as efficient as it was, and by today’s standards to be able to say this is a silencer that can stand alongside the best of them. It’s also worth mentioning that its compact size suits the rifle perfectly and it sensibly has a hunter friendly, nonglare, matte black anodised aluminium finish.
Back and forth The XM1 has another tasty feature up its sleeve in the form of its trigger mechanism. It isn’t just a
standard 2-stage adjustable as you can alter the trigger position within the guard forwards or backwards to suit your preference. This is achieved by loosening a small grub screw at the top, then sliding the trigger along the bar above. When it’s in the position that suits, simply re-tighten the grub screw. The metal blade is nicely curved for finger feel and trips the sears very cleanly. The mechanism also uses a large cross-bolt type safety positioned at the front of the unit. Push it in from the left for SAFE and from the right for FIRE.
Contact:
Stoeger XM1 Multi-Shot PCP Ambidextrous Synthetic Thumbhole Sporter 2-stage, Adjustable 40.75” 18.25” 7lbs Scoped .177 On Test, .22 Available £395 Scope, Mounts, Silencer, 2x Magazines, Single-Shot Loading Tray and Fill Connectors GMK - www.gmk.co.uk
As for accuracy, yet again the rifle didn’t disappoint, showing pellet size clusters out to 30 yards using quality ammo. So, it's a rifle I’d have no qualms using for hunting.
Conclusion Considering this is Stoeger’s first step into the PCP arena, the XM1 is a highly proficient performer. It's very accurate, lightweight,
handles well, plus it comes with a good quality scope and a very effective sound moderator. However, when compared to most PCPs on the market, it does have a low shot count, but for those new to the precharged scene, it’s an ideal starter rifle for shooters of all ages. Thanks to T & J. J McAvoy LTD for supplying the rifle on test. GM
The rifle comes with two rotary magazines plus a single-shot loading tray
Here you can see the 2-stage adjustable trigger and the cross-bolt type safety catch
40
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM07.21/77/f
AIRGUNS
HUNTER FIELD TARGET- KNEELING SHOTS
Staying
STABLE Mark Camoccio sheds some light on tricky kneeling shots Hunter Field Target shooting is a brilliant sport, and as I've so often said, one of the attractions is that you can enjoy it at your own level. Classes for ladies, juniors, veterans, then different types of airgun; .22 class, recoiling, and finally open, mean everyone can compete on relatively equal terms. For example, it's so much harder to shoot a .22, but you'll only ever be up against other competitors using the larger calibre. That's assuming you want to be that is, as the open class is available if you feel the urge to make a statement!
PB Many shooters are just happy to take part and try and beat their own personal best score (PB), irrespective of kit used, or classes available - and why not? But for those of us who lie in bed fretting over preparation and all manner of technical aspects, a big part of the 'fun' comes from trying to maximize our approach, to be as competitive as possible. 42
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Speak to any top competitor and they will tell you that when the going gets tough, the real deciders can so often be the 'discipline' shots, and that means the ones taken from a kneeling or standing position. So, in this article, I plan to cover the basic aspects of kneeling, and at the same time highlight the requirements of the rules, as laid down by the governing body, UKAHFT (United Kingdom Association for Hunter Field Target). Whilst I'm focussing on the HFT approach here, there is plenty of cross-over with hunting, with regards to adopting an effective shooting stance, and likewise, the kit used. I'm showing off a rather tasty Air Arms S510 R Ultimate Sporter in Black Soft Touch here, and whilst this is aimed at field forays, the sheer class of this machine makes it highly viable in HFT. The one proviso being that the magazine, central to its multi-shot system, is removed between target lanes for safety.
Constitution So firstly, let's get the basics right, and cover what constitutes a kneeling position. The rules state that 'the shooting position is made up of the following key elements; three points of contact must be maintained with the ground. These comprise of a single point of contact for the leading foot, a single point of contact for the rear foot and a single point of contact for the supporting knee. (See Picture 1) Sly competitors pushing the limits have influenced the rules over the years, and the governing framework is now far more accommodating than it ever was, in several areas. Kneeling is a classic example, where once the rear foot had to be raised (See Picture 2), the rules now illustrate an 'acceptable flat foot', where the rear foot extends in a straight line pointing rearwards under the shooter (See Picture 3). I first thought this was a crazy concession, but on trying to adopt the position, my foot simply won’t tolerate the weight,
HUNTER FIELD TARGET- KNEELING SHOTS
AIRGUNS
2 The correct and legal elevated foot position which should be adopted
3
1 The classic kneeling position, note the supporting knee is at a right angle
and it doesn't feel any great advantage in any case. However, turn the rear foot forwards, keep it flat, and sit on it (See Picture 4) and this will be quite rightly deemed illegal. Again, to my less than perfect physical condition, this position is steady but painful. A fitter competitor would benefit from effectively a sitting position, which is obviously cheating. It's worth noting that the rules also state that a bean bag may be used to provide support or protection to the supporting knee, or placed under the shin providing the rear foot is upright.
Supporting arm I had training at a shooting club years ago, that taught me the classic
approach to the kneeling position, and that sees the elbow of the front supporting arm, planted ideally, into the small hollow of the front knee (See Picture 5), whilst at the same time maintaining a right angle with the front leg, so that weight transfers directly down. Fail to keep the right angle of the front leg, and you'll see that the position (See Picture 6) just wants to collapse. Back with the UKAHFT rules, and these state that 'the leading supporting hand must not be directly supported by the leading supporting knee or thigh. The wrist of the supporting hand must be located forward of the supporting knee'. This concerns the trend for keeping the position low, to minimize
5 Elbow in the knee with a conventional kneeling stance
4 Note how the shooter is sitting on the foot. This is outlawed
7 This shows the low slung kneeling shot, with the supporting arm kept low
HFT does allow the shooter to flatten the back foot when kneeling
wobble (See Picture 7). Here, rather than placing the elbow on the knee, with all that possible arm movement, the supporting arm is placed against the front leg, with just the hand exposed at the top (See Picture 8). All I would say is try both, and a key element of any positional shooting is to be comfortable. If it doesn't feel right for you, then adapt it to suit. Looking to the S510 R Ultimate Sporter, on loan here, gaining height for elevated shots or kneelers can also be adapted. Whilst the trend in HFT is for deeper fore-ends and raiser blocks, Air Arms themselves manufacture a Palm Raiser Kit, initially made for their dedicated HFT500, but equally
6 Note here the collapsed front knee, angled and liable to move
8 Detail of the low supporting hand, to minimize wobble
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
43
AIRGUNS
HUNTER FIELD TARGET- KNEELING SHOTS
Supported kneelers allow a tree or some other object as support
at home, bolted onto the accessory rail of the S510 R. And it's this sort of cross over that could see this model as the perfect 'one rifle for multiple duties' role. Whisper quiet for hunting, yet refined and accurate enough for the rigours of competition.
Supported kneeler On an HFT course, it is the unsupported kneeler that really puts a spotlight on technique, and one shot awaits on the 30 target course, to test our approach. Two other compulsory kneeling shots are designated 'supported kneelers', and here, the competitor is allowed to utilize the object, designated as the 'peg', for support. The rule is that any part of your body has to touch the peg, but with these shots, you can also use the object to your advantage. In a wooded shoot we often have a tree to play with, and being able to form a comfortable, steady support is the key. Practise these ideally, and using a target glove can really help, as it minimizes the effect of our pulse, and gives strength to the fingers when supporting the rifle. Don't just copy the last competitor's approach, but if the tree is the peg, for example, 44
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
look at the options of taking the shot from either side if possible.
Target size So, we now have half an idea of how to adopt the position. Now it's time to consider the target size and distance. Learning the UKAHFT official rules is key in this, as they state what kill zone sizes can be used and at what specific distances, when taking
the shot kneeling. Identify the kill size (not always easy I grant you in the heat of battle), and you will then at least know the maximum distance at which the target is set. The rules state that there will be 'one unsupported kneeling shot, placed between 8-35 yards away, so we instantly know the target is 35 yards max, and the kill zone can be 35mm45mm. There must be two supported kneeling shots per UKAHFT course. These must-have hit zone sizes of 35-45mm at a range of 8-40 yards or a hit zone size of 25-34mm placed at a distance between 8-30 yards. Identifying the difference in kill size here can be tricky. Is it a 35mm target at 38 yards, or is it a 34mm target at 30 yards? But experience and practise can really help.
Club together
Kill zone sizes are governed by the rules
So learn the rules and get those positions sorted. As usual, joining a club and shooting as well as practising alongside like-minded enthusiasts, has to be the way forward. It's fun, rewarding, and the best way to hone the skills required to perform at our peak. GM
GM08.21/52/a
AIRGUNS
Airgun Spares GM08.21/26/g
www.gunspares.co.uk
Stocking the most popular brands and many more... 4 pack
£45
Telephone : 01349 832974 Email : sales@gunspares.co.uk
Can be mixed sizes
Find us on
Facebook @T.W.Chambers & Co
AIRWEAPON SPECIALISTS
WE SPECIALISE IN FAST AIR WEAPON REPAIRS Quality 24" Blacked barrel to fit rapids more power or more shots from £89 Blank, or machined ready to fit Available in .177, .20, .22, .25 threaded if required Quickfills fitted to Rapids in block or buddy bottle
RING FOR PRICES GOOD PRICES PAID FOR FEINWERKBAU AND ANSCHUTZ SPRING TARGET RIFLES, AIRSPORTERS, THEOBEN RAPID 7 Mkls, SHARP ACE and INNOVAS and FEINWERK-BAU 127 & 124s
GAS STRUTS to fit Air Arms, BSA & Webley air rifles
From £65 inc postage
LARGE SELECTION OF PELLETS INCLUDING SPECIALIST PELLETS
THEOBEN SPECIALISTS DELIVERY FROM £15.99 PRICES CORRECT AT 01/05/21
46
BSA LIGHTNING SE GRT (Gas Ram) ..................................................................................................................................... £261 BSA LIGHTNING XLSE Tactical.............................................................................................................................................. £258
BSA Airsporter MK IV .22, late 60’s-71, VGC .................................................................................................................... £325 BSA R10 .177 with 3-9x40 scope, AS NEW...........................................................................................................................£675 THEOBEN RAPID 12 MK I .22 with 3.9x50 AO scope gauge & silencer GC.............................................................£789 AIR ARMS TX200 .177 with 3.9x50 scope VGC .................................................................................................................£369 GUN POWER STEALTH .22 with 6-24x50 scope, silencer & bi-pod GC ................................................................... £299 WEIHRAUCH HW35 .22 with 4x40 scope GC.................................................................................................................... £189 LIGHTNING SE XLGRT Tactical .22 with 3.9x42 scope AS NEW .................................................................................£249 BSA AIRSPORTER MK II .22 GC.............................................................................................................................................£249 WEBLEY & SCOTT OMEGA .22 with 4x38 scope GC ..................................................................................................... £289 DIANA MODEL 54 .22 UGC .....................................................................................................................................................£399 WEBLEY & SCOTT STINGRAY .177 (Birmingham) VGC .................................................................................................. £298 FEINWERKBAU 127 SPORT .22 GC ...................................................................................................................................... £198 FEINWERKBAU 127 SPORT .22 GC ..................................................................................................................................... £225 BSA METEOR MK IV .22 .............................................................................................................................................................£89 SLAVIA 631 .177 GC ......................................................................................................................................................................£98 BSA CADET MAJOR .177 GC .....................................................................................................................................................£98 RELUM TORNADO .22 GC ....................................................................................................................................................... £129 WEBLEY MK III .22 VGC........................................................................................................................................................... £289 ANSHUTZ MODEL 335 .22 VGC ........................................................................................................................................... £225 STERLING HR81 .22 GC ........................................................................................................................................................... £299 WEBLEY & SCOTT LONG-BOW .177 (Birmingham) VGC ................................................................................................ £298 RELUM SPORTER .177 .................................................................................................................................................................£85
SPECIAL OFFER - NEW AIR RIFLES GUN ONLY PRICES (A MASSIVE SAVING) AIR ARMS S510 Beech .177 .22 ..............................................................................................................................................£746 AIR ARMS S510 Walnut .177 .22 .............................................................................................................................................£839 AIR ARMS S410 Beech .177 .22 ............................................................................................................................................. £666 AIR ARMS S410 Walnut .177 .22 .............................................................................................................................................£759 AIR ARMS S410 L/Hand Walnut .177 .22 ..............................................................................................................................£773 AIR ARMS S510 Take Down Rifle .22 .................................................................................................................................. £906 AIR ARMS S400 Beech .177 .22..............................................................................................................................................£492 AIR ARMS S400 Walnut .177 .22............................................................................................................................................ £586 AIR ARMS S200 Beech .177 .22............................................................................................................................................. £466 AIR ARMS TX200 Beech .177 .22...........................................................................................................................................£453 AIR ARMS TX200 Walnut .177 .22.......................................................................................................................................... £519 AIR ARMS PRO-SPORT Beech .177 .22 ............................................................................................................................... £560 AIR ARMS PRO-SPORT Walnut .177 .22 .............................................................................................................................. £626 AIR ARMS S510 SUPERLITE .177 .22 ....................................................................................................................................£786 AIR ARMS S410 SUPERLITE .177 .22 ....................................................................................................................................£706 AIR ARMS S400 SUPERLITE .177 .22 ...................................................................................................................................£533 BSA R10 SE .177 .22....................................................................................................................................................................£778 BSA ULTRA M/SHOT SE Beech .177 .22 .............................................................................................................................. £491 BSA ULTRA M/SHOT SE Tactical .177 .22 ...........................................................................................................................£464 BSA ULTRA SINGLE SHOT SE Beech .177 .22 ...................................................................................................................£383 BSA ULTRA SINGLE SHOT SE Tactical .177 .22 ................................................................................................................£362 BSA LIGHTNING SE....................................................................................................................................................................£203 BSA LIGHTNING SE GRT (Gas Ram) .....................................................................................................................................£242 BSA LIGHTNING XLSE GRT.................................................................................................................................................... £258
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/63/f
USED AIR RIFLES (INCLUDING CLASSIC AIR RIFLES)
BSA LIGHTNING XLSE GRT Tactical (Gas Ram) ................................................................................................................ £261 GAMO MAXIM ELITE M/SHOT BREAK BARREL Beech .177 .22 with silencer & 3.9x40 scope .........................£239 GAMO MAXIM ELITE M/SHOT BREAK BARREL Tactical .177 .22 with silencer & 3.9x40 scope .......................£239 GAMO PHOX with scope & silencer .177 .22.......................................................................................................................£339 GAMO COYOTE M/SHOT with silencer & 3.9x40 scope .177 .22.................................................................................£389 WEIHRAUCH HW100 .177 .22................................................................................................................................................. £894 WEIHRAUCH HW110 .177 .22 ..................................................................................................................................................£720 WEIHRAUCH HW80 with silencer .177 .22 .......................................................................................................................... £415 WEIHRAUCH HW995 .177 .22 ................................................................................................................................................ £225 WEIHRAUCH HW95 .177 .22 ...................................................................................................................................................£364 WEIHRAUCH HW97 K Wood................................................................................................................................................... £419 WEIHRAUCH HW97 K/T Wood.............................................................................................................................................. £509 WEIHRAUCH HW97 K/T Synthetic .177 .22 .........................................................................................................................£399 WEIHRAUCH HW30 KIT (JUNIOR) .177 .22 ........................................................................................................................£222
COMBO AVAILABLE ON NEW AIR RIFLES £59.99 EXTRA COMBO CONSIST OF 3-9 X 40 SCOPE, MOUNTS GUNBAG & PELLET UPGRADE SPECIAL OFFER NIKKO STERLING 3.9 X 50 MIL DOT P/A SCOPE COMBO PRICE £69.99 NEW AND USED PISTOLS NEW BERETTA 92FS Black .177...............................................................................................................................................£178 NEW BERETTA 92FS Nickle .177 ............................................................................................................................................. £151 NEW CROSMAN 2240 .22 ......................................................................................................................................................... £76 NEW CROSMAN AMERICAN CLASSIC .177 pump up ....................................................................................................... £79 NEW WEIHRAUCH HW45 .177 .22........................................................................................................................................ £285 NEW WEIHRAUCH HW45 BLACK STAR .177 .22 .............................................................................................................£302 NEW WALTHER CP88 Black .177 ............................................................................................................................................£178 NEW WALTHER CP88 Nickle .177 ......................................................................................................................................... £205 NEW WALTHER CP99 Black .177 ........................................................................................................................................... £142 NEW WEBLEY TYPHOON .177 .22 semi-recoiless .............................................................................................................. £84 NEW WALTHER PPK/S BB .........................................................................................................................................................£96 NEW WALTHER CP99 Compact BB ....................................................................................................................................... £115 NEW GLOCK 17 BB ..................................................................................................................................................................... £135 NEW GLOCK 17 GEN 4 BB ........................................................................................................................................................£173 NEW GLOCK 17 Dual ammo ..................................................................................................................................................... £144 USED WEBLEY PREMIER .22 GC ........................................................................................................................................... £165
SPECIAL OFFER NEW 300 BAR BOTTLES WITH HOSE & GAUGE 3 LTR - from ................................................................................................................................................................................... £159 5 LTR - from................................................................................................................................................................................... £169 7 LTR - from ................................................................................................................................................................................... £189 12 LTR - from .................................................................................................................................................................................£249
GM08.21/55/a
Unit 12B, Evanton Ind Est, Dingwall, Ross-Shire, IV16 9XJ
GM08.21/59/a
T.W. Chambers & Co
AIRGUNS
Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 4pm
AIR WEAPONS
5% OFF with this advert
Reximex Myth .177 PCP Air Rifle
Friendliest shop in Milton Keynes Sales of Rifles and Pistols new and used*
Kral Puncher Jumbo .177 PCP Air Rifle
MK’s largest stockist of CO2 replicas and full range of accessories
• Scopes • Targets • Pellets • • Lubes • Bags •
Webley VMX Classic Quantum Wood .22 Break Barrel Air Rifle
SPARES/REPAIRS/SERVICING PCP filling service Second-hand pistols and rifles bought for cash
Umarex 850 M2 Empire Kit .177 Bolt Action Air Rifle
*Must be over 18 to purchase ID required
Kral Puncher Jumbo Synthetic .22 PCP Air Rifle
GM06.21/83/g
Unit 2, Access House, Stephenson Way, Crawley RH10 1TN Call: 01293 525880 www.surplusstore.co.uk
GM08.21/35/f
Daystate Huntsman Revere HR .22 PCP Air Rifle
www.willards.co.uk • tim@willards.co.uk • 01908 225353 47 Newport Road, New Bradwell, Milton Keynes, MK13 0AQ
YORKSHIRE SPORTINGGUNS SHOOTING & FIELDSPORT SUPPLIES
COUNTRY CLOTHING & GIFTWARE
3 QUEEN STREET, MIRFIELD, WEST YORKSHIRE WF14 8AH Telephone: 01924 764740 Email: ysguns@hotmail.com
NEW AND SECONDHAND AIRGUNS AIR PISTOLS SHOTGUNS COUNTRY CLOTHING SHOOTING ACCESSORIES AIR RIFLE & PISTOL GUN REPAIR OVER 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS NEW STOCK ARRIVING EVERY WEEK TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME
GM08.21/66/a
AIR RIFLE REPAIR SPECIALIST
www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
47
AIRGUNS
WEBLEY ALECTO MKV
Multi-pump Mark Camoccio takes a look at an impressive pistol from Webley; the Alecto MkV I've come to appreciate the sheer variety of airgun types over the years, and we really should raise a glass to those clever engineers behind the scenes, that put in all those hours of R&D on our behalf. Spring piston hardware still accounts for a huge slice of the cake, by virtue of its relative simplicity, whilst CO2 and PCP's have flooded the market over the last few decades, but for me, a fascination with the dark arts of the single-stroke pneumatic, just won’t go away.
Holy grail Generating full power in a rifle, especially .177, remains the Holy Grail, certainly where production rifles are concerned. Yet no such problem exists in air pistol format, and on show here is one of the very best examples available today. I say 'single stroke' but that is perhaps misleading, since the Webley Alecto (on test), is actually designed to take up to three pumps. Here's how it works. These airguns are totally self-contained, and an onboard piston and compression system generates power, compressing the air prior to taking the shot. The result is a lightning-fast lock-time and air release, plus a remarkably efficient action as a result.
Welcome back I have to state that I do have a soft spot for the Webley Alecto since my Dad bought one a while back and we have enjoyed garden competitions ever since. A couple of years back, complications behind the scenes caused a period of interruption to production, but it's great to see it back on the market, now in MkV guise. Let me first state, this pistol comes highly recommended, and I can, just for once, vouch for long term durability too. Don't be put off by the extensive composite exterior. The black polymer is so well moulded and coupled with the overall weight of 2.5lbs, there's a quality feel throughout. Adjustable open sights including
the foresight is a good start, but there's also an adjustable 2-stage trigger, accessory rail, anatomical grips with palm shelf, rifled steel barrel, an automatic in-guard safety catch and the variable power option.
MkV So what differentiates this from the earlier versions? Well firstly, those excellent moulded anatomical target grips now feature a fine soft-touch compound overlaid, and this is a subtle but impressive upgrade. The grips come with a dedicated heavy contour that fully supports a right-hand hold. No watered down 'ambi' stock here. The palm
The Webley Alecto is a superior design for sure, note the Picatinny rail underneath
To cock the pistol, release the top section and lift it up then forward
48
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
WEBLEY ALECTO MKV
shelf at the base is adjustable and can be raised or lowered by a 1/4”, which again is a subtle detail that really works. A lefthand version is also available. The other listed feature is an 'upgraded match trigger', which is quite excellent, given the crisp let off and full adjustment possible, but so was the old version, and I can't determine any difference.
More adjustment The rear sight is fully adjustable but does need a screwdriver, whilst the foresight features a revolving element. The idea is that the front bead clicks round to reveal another bead of a different height. Set up with one and zero at 10m, and then click the bead round and it shouldn't be far out at 20m. I'm not sure I would keep wanting to stress it, but if it did break, there's yet another bead supplied that sits in the recess. This will be a fiddly job, knocking out the tiny drift pin, but you have to admire the creativity on show.
And stretch So, to cock the action, first pull up the twin clips just by the rear sight, to release the top section. Now pull up and fully open the action in one big arc. At this point, it's vital to stress that you need to open it to the very end of the arc. Now push home a pellet into the lip of the barrel inside, then pull back and close the action. It's that return stroke that is actually compressing the air inside the chamber. The principle is simple; a consistent cocking arc sucks in an identical volume of air each time. Now here's another key detail, and back to that three pump spec. One pump generates around 3 ft/lbs and is perfectly adequate for the informal/fun target shooting that this pistol is intended for. Two pumps are approximately double the effort and they generate around 5-5.5 ft/lbs as well as a louder report. Three pumps require significant effort and add just a shred more power after the safety blow-off valve
AIRGUNS
has dealt with the rest. So my strong recommendation, after all that, is simple - stick to one consistent pump, for stress-free, refined shooting. Also, make sure you mind your hands when snapping the action closed. As for performance, these pistols can't fail to impress. 10-shot strings with a variety of pellets, with either one or two pumps for the record, struggled to expand upon a total spread of just 4 FPS! Quite superb, and in my experience, a technical characteristic of the single stroke pneumatic. Good technique will be rewarded with this pistol too, and I had easy 5p piece sized groups at 10 yards. If you fancy fitting a pistol scope, well it is possible, although seemingly not encouraged by the manufacturers. I squeezed one Picatinny mount into that front rail slot, and it worked, although snapping the action down with glassware in place needs more care. With the fully adjustable 'irons' on board though, you have to ask, why bother?
Modern classic The Alecto is indeed a modern classic and has to be regarded as one of the very best midmarket pistols available. Bursting with design flair and plenty of performance to back it up. So, it just remains to thank Range & Country Shooting Supplies in Sleaford (the only Premier Daystate dealer in Lincolnshire) for the kind loan of the Alecto. GM
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Type: Calibre: Weight: Length: Barrel: Stock: Trigger: Energy: Price: Includes: Contact:
Webley Alecto MkV Single/Multi-Stroke Pneumatic (Max 3 pumps) .177 on test, .22 available 2.5lbs 11.5” 7.25” Composite with anatomical grips 2-stage adjustable 2.7 - 4.6 ft/lbs £310 (Left Handed + £35) Padded Hard Case, Cleaning Rod, Oil, Allen Keys and instructions Highland Outdoors www.highlandoutdoors.co.uk
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
49
AIRGUNS
Please mention WE OFFER A DIVERSE RANGE FOR THE AIRGUN ENTHUSIAST We stock a large collection of airguns, shotguns and rifles along with cartridges, ammunition, scopes and accessories.
Our opening times are 9am-5pm 6 days a week Monday – Saturday
when responding to advertisements
GM07.21/69/a
Emerald Country Store & Gun Room Tel: 01522 246599 Unit 5 Riverside Enterprise Park, Saxilby, Lincoln LN 2FU
GM08.21/68/fff
We also have a range of animal feeds, country clothing and footwear in store.
The NEW SC3a Omega Personal Compressor is here!
THE BELOW IS ONLY A SMALL SAMPLE OF OUR NEW RIFLE STOCK!
www.theskiptongunroom.co.uk
NEW electronic hour meter to track usage
Air Arms S410 Rifle Beech Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £719 Air Arms Pro Sport Walnut Under Lever .177 £669 Air Arms S410F Carbine Superlite Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £769 Brocock Compatto Sniper XR Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £849 BSA Lightning XL SE Black Break Barrel - Spring .177 £295 BSA Ultra SE Multishot Tactical Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £465 BSA R10 SE Super Carbine Walnut Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £799 Crosman Venom Dusk Break Barrel - Gas Ram .22 £200 Crosman 2250 XL CO2 .22 £215 Crosman Semi Auto R1 CO2 .177 £275 Daystate Wolverine R Hi-Lite Walnut Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £1,570 Daystate Delta Wolf Black Tactical Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £2,450 Daystate Red Wolf Midnight Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £2,175 Daystate Wolverine R Hi Lite Grey Laminate Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £1,695 Diana 340 N-TEC Premium Pro Compact Break Barrel - Gas Ram .22 £296 FX IMPACT MKII Black Compact Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £1,550 FX Wildcat Mk III Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £1,224 FX Dreamline Lite Carbon Bottle Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £1,445 FX FX Impact M3 Black Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £1,843 Gamo Coyote Black Tactical Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £445 Gamo MAXXIM ELITE SWARM IGT Break Barrel - Gas Ram .177 £280 Hatsan Arms AIRTACT PD Break Barrel - Spring .177 £90 Kral Puncher NP-02 Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £349 Remington Airacobra Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £365 Sig Sauer MCX VIRTUS Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £450 Sig Sauer MPX CO2 .177 £270 SMK VICTORY LB600 SYNTHETIC Break Barrel - Spring .177 £80 SMK B1 JUNIOR Wood Break Barrel - Spring .177 £60 Umarex M1A1 Thompson CO2 .177 £300 Umarex Cowboy Under Lever .177 £245 Webley Raider Classic Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £350 Weihrauch HW 100 KT FSB Pre-charged Pneumatic .22 £990 Weihrauch HW 98 Laminate Break Barrel - Spring .177 £595 Weihrauch HW 100 KT Laminate Adjustable Pre-charged Pneumatic .177 £1,040 MAJOR STOCKIST OF AIRGUNS, SHOTGUNS & SHOOTING ACCESSORIES
NEW fills 30% more quickly STILL THE SAME – solid manufacture
£1,599
01756 792 630
STILL THE SAME – reliable back up service
Find out more about our range of compressors:
50
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Email: info@gilbertdistribution.co.uk Telephone: 01953 850323
GM08.21/74/gg
UNIT 7, CARLETON BUSINESS PARK, CARLETON NEW ROAD, SKIPTON BD23 2DE
GM08.21/70/f
www.omegacompressor.co.uk Open 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm Monday & 9am to 4pm Saturday
AIRGUNS
SHOOTING VALUE ACROSS THE RANGE
Trackside Archery & Airgun Club provides a venue where you can come and learn Archery and Shooting. We are also now introducing Target Crossbow Shooting to our club. Have-a-go’s and lessons can be booked in the very near future. We have all the necessary sanitisers and COVID rules in place and we will implement these according to Archery GB and Government guidelines.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK
54-56 SUMMER LANE, BIRMINGHAM B19 3TH, UK +44 (0)121 359 3343 | www.marksmanpellets.com
For wholesale and retail enquiries email sales@marksmanpellets.com
since
1932
GM08.21/73/a
GM078.21/80/a
Taking names for our next Archery beginners courses.
Chichester Armoury 43 West Street Chichester PO19 1RP New PCP Air Rifles + Scope Air Arms Air Arms FX FX Gamo Stoeger Walther Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch
.22 .22 .177 .22 .22 .22 .22 .177 .177 .22 .22 .22 .22 .22
S410 Rifle Superlite S510 TDR Walnut Dreamline Lite T12 Synthetic Venari XM1 Rotex RM8 Varmint HW 100KT HW 110 HW 100KT HW 100KT Laminate HW 100 S HW 110T Laminate HW 110K
Used Air Rifles £899 £979 £940 £710 £469 £345 £550 £995 £875 £1,035 £1,149 £999 £960 £885
New Spring Air Rifles Diana Gamo Gamo Gamo Gamo Umarex Webley Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch
.177 .177 .177 .177 .22 .177 .22 .177 .177 .22 .22
340 N tec Camo Rocket Swarm Hunter 440 Junior Hunter VARMINT SWARM Syrix UX VMX HW 95 Luxus HW 99 S HW 95 Luxus HW 99 S
£395 £259 £209 £105 £259 £165 £165 £499 £269 £419 £269
Air Arms ATA BSA BSA BSA BSA Daystate Gamo Gamo Gamo Logun Original Webley Weihrauch Weihrauch Weihrauch
.22 .22 .177 .177 .177 .22 .22 .177 .22 .22 .22 .177 .177 .177 .177 .22
Pro Sport Beech Airborne Light Meteor EVO Silentium R10 SE Walnut Meteor X2 MAXXIM ELITE SWARM Camo Rocket Camo Rocket IGT Whisper Domin8or 22 Eclipse12 HW 97 Carbine Black Line HW 97 K HW 97 Black Line
£545 £450 £295 £175 £745 £95 £545 £195 £150 £175 £445 £95 £495 £425 £395 £395
Stockists of Sig Sauer, Umarex and Weihrauch air /Co2 pistols For our full stock please visit
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
GM08.21/75/f
www.Chiarm.co.uk TEL 01243 774687 or visit www.Chiarm.co.uk 51
SUBSCRIBE
GUNMART.NET LARGEST GUN & SHOOTING KIT REVIEW SITE ON THE WEB
32 PAGEs inside ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶
SUPER SAVINGS 3 ISSUES
MILITARIA Re-enactment, Antique Guns and Places of Interest
TREME THE ESCORT X
A S K C A P *
£6 PUNCH E DELTA 5 PRO
Call and quote : GUN20T
Subscribe online at:
GUNMART.NET/GUN20T
I WOULD LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO GUN MART
3 EASY WAYS TO PAY
I WOULD LIKE TO RENEW USING THIS OFFER
1
I WOULD LIKE TO BUY A SUBSCRIPTION AS A GIFT
Please return the order form to: GUN, Unit 6, The Enterprise Centre, Kelvin Lane, Manor Royal, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 9PE
GUN20T
INSTRUCTION TO YOUR BANK OR BUILDING SOCIETY TO PAY DIRECT DEBIT Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society
Title Mr / Mrs / Ms_________ Forename _____________________________________________ Surname______________________________________________________________________
Name(s) of Account Holder(s)
Address ______________________________________________________________________ Branch Sort Code
__________________________________Postcode ___________________________________ Daytime No ____________________________ Mobile No _______________________________
Lines are open Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-1pm
DIRECT DEBIT - 3 issues for £6*, then step up to 6 issues for £23.94
To the Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................................ ............................................ Postcode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SUBSCRIBER DETAILS Please complete DETAILS in BLOCK CAPITALS
01293 312215
Bank/Building Society Account Number
Email ________________________________________________________________________
GUN20T Originator’s ID No. 677183 Reference Number
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society Please pay Aceville Publications Ltd Direct Debit from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Aceville Publications Ltd and, if so, details may be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society
Signature(s)
THIS IS A GIFT Please complete DONOR DETAILS in BLOCK CAPITALS Title Mr / Mrs / Ms_________ Forename ______________________________________________ Surname ______________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ __________________________________Postcode ____________________________________
Date Data Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions for some types of accounts
The direct debit guarantee If the amount to be paid by direct debit changes you wil be told of this in advance by at least 10 days. If an error is made by Aceville Publications Ltd or your bank/building society, you are guaranteed a full and immediate refund from your branch. You can cancel the direct debit at any time by writing to your bank and building society and sending as copy to us. We cannot accept faxes or photocopies of the Direct Debit form.
or complete the postal coupon below
CHEQUE/CREDIT CARD - 12 issues for £43.10 (UK), OVERSEAS RATES: Call +44 (0) 1293 312215 - £71.00 (EUR/EIRE), £81.00 (ROW). 2 I enclose a cheque made payable to Gun Mart 3 Please charge my Visa Mastercard Amex Switch/Maestro (issue no.) CARD NUMBER
EXPIRY DATE ______/______ VALID FROM ______/______ SIGNED: ____________________________________ TODAY’S DATE _____________________
Your order details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Gun Mart Magazine). We will use your information to fulfil your subscription and communicate other information deemed relevant in connection with this service. Aceville Publications Ltd would like to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by post phone email SMS . Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.
*This is a no obligation Direct Debit trial offer open to UK residents only. If you wish to cancel, please inform us within 14 days of receiving your second issue and no more payments will be taken. Your subscription will increase to £23.94 every 6 issues. Existing subscribers can renew using this offer. Your subscription will begin with the next available issue. If your subscription is a gift, the gift card will be sent to the donor. You can also subscribe via cheque or credit card. Cheque/credit card subscriptions are for a 12 month period including all gift subscriptions. This is a limited offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Photocopies accepted.
GM10.20/5s/L
kV
The Alecto M
RISK FREE TRIAL OFFER
RACYED ACCUA GUAR NTE
770956 660191
FREE DELIVERY STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR
9
FIND GREAT BARGAINS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!
0 8
S DANIEL DEFEN
GET THE LATEST PRODUCT INFORMATION
0956-6600
Great reasons to subscribe
i-purpose A rugged muoltm Hatsan semi-auto fr
ISSN
FOR JUST
40 YEARS AS THE UK’S BIGGEST & BEST SHOOTING MAGAZINE
FIELD CUTLERY
KNIFE TESTS
FIELD CUTLERY Our team offers advice on all the latest knives and tools
| Helle Arv Fixed Blade Knife › Helle knives are made to the most outstanding standards and the quality is unquestionable. Their razor-sharp triple laminated stainless steel blades are legendary and anyone that has owned one knows just how good they are to use.
PRICE: £157.95
The Arv Having owned a few Helle knives I am familiar with their quality and build, but the Arv has proven to be just that little bit better than the rest. The contours of the handle are the nearest to perfection I have experienced and the knife sits very comfortably in the hand. The size and shape of both the handle and the blade are so well balanced that you can use the knife for just about any task, from boning fish to carving wood or breaking down an animal comfortably. The knife is very strong, as well as sharp, and the edge retention is excellent. The handle is made of layers of curly birch wood, leather and antler and although there are no detectable steps between the materials they, combined with the contouring, provide a very good grip, much better than the smooth look might
The Helle Arv comes with a quality leather sheath that includes a belt loop (Right) The stacked handle is very nicely contoured to fill the hand and give great grip
suggest. When the knife and the hand are both wet, the grip is still very sure-footed, without you having to apply an excessive amount of pressure, so you still have good control over the blade. The drop point blade is just under 3.5” long, 0.75” deep at the heel, and a reasonably hefty 2.6mm thick, making it ideal for general use and certainly strong enough for most tasks. The handle is 4” long and 1” wide in the middle and although the knife weighs just 3oz, it's no lightweight when it comes to heavy cutting or carving. A quality leather sheath is included and it holds the
knife very securely, despite relying on friction alone to hold it in place. An expensive knife should have a decent quality sheath and Helle certainly hasn't cut any corners on the leatherwork.
Conclusion This has become the ‘knife of choice’ from a large collection and is getting used a lot more than the rest. The outstanding ‘usability’ of the Arv makes it more of a working tool, rather than a collector’s piece to keep indoors and never use, but that said it looks fantastic and is well worth investing in if you
do have a collection. It's supplied in a good quality presentation-standard tube, with a decent polishing cloth and paperwork, making it a great gift. Although there are many cheaper knives on the market, the additional cost of a Helle tool does mean that you are getting something that will, with proper care, last you a lifetime. Instead of buying two, three or four knives over a lifetime it's worthwhile investing that bit more in a Helle Arv, which is a knife for life. GM REVIEWER: MARK UNDERWOOD
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Contact: The triple laminated stainless steel drop point blade measures 3.4"
54
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Helle Arv fixed blade knife £157.95 Whitby & Co. - www.whitbyandco.co.uk
FIELD CUTLERY
KNIFE TESTS
| Leatherman Super Tool 300 › Although Leatherman multi-tools are generally lightweight, they also produce some heavier grade tools for when strength and durability win out over the need for lightness. The ST300 is one such tool. It weighs in at almost 10oz and is definitely aimed at the ‘working man' (or woman).
metric and imperial and is handy for checking those all-important group sizes on the range. A lanyard loop is also provided, so you can easily secure the tool to yourself while using it. If 19 tools are not enough, the ST300 is compatible with the Leatherman removable bit driver kit, which adds an extender piece and five double-ended bits!
PRICE: £119.95
Super strong Leatherman says the pliers on the ST300 are the strongest they have ever made and they are certainly large and well-designed, allowing you to put a lot of pressure through them. The cutters for regular, hard and stranded wire are extremely effective and, being removable, they can be sharpened or replaced if necessary.
Grip and comfort Despite its size, the ST300 is easy to use and the rolled edges on the handles make for a comfortable and effective grip. The sloped top on the handle as well as the shape of the jaws allow you to get the needle-nosed pliers into tight spaces, and you can get a lot of grip with them where needed. When the tools are deployed they lock very securely in place and when in the closed position, the handles allow you to use them effectively and comfortably for extended periods.
The ‘man-sized’ ST300 with a Black Oxide finish
Tools As always there are plenty of tools, 19 on this model, and they are all well built and very durable. Both blades are razor sharp 420HC steel with good edge retention and the tin and the bottle openers work great. Leatherman saws and files always function well, with the saw blade being particularly aggressive, and although the black finish does wear off in use, this has no detrimental effect on the tools. There is a full complement of small, medium and large flatheaded screwdriver bits, but there is just the one Phillips type bit, which is a shame as they are the more common type of screwhead nowadays. That said, the three flat bits are great for levering and prying things out of small spaces! The ruler along the handles is marked in both
Leatherman's strongest ever pliers give a precise and firm grip, note the removable wire cutters
The large sheath for this big tool has room for the optional bit driver kit
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Contact:
Leatherman Super Tool 300 with MOLLE sheath £119.95 Whitby & Co. - www.whitbyandco.co.uk
Conclusion This is without a doubt one of the manufacturer's strongest multi-tools, making it ideal for heavier jobs. The black oxide finish does wear but as long as the tool is cleaned and oiled regularly there is nothing to worry about. The replaceable cutters are a great feature but being so hard they are not likely to need replacing very often. Leatherman continues to produce very high-quality multi-tools and the ST300 is certainly a tool that will last. GM REVIEWER: MARK UNDERWOOD
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
55
FIELD CUTLERY
PURCHASING BY MAIL ORDER THE LAW The mail order sale of firearms, shotguns and airguns is banned under the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997 and the The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, but this type of sale is still legal for de-acts, replicas, reproductions and knives or other edged tools. However there are minimum age restrictions of 18 years for ownership/purchase of non-FAC airguns and edged tools (as defined in the Offensive Weapons Acts 1996 and 2019), (as follows); (a) any knife, knife blade or razor blade, (b) any axe (c) any other article which has a blade or which is sharply pointed and which is made or adapted for use for causing injury to the person.
GM08.21/46/a
For these reasons all our advertisers have chosen to operate an ‘over-18’ policy for all sales of edged tools or collectable, arms and armour. To assist other advertisers in operating this policy if they so wish, we offer the following guidelines (kindly supplied by Heinnie Haynes) in the form of a flowchart. In addition, we would suggest that if any orders are placed from a school, college, hospital or similar, that the Administration Office for the relevant institution be contacted to ensure that you are dealing with a member of staff and not a pupil, student or patient. These ‘over 18’ guidelines are mandatory for sales in Gun Mart, and if implemented correctly they will ensure a greater degree of security and safety, while also presenting a more responsible and acceptable image to the public at large.
GM08.21/84/f
BEST PRACTICE MAIL ORDER GUIDELINES
56
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/53/a
FREE CLASSIFIEDS
No.1
The place to advertise
From the October Issue we are giving you a FREE chance to advertise in Gun Mart! Fill in the form NOW! We still require your name, address and contact details.
Buying, Selling Swapping?
Get results for £5.00 FREE Just follow these simple steps 1. Fill in the coupon below, giving as much detail as possible 2. Advertisers of firearms & shotguns are strongly recommended to utilise the box number service 3. Ensure you have included your phone number, we recommend that personal addresses should not be included within your advert 4. Indicate which section you would like your advert to appear in, please note cost of advert is for one section only! 5. Enclose cheque/postal order made payable to Gun Mart, or fill in your credit card details below 6. Post or fax it to: Gun Mart Action Ads, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY. Tel: 01206 506247. Fax: 01206 500226. IMPORTANT. YOU MUST INCLUDE YOUR NAME, ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER ON THE FORM EVEN IF YOU DO NOT WANT THEM PRINTED IN YOUR ADVERTISEMENT. IF YOU WISH TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR BOX NUMBER FACILITY – SIMPLY TICK THE BOX AND ENCLOSE A FURTHER £5.00 AND WE WILL FORWARD REPLIES ON TO YOU. THIS FACILITY IS FOR PRIVATE ADVERTISEMENTS ONLY. 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
PLEASE PLACE MY ADVERTISEMENT IN THE FOLLOWING SECTION:
☐ SHOTGUNS ☐ BUSHCRAFT ☐ FIREARMS ☐ AIRGUNS ☐ I require a box number and enclose an extra £5.00 (optional service)
☐ MILITARIA MART DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS:
I enclose total payment of £....................................... (made payable to GUN MART)
Friday 30th July 2021
Name ........................................................................................................ Address.....................................................................................................
Card No.
☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐
...................................................................................................................
Expires: ...................................................... Valid from: (Switch only)...............................
Tel No:.......................................................................................................
Issue No. (Switch only) ......................................................................................................
Email: ........................................................................................................
Security No: (Last 3 digits - back of card) ...................................................................
THIS STATEMENT MUST BE SIGNED
MY ADVERTISEMENT IS BOTH LEGAL & HONEST
☐
☐
☐
☐
...........................................................................................................................................
Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Gun Mart Magazine) in full accordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd may wish to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by post ☐ phone ☐ Email ☐ Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else. GM08.21/6/a
FIELD CUTLERY
GM08.21/72/ga
18
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
59
FIREARMS
DANIEL DEFENSE DELTA 5 PRO
The Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro sets out with bold claims of a half MOA accuracy guarantee at 100 yards, using quality factory match-grade ammunition. 'If we can do it, so can you!'
First thoughts DD’s barrel is cold hammer forged and shows an external spiral twist to the heavy profile. It measures 22.3mm at the muzzle and is capped with a 6-port muzzle brake with a left-hand thread and a lockring to index on the 5/8-24” TPI thread. This 6.5 Creedmoor shows a fully free-floated 26” barrel with a 1:8” twist rate. The stiff forend shows masses of M-LOCK slots on the left, right and upper quadrants of its quasi-hexagonal profile. A 38mm RRS compatible rail is machined along the full length of the underside to a barricade stop. The aluminium chassis is beautifully made and Cerakoted, with detailed machining to complete complex shapes and relieve weight. The fasteners are T25 Torx and although built in modular sections, you struggle to detect the joints throughout. A 10-round AICS compatible magazine well is machined into the chassis with an ambidextrous release lever positioned ahead of the trigger
guard. No loading or unloading hang-ups occurred during testing, with the mag slotting in easily up to a solid click each time, and dropping free under its own weight at changeover. The AR-15-type, ambidextrous textured rubber grip, fills the hand and offers a 72mm reach from its throat to the trigger blade. An additional thumb rest can be moved to either side and it can be adjusted 11mm forward/ back for customised comfort.
Interaction with your head I’m critical of stock ergonomics and I have to say, the 'Pro' chassis is exceedingly competent. The cheekpiece can be adjusted 7mm horizontally by loosening the two screws on top, or 47mm vertically, by using a single fastening knob that can be swapped to either side. The mounting posts included grooves that can accommodate
a C-clip to save the position, but I never found it in the box. Two grub screws can lock position if desired and you do not need to take the cheekpiece out to remove the bolt. There’s plenty of underside space cut-out for the non-firing hand’s wrist and relief of material to balance the rifle slightly ahead of the barricade stop. Quick detach sling stud anchors are provided. The hand stop is just big enough to grasp with the web of the hand, all edges are chamfered, and its bag rider is slotted for accessories. The length of pull and vertical position of the recoil pad are both adjustable with two locking dials, again with opposing grub screws for a permanent lock. The central threaded bar shows a spinning nut for fine length control from 13.5” to 15”. The butt pad’s dovetailed aluminium rail enables vertical travel 20mm below or 55mm above flush
User-Configurable
The Delta 5 is purpose-built for PRS, so improvised positions, shooting long range and spotting bullet splash
60
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Chris Parkin gets comfy behind a precision rifle from Daniel Defense; the Delta 5 Pro
FIREARMS
DANIEL DEFENSE DELTA 5 PRO
position and it locks 100% solid. Only fingertip force is needed on any of the dials that all show clean-cut, free-spinning threads. Everything you need, done well!
Action details The bolt shows three lugs and operates with a 60° lift to cock. The push-feed bolt face shows an extractor claw and sprung plunger. After hundreds of rounds, there was no trace of any brass swarf or combustion residue on the bolt face, which is impressive and rare. This is certainly a factor of the smooth surface finishing standards and linear cartridge feed from the magazine. The cylindrical action has a 35mm external diameter, so the bolt looks skinny at 17mm in comparison. The bolt’s head is interchangeable for alternate cartridge sizes if desired, although all three of the chamberings
currently available for the Delta 5 Pro will use the same 0.473” diameter face anyway. A barrel nut controls headspacing, with four screws adjacent fixing the forend. Everything fits snugly, with the joint drawing tapered wings into an even firmer fit, another small detail that gives the modular stock assembly a truly homogenous feel. Twin T30 screws spanning the magazine well anchor the action in place, with no appreciable stress when seated. A small recoil lug on the underside of the action mates into a recess in the chassis.
at 1620-grams, with no discernible creep. Although sounding heavier than many think a target-oriented rifle needs to be, I liked the broad 10mm grooved blade. The consistent application of growing pressure to somewhat 'time' shots when faced with relatively unstable positions is something I like. Tastes change as do circumstances, so trigger adjustability is a great factor to consider for a long-life rifle that can be re-barrelled and theoretically outlast you. Bolt travel is 102mm with a 73mm ejection port showing radiused corners. Interestingly, the brass leaves no characteristic golden 'dink' marks to the rear of the opening as is common on many guns. Feed and function from the single-column magazine were effortless, and single rounds dropped into the port would chamber smoothly as the bolt closed.
No limiting threadlock A Timney trigger is fitted, which is adjustable for pull weight, sear engagement and overtravel, with clear engraved markings and no threadlock or anti-tamper seals in sight. It broke crisply on the test rifle
Not quite perfect The 70mm bolt handle features a replaceable teardrop handle. I didn’t really like the one fitted because it had a central groove that seems to be positioned exactly where you don’t want it, but each to their own. At full extension, there was approximately 6mm of lateral play at the bolt’s
The adjustable cheekpiece offers superb comfort and alignment
The stiff freefloating forend features a fulllength RRS ARCA rail and M-Lock attachment points
The construction is 100% solid, so no flexibility or rattles
Timney make some great triggers
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
61
FIREARMS
DANIEL DEFENSE DELTA 5 PRO
AMMO TABLE
Ammo
Average Muzzle Velocity (FPS)
Muzzle Energy (Ft-lbs)
Initial 100m groups (MOA)
Hornady American Gunner 140-grain BTHP Hornady 140-grain ELD-M Match Hornady 147-grain ELD-M Match Hornady 147-grain ELD-M TAP Hornady 120-grain GMX Hornady 140-grain GMX
2608
2115
2658
shrouded rear extreme and this is perhaps a little more than ideal. Bolt operation was reliable but it was possible to jam it when rushed, something I always deliberately initiate and notice because I change rifles so often. Some are more prone than others to a lesser or greater extent, a delightful few are almost immune.
Accuracy claim A 20 MOA Picatinny rail comes securely fitted and with a scope mounted, I was off to the range. I wanted to check out that accuracy guarantee. (See Ammo Table) First praise goes to the '419 HELLFIRE' muzzle brake that's made from '17-4 PH stainless steel'. The higher Chromium content improving corrosion resistance in its hot, gaseous environment. Brakes generally fall somewhere between volume and effective recoil reduction and this one was pleasantly mannered, with almost zero
Best group overall (MOA)
1.1
Average 100m group after run-in (MOA) 0.9
2197
0.7
0.75
0.4
2642
2279
1.6
1.2
1.1
2630
2258
1.0
0.8
0.7
2934 2690
2294 2250
1.6 1.3
0.8 0.9
0.7 0.8
felt recoil and no muzzle rise. The stock layout with impulse directed centrally into the recoil pad and its heavy weight are also significant factors but most importantly, there wasn’t any irritating concussive resonance transmitted through the chassis. The bag rider was plentiful in size for a soft bag with a hand stop that filled my hand. In use, it was one of those guns that didn’t feel like you needed to physically aim very hard, it was a natural extension to the body when prone, seated or standing. It rode well and with a slightly forward centre of balance beyond the barricade stop, it was certainly one of the best rifles I have ever used straight from the box. Plus, the M-Lock rail and Arca assembly enables personalisation of the balance point using additional weights on what is a very neutral rifle with excellent ergonomic fit and perhaps most importantly to me, no harmonic concussion
Detail of the bolt face, note the three lugs, the extractor claw and the sprung plunger ejector
transmitted through the chassis to tire and aggravate the user during a long day of shooting.
Overall A half MOA claim focuses buyers on a group size obsession which is hard to prove with factory ammo and the endless variables in the real world, however, the rifle is one I really enjoyed shooting. The stock
0.8
geometry is excellent, with great adjustability, a superb trigger and well-damped recoil and noise control. I’d rather have a gun I can shoot in extreme comfort all day than one that might do a single group before overheating and ruining its reputation. The 'Pro' is defiantly a reliable all-day gun I was happy to spend extended trigger time with, it maintained its average! GM
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Barrel Length: Calibres:
Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro 26” 6.5mm Creedmoor (on test), .308 Win, 6mm CM Magazine Capacity: 10-round (AICS) Length of Pull: 13.5-15” Overall Length: 46.5-48” Twist Rate: 1:8 Stock Material: Aluminium, Cerakoted Green Weight: 13.74lbs Trigger: Single-Stage Timney, Fully Adjustable Price: £3650 Contact: Edgar Brothers shootingsports.edgarbrothers.com
The rifle comes fitted with a 20 MOA Picatinny rail, which is marked up and well-anchored
I was more concerned with average capability on paper, and this is it
62
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/15b/f
Wilson & Wilson (Fieldsports) Ltd. Telegraph Hill, Laundry Road, Minster, Ramsgate, Kent CT12 4HL
Tel: 01843 822242 Fax No: 01843 821162
245
Registered Firearms Dealer No. 276 Kent.
www.wilsonandwilsonfieldsports.co.uk RIFLES .17 Browning T-bolt Varmint stainless ......£715.00 .22 CZ 16” Varmint BL 5.20x50 illuminating scope ................................................................£615.00 .22 CZ 455 20” S/C lam thumbhole .............575.00 .22 Browning BL22 L/A................................£568.00 .22 Ruger American 18” S/C .......................£495.00 .22 Ruger Precision S/C................................£676.00 .22 Ruger 10/22 Standard ............................£465.00 .22 Browning T bolt sporter 16.5 L/H S/C£585.00 .22 Browning Compo stalker 16.5” S/C.....£448.00 .22 Cogswell & Harrison 20” S/C................£470.00 .22 Norinco Mini Mauser.............................£345.00 .223 Browning X-Bolt Compo......................£830.00 .223 Browning A-Bolt S/S with Boss .........£820.00 .223 Browning X-Bolt S/S Fluted Adj Stock DM...£1175.00 .223 Browning X-Bolt S/S Fluted Syn Stock DM.....£966.00 .223 Tikka T3 Lite SS syn S/C ....................£919.00 .22/250 Browning Eclipse T/hole S/C .......£900.00 .243 Winchester XPO hunter S/C Camo ..£550.00 .243 Browning A-bolt combo.......................£500.00 .243 Browning A-bolt SS syn boss..............£819.00 .243 Win Mod 70 stealth HV .......................£799.00 .243 WSSM Browning A-bolt Medallion S/C ...£499.00 .270 Browning X-bolt SS syn S/C ...............£938.00 6.5x55 Zoli pro-battue M/B AZ1900 engraved£1995.00 6.5x55 Tikka T3 Lite S/S S/C......................£919.00 6.5x55 Browning X-Bolt S/S Fluted 21” S/C £941.00 .308 Browning X-bolt SS syn S/C, fluted...£900.00 .308 Browning X-bolt SS syn S/C ..............£700.00 .308 Browning X-Bolt Fluted Walnut 22” ..£985.00 .308 Winchester XPR Hunter ......................£550.00 .308 Cogswell & Harrison S/C ....................£650.00 .308 Browning X-bolt Eclipse ......................£900.00 .308 Browning X-bolt GRS ........................£1300.00 .308 Winchester Coyote Lite S/C .............£1047.00 .308 Browning X-bolt SF Chassis MDT .............£1995.00 30-06 Winchester XPR 24” DM inc 3-9x40 ........£660.00 30-06 Browning Maral S/Pull Fluted S/C DM£1962.00 30-06 Browning X-Bolt Camo 21” Fluted S/C .£1082.00 30/06 Bergara 24” S/C syn..............................£699.00 30/06 Browning A-bolt 21” S/C ..................£599.00 .375 H&H CZ 550 Safari............................................£900.00 .44 Rossi ..........................................................£600.00 .44 Chiappa 1892 Lever action CCH .........£600.00 .45LC Winchester 1892 20” Underlever ...£795.00 45-70 Winchester 1886 Lever Action 24” £1110.00 44-40 Winchester model 73 24” Oct ............£1,560 .22 Savage 20” spiral flute SC........................... £765 .22/250 Browing xbolt 21” SC .......................... £825 6.5x55 Creedmoor Winchester XPL Strata ... £659 Only one left in stock. 12G Browning 725 Hunter 30” TD3.... £2590.00 12G Browning 725 Sporter 30”............ £1999.00
SAFARI SPECIAL
Chapuis 12 Gauge Side by Side RP Artisan £7,479
338WM Winchester Mod 70 Rifle, custom shop, one of 125 in the World ................................................ £3450 .416 Rigby BRNO 550 ...............................................£987 8x57 Browning 525 Double rifle ......................... £2999 8x57 Browning CCS 25 double rifle with 30mm swing off mounts ....................................... £9999 470 Capstick Winchester model 70 safari custom house ......................................................................... £3999 30.06 Zoli Focus 3 Double .................................... £4500 NEW Merkel Safari Double rifle 470 NE Ejector Merkel 160 AEDA .................... £17999 470 NE Ejector Merkel 140 AEDA ...................... £9999 416 Rigby Ejector Merkel 140 AEDA ................. £9999 375 H&H Ejector Merkel 140 AEDA ................... £9999 (All above Merkels with swing-off 30ml Apel ring mounts, and 1.25-4x24 Elite Illuminated scope)
Second Hand Chapuis 12 Gauge Artisan C140 Over Under £6,250 Zoli.30.06 Focus 3 Over Under Express Rifle £4,500
SHOTGUNS 12G Browning 525 Ultra XS Adj comb Midas 30” £3299.00 12G Browning 725 Hunter 30” TD3 ........£2590.00 12G Browning 725 Sporter 30”.................£1999.00 12G Browning 525 Game LH 30” .............£1399.00 12G Browning 525 GTS 30” ......................£1725.00 12G Winchester Energy Sporting Select 30” £1422.00 12G Winchester Select Sporting 30” .......£1274.00 12G Browning 525 Sporter 30”.................£1415.00 12G Miroku Mk38 G6 Sporter teague 30” .£3149.00 12G Miroku Mk70 Sporter 30” .................£1345.00 12G Miroku Mk38 Sporter ........................£1343.00 12G Browning 525 Hunter Prestige 28”..£3630.00 12G Browning Maxus Duck Blind 31⁄2” 28” .£1185.00 12G Browning Fusion 28”............................£500.00 12G Hatsan Escort supreme ........................£430.00 12G Hatsan Escort V 30” Special Offer .....£299.00 12G Hatsan MOBU .......................................£469.00 12G Hatsan 31/2” MODB.............................£465.00 20G Hatsan Muddy Girl ...............................£420.00 20G Hatsan Escort wood 24” youth...........£405.00
PISTOLS .22 GSG Firefly...............................................£495.00 .22 GSG S/H 19” ............................................£295.00 .22 GSG 1911 green ......................................£387.75
AMMUNITION (RIFLE) IN STOCK ........................................... per 100 .22 Hornet Hornady V-Max 35g ...................£73.40 .222 REM Winchester 50 gn SP....................£87.00 .223 Winchester 55 gn SP ..............................£90.00 22.250 Winchester 55 gn Varmint..............£120.00 22.250 Winchester 55 gn SP........................£110.00 .243 Winchester WSSM 95gm ....................£155.50 .243 Winchester 100 gn SP ..........................£122.50 .243 Winchester 95 BST gn .........................£155.50
Chapuis 12 Gauge C35 Rd Over And Under £2,800 Winchester 338 Win Mag Model 70 Custom House 1 of 125 worldwide £3,450 .243 Fedral 100gn SP ....................................£130.00 .270 Winchester 130 gn PPSP .....................£128.50 7mm Rem Mag Winchester 175 PPSP ......£175.50 6.5 x 55 Swedish Hornady SST 140 gn .....£161.25 300 Win Mag Winchester 180 PPSP..........£187.50 300 win mag powermac 150g .....................£192.50 32.20 Winchester 100 gn LRN ......................£82.50 303 British S&B 180 G FMJ ...........................£72.80 .308 Winchester 150 gn PPSP .....................£169.75 30.063 Winchester extreme paint 150gn ..£128.50 8mm Mauser Federal 170 gn SP.................£145.00 8 x 57 JR (S&B) 196 gn SP ............................£106.00 8 x 57 JS SMJ (S&B) ........................................... 76.50 .375 H&H FMJ, RWS .....................................£257.50 375 H&H 270g Remington SP .....................£245.00 .416 Rigby Federal premium SP .................£995.00 .444 Marlin 265g FTX...................................£204.00 .450 Marlin 325g FTX...................................£238.50 .458 Win Mag 500/SP ...................................£315.50 470 NE Federal 500G Solid .......................£1550.00 12 gauge Slug Winchester 1 ounce ...........£106.00
Opening Hours: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm Monday to Friday Open Saturdays 9.30 am - 4.00 pm Postage & Packing. Phone for Price. Manufacturers Brochures A4 S.A.E. ONLY
SH.50 BGN MacMillan M87 5RND ADJ stock b+l elite 50 eng scope muzzle break + transit case............................................... £4495.00
BUSHNELL VORTEX SCOPES Crossfire 6-24x50 ....................£275.00 Diamond Back 6-24x50 ..........£442.50 Strike Eagle 3-18x44 ....................£427 Strike Eagle 1-08x24 ....................£415
PRIME 6-18x50 ....................................£275.00
ELITE 4200 1.25-4x24 illuminated 4A .......£468.00 6-24x50 Mil-Dot.......................£533.00
ELITE 6500 2.5-16x50 Mil-Dot....................£775.00
TACTICAL 3.5-21x50 G2DMR (34mm tube) .........................£1273.00 1-6.5x24 illuminated BRT2 (30mm tube) ...........................£927.00
Wilson & Wilson (Fieldsports) Ltd. Telegraph Hill, Laundry Road, Minster, Ramsgate, Kent CT12 4HL
Tel: 01843 822242 Fax No: 01843 821162 245
Registered Firearms Dealer No. 276 Kent.
www.wilsonandwilsonfieldsports.co.uk
UNTIL END OF AUGUST – STARTING NOW! Chapuis 12 Gauge Side by Side RP Artisan £7,479
Zoli.30.06 Focus 3 Over Under Express Rifle £4,500 Chapuis 12 Gauge C35 Rd Over And Under £2,800 Uniflow Powder Measure ............................£112.00 Powder Measure Stand ..................................£31.00 Powder Trickler ...............................................£29.20 Ring for current pricing Uniflow Micrometer Ad Just Screw LG or SM....£40.00 Uniflow Small Cylinder..................................£38.20 22 PPC 348 Win Lube Die ............................................................£50.40 5.45x39 378 WBY Mag Trim Pro Power Assembly 220V Kit ..........£367.60 5.6x57R 32-40 Win Scales 500 .......................................................£104.00 7mm-06 40-65 Shiloh Sharpe Scales 1000 .....................................................£166.00 7mm WBY MAG 30R Blaser Charge Master Combo..................................£608.00 284 Win 38-55 WCF RCPS Load CD ...............................................£112.50 30-338 Win 38-40 WCF Lock Out Die ....................................................£50.40 240 H&H Fg 500 31/4 Nitro Express Accessories Base Plate....................................£45.70 7mm BR Rem 416 WBY Mag Primer Pocket Swager ...................................£47.70 7mm 08 Rem 470 Nitro 31/4 Express Case Master Measurement Tool .................£167.50 Trimmer Kit no2 ............................................£157.00 338-378 WBY Mag 470 Cap Stick Trim Pro 2 .......................................................£132.00 375 Win 404 Geffery Scale Check Weights Deluxe ........................£75.40 8mm Rem Mag 416 Regby Primer Pocket Brush Combo ........................£20.70 8mm-06 458 WM Lubra Matic Sizing Press .............................£245.00 .33 Win 9.3x64 Brenneke Bullet Moulds Pistol/Rifle from ..................£104.00 340 WBY Mag 50x70 Gov Mould Handles ................................................£54.40 8x72R 25x20 WCF Deburing Tool...................................................£29.40
UNUSUAL RCBS DIE SETS IN STOCK
RCBS RELOADING EQUIPMENT EXAMPLES Ring for current pricing Pro Melt 2 Furness ........................................£410.00 Black Powder Measurer ...............................£190.00 Pro 2000 Shell plate ........................................£42.30 Rockchucker Supreme Kit SPECIAL OFFER £380.00 Piggy Back 3 Press Conversion ..................£474.50 Rock Chucker Press ......................................£236.00 Turret Press Reloading Kit ...........................£679.00 Tungsten Carbide Die Sets (Pistol).....from £76.45 Standard Rifle Die Sets FL.............................£50.00 Cowboy Action Dies .......................................£84.00 Competition Dies...........................................£136.00 APS Bench Prime Tool .................................£127.80 APS Press Prime Tool .....................................£82.00 APS Strip Loader .............................................£45.60 Autoprime Tool ..............................................£130.50 NEW Speer No 14 Reloading Manual .........£38.50 Lyman 1200 Auto Flow ..................................£69.50
NEW WINCHESTER BRASS CASES .................... per 100 9mm Makarov S&B .........................................£17.60 7x57 S&B ...........................................................£37.35 762x25 Takarev................................................£21.90 6.5 Creedmoor Hornady ................................£85.20 .25 Auto primed S&B ......................................£19.00 8x57 JRS S&B ...................................................£48.50 .30 M1 Carbine S&B........................................£30.00 .30 M1 Carbine Winchester ..........................£69.30 7.62x25 Tokarev...............................................£20.61 32 Auto ..............................................................£24.60 32 S&W ..............................................................£26.45 380 Auto ............................................................£20.50
38 Special ..........................................................£28.10 9mm Win ..........................................................£19.40 9mm Luger S&B ...............................................£16.60 9mm Luger Winchester Brass .......................£19.40 10mm .................................................................£29.90 .357 Magnum Starline ....................................£25.00 .41 Rem Mag .....................................................£42.50 .44 Special .........................................................£21.95 .44 Magnum Starline ......................................£32.00 .45 auto ..............................................................£30.00 .17 Remington Brass .......................................£83.00 .22 Hornet S&B and Winchester ..................£36.15 204 Ruger Winchester ....................................£38.50 .220 Swift Remington .....................................£74.50 .222 Rem............................................................£41.80 .223 Winchester ...............................................£44.55 .223 S+B.............................................................£40.00 .223 WSSM .......................................................£80.50 .22-250 ...............................................................£60.00 .243 .....................................................................£57.30 .243 WSSM .......................................................£80.90 6mm Rem ..........................................................£49.90 6.5 x 55 Winchester ........................................£70.25 6.5x55 S&B .......................................................£38.90 6.5x57R S&B .....................................................£47.90 25.06 Hornady ...............................................£107.00 6.5 Creedmore..................................................£85.20 .257 Roberts Nosler .............................£75.00 per 50 .270 Sellior & Bellot .........................................£50.00 .300 WSM Nosler......................................£70 per 25 300 Win Mag ....................................................£95.20 300 H&H Hornady...........................................£85.00 .303 British S&B...............................................£42.50 308 Lapua .........................................................£57.00 308 S+B..............................................................£43.00 .308 Winchester ...............................................£51.00 762 x 39 S&B ....................................................£45.75 30.06 Springfield..............................................£65.80 30.06 Springfield Lapua .................................£89.00 30.30 Win ..........................................................£50.10 32.20...................................................................£46.50 38.40...................................................................£45.00 38.55 Win ..........................................................£61.00 .38-55 Starline ..................................................£45.00 338 Win Mag ....................................................£84.65 .338 Lapua (Norma) ......................................£170.00 348 Win .............................................................£97.35 358 Win .............................................................£76.20 375 Win .............................................................£65.70 375 H&H ...........................................................£85.00 .44.40..................................................................£38.30 44-40 Starline ...................................................£35.00 .444 Hornady..................................................£137.00 .45 Long Colt Starline ....................................£29.80 45-120 Norma.................................................£189.90 45.70 Govt ........................................................£70.00 .416 Rigby Norma Brass ...............................£247.90 458 Win Mag ....................................................£88.30 .470 Nitro Express (Norma).........................£372.90 5.6x50 R S&B ....................................................£48.50 7.08 .....................................................................£65.00 7x57....................................................................£39.70 7mm Rem ..........................................................£67.95 7mm Remington Magnum...........................£145.40 7x64 S&B ...........................................................£43.10 762x54r S&B .....................................................£44.80 8x57JR................................................................£44.00 8x57 JS S&B ......................................................£46.20 9.3x64 RWS ....................................................£130.20 9.3x74 R S&B ..................................................£122.80
Opening Hours: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm Monday to Friday Open Saturdays 9.30 am - 4.00 pm Postage & Packing. Phone for Price. Manufacturers Brochures A4 S.A.E. ONLY
RELOADERS SPECIAL PURCHASE SELLIOR & BELLOT BULLETS .224 55 grain FMJ ............................. £64.00 per 500 .308 147 FMJ...................................... £87.00 per 500 8mm 196 FMJ ..................................£107.50 per 500 .303 180g FMJ .................................£101.25 per 500
BARNES SPECIALS .224 36gr Varmint Grenade ........... £12.50 per 100 .224 45gr TSX ................................... £28.80 per 100 .224 50gr Varmint Grenade ............ £13.50 per 100 .270 MRX 130 grain ......................... £60.00 per 100 7ml MRX 140 grain ......................... £61.10 per 100 7ml MRX 160 grain ......................... £62.00 per 100
ACCURATE 500grms No.2 ....................................................................£37.50 No.5 ....................................................................£37.50 No.7 ....................................................................£37.50 No.9 ....................................................................£37.50 No. 1680 ............................................................£37.50 No. 2230 ............................................................£37.50 No. 2460 ............................................................£37.50 No. 3100 ............................................................£37.50 No. 4350 ............................................................£37.50 No. 2015 ............................................................£37.50 No. 2520 ............................................................£37.50 No. 5744 ............................................................£37.50 Solo 1000...........................................................£37.50
ALLIANT RELOADERS RL7 .....................................................................£55.50 RL10 ...................................................................£55.50 RL15 ...................................................................£55.50 RL17 ...................................................................£55.50 RL19 ...................................................................£55.50 RL22 ...................................................................£55.50 RL25 ...................................................................£45.00 Select..................................................................£38.50 Steel....................................................................£42.00 Red Dot ..............................................................£39.90 Bullseye .............................................................£38.50 Herco .................................................................£38.50 Unique ...............................................................£38.50 Green Dot ..........................................................£39.90 Blue Dot .............................................................£39.90 2400....................................................................£46.50
IMR POWDERS – EXAMPLES 4227....................................................................£44.60 7828 Shortcut ..................................................£44.60 Hi-Skor 800x.....................................................£36.30 IMR 4166...........................................................£37.50 SR 7625 £44.60 .............................8208 XBR £35.75 1455 Enduron £46.70 .......... 4451 Enduron £46.70 4166 Enduron................................................... £37.50
HOGDONS POWDERS H322...................................................................£44.60 HP38 ..................................................................£36.30 HS6 .....................................................................£39.60 50BMG...............................................................£44.60 Long Shot ..........................................................£36.40 Universal ...........................................................£36.40 Clays...................................................................£34.70 H110...................................................................£37.65 Lil Gun...............................................................£36.90 Returnbo ...........................................................£44.60 Tite Wad ............................................................£31.40 Tite Group.........................................................£34.70 Superformance ................................................£36.90 777 FFG .............................................................£44.60 777 FFFG...........................................................£44.60 Pyrodex P ..........................................................£33.00 Pyrodex RS .......................................................£31.40 CFE .223 ............................................................£41.30
GM08.21/17/a
15% OFF ALL NEW RIFLES 10% OFF ALL NEW SHOTGUNS –
FIREARMS DEALER GUIDE CORNWALL
HERTFORDSHIRE
Rifles, Shotguns, Air rifles, Ammunition. Various stock arriving Weekly.
SOUTHPOINT FIREARMS 3 Biscombes Lane, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7LB. Contact us for more info: 01579 308 444 southpointfirearms@gmx.co.uk
southpointfirearms.co.uk
www.cgfirearms.co.uk Military • Sporting • Hunting sales@cgfirearms.co.uk
Tel: 01582 461769
NORTH WALES DRAGON FIELD SPORTS LTD
WORCESTERSHIRE
SHOTGUNS, AIRGUNS, FIREARMS, AMMO EXPERT - FRIENDLY - CHEAP
www.shootingsuppliesltd.co.uk
All Sorts of Ammo, Accessories & Clothing
www.dragonfieldsports.co.uk 21 Pentre Felin, Wrexham LL13 7NB
38 Sherwood Road Bromsgrove B60 3DR (Just off the A38, 300yds from Morrisons) Shotguns, rifles, air guns, cartridges, ammunition, reloading equipment, scopes, accessories, clothing and footwear
01527 831261
Tel: 01978 290990
Tues-Sat 9am to 5.30pm Late night Fri ’til 7pm
LINCOLNSHIRE
NORTHERN IRELAND
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOOTING CENTRE
WEST YORKSHIRE YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUNS
Inc. Burgh Gun Shop – Burgh Rifle & Pistol Club – Spilsby Rifle Club
AIRGUN REPAIR SPECIALIST
www.lsccomplex.co.uk
YOUR ONE STOP GUN SHOP
Tober Road, Knockahollet, Cloughmills, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 9BE
Tel: 01754 810424
www.lavinguns.com 02827 641204
NORTHERN IRELAND
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
Maryland Country Sports 18A Maryland Industrial Estate Crossnacreery, Moneyreagh County Down BT23 6BL Tel: 02890 448598 www.maryland-country-sports.co.uk
YORKSHIRE
WAKEFIELD RIFLE & PISTOL CLUB WAKEFIELD COLLEGE GROVE, WAKEFIELD, WEST YORKSHIRE
For details see our website: for details of the club
www.wrpc.co.uk
PRACTI CAL SHOOTI NG SUPPLI ES
practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk
Suppliers of Innovative and marketing leading Shotguns, Rifles, Airguns and accessories dedicated to the practical outdoor sportsman. Unit 17, Churchill Business Park, Churchill Road, Doncaster, South Yorks, DN1 2TF 01302 730052 | info@practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk
YORKSHIRE www.yorkguns.com sales@yorkguns.com Call: 01904 487180 Camsey House, Foxoak Park, Common Road, Dunnington, York, YO19 5RZ
@yorkguns
Tel: 07736 574160
NORTH YORKSHIRE PICKERING GUNS www.pickeringguns.co.uk Huge array of new and used Airguns, Shotguns, Rifles and Ammunition. Part exchanges welcome.
Email: info@pickeringairguns.co.uk Tel: 01751 476904
YORKSHIRE RIFLES
OPTICS
HAENEL BLASER BROWNING SAKO TIKKA MAUSERSAUER STEYR MERKEL CZ ETC
SWAROVSKI SCHMIDT ZEISS KAHLES BUSHNELL NIGHTFORCE HAWKE MINOX MEOPTA ETC
PEMBROKESHIRE
NORTH YORKSHIRE
Email Dscheeres@aol.com www.pembrokefinearms.co.uk Tel: 01646 680391 / 07969 132060
SUNDERLAND Mayfair Shooting Centre H.O. Approved Club – Membership Now Open! Smallbore, Fullbore – All are Welcome 9 Lane Indoor Range with electric targets. Gunshop & Lounge T: 0191 564 1966 E: mayfairsc@hotmail.co.uk
www.mayfairshootingcentre.co.uk
EAST YORKSHIRE MK FIREARMS Lincoln, Ruger, Armsan, Uberti, Magtech, Thompson, Parker Hale, Heckler & Koch. Huge discounts on rifles, shotguns, revolvers. Package deals on scopes, moderators, accessories and spares. Lots of used guns to clear. Part exchange welcome. Gunsmith Services.
Tel : Bridlington 01262 671521
DEVON
* Deerhunter * Harkila * Laksen * Dubarry * Rivers West * Swazi * Musto * Barbour * Diotto Boots * Le Chameau * Swedteam
Mon-Sat 9-5 pm. Closed Weds.
Always something interesting for shooters and collectors. We consider part exchange and gold and silver coins. Anything considered. We wish all our customers and their families a safe passage through these difficult times.
www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk
www.swillingtonshootingsupplies.co.uk
Tel: 0113 286 4097 - Tel & Fax: 0113 287 5685 Email: info@swillingtonshootingsupplies.co.uk Home Farm, Wakefield Road, Swillington, Leeds, LS26 8UA
7-8 Birdgate, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AL
Tel: 01924 764740
www.sportsmanguncentre.com info@sportsmanguncentre.com
Tel: 01392 354854 DERBYSHIRE
DAVEY & SON EAST COAST FIELD & STREAM The Old Post Office, Wykeham, Yorkshire YO13 9QP
New & Used Centrefire & Rimfire Rifles by all major manufacturers. Huge range of scopes and ammunition. Plus stockists of clothing & footwear.
Tel: 01723 865039 Email: info@daveyandson.co.uk www.daveyandson.co.uk
Please contact our advertising department now on
01206 506247/506 242/506246
FIREARMS DEALER GUIDE/07.21/a
e-mail: lsc.complex@gmail.com New Farm, Ingoldmells Rd, Burgh-le-Marsh, Skegness, Lincs PE24 5HF
FROM THE LAND DOWN UNDER
The Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera A CUSTOMISABLE RIFLE FOR PRECISION SHOOTERS
T I E E S T I E G RAN T IT SHOO N. II E G S D I K S V ARO THE NEW SW
cope s m u i m e r p A
finder e g n a r r e s a l ith built-in
w
THIS MONTH
T H G I E W T H G I L CT A P M O C D N A
The ATN Mars LT Thermal Scope
70 GUN TEST Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera 74 NIGHT VISION ATN Mars LT Thermal Scope 80 SCOPE TEST Swarovski dS Gen. II 86 RELOADING Meplat Trimmers 90 PRODUCT How to fit a comb raiser
GM08.21/A/g
GM08.21/G/a
SHOOTING SPORTS | LITHGOW ARMS LA105 WOOMERA
Land Down Under The Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera is a great rifle to ring steel at long ranges, note the supplied muzzle brake
Chris Parkin gets to see an Australian viewpoint on PRS chassis rifles
L
ithgow’s LA105 Woomera is a collaboration with KRG’s X-Ray stock to bring an Australian take on the PRS-type chassis rifle, with crossover potential to all precision shooters. It all begins with a dished 11° crown on the face of the muzzle, which is threaded 5/8”x24 TPI and comes with a thread protector. A triple ported brake is supplied, which screws into position and is locked with an Allen bolt. The rifle is available in .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor (on test) and the barrelled action is Cerakoted for durability. The 24” tube shows a 1:8” twist rate, which is suited to a broad range of bullet weights. The profile taper runs straight from 21.1mm at the muzzle back to the action diameter of nearly 30mm. It shows a matt black finish for minimal reflection and corrosion resistance.
Action facets Lithgow’s cylindrical action sports facets to both flanks, breaking up the profile, and a subtle logo engraved onto the left-hand side. The bolt has three lugs for a 60° lift, with a plunger ejector and extractor claw in the right-side lug to enthusiastically fling the case from the spacious 81mm ejection port. The 40mm handle is capped with a 20mm diameter spherical knob that shows light, unobtrusive grooves for grip.
70
The design gives the bolt ideal mechanical leverage ratios for fast transit, without any hint of stuttering in motion. There is a 3-position wing safety that sits on the bolt shroud. Forward for FIRE, middle for SAFE with bolt lock and fully rearward unlocks the bolt so it can be unloaded. This is a little unusual, but functional and quiet in operation.
Trigger adjustability The Wommera’s single-stage trigger shows a 10mm wide, smooth blade. The pull weight and sear engagement are both adjustable, however, the screws are thread locked at the factory to dissuade the casual twiddler. I measured the pull weight at 1300-grams with a small amount of creep. Lithgow accept adjustment is possible in the instruction manual and I’m open to the fact they err on the side of caution in a litigious culture and appreciate their mindset. As it was,
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
the trigger was easy enough to read and consistent in feel, with an overall adjustment range from 750 to 1900-grams advertised. The guard is spacious for gloves and an extended, polymer, ambidextrous mag release hangs at the front of the guard to drop the AICS compatible 10-round magazine into your hand. Single rounds dropped on top of the mag through the ejection port loaded straight into the chamber and feed was reliable.
Bedding arrangements The action and chassis are mated with twin screws fore and aft of the magazine well, with the front screw sitting deep within the assembled forend. The barrel tenon screws into the receiver, making rebarreling possible and shows its threads openly where a recess is cut into the lower face of the action’s cylindrical profile to engage the stock’s recoil lug. This steel component slots into a pocket
“Consistent high winds through the initial test period limited shooting time at longer ranges…”
LITHGOW ARMS LA105 WOOMERA | SHOOTING SPORTS
Here you can see the ambidextrous magazine release lever
The slick bolt allowed fast reloads with minimal disturbance, note the unusual but effective 3-position safety layout
on the Aluminium chassis, which is otherwise peppered with holes, threads, stainless steel inserts and other intricate engineering details designed to perfect its performance, whilst saving weight and maintaining stiffness. Machining standards are excellent, with smooth homogenous character to all black anodised components within its spine. The rear action screw locks into a laterally floating socket, dovetailed into the receiver’s underside to further alleviate any mechanical misalignment and consequent bedding stress. The whole aluminium backbone through to the forend is totally stiff, with a fully floating barrel in all conditions. Tallied with the 20 MOA Picatinny rail bolted to the top of the receiver, threaded anchor points are shown at the tip of the 220mm forend. These can be used to attach a barrel bridge for night vision or thermal optical accessories.
Accessorise Picatinny mounting points are located all over the underside of the forend with Magpul and M-LOK compatibility. The polymer sidewalls offer a degree of textured grip on their railed profile and the whole back end of the chassis shows a similar warm polymer texture.
Lithgow add thread lock to the trigger to dissuade amateurs but the adjustability invites tuning for personalised refinement
AMMO TABLE: HORNADY AMMO 140-grain ELD-M Match 147-grain ELD-M Match 147-grain ELD-M TAP
AVERAGE MUZZLE VELOCITY (FPS) 2683 2649 2658
Three 9.5mm spacers come with the rifle and these can be used to adjust the length of pull (LOP). In order to fit them, the 25mm rubber butt pad must be removed first. Lithgow has thought this through and supplied screws of varying lengths to ensure all is secure, without any hard spots protruding from the medium-soft recoil pad. The height of the detachable comb can be adjusted and it can even be swapped around, offering differing comfort profiles from its asymmetric shape, which is a superb factor when personalising any gun. The twin pillars holding the riser both have rubber O-rings on them, a very simple yet effective method of returning it to a chosen position. The right side of the butt shows a polymer locking screw, perhaps a little small as it needs to be tightened firmly for use. The rifle was extremely comfortable, both ergonomically for correct scope
BEST 100M GROUP (MOA) 0.75 0.52 0.87
clearance and sightline, as well as the fact the cheek piece fits tidily without a resonant 'ring' after every shot. The vertical grip is delivered assembled 'slim' as standard, with additional thicker panels and a central spacer supplied if you want more bulk. Quick-release sling anchors are located on either side of the butt and the underside bag rider/hand stop also shows linear adjustment positions to suit your needs.
Stability, reliability and versatility With all three spacers fitted and a LOP of 14”, I found the rifle comfortable, but suspect some shooters may well want one or two more. I liked the bag rider/ hand stop and was comfortable prone or seated. When used with a Harris bipod, there was a 600mm span between its feet and the rear bag, which was great for stability. I really liked the comb design, finding this one extremely pleasant in comparison to
71
SHOOTING SPORTS | LITHGOW ARMS LA105 WOOMERA
similar peers whose bulk pushes the jaw aside. The muzzle brake created the usual sharp, snappy crack and pressure wave that envelops the shooter, but that is the price of directing exhaust gasses backwards to diminish recoil and retain a sight picture. However, if you like brakes, Lithgow’s is certainly effective. I also liked the fact it did not need to be removed for cleaning. The balance point was about 10mm ahead of the barricade stop, so when rested for improvised support, it felt assured, without any additional weight, which some may prefer to add. I didn’t get on wonderfully with the grip, finding the thumb hole through the stock cramped. I don’t consider myself to have particularly large hands and the angled bar rising to the rear from the base of the grip simply doesn’t leave a lot of space, even for my palm and thumb to fit through it, especially with the larger grip panels, but each to their own.
I really like the cheek piece layout and shape, although I'd prefer a slightly larger tensioning knob with less aggressive grip
Results The rifle showed an easily cleaned barrel that fouled minimally throughout the run-in process. 5-round, sub-MOA groups at 100m were no problem from the start and ammunition selection was a matter of preference rather than a necessity. Consistent high winds through the initial test period limited shooting time at longer ranges with less shelter, but Hornady 147-grain ELD-M match ammunition was developing 2649 FPS with sub 10 FPS consistency at the muzzle and I know this to offer excellent ballistics beyond 100m when required. The barrel showed no generalised point of impact shift through 20- shot strings and its medium/heavy profile had plenty of mass to absorb and dissipate the heat at a relaxed pace.
A slim grip is fitted as standard with thicker panels also supplied, note the limited space to the rear
Here you can see the bag rider/hand stop and the three LOP spaces
The Woomera wasn’t too critical for ammo choice, even the lesser groups were effective in poor conditions
Conclusion The Woomera is a fundamentally capable rifle that can easily be customised, depending on the user’s preferences. It comes with an effective brake, an easily cleaned and stable barrel and a notably smart cheek piece design that provides excellent head alignment. I also like that Lithgow is not afraid of offering trigger adjustability on a well-priced rifle intended for precision shooters.
72
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION > NAME: > CALIBRE: > TWIST RATE: > TRIGGER: > MAGAZINE: > WEIGHT: > LENGTH OF PULL: > OVERALL LENGTH: > SCOPE MOUNTING: > ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED: > PRICE: > CONTACT:
Lithgow Arms LA105 Woomera 6.5 Creedmoor (on test) and .308 1:8” Single-Stage, adjustable 10-round DM (AICS) 5.1kg (empty magazine and muzzle brake fitted) 14” including 3 spacers 46” (including brake and three spacers) 20 MOA Picatinny rail Grip panels, adjustable hand stop and comb, LOP Spacers, Picatinny rails and a muzzle brake £2364.99 Highland Outdoors - www.highlandoutdoors.co.uk
GM08.21/D/f
SHOOTING SPORTS | ATN MARS LT THERMAL SCOPE 3-6X25
Mars
Attacks Bruce Potts casts his eyes over a new thermal scope from ATN; the Mars LT
I
tested the ATN Mars 4 Smart HD last year and it was an interesting thermal weapon scope, but it had a little too many features for my liking. Now they have released a Lite version, that is strangely enough called the Mars LT. Not only does it weigh less but a few of the features that you may or may not use, have been removed. There are three versions of the LT 320, with 2-4, 3-6 and 4-8x power and a 19, 25 and 35mm objective lens, respectively. The prices start at £1755, which seems very reasonable.
Spec True to the ATN Mars Lite name, when you open up the box there is the lightweight/ compact thermal sight, charging lead, neoprene scope cover and a rubber eyecup. It's not a big sight, which is part of its appeal, as these small-sized thermals are
74
just as at home on an airgun or rimfire as they are on a walkabout fox rifle. Weighing in at just 650-grams with dimensions of 11.5 x 2.2 x 2.2”, it won’t unbalance a rifle in the field. It's also very easy to mount as it comes in the 30mm scope tube format, rather than the integral Weaver base design of old. Because the ATN has a large central saddle for the controls, the actual 30m body mounting area is a bit tight. There is only 1.5” of space at the front and 1.25” at the rear, so careful positioning is required. The overall finish is a tough, satin black anodise in keeping with the aluminium build. However, it is not waterproof, only water-resistant.
measuring 25mm in diameter. The outer diameter of 52mm houses the front focus ring, with its deep scalloped grooves for a good hold and fast focus. At the other end of the sight is the eyepiece and it also features recessed grooves, which are used to focus the display/viewing screen. The ATN has an onboard Lithium-ion battery that has a total of 10-hours battery life and is easily charged via the USB charging cable supplied. This is fitted into a USB (Type-C) port sited on the righthand side of the central control saddle. The total charge time is about 6-hours. To turn the unit on/off, simply press and hold the power button. Incidentally, this switch can also be used to re-boot the ATN when held down for 15-seconds.
On test We had the Mars LT 320 25mm version, which equates to a magnification range of 3-6x power and a front objective lens
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
Controls With the 1280x720 HD screen now visible you can use the keypad to access the
ATN MARS LT THERMAL SCOPE 3-6X25 | SHOOTING SPORTS
The new ATN Mars LT offers a lightweight thermal scope with cut down features but no reduction in image quality
With the ATN fitted, we had some excellent results with the Tikka Tact A1 and some new Winchester .308 Win subsonic loads
The LT model tested had a small 25mm objective lens and 3-6x magnification but it was more than good enough
The layout of the 30mm body limited the position of the Tier-One rings
menu and changes to the settings. The keypad shows the usual navigation buttons which have dual functions and a central button to access the menu. The up button will cycle through the magnification, the left adjusts the contrast of the image, the right button will alter the brightness (100%, 60%, 30% or 10%) of the screen to stop eye strain and reduce reflection, and the down button switches from white to black-hot. A short press of the central button/OK button performs a NUC, which is a terrible name but is a calibration mode for the best thermal signature. A long hold opens up the menu. When you press a keypad button, the change will be displayed for three seconds on the display, to tell you the setting that's been altered. Other indications on the main screen are the battery status and zoom level. There is also a 3D gyroscope
roll scale that shows the cant and inclination angle of the scope.
What's on the menu? Once you have accessed the menu, you will notice a series of icons on the left-hand side of the screen. The first (NUC), turns on/off the auto NUC or thermal calibration. A short press at any time can recalibrate the unit to get the best picture as the temperature changes. The second (PIX), corrects dead pixels in the screen by navigating an indicator dot to the defective pixel, then a short press corrects it. The third (RET), is used to select one of the reticles. The options are all red and include a 30-30, bar and dot, range finder and single dot. The fourth (SENS), is used to adjust how sensitive the sensor is at picking up the thermal heat signatures of targets. The fifth (ZERO), opens up the one-shot-zero mode, where
you will see two reticles displayed. One is moved via the keypad directional buttons and the other is stationary. Fire a shot and navigate the red reticle to the point of impact, whilst keeping the black reticle on the original aiming point. The X and Y-axis zeroing coordinates are displayed on the upper right side of the display. When on the lowest power setting, one click equals two pixels (estimated). When ready, a short press of the OK button saves the zero and a longer hold exits this mode.
In the field Human detection is listed at 910m for this model, with recognition at 455m and identification at 255m. Of course, this capability is dependant on terrain, temperature and weather conditions. The reality is that any shooting needs to be done well below 250m. The unit only takes a couple of seconds to fire up and the
75
SHOOTING SPORTS | ATN MARS LT THERMAL SCOPE 3-6X25
Easy eyepiece focus to get the display good and sharp and you can screw in the rubber eyeshield if you like
Top left to start the LT and then a very simple push or pushhold set of buttons to navigate and change settings
Note the finger grooves for fast front focus objective lens adjustment
simple 3D gyroscope readout was actually quite useful in the hilly terrain I was in, allowing me to keep the gun cant free and to check the level. The display is clear and the image from the 320x240 px/12µm sensor is smooth around the edge, no doubt due to it being 12µm and not 17 µm. I would definitely play with the contrast and brightness settings as they really do make a difference to the image quality and I would re-adjust dependent on the conditions you are shooting in. These adjustments also help to stop the LT from overcompensating between hot and cold areas too much and keeps the whole image more uniform in exposure. I would also recommend fitting the rubber eyepiece shield as this stops extraneous light from getting in.
BushWear thermal targets and some cold two pence coins taped to cardboard with foil-backed tape. Looking through the optic, these gave me a clear aiming point. A steady support is defiantly preferable when using the ATN's one-shot-zero system, so I opted for a bench and placed the targets 100 yards away. Once a basic zero is achieved, I found it beneficial to turn the unit off and then turn it on again, to give my eyes a rest, before fine-tuning the zero. Recognition was actually better than anticipated. The days were quite damp and dull, so quite an even thermal signature from the background, which does not help. In these conditions, I saw foxes out to 300ish yards and rabbits out to about 200 yards. All my shooting was done much closer, as with all thermals
you need to really identify that thermal image before pulling the trigger. The unit does provide a clear image but does pixelate going from 3x to 6x power. In fact, that to me is all you need magnification wise, detect and get in closer.
The setup I fitted the thermal to a Tikka Tact A1 chambered in .308 Win as I was testing some subsonic rounds at the same time. Thermals are fine to use day or night and to help me zero the scope I used
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION > NAME: > CORE: > DISPLAY: > RESOLUTION: > FIELD OF VIEW: > EYE RELIEF: > COLOUR MODES: > MAIN BODY TUBE: > BATTERY LIFE: > DIMENSIONS: > WEIGHT: > WARRANTY: > PRICE: > CONTACT:
76
ATN Mars LT Thermal Scope 3-6X25 ATN Obsidian Core LT 1280x720 HD 320x240 px/12µm 8.8° x 6.6° 90mm White and Black Hot 30mm 10-hours 11.5 x 2.2 x 2.2” 1.4lbs 3-years £2000.00 RUAG Ammotec UK Ltd www.ruag.co.uk
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
Onboard battery only but it lasts up to 10 hours
Conclusion I like the lightweight and compact size of the ATN Mars LT. It may have lost some features but it has not lost any performance and it did really well in the field tests. Detection and image quality was good but be sensible when it comes to the distances you shoot at! The fact the battery is onboard means that it cannot be swapped out when power runs low, but this was no concern as it will last you all night or day.
GM08.21/U/a
78
SHOOTING SPORT S MAGA ZINE
GM08.21/K/a
GM08.21/E/a
SHOOTING SPORTS | SWAROVSKI DS GEN. II 5-25X52 P
Technical Triumph warovski’s dS Gen II riflescope is the latest update integrating long range ballistics calculation alongside a rangefinder, within with the riflescope itself. An additional LCOS display screen is added to effectively display data on the screen as well as a red bar underneath the conventional 4A-I reticle, to highlight the old-fashioned holdover concept allied to the latest technology. A small amount of light transmission is lost through the scope’s glassware with 83% now listed for extended light hunting, but compromise is a factor of engineering and this scope’s application may be very different to that of the close-range low light hunter.
S
The objective swamps down into a 40mm body tube which although large, doesn’t actually force the scope’s bore axis to sit any higher relative to the barrel than any other 56mm optic, it just requires the correct low-profile mounts. The top and right side of the objective outer show removable covers concealing the elevation and windage controls, accessed with a small Torx driver and adjusted using another tool. Swarovski supply these, hidden within the top turret’s cap. You can turn the inner dials with your fingertips but you will always need some form of Torx driver to remove the caps, so don’t lose anything in the field! Click values are ¼” @100 yards.
Mechanics first
What else?
The scope begins with a 52mm objective lens shrouded within the makers characteristically, beautifully machined main tube with seamless hard anodising.
Windage is set up the same way and a conventional parallax dial is positioned on the left side of the central saddle. The 403mm long tube (which is also available
80
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
as a rail mount if required) means that there is plenty of space to set eye relief correctly, which resides at a very well balanced 95mm. This, combined with a generous eye box, means you can maintain sight picture throughout the firing cycle. With even more need to assess terminal strike and effects as range increases, this is very important. A rubberised zoom collar at the front of the ocular body controls magnification from 5-25x, with no internal mechanical noise. The parallax dials from 50m-∞ with a specific detent at 100m. The very rear of the tube shows fast focus dioptre control from -3 to +2. With a very fine 4A-I reticle this is important for clarity and razorsharp definition, which I really appreciate on such a precise aiming solution.
Aimpoint solution So, we have stepped over the highlights, and they are the three buttons spanning
SWAROVSKI DS GEN. II 5-25X52 P | SHOOTING SPORTS
Chris Parkin gets his hands on the technically tantalising Swarovski dS Gen II riflescope Once the caps are removed, there are options for dial adjustment but don’t lose the cap removal Torx wrench
Tools and CR123A battery are under what would normally be seen as the elevation turret
“This is a rare review project where I will genuinely miss the capability offered once it goes back.” The laser rangefinder button and brightness controls are easily accessed
The Gen II dS mounted on a Sauer 100 Keeper Rifle with Tier-One scope mounts
the upper surface of the ocular body, essentially the laser firing button with adjacent positive and negative brightness controls. Once mechanically zeroed, you swap over to Swarovski’s well designed, intuitive app for iOS or Android, where you can set up ballistic solutions for your chosen projectiles. Once input and verified these can be refined on targets, which I strongly recommend doing as any errors can seriously affect long-range ballistic calculations. The app allows for factory ammunition or customised handload setups and I would always make sure that with any load, you confirm muzzle velocity in your own rifle over a chronograph, as they rarely match published data. With this scope, you are entering a world where these factors really matter and you have an ethical mandate to make every effort possible to ensure what you do is humane. This is a hunting scope, not a long-range
target tool and although there is some appreciable overlap, especially when it comes to practice, neither replicate the other entirely. In simple terms, when you press the button with the crosshair on target, the scope almost instantly fires its laser, calculates the range along with atmospheric pressure, temperature and up/downhill angle to present a red elevation corrects bar on the LCOS screen. This also accounts for magnification setting and the bar will move, real-time, if you alter magnification as any second focal plane enthusiast will understand for relative holdover. I will say, in a hunting scenario nothing is faster, other than using a point-blank zero, which itself is subject to range limitations, but for extending hunting shots accurately and quickly, the dS is utterly superb. The precision of using the black etched crosshair as the rangefinder aimpoint is precise and on small quarry
like crows, easily beats the less precise circle or box often seen in handheld rangefinders. It’s also worth noting you can be using up to 25x magnification to do this, whereas the other options are often limited to 8 or 10x. This is not so much an issue on deer-sized quarry but is definitely an advantage when it comes to smaller vermin.
Remember the wind? The reticle also displays lateral windage correction bars and you can select wind speeds appropriate to your location during setup in the app. I specified them at 3 and 6 metres per second, so I knew where a realistic aim off was necessary, yet also most helpful, allowed me to see if a full value miss would still be within the overall kill zone, a scenario perhaps more applicable to large species. This might sound unusually vague, but effectively overlaying best/worst case wind
81
SHOOTING SPORTS | SWAROVSKI DS GEN. II 5-25X52 P
Note the wellbalanced brightness
Always practice on targets and learn to alter brightness controls for best contrast in varying light
Elasticated lens caps are supplied, also available in rail mount as well as 40mm tube
estimation values which are still up to you or secondary tools, might just remind you when not to take a risky shot on live animals. Opposingly, it’s a definite benefit as corrections are realistic and I found it very helpful overall when tallied with my experience of approximating localised wind patterns, strength and direction, which usually vary during flight anyway.
Secondary details Residual projectile energy and flight time are also displayed on the screen, which has 64 brightness levels to balance it with ambient light and background conditions. You don’t need to do this constantly, but the rectangular screen is large and will disturb the image if left too bright in subdued conditions. A maximum range of 1024m can be displayed (projectile trajectory dependant) but bear in mind, only approximate windage compensation is displayed, spin drift is always present but never accounted for and is an important factor as ranges increase. Your chosen maximum on live game is up to you and should be based on experience and ability, not what advertising on a scope tells you it can do. Reticle weighting can be altered in the app. The CR123A battery is rated for 500 readings and connectivity with the app on an iOS smartphone was 100% reliable. I regularly accessed it when changing ammunition profiles, so really appreciated the hassle-free operation where Bluetooth is concerned. The app has been well designed, concentrating on technical
82
details rather than just looks alone, screens are simple to use with whatever units you prefer and visually clear, with both text size and contrast in all light conditions, which is an important factor to mention as others can be weak on this. Once set up with details like scope height, transfer to the dS is clear without uncertainty as to which profile is in use. You won’t need to connect the app after refinement, although, on one occasion, I had to remove the battery and re-insert it to reset the unit when it seemed to have paused. There was no loss of zero (which is mechanically reliable at your chosen range even without power anyway) or loss of internal electronic ballistic setting. I found the dS very appealing, and for a stalker with a heavy cull quota needing fast shots on herds at varying ranges, I see no equal. As for 'longer range varminting', I found it worked exceptionally well on smaller quarry and the speed with which shots could be made improved my success rate. With atmospheric and inclination incorporated, it is beneficial for technically difficult shots on mountain hunts but equally valid and versatile for hill stalkers. You never need to take your attention or hands away from the rifle and scope as a combined tool. I can remember various scenarios hunting goats where it would have saved me significant time and effort.
Conclusion This is a rare review project where I will genuinely miss the capability offered once
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
it goes back. Although it's not the ultimate low light hunter, it is a superbly refined daylight optic with first-rate image clarity and genuinely beneficial technical features. The field of view is unaffected, and the rich colouration of the brand is still assured, you just need to be aware of the internal screen brightness contrast, in rapidly changing environments. The scope weighs 1090-grams, which is a factor to consider when balancing the viability of the dS. Are the capabilities worth it to you? It certainly lightens the load of other accessory needs.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION > NAME: > FIELD OF VIEW DEGREES: > DIOPTRE ADJUSTMENT: > LIGHT TRANSMISSION: > PARALLAX CORRECTION: > MEASURING RANGE: > MEASURING PRECISION: > MEASURING ANGLE: > MAX AIMING POINT CORRECTION: > RETICLE: > LENGTH: > WEIGHT: > TUBE DIAMETER: > ILLUMINATION: > DISPLAY: > PRICE: > CONTACT:
Swarovski dS Gen. II 5-25x52 P 4.2-0.84 ° -3 to +2 83% 50m-∞ 30-1375m 1m 60° 1024 m 4A-I 403 mm 1090-1115 grams 40mm 64 Brightness levels LCOS, red monochrome £3630 Swarovski Optik www.swarovskioptik.com
GM08.21/F/g
£1,200
FROM
GM08.21/H/f
£1,450
Please mention
GM08.21/J/a
Please mention
when responding to advertisements
NORMAN CLARK GUNSMITHS
SPECIALIST IN RIFLE AND SHOTGUN RELOADING COMPONENTS
OPEN: MONDAY-SATURDAY 09:00-17:00
01788 579651
UK AGENTS FOR MANY LEADING NAMES – SIERRA, REDDING, K&M, DEWEY • BULLET HEADS • POWDER • BRASS • CASE PREPARATION • POWDER MEASURE • PRESSES & ACCESSORIES • PRIMERS • CASE TRIMMING TOOLS • RELOADING DIES • SHELL HOLDERS • PRIMING TOOLS • SCALES
PRACTICAL SHOTGUN BELT - £22.50
19 SOMERS ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, RUGBY, WARWICKSHIRE, CV22 7DG www.normanclarkgunsmith.com | info@normanclarkgunsmiths.com | Facebook: normanclarkgunsmiths 84
SHOOTING SPORT S MAGA ZINE
GM07.21/48/a
HUGE RANGE OF POWDERS IN STOCK
GM08.21/L/a
SHOOTING SPORTS | RELOADING - MEPLAT TRIMMERS I use the trimmer for the extreme range cartridges like this 300 RUM
TIP
JUST THE
Bruce Potts explores the benefits of Meplat Trimmers
I
have touched on this precision rifle reloading kit as an aid to improving the accuracy of your rifles ammunition and now I have done an in-depth study. The way a bullet traverses the air on its way to a target is paramount to its eventual or potential accuracy. The ballistic coefficient (BC) is one thing but having a uniform tip/ Meplat on the bullet is also important. Excluding polymer tipped projectiles, if you look at some bullets, you will often notice how the closure of the copper jacket does not always come to a uniform circumference. On the whole, this is not really an issue at normal ranges, however, as distances increase, shooters strive for as much precision and less variance as possible. Hence trimming or uniforming the forward section of the bullet has become quite popular. It is very easy to do and extends the bullets aerodynamic stability.
86
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
The Sinclair Meplat Trimmer is a nice compact tool that is easy to use
I have used the Sinclair Meplat trimmer on bullets to uniform their profile. It can be used not only for your reloads but can also trim up any factory loaded ammunition too. It retails between £80£100 depending on the retailer.
Spec I like the tool as it's very compact and lightweight, weighing only 175-grams. It can easily be mounted to a reloading bench or wood block for 'in the field' adjustments on the fly. The tool consists of three major parts. The black anodised support stand has a single screw hole, which is used to fix it to a bench, and an Allen screw at the top for securing a calibre specific, cylindrical aluminium housing. This has a calibre hole at one end and the cutter at the other. The cutter is hand crank only and is not designed for powered use, which is
RELOADING - MEPLAT TRIMMERS | SHOOTING SPORTS
See how the meplat/tips of some bullets are very uneven at the closure of the copper jacket
(Above) Calibre specific housings allow you to centre the bullet to the cutter and view the operation through the window (Below) The smooth crank handle gives a good feel to the cutting operation
sensible as you need a delicate touch to achieve precision. It is manufactured from hardened steel and shows a spiral twin cutting face that revolves easily in the housing. There is a small orifice on top of this housing for oil if desired. The handle/crank arm is made of aluminium and can be removed by loosening a single grub screw. This allows the cutter to be swapped out for a different sized one if required. A small, black, free revolving handle allows a delicate touch to the cut as it progresses.
Crank it Operating the tool is very simple and it is most stable when screwed to a bench.
Alternatively, you can use a small G-clamp instead. At the top of the housing is a large window, which allows you to clearly see the cutter and the bullet during the trimming process. There are two methods of setting up the trimmer, either works fine and comes down to personal preference. The first method is thus. Using a 3/32 Allen key, loosen the set screw on the crank handle that holds it to the cutter shaft. Next, insert a bullet into the housing end, tip first, until it engages and stops on the taper. Whilst holding the bullet in this position, slide the cutter up until it touches the bullet meplat. Now, set a small distance between the housing and the crank handle on the cutter by inserting a spacer, then re-tighten the crank handle screw. This gives you your cutting depth as the cutter crank handle will contact the housing spacer and stop cutting. This means you can specify the trim depth that you want. The alternate set-up procedure is the same, to begin with. Start by loosening the crank handle and then insert a bullet until the taper is engaged. Again, keep pressure on the bullet to stop it from moving and look for a set screw located on the rear of the crank handle. While holding the cutter against the bullet tip, screw this set screw clockwise until it contacts the cutter housing. Now add a further ¼ turn to push the crank away from the housing body. This approximately equates to a 0.008” (8 thou) cut. Once set up you can begin to trim some bullets. It's best to press firmly but squarely on the base of the bullet and slowly rotate the cutter arm crank handle. As the cutter engages the tip of the bullet, you will find that the projectile will try to wobble and move. This is normal as the cutter begins to trim the even part of the meplat, and it actually shows the tip needs
The Sinclair Meplat trimmer uniforms the bullet so that it achieves a more consistent flight down range
cutting! When the cutting depth is reached, relax the pressure and remove the bullet. If it sticks on its taper in the calibre specific hole, then nudge it out through the inspection slot.
Tests Usually, you will trim off about 0.005” (five thou) from the top of the bullet tip, but it depends on how bad the closure is. You can also custom turn down a head to make a more open hollow point, as some bullets have a larger than seen cavity behind the tip. This can be exploited by opening it up to allow even better expansion. I am thinking of subsonic centrefire loads here! Obviously, there is a small downside to what effectively is flattening off the meplat area, as the streamlined nature of the projectile will decrease. In reality, it’s only about a 2% reduction in quoted (BC) values anyway. Good luck if you can judge that type of trajectory difference when out shooting. I would much prefer knowing all my bullet meplats are as consistent as possible and adjust elevation accordingly.
Conclusion It’s a small tool that makes a big difference and really does not take much time to use, especially when you think of the benefits. If you are keen on exploiting the best possible accuracy from your factory or reloaded ammunition then a meplat trimmer from Sinclair, Montour County Rifles (MCR) or Whidden won't disappoint.
Contacts: Norman Clark Gunsmiths www.normanclarkgunsmith.com Brownells UK www.brownells.co.uk 1967SPUD www.1967spud.com
87
phone: 01444 400126 mobile: 07771 962121 email: julian@jsavory.com
VISIT OUR BRAND NEW WEBSITE
Made in England
NEW MAY 2021 DATA DISK AVAILABLE NOW QuickLOAD key features
Manufacturers of Superior Quality Bespoke Luggage and Bags
Ogden’s Shooting Supplies the best of British Contact us with your shooting luggage requirements
• More than 1200 cartridges • More than 230 powders • More than 2500 bullets • Abundance of Useful Outputs • Customize cartridge selection for your firearms • Dimensioned drawings and photos of many cartridges at the click of a button
Ogden’s Night Vision Rifle Bag £125
www.quickload.co.uk
GM08.21/S/ff
STILL SHIPPING AS NORMAL
GM08.21/O/a
Tel: 0161 620 2190 E: info@ogdensshootingsupplies.co.uk www.ogdensshootingsupplies.co.uk
GM08.21/P/a
Ogden’s Bullpup Rifle Case £99.99
LATE VERSIONST 3.9 £139
88
SHOOTING SPORT S MAGA ZINE
GM08.21/M/a
SHOOTING SPORTS | KALIX TEKNIK’S CR1 COMB RISER KIT
The Kalix Teknik CR1 Comb kit, well worth a look on Tikka’s T1x and T3x range of rifles
! Y K E E CH
Pete Moore looks at an effective, adjustable comb system that you can fit yourself
T
here’s little doubt that when shooting a scoped rifle, an adjustable comb is a real boon, as most standard guns feature a butt with a low/straight layout. Why? Well, it improves overall head position with a view to both cheek weld and eye/scope alignment. Some rifles offer this facility from the factory, but a lot more don’t, a problem exacerbated by the prolific and simpler, moulded polymer furniture we see today! And unlike more solid materials, it's awkward and more expensive for a gunsmith to work on.
PRICE: £155.00 £550 I paid for the MTR. Conversely, GRS Stocks offer their Bifrost fully adjustable, after-market replacement. A superb piece of kit, but again adding around £450 to the bottom line.
A serious injection of cash I encountered this problem on my new Tikka T1x MTR (Multi Task Rimfire) as its basic, moulded stock shows the classic low/straight comb. Fine for a low-mounted scope with a sub-50mm objective, but I also wanted to use it for longer range .22 LR shooting, using a Discovery HD34 4-24x50 SFIR FFP with a 34mm body tube. Fitted up, cheek weld and alignment were both issues. So, what to do? Instead, I could have bought Tikka’s T1x UPR (Ultimate Precision Rifle) with an adjustable comb as standard and a more solid build, but that would have increased my layout by £400 from the
90
Kalix who? To be honest, the MTR stock was not that bad, and with the addition of Tikka’s replacement pistol grip and forend units, proved very shootable! However, the low comb needed sorting, so let me introduce you to Kalix Teknik of Sweden, and their CR1 adjustable comb kit, especially for rifles with hollow, moulded stocks. Imported and distributed by GMK Ltd, I had never heard of them, but as soon as I opened the box all was made clear. I say this as Browning has been using them for some time on their rifles as have other big manufacturers, including Tikka.
SHOOTING SPORTS MAGAZINE
L – R: comb with rods, internal mounting block with fitting pieces, locking screw/ handle, block fixing screw and circlip, note the drilling template
As the T1x shares the same dimensions and stock layout as the T3x; one size fits all, check out Kalix Teknik’s website for the full range of makes and models covered. The kit consists of the following items: an ambidextrous polymer comb with twin vertical pillars, aluminium mounting block with locking screw/wheel and retaining screw x1, plastic internal fitting pieces x2, locking circlip x1, a self-adhesive drilling template and some instructions.
You will need! Tool-wise, you’ll need an electric drill and 6mm, 10mm and 12mm bits, I’d also recommend a small pilot bit of around 2mm. Plus a long-bladed knife for inserting the mounting block, and a medium Phillips screwdriver to remove the butt. Oh, and a pair of scissors
KALIX TEKNIK’S CR1 COMB RISER KIT | SHOOTING SPORTS
and pliers. A vice or Workmate is also a good idea, to hold the stock secure. First, take the action from the stock, then remove the butt plate and the internal polystyrene filler block. When attached properly, the template allows you to drill the holes required exactly. You will see it’s shaped like a crucifix and is printed with which way it goes on. Alignment is accomplished by cutting to the outside line and clipping out the rear wedge section, which, along with an arrow at the front, allows you to align it exactly with the moulding seam that runs up the centre of the comb. Looking at the template shows that you can drill it on either side for left or right-handed preference.
FITTING PROCESS
STAGE TWO
STAGE ONE Butt removed and the self-adhesive drilling template in position
STAGE
Keep it tight So, apply the template correctly and align the rear with the edge of the butt, and you’re ready. Using the 2mm bit, drill exactly in the centre of the indicated holes as this will reduce tolerances when you drill the final holes, which is essential for easy operation. A tip here is to move up in diameters rather than ripping through with a 12mm bit right away. If you’re a right-hander then drill the adjuster screw on the right of the butt; reverse if you’re left-handed. The drilling order looking from the right side/top is a 12mm hole at either end, with a 6mm in the middle, which is for fixing the block. The 10mm is drilled in the side for the adjuster screw. Now time to insert the block. First, fit the positioning pieces, one is taller than the other and marked F (front) and the shorter R (rear). They just snap on, with F going in front. There’s a slot in the bottom of the block that you can slide in the knife blade to allow you to position it easily. Once in, align the hole and insert the middle screw to secure it.
Butt drilled for right hand use
FOUR
STAGE THREE Block with fitting pieces being inserted, note the correct positioning with the higher T3 F (front) going in first and the lower T3R (rear) at the back
Block fitted with adjuster screw (right) and locking screw in position (top)
Slide, screw and clip At this stage, check everything is aligned and slide in the twin shafts of the comb section, which should move freely. If not, it will probably be the 12mm holes, which can be opened a tad. Insert the adjuster screw, and check it locks. Now you have a choice, as you can fit the circlip on the base of the rear shaft to stop it coming out, to be honest, I did not bother, and everything stayed in place fine. In use, the comb kit gives about 1”+ of vertical movement, which is more than enough. Equally, it’s long enough and offers a good cheek weld, with its rubberized surface, plus looks like it’s part of the design. RRP is around £150, which is good, for what is a practical and quality design. The average price of a T1x MTR is around £550 and £700 with the comb kit. OK, it’s not a GRS Bifrost
STAGE FIVE All fitted up, note the generous height adjustment available, which could be useful if you use night vision
or a Tikka UPR, the former offering perhaps the best after-market solution, as it gives full adjustment on the comb, LOP and butt pad height as well as angle. However, the CR1 improves shootability no end and saves you around £300-350. If you’re capable of a bit of DIY, what’s not to like?
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION > NAME: > FITS:
Kalix Teknik CR1 Adjustable Cheek Piece Tikka T1x MTR, T3 and T3x models with synthetic stocks > PRICE: £155 (ballpark) > CONTACT: GMK Ltd – www.gmk.co.uk
91
GM08.21/N/f
GM08.21/R/a
GM08.21/I/g
MKII EVO
92
SHOOTING SPORT S MAGA ZINE
LEICA AMPLUS 6 2.5–15 x 50 i
Leica Amplus 6. Performance to rely on.
leica-amplus.com
#forhunterslikeus
LEICA AMPLUS 6 2.5–15 x 56 i
LEICA AMPLUS 6 1–6 x 24 i
Leica Camera AG I Am Leitz-Park 5 I 35578 WETZLAR I GERMANY I www.leica-sportoptics.com
GM08.21/X/a
Hunters rely on Leica Amplus riflescopes because, at the decisive moment, the essentials matter: The combination of absolute reliability, precision, robust mechanics and proven premium optics makes them durable tools in the 6x zoom class. For hunters who know their craft.
GM08.21/V/a
MANUFACTURED IN CORNWALL UK
Tel: 01208 851074 | Fax: 01208 850860
SEE OUR NEW RIFLE
OUR NEW Lever Action 9mm Gallery rifle
Locked Breech Manual Straight Pull .223 REM and .300 BLK
Locked Breech Manual Straight Pull .243 WIN up to .308 Win
GM08.21/W/a
Search for ‘Southern Gun’ on www.gunmart.net to see the new rifle and other video reviews
94
Manufactured in Cornwall UK SHOOTING SPORT S MAGA ZINE
www.Southern-Gun.co.uk sgc@southern-gun.co.uk
GM07.21/T/a
GM08.21/B/a
GM08.21/Q/a
FIREARMS
DON’T COMPROMISE FIT THE BEST
GM08.21/43/g
APEL MOUNTS – PRECISION MADE IN GERMANY
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
99
FIREARMS
RELOADING BASICS - PRIMERS AND PRIMING
Matching primers to the correct priming tool and using them properly will ensure that light strikes are a thing of the past
Light Strike Mark Underwood discusses light strikes and primers
A light strike can be one of the reasons that a round chambered in your rifle does not fire once the trigger has been pulled. They are a real pain in the neck because you have to hold on target for at least 30 seconds or so to give the round time to wake up and go. Occurrences like this can often be associated with either primer seating issues or the primer itself. So, how do you avoid the dreaded light strike?
to achieve some great results. I reloaded some .45-70 and fired six rounds over the chronograph, recording an extreme spread of just 4 FPS. However, I did find them harder than some other brands. CCI, Federal, Remington, HK and Sellier & Bellot primers all occupy space on my reloading bench and they all function well, so with all this in mind, why do light strikes still occur?
Are you sitting comfortably? Primer hardness Different manufacturers use various types and thicknesses of metals to form the outer cup of their primers. In the pistol shooting days, Federal primers were favoured by competitive shooters as they were softer and more easily ignited by the highly tuned guns they used. As a result, they were a lot more expensive, while CCI primers were cheaper and harder, but performed absolutely fine in all but the most ‘sensitive’ of guns. Jump forward 20 years and primers are all priced about the same and it's more a case of buying whatever is available. Rifles are a lot less sensitive to the relative hardness of primers because the firing pin springs are bigger and heavier than in pistols. HK primers from Henry Kranks are excellent and during testing, I managed 100
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
To seat a primer correctly, the feet of the anvil (the small brass-coloured projections from inside the cup) have to sit against the bottom of the primer pocket and be compressed slightly to engage with the primer compound, and so ‘arm’ the primer. If a primer is not seated deep enough then this arming will not happen and so when struck by the firing pin the whole primer has to
travel forward in the pocket until the feet hit the bottom of the pocket and maybe ignite the primer compound, firing the round. If too much pressure is applied and the primer is crushed then the ignition process will be unlikely to occur correctly, if at all.
Safety According to some sources, softer primers are considered more dangerous to use than others. Lee Precision make specific recommendations as to which brands should and should not be used in their primer trays, plus they advise limiting the number of certain primers loaded in the trays at any one time. Safety is of course important and you should follow those guidelines, plus remember to always wear eye protection when handling and using primers.
(L to R) A perfectly seated primer with rounded edges, a squashed primer, and a primer that's not fully seated
RELOADING BASICS - PRIMERS AND PRIMING
FIREARMS
The latest Lee Auto Prime allows you to feel the primer seating, plus it's comfortable to use
The Lee Bench Priming tool can be bolted to a bench and allows you to apply more force than a handheld tool
The right tool for the job Just like a golfer wouldn’t use a putter to tee off, you often need to use different tools for various brands of primers. There are a number of different ways to prime your cases and the choice is influenced by a number of factors including speed, convenience and of course primer hardness.
On-press priming Priming on the press is very fast and convenient, with automated presses doing it as part of the one-pull-oneround process. The downside of this method is that you lose a lot of the ‘feel’ of the primer seating because there is so much else going on at the same time. Softer primers suit this type of seating because they go in easily and do not require a lot of pressure to drive them fully home. Single-stage presses are ideal for priming because you can feel a lot more and get used to applying the correct and consistent pressure required.
Hands-on There are several hand-held priming tools on the market and they offer the very best ‘feel’ during seating. You can feel the primer engage in the primer pocket, travel forward and then hit the bottom of the pocket and stop. Further pressure can be applied to fully engage the primer and a hand tool enables you to get used to exactly how much pressure each brand needs. There are several different tools of this type
and Lee's latest model of their Auto Prime gives a really sensitive feel and is incredibly comfortable to use.
Bench press For harder primers, which take a bit more effort to seat, a bench priming tool is the best choice. The Lee Bench Priming tool is fixed to a suitable surface and the primers are seated using a relatively large lever, which has two distinct advantages. Firstly, it allows you to apply more force than a hand-held tool or automated press and secondly, you are still able to feel the primer seat and use a consistent amount of pressure. This type of tool worked well with the HK primers.
Conclusion Correctly handled and seated, all brands are perfectly safe and reliable. The way they are seated makes a huge difference to how they work and choosing the right tool for the job
This is the Lee Ergo Prime, which is designed to fit into your hand perfectly
is vital to getting good results from your reloads. Hard primers are not something to be avoided, unless you have a very picky gun and, as with all primers, correct seating is the key. GM
Contacts: Lee Precision and HK primers - Henry Krank & Co - www.henrykrank.com
I use all of these brands and they all work faultlessly when correctly seated
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
101
GM08.21/33/a
FIREARMS
BROCOCK COMMANDER XR MAGNUM (FAC)
Jules Whicker takes a closer look at Brocock’s most powerful PCP
NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE It’s been a long time since I last had a Brocock on test, and in that time they’ve certainly come a long way. I think it’s safe to say that being stabled under the same roof as Daystate has transformed what the brand means and what it has to offer. The gun on test is another in my series of FAC heavy-hitters. It is the Magnum version of the Brocock Commander, in .25 calibre. You might think that with a maximum muzzle energy of 50+ ft/ lbs and an uncompromisingly military appearance, the Magnum Commander would be a bit of a thug, but as we will see, it has surprisingly good manners.
fallen out of the ugly tree. This was a bit rich, coming from someone who owns a Hatsan MP-A24 12-gauge, but I could see his point. Funnily enough, after a couple of hours shooting the Commander, we were both won over. Also unexpected was the handiness of the rifle. First impressions are of a hulking behemoth, but the polymer butt, grip and chassis are all as light as they are tough. The action is aluminium alloy, the bottle is carbonfibre, and that 'bull barrel' is mostly air space, so the actual experience of holding, hefting and shouldering the Commander is remarkably civilised.
Eye of the beholder
Furniture
If you don’t like military-looking rifles, one glance at the Commander’s folding AR15 butt-stock, AK-style pistol grip, ventilated muzzle device and chunky Picatinny rails will probably be enough to have you reaching for your chequered-walnut worrybeads. And if not, then the desert-tan Cerakote finish on the 23” barrel and 0dB sound moderator should do the trick! A friend had the brass neck to quip that the Commander had surely
Being generic AR/AK items, the stock and grip of the Commander are easily swapped out for others if you prefer, but in sourcing these components from Israeli tactical accessory specialists Fab Defense, Brocock have already chosen well. The AK-type grip is positively tactile, fills the hand nicely, and has a trap-door floor plate that creates a storage space you can use for extra ammo, batteries and such-like. For its part, the telescopic AR15-type butt
106
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
PRICE: £1305
For a powerhouse of a rifle, the Commander Magnum is sweet to shoot
stock features a rugged rubber recoil pad and rides on a 6-position AR-type buffer tube, where it gives a length of pull (LOP) of between 14 1/8” and 17 1/4”. The stock can also be folded against the left-hand side of the chassis to give a gun-bag-friendly overall (unmoderated) length of just 30.75”. The FD butt sits snugly over the buffer tube, and a positive press of the hinge is required to deploy the stock, but I didn’t like the degree of play in the joint. Five minutes with a roll of electrical tape eliminated most of the movement without compromising the lock-up, but clearly, some redesign is needed in this area. The stock and grip mount to a polymer chassis that sports a nonslip, matte texture and a hinged trigger-guard with a détente in the front pin to aid access to the visible trigger adjustment screws (first-stage, trigger-position and safety-torque). Nevertheless, the rifle’s semi-bullpup form factor requires you to remove the action from the chassis to adjust the second stage. This is as simple as removing the pistol grip bolt and sliding the chassis away from the
BROCOCK COMMANDER XR MAGNUM (FAC)
action. Clever internal geometry ensures this discreet attachment system delivers a rock-solid fit when you retighten the bolt.
effect of removing the shroud, which unmasked the rifle’s true power and had me reaching for my ear defenders. The moderator functions, but that shroud is doing some serious work! Making the Commander truly stealthy required a bit more internal volume, though, so I fitted my DonnyFL Shogun. The sudden drop in decibels had me checking the power adjuster, but the chrono readout and heavy smack of fast lead on downrange steel confirmed that the rifle had lost none of its authority.
A closer look When it comes to finding your way around the rifle, reviews and forums are mostly more use than the manual. In trying to cover multiple Compatto variants, it omits important details about the Commander Magnum, such as how to remove the stock, adjust the regulator, and tune the hammer pre-load. I also had to double-check the stated 250bar fill pressure, since Brocock fit the Magnum with gauges designed for the 200-bar standard model, so anything above this takes you into the red zone. Not dangerous in this case, just disconcerting! The truth is, almost nothing needed adjusting. The trigger position, first stage and safety-lever tension were all tickety-boo out of the box; a halfturn clockwise took the second stage down to a nice crisp 2 lb break; the regulator - which tops out at 200 bar - was already on a sprightly 160, and the hammer spring was clearly happy with that. So it was all good news from the get-go in the muzzle velocity (MV) and standard deviation (SD) departments, as the chrono numbers show. I topped up every 50 shots to keep on the right side of the regulator, but with easier-to-read gauges, I reckon that could be extended.
Trigger time Shooting the Commander Magnum was a real pleasure. The operation of
FIREARMS
Tonnes of data
Folding the stock reduced the length of the moderated rifle to 37”, making it a perfect fit for my AIM 40 drag bag
the XR cocking lever was light, fast and smooth; the probe took pellet after pellet from magazine to barrel without a hitch (and with no sign of opening up groups compared to the supplied single-shot tray), and the firing cycle was impressively understated. The rifle’s report was agreeably modest too. Initially, I credited this to its smart fluted, vented and colour-coordinated moderator, but the difference with and without the moderator was as nothing to the
The design mandates locating the manual safety at the front of the trigger guard
The icon alongside the power adjuster suggests a continuous gradient, but in reality, there are 4 pre-set click-stop positions. Velocity drops incrementally as you reduce the power, stepping down by 34, then 76, then 129 FPS from maximum with 20-grain H&N Field and Target Trophy pellets. With 25.39-grain JSB Kings the maximum and minimum numbers were 905 FPS (46.19 ft/lbs) and 690 FPS (26.85 ft/ lbs). 27 ft/lbs isn’t exactly farmyardfriendly, and reducing the power doesn’t extend the shot capacity because the adjuster works by changing the size of the transfer port rather than the valve dynamics. So, the principal benefit is to bring light pellets, like the aforementioned H&N F&TTs, down from a wildly unstable 995 FPS to speeds where they would group well. Which in this instance meant Power level 4, 756 FPS and 25.46 ft/lbs. (See Ammo Table) Consistency was good - and at times superb - with all the projectiles tested. Best were the JSB Kings and Air Arms Diabolo Fields, the latter being
Rangemaster Juggernaut slugs achieved a consistent MV of 800 FPS and 48 ft/lbs with good accuracy
The Magnum requires a 250-bar fill, note the extended Foster quick-fill connector and the convenience of having a magnetic filler cap
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
107
FIREARMS
BROCOCK COMMANDER XR MAGNUM (FAC)
AMMO TABLE:
Make H&N H&N JSB JSB Air Arms H&N RWS H&N FX Daystate Daystate H&N JSB
Type F&TT F&TT Hades King Diabolo Field F&TT Superdome Baracuda Hunter Hybrid Emperor Juggernaut F&TT King
Weight (grains) 20.06 20.06 26.54 25.39 25.4 20.06 31.00 27.47 26.0 33.95 33.49 20.06 25.39
Shots 10 5 10 5 10 10 10 10 5 15 10 10 09
MV (FPS) 995 (Pwr1) 961 (Pwr2) 912 905 901 885 (Pwr3) 860 856 840 825 805 756 (Pwr4) 690 (Pwr4)
ES (FPS) 6 10 14 5 5 14 21 16 7 27 9 18 21
a cheaper, but by no means inferior, version of the former, which showed a super-tight spread of just 5 FPS at just over 900 FPS, but no strings had an ES over 27 FPS. Not bad for ammo straight from the tin, and the Huma regulator means you get constant power across the whole fill.
Conclusion Like a lot of advanced manufacturing these days, the Brocock Commander is a highly international creation, with a barrel from Germany (Lother Walther), furniture from Israel (Fab Defense), a carbon-fibre bottle from Korea (Inocom), a regulator from the Netherlands (Huma Air), and receiver components from Italy (Marocchi). But at the heart of it all is Daystate’s tried-and-tested Slingshot valve technology and the skilled team of Staffordshire-based designers and craftsmen who bring everything together to produce rifles that are chosen by shooters around the world. I really enjoyed testing the sweetshooting but hard-hitting Commander, but reckon it deserves a bit more attention to detail. Tightening up that stock hinge, fitting more appropriate gauges (and fitting them upright), supplying a manual that does justice to the adjustability of this model, and possibly including the cheek-piece for the GL-core stock as standard would all be positive steps. As would the option of a higher-performance moderator. A bottle you could simply unscrew to de-gas the gun would be nice too. Nevertheless, these are all upgrades the experienced user can implement if they love the rifle enough, and as it turns out, loving it is as easy as shooting it. GM 108
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
(Above) I shot 10 different ammo types through the Commander (Top Right) Brocock complement the Commander’s military looks with a thread protector styled after a flash-hider (Right) The cocking handle is good and tactile, note the power adjuster knob ahead of the loading port
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Max Length: Weight: Barrel Length: Magazine Capacity: Power Output: Fill Pressure: Shot Count: Trigger: Safety: Regulated: Scope Attachment: Price: Contact:
Brocock Commander XR Magnum 1125 mm 2.9 kg 596 mm 10 25-51 ft/lbs 250bar 50+ 2-stage, adjustable Manual, resettable Yes Dovetail and Picatinny £1,305 (Base Rifle) Brocock – www.brocock.co.uk
SD 1.6 3.9 4.0 1.5 1.8 5.0 7.0 4.3 3.1 8.1 3.0 6.1 8.6
ME (ft/lbs) 44.11 41.15 49.03 46.19 45.80 34.9 50.92 44.71 40.75 51.32 48.20 25.46 26.85
GM06.21/P/a
FIREARMS • TIKKA M595 .22 SYNTHETIC STOCK. Schmidt Bender 8x56 scope. Wildcat Evolution moderator. All in VGC 180 rounds ammunition £500. Also CZ 452 American .17 moderator Simmons 3-9x50 scope VGC looksbrand new £250. Call any time: 07938 639341. 08/21/g West Midlands. • WEATHERBY MARK XII .22LR RIFLE, bolt or semi auto. Also wanted Weatherby O/U shotguns or Section 1 semi auto. Also required old Weatherby scopes . 08/21/g Call: 07949 341417. • WANTED DEACTIVATED COLT PYTHON. Must be blue with 6 inch barrel in nice condition. Please call Tony on 01282 438947. Burnley, Lancs. 07/21/a • VICTORIA CAVALRY CARBINE MARKED “1860 TOWER” very good condition! £750 ono. Call or text 07415 271 254 (Derby). Remington Sabre .22 full power Air rifle (boxed). Excellent condition hardly used. Includes 4x32 scope and silencer. Call: 07415 271 254 (Derby) £140 ono. Call or text, Derby.
• VINTAGE AIR RIFLES and Air pistols wanted. Also old signs, pellets and related items, collections purchased, Antique flintlock and percussions. Guns also wanted. Will travel. Tel: 01908 526666 / Mob: 07831 398114. (P)
Never miss
• WEATHERBY MARK XXII .22 RIFLE WANTED: either bolt action or semiauto, tube or clip magazine. Older model with rosewood tip stock. Beretta model considered. Also wanted: Weatherby scopes, Weatherby o/u shotguns. Call: 0141 812 4669 / 07949 341417. Erskine, Scotland. 05/21/f
ADVERTISERS
07/21/a
• COLT PYTHON COMBAT PISTOL GRIPS. Made by Safriland in the 1980s and Smith & Wesson small frame target pistol grips with adjustable palm rest in a nice tiger-striped hard wood. Call Colin 01322 220460. Kent. 06/21/f
COPY DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 EDITION IS
23rd July 2021 GM08.21/7/a
To advertise in FIREARMS please call Vanessa on 01206 506247
All advertisement copy must be received prior to the date shown below.
21/23 Phoenix Ct, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY.
To subscribe call:
Tel: 01206 506247
01293 312215
COPY DEADLINES
SLi-Series
Jet-Z™
North Star
Distributed by
Trade Enquiries Tel: +44 (0) 1644 470223 Fax: +44 (0) 1644 470227 Glenswinton, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NL United Kingdom
www.jacksonrifles.com 110
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/30/a
We Stock the following ASE UTRA Sound Moderators: Jet-Z CQB & Compact; SLi-series (SL5i, SL6i, SL7i); NorthStar; DualFifty; BoreLock System
GM08.21/67/f
FIREARMS
HAWKE ENDURANCE 1500 LRF
› Shooting at long range goes pretty much hand in hand with the use of laser range finders. Hawke offers a variety of solutions to match your budget. The top 'Endurance 1500' model promises a 1500m rangefinding capability, depending on light conditions for laser transmission. Importantly, it also has optics capable of allowing you to find and aim at your target with the red illuminated crosshair.
PRICE: £229
Details The 6x magnification, fully multi-coated optics system shows an adjustable dioptre on the eyepiece. This helps ensure that the internal red illuminated OLED display screen is in crisp focus, with no further adjustment needed from the BK-7 prismatic structure. Two buttons cover all control needs, with a simple first and second press to range target, the secondary menu structure delves deeper. As standard, it measures the range direct to the target in metres or yards. For you cosine alteration fans, it is capable of showing the inclination angle to the
Power comes from a CR2 battery and the unit features auto power off
The Hawke Endurance 1500 LRF is truly compact
| Hawke Endurance 1500 LRF target. Alternatively, it will automatically calculate the effective horizontal range to make your shot and that would be my preference. Six brightness levels are easily accessible to tailor the image to surroundings, especially in low light where you don’t want super bright displays diminishing your night vision. Further modes allow better measurement functionality in rain or hunt modes, with good light transmission and true colour optics that don’t transmit the horrible yellowy/grey tinge that so many other lower-cost rangefinders are guilty of.
Nicely done
Two buttons control everything with fast simplicity, particularly when you want to alter the display brightness
112
The Endurance 1500 is truly compact and comes with a neoprene pouch that slots on or clips to belt/luggage with the carabiner supplied. The lightweight construction makes it genuinely palmsized and ideal for what a simple rangefinder needs to be. It's a handy pocketsized tool with a broad
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
140m field of view at 1000m and ergonomically designed to fit in your hand for fast scanning and target acquisition. The reticle is well aligned to the laser and rangefinding on small quarry or larger target work to the +/-1m tolerance, was fast accompanied by a tiny hum from the inner electronics. Your ability to hold still is always key
but it’s great to find good laser/reticle correlation, so well done Hawke! They are great for close-range airgun use, with reliable readings in my hands to 3.8m. The fast angle readout or compensation calculation is great for use in close confines with steep angles, where precision is vital with loopy trajectories. GM REVIEWER: CHRIS PARKIN
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Magnification: Objective: Range: Accuracy: Field of View: Eye Relief: Battery: Operating Temperature: Waterproof Rating: Weight: Accessories: Price: Contact:
Hawke Endurance 1500 LRF 6× 21mm 5-1500m +/-1m 140m @1000m/8° 18mm CR2 - 3V -10° to 40° IPx5 170-grams CR2 Battery, Wrist Strap, Carry Case £229 Hawke Optics uk.hawkeoptics.com
GM08.21/81/f
FIREARMS WORCESTERSHIRE
Severnside Arms S1 Rifles, Shotguns & Pistols S2 Shotguns S3 & 5 Pistols & Revolvers for Humane Dispatch S7.1 & S7.3 Collector’s Pistols & Revolvers
ShootingEquipment
New and Used Rifles, Shotguns, Pistols, Air Rifles and Air Pistols in stock plus a good range of Ammunition, Scopes, and Accessories. Please phone for details or for a quotation:
www.severnsidearms.co.uk 07968 952428 Email: severnsidearms@spbutler.plus.com
.22 Smith & Wesson 15/22 Semi Auto Rifle New .... £575 7.62 Heavy Barrelled Enfield with Pecar Scope ...... £950 12 Bore Greener’s GPs S/B Shotguns 26” & 30” ..... £175 .223 Southern Gun Co Speedmaster S/Pull Rifle .. £1495 20 Bore German S/S Shotgun BLNE ..................... £250 .375 H & H Mag Ruger No.1 Falling block Rifle ...... £950 .243 Sabatti B/A Rifle + Scope Rings .................... £350 12 Bore Denton & Kennell SLE Side by Side ........... £500 .22 WIN Mag CZ Mod 452 B/A with Scope ............ £175 .22-250 Ruger M77 B/A Rifle + Scope ................... £395 .303 P14 Winchester / Parker Hale Target Rifle ..... £195
Made in Suffolk, we specialise in single, double, lean-to and free-standing high seat models and pride ourselves on the strength, safety and stability for shooting. Please visit our website for more details.
.177 & .22 Hatsan Breaker 900X Air Riles New ........ £99 .22 BRNO Self loading Rifle with Scope and Mod ... £125 .44 Ubertti M/LRemington Army Revolverv ........... £195 .222 Anschutz Model 1532 B/A Rifle with Scope ... £395 16 Bore French Side by Side BLNE ........................ £120 .22 Winchester Model 62A Pump V Good .............. £350 .22 Winchester Mod 63 Semi Auto Rifle ................ £250 .44 Italian Colt Model 1860 ML Revolver ............... £195 .303 Long Branch No.4 Mk1 B/A Rifle ................... £590 12 Bore Joseph Bourne Side by Side BLE .............. £350 20 Bore Revo O/U Multi Choke Shotgun in case ..... £250
GM08.21/18/f
A selection of Our Stock, there are many others, please phone for details!
Westlake Engineering
The firm specialises in the following services:
GM08.21/82/a
Stainless Steel Alfa .357 Nitro Muzzle Loading Revolver With 4" or 6" Barrel. Email alan@westlakeengineering.com Tel. 07872 057181
GM08.21/15c/ff
GM08.21/61/a
• All shooting equipment (high seats, quad bike shooting rails, 4x4 door mounted shooting rails, bespoke requirements, etc.) • Agricultural engineering, breakdowns, servicing work, repairs, fabrication/bespoke fabrication, onsite welding • Deer management (culling, advice, chilled storage facilities and game dealing) • Supplier of agricultural equipment – dealers for Albutt attachments
114
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM07.21/R/f
GM08.21/10/f
FIREARMS
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
115
GM08.21/O/a
GM08.21/51/a
FIREARMS
116
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/22/f
alanrhone Mount Your Scope Properly | Talk to the Experts
We offer expert advice for all scope mounting issues, with a reliable fitting service and a fast turn around time. Call us today on 01978 66 00 01 or see all of our products at www.alanrhone.com
Trade Enquiries Welcome the full Recknagel catalogue is available at alanrhone.com Picatinny Rails
CZ 550
Precision made, model specific picatinny rails. All rails come complete with all necessary screws and wrench for fitting. Simple to fit yourself at home, with no gun smithing work needed. We also provide full support and advice on any
£64.00
Sako 75/85 £103.00
scope mounting enquiry.
Sauer 202 £56.00
Tikka T3 £56.00
Aluminium Rails
Anschutz 1780 - £56.00 Antonio Zoli 1900 - £56.00 Benelli ARGO - £56.00 Browning BAR - £56.00 Browning A-Bolt - £56.00 Browning X-Bolt - £71.00 CZ 550 Dovetail - £64.00 Haenal Jager 10 - £56.00 H&K SLB 2000 - £56.00 Howa 1500 - £56.00 Krico 700 / 900 / 902 - £56.00 Marlin 1894 - £56.00 Marlin 1895 / 336 / 338 - £56.00 Mauser 98 - £56.00 Mauser M12 - £56.00 Remington 700 Long - £56.00
Remington 700 Short - £56.00 Tikka T3 - £56.00 Remington 7400 / 7600 - £56.00 Winchester 70 - £56.00 Remington TAC - £56.00 Winchester WSM - £56.00 Remington 783 Long - £56.00 Winchester WSSM - £56.00 Remington 783 Short - £56.00 Winchester SXR Vulcan - £56.00 Rossler Titan 3 / 6 - £56.00 Winchester XPR - £56.00 Rossler Titan 16 - £56.00 Ruger 10 / 22 - £56.00 Sako 75/85 XS, S, SM - £103.00 Steel Rails Sako 75/85 M, L - £103.00 Browning BAR/Maral - £70.00 Sauer 101 - £56.00 Mauser 98 - £70.00 Sauer 202 Standard - £56.00 Mauser M12 - £70.00 Sauer 202 Magnum - £56.00 Remington 700 Long - £70.00 Sauer 303 - £81.00 Remington 700 Short - £70.00 Savage Short - £56.00 Sauer 202 Standard - £70.00 Savage Long - £56.00 Sauer 202 Standard - £70.00 Steyr-Mannlicher - £56.00 Sauer 202 Magnum - £70.00
Weaver Bases
Picatinny Blank 204mm Steel £70.00
Picatinny Blank 204mm Aluminium £59.00
Picatinny Blank 404mm Aluminium £79.00
Picatinny/Weaver Rings
The popular separate Weaver bases. Lightweight with low profile, available for most rifles with a drilled and tapped action top. Separate bases do not obstruct
High quality, precision made, strong aluminium rings. Fit directly onto your weaver or picatinny rail. Available in either Tri-Nut, or Quick Detachable.
the ejection port. Compatible with Recknagel Picatinny/Weaver ring sets, Tri-nut
from
and Quick detachable, and all other dedicated weaver mounts.
£142.00
Tri-Nut Ring Diameters: 1 inch 30 mm 34 mm 36 mm 40 mm
Aluminium Bases Anschutz 1780 Benelli ARGO Browning A-Bolt/X-Bolt Browning T-Bolt Browning BAR/BLR Browning BBR Browning Eurobolt Browning Mauser Heym SR 20 / 21 / 30 / 40 Howa 1500 Krico 700/900/902 Mauser 94 / 96 / 98 Merkel SR1 Basic Remington 700
alanrhone
Rossler Titan 3 / 6 / 16 Sauer 80 / 90 / 92 Sauer 200 Sauer 202 Savage Steyr-Mannlicher S, M, L Swiss Arms SHR-979 Weatherby Mark V / 300 Winchester 70 Std / Mag Winchester 70 WSM Winchester 70 WSSM Winchester 88 / 100 Winchester SXR Vulcan PLUS MANY MORE.......
Heights Available: 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 7.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm 8.0mm, 12.0mm
from
£147.00 from
£34.00
Quick Detachable Ring Diameters: 1 inch 30 mm 34 mm 36 mm 40 mm
Heights Available: 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 6.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm, 22.0mm 7.0mm, 9.5mm, 12.0mm, 14.0mm, 19.0mm 8.0mm, 12.0mm
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone Tip Off Mounts Picatinny Tip Off Mounts for Swarovski Rail Scopes
Picatinny Tip Off Mounts for Zeiss Rail Scopes (45º)
Tri-Nut Fixing £190.00
Tri-Nut Fixing £160.00
Quick Release Lever Fixing £195.00
Quick Release Lever Fixing £164.00
Picatinny One Piece Tip Off Mounts for Rail Scopes
Picatinny One Piece Tip Off Mounts for Ring Scopes
for: Swarovski / Zeiss / S&B
1”, 30mm, 34mm, 36mm & 40mm
Nut Fixing - £177.00
Nut Fixing - £177.00
Quick Release Lever - £186.00
Quick Release Lever - £188.00
Pivot Mounts Recknagel pivot mounts are high quality, quick detachable and feature excellent return-to-zero with low mounting height. The very low construction starts at 10.8 mm (including the base) for 26mm, 30mm, 34mm, 36mm or 40mm rings. Mounts for Zeiss ZM, Swarovski SR, Schmidt & Bender Convex are also available. Pivot mounts are made for a wide range of popular rifle models including: • • • • • • • •
Browning (A-Bolt, Euro Bolt, X-Bolt), Howa, Mauser, Remington, Sauer (80, 90, 202, 101), Steyr Manlicher, Winchester and many more.
Price Depending on Model, from £324.00 A Picatinny rail can also be mounted with your existing pivot system to facilitate night vision scopes and red dot sights.
Part & Accessories
SECURA Magnum Detachable Swivel [22011-9500] £50.00
8mm
SECURA US or EURO Detachable Swivel [22011-3000] £31.00
6mm
Recknagel produce a wide range parts and accessories such as Sling Swivels, Swivel Studs, Grip Caps, Sights,
Detachable Swivel Mechanism
Triggers and Safety Mechanisms. There are various sizes and model types for each type part, giving you a better choice. This is ideal for custom builds or specialist modification of your gun.
Quick Release (KDR) Sling Swivel [23000-0000] £16.00
Quick Release (KDR) Magnum Swivel [23000-9000] £25.00
Quick Release (KDR) Swivel Socket [23220-0000] £27.00
Quick Release (KDR) Swivel Socket [23100-5010] £25.00
Quick Release (KDR) Swivel Socket [23000-1010] £6.00
Recknagel Catalogue The full range of Scope Mount hardware, Gun Furniture, Swivels and Parts are available from the Recknagel Catalogue.
Visit our website
alanrhone.com for information.
alanrhone
Swivel Screw Width 8mm, Ø 3.5mm or Width 6mm, Ø 3.0mm [20240-0022] £7.00
Swivel Screw for 6mm, Ø 3.0mm [20205-0022] £5.00
Detachable Sling Swivel [22000-1000] £22.00
Swivel Screw for 8mm, Ø 3.5mm [20290-0026] £7.00
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone Picatinny Ring Mounts
Adjustable Inclination Mount
Picatinny One-Piece Mount
Adjust the MOA Elevation from 0-70 MOA in increments of 10 MOA
30mm / 34mm / 36mm Options With UNIVERSAL-Interface
With UNIVERSAL-Interface Nut Fixing - £315.00 Ring Options: 30 / 34 / 36mm
Lever Fixing - £389.00
Tri-Nut Fixing £515.00
Picatinny One-Piece Mount Extended Version 30mm / 34mm Options With UNIVERSAL-Interface
Lever Fixing £589.00
NEW Now Available in MRAD from 0-20 MRAD in increments of 5 MRAD
Nut Fixing - £336.00 Lever Fixing - £410.00
Picatinny Ring Mounts Ultra Lightweight
NEW
Ultra Lightweight Picatinny One-Piece
Ultra Lightweight Picatinny One-Piece Extended Version
Starting from 122 g
Starting from 146 g
30mm / 34mm Options
1 Inch / 30mm / 34mm Options
Nut Fixing - £221.00
Nut Fixing - £221.00
Picatinny Ring Mounts Special Use
Picatinny Ring Mounts Two-Piece
For S&B 5-20x50 PM II Picatinny One-Piece
Picatinny Rings
(Reduced Ring Spacing) With UNIVERSAL-Interface
30mm / 34mm Options With UNIVERSAL-Interface Nut Fixing - £264.00 Lever Fixing - £335.00
Nut Fixing - £326.00 Lever Fixing - £400.00
Addons for UNI-Interface Ring with UNI-Interface
Picatinny Rail, 35mm - £28.00
To fit to mid-tubes or objectives
Picatinny Rail, 55mm - £30.00
1 Inch [03680-5726] - £79.00 30mm [03680-5730] - £79.00 34mm [03680-5734] - £79.00 36mm [03680-5736] - £79.00 48mm [03680-5748] - £111.00
[T0903-0008] [T0905-0008]
Picatinny Side Adaptor - £53.00 [T0913-0000]
Adaptor for Docter Sight (Centric) - £53.00 [T0920-0005]
Adaptor for Aimpoint - £48.00 [T0970-0000]
Bubble Level - £84.00
56mm [03680-5756] - £111.00
[T0940-0002]
57mm [03680-5757] - £111.00
[T0941-0000]
62mm [03680-5762] - £111.00
alanrhone
ACI-Angle Cosine Indicator - £229.00 ACI-Bubble Level Adaptor - £91.00 [T0940-0000]
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone
SUPERIOR BARREL CLEANING
Cleaning and caring for your gun is a big part of accuracy, even if seen as a necessary evil. Cleaning should take as little time as possible. After all, one doesn’t shoot for the pleasure of the subsequent cleaning. VFG have developed a unique and easy to use cleaning system comprising calibre specific felt pellets. The pellets fit onto an adaptor on your regular cleaning rod. The pellets are a close fit to the bore of your rifle and, when pushed through, expand to fit right into the bottom of the valley between the lands, ensuring no fouling is missed. In most cases, cleaning solvent is not required and is not recommended. For stubborn copper fouling, VFG produce an ‘intensive’ felt pellet. This pellet is green in colour and is impregnated with phosphor bronze particles, the same material a phosphor bronze brush is made of. Easily and thoroughly removes copper fouling with no risk of damage to the bore of your rifle. Cleaning is as simple as running the white felts through until clean, a couple of scrubs with the intensive felt, if required, and then once through with a light oil to protect from rust before storage. Easy and fast!
No need to buy a new rod! Adaptors available for all popular American and British rods Dedicated rods also available if required.
Cleaning Rod 4 - 4.5mm 1 Piece Steel Rod (£48.82) 66801
Match Pocket Set 4-4.5mm - 167291
Cleaning Rod .22 - 6.5mm 1 Piece Alu Rod 354509 (£31.90) / 3 Piece Alu Rod 354440 (£36.80) 1 Piece Steel Rod 66889 (£61.33) / 3 Piece Steel Rod 66890 (£68.70)
Pocket Pull Through - suitable for all calibres of rifle and shotgun. A plastic covered steel wire (the flexible “cleaning rod”) and a grip disc are part of the set.
Cleaning Rod 7mm and Over
£23.30
1 Piece Alu Rod 354511 (£31.90) / 3 Piece Alu Rod 354442 (£36.80) 1 Piece Steel Rod 66883 (£63.79) / 3 Piece Steel Rod 66894 (£73.60)
VFG Cleaning Rod for 4-4.5mm / .22 - 6.5mm / 7mm and above Barrels (Approx. 910mm cleaning length)
VFG Adaptors for your existing Cleaning Rods English Rods (e.g. Parker Hale) Female Thread - Adaptor for .22 - 6.5mm (66807) - £4.91 - Adaptor for 7mm and Over (66806) - £4.91
US Rods (Hoppe’s, Outers, etc.) Male Thread - Adaptor for .22 - 6.5mm 7-32 (66809) - £4.91 - Adaptor for 7mm and Over 8-32 (66810) - £4.91
STANDARD CLEANING FELTS These small felt pellets, which are calibre specific are used with the VFG Adaptor to clean your barrel. The felts screw onto the cleaning rod tip and the rod is then passed down the barrel to give a smooth and effective clean. Available in 9 sizes to suit all popular calibres
Available in both small box quantities and also bulk quantities of 500.
INTENSIVE CLEANING FELTS Intensive felts, impregnated with phosphor bronze particles, for rapid, safe removal of copper fouling without the need for aggressive solvents.
Intensive give a more thorough clean
alanrhone
Available in both small box quantities and also quantities of 500 in certain calibres.
Calibre
Box (Qty.)
4 - 4.5mm (.17) .22 6 mm (.243) 6.5 mm 7 mm (.270) 7.5 mm (.30) 8 mm (.338) 9.3 mm (.380) .375 (H+H Mag) 10.3mm (.40 Cal) .44 (.44 Mag) .45 (.45 Mag)
£7.12 (100) 332066
-
£7.24 (80)
331881
£26.99 (500)
331884
£7.36 (50)
331885
£25.76 (500)
331948
£7.36 (50)
331952
£31.89 (500)
331953
£8.59 (50)
331954
£33.12 (500)
331956
£8.59 (50)
331957
£33.12 (500)
331958
£8.59 (50)
331959
£33.12 (500)
331960
£7.36 (40)
331963
£39.25 (500)
331964
£9.82 (40)
331965
£41.71 (500)
331966
£7.36 (30)
331971
£41.71 (500)
331973
£8.59 (30)
331974
-
£8.59 (30)
331976
-
Box (Qty.)
Code
Big Box
Calibre Intensive 4 - 4.5mm (.17) Intensive .22 Intensive 6 mm (.243) Intensive 6.5 mm Intensive 7 mm (.270) Intensive 7.5 mm (.30) Intensive 8 mm (.338) Intensive 9.3 mm (.380) Intensive .375 (H+H Mag) Intensive 10.3mm (.40 Cal) Intensive .44 (.44 Mag) Intensive .45 (.45 Mag)
Code
Big Box
Code
Code
£12.26 (100)
332068
-
£8.59 (80)
331999
£35.57 (500)
332000
£12.26 (50)
662001
£55.20 (500)
332002
£12.26 (50)
332004
£61.33 (500)
332006
£13.49 (50)
332007
£63.79 (500)
332011
£13.49 (50)
332018
£63.79 (500)
332020
£13.49 (50)
332020
-
£14.72 (40)
332023
-
£14.72 (40)
332027
-
£12.26 (30)
332029
-
£12.26 (30)
332031
-
£12.26 (30)
332034
-
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone
Contessa Picatinny Rings - Fixed
Steel Picatinny Rails
(Steel or Ergal)
Made from hardened steel and available in different MOA options for all
The picatinny rings in diameters:
popular rifle models. The rails fit straight on to your rifle, with no
1 inch, 30mm, 34mm, 35mm,
gun smithing required and are pre-drilled for a perfect fit.
36mm and 40mm.
Each rail comes complete with screws and wrench.
Available in the following Models: Anschutz 54/64 (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Blaser R8/R93 (0 MOA) - £150.00 Browning A-Bolt (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Browning BAR (0 MOA) - £80.00 Browning X-Bolt Super Short (0 MOA) - £80.00 Browning X-Bolt Short (0/20 MOA) - £80.00 Browning X-Bolt Long (0/20 MOA) - £80.00 BRNO 98 (0 MOA) - £80.00 CZ 452/455 (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 CZ 527 (0 MOA) - £122.00 CZ 550 Standard (0/20 MOA) - £122.00 CZ 550 Magnum (0/20 MOA) - £122.00 Howa 1500 Short (0/10/20/30 MOA) - £80.00 Howa 1500 Long (10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Remington 700 Short (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Remington 700 Long (0/10/20/30 MOA) - £80.00 Rossler Titan 6 (20 MOA) - £80.00 Sabatti Rover Short (0 MOA) - £80.00 Sabatti Rover Long (10 MOA) - £80.00 Sako A7 Short (0/20 MOA) - £80.00 Sako A7 Medium (0/20 MOA) - £80.00 Sako A7 Long (0 MOA) - £80.00 Sako 75/85 X-Short (0 MOA) - £122.00 Sako 75/85 Short (0/10/20 MOA) - £122.00 Sako 75/85 Medium (0/10/20 MOA) - £122.00 Sako 75/85 Long (0/10/20 MOA) - £122.00
Sako 75/85 in X-Short, Short, Medium and Long Sako TRG 22/42 (10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Sauer 100 / 101 (0 / 20 MOA) - £80.00 Sauer 200 (10 MOA) - £80.00 Sauer 202 (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Sauer 202 (0/10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Savage 12 Short (0 MOA) - £80.00 Savage 12 Long (10 MOA) - £80.00 Tikka T3 (0/10/20/30 MOA) - £80.00 Weatherby Mark V Short (0 MOA) - £80.00 Weatherby Vanguard Short (0 MOA) - £80.00 Winchester 70 Short (10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Winchester 70 Long (10/20 MOA) - £80.00 Winchester 70 X-Long (0 MOA) - £80.00 Winchester XPR (0 MOA) - £80.00
Chrome Finished Picatinny Rails:
Howa 1500 Short (0/10/20 MOA) - £96.00 Howa 1500 Long (10/20 MOA) - £96.00 Remington 700 Short (0/10/20 MOA) - £96.00 Remington 700 Long (0/10/20 MOA) - £96.00 Tikka T3 (0/10/20MOA) - £96.00 Sako 75/85 (0 MOA) - £136.00
Steel/Ergal from £110.00 Lightweight Alloy from £80.00
Picatinny Rings - QD These steel picatinny rings come in 30mm diameter and 8mm or 12mm height options.
£156.00 75mm Rear Extension
EXTENDED Sako 75/85 X-Short (0 MOA) - £164.00 EXTENDED Sako 75/85 Short (0 MOA) - £164.00 EXTENDED Sako 75/85 Medium (0 MOA) - £164.00 EXTENDED Browning A-Bolt 3 (0 MOA) - £104.00 EXTENDED Browning X-Bolt (0 MOA) - £104.00 EXTENDED Mauser M12 (0 MOA) - £104.00 EXTENDED Sauer 100 / 101 (0 MOA) - £104.00 EXTENDED Tikka T3 / T3X (0 MOA) - £104.00
Quick Release Mounts for Picatinny Precision made quick release mounts designed to fit onto the picatinny system. The various options allow you to secure a variety of scopes onto your existing picatinny rail, whether it be a ring mounted day scope or a rail mounted scope such as Zeiss or Swarovski Rail.
QD Picatinny Mount for ATN X-Sight II Also fits the Thor HD and Mars HD
£300.00
QD Picatinny Mount - Rings
Simple to fit, attaches straight to your picatinny rail. The ring mount is ideal for day scopes. Available in various heights:
1”Rings in 2.5mm / 5mm / 7.5mm 30mm Rings in 2.5mm / 5mm / 7.5mm 34mm Rings in 6.5mm / 8mm 36mm Rings in 5mm
QD Picatinny Mount for Yukon Photon Set with rearwards extension and
£317.00
optimum clearance height.
£317.00
QD Picatinny Mount Extended Picatinny
QD Picatinny Mount for Pulsar Night Vision
Attaches straight to your picatinny rail and provides an extended section of picatinny rail, forward or rearwards. Ideal for Night Vision Scopes.
Set with rearwards extension
£317.00 Extension 95mm Total Rail Length 175mm
and extremely low height.
£300.00
QD Picatinny Mount for Zeiss Rail Scope
QD Picatinny Mount for ATN 4K
• Schmidt & Bender Rail • Swarovski Rail
accepts the New ATN 4K. With Universal
Also available in
£317.00
A quick release mount for Blaser which Interface picatinny mounted on the front ring for lamp mounting.
NEW
£349.00
alanrhone
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone
Contessa Scope Mounts
QD Mount - Rings for Blaser
QD Mount - Picatinny Rail for Blaser
Simple to fit, attaches straight to your Blaser rifle. The ring mount is ideal for day scopes. Available in the following heights:
Forward or Rear extended rail options, ideal for mounting Night Vision Scopes to achieve optimum eye relief.
1”Rings in 2.5mm / 5mm / 7.5mm 30mm Rings in 2.5mm / 5mm / 7.5mm 34mm Rings in 6.5mm / 8mm 36mm Rings in 5mm 40mm Rings in 6mm
Fits Blaser models R8 & R93
£335.00
£335.00
QD Mount - Extra Extended Picatinny Rail
Fits Blaser models R8 & R93 Fits Blaser models
Picatinny Rail for Blaser (0 MOA)
R8 & R93
A fixed picatinny rail option. Standard Rail length of 123mm,
Simple to fit, attaches straight to your Blaser rifle. The added benefit of an extra extension on the picatinny rail, thus allowing a greater range of placement. The longest model even has lateral rails for mounting torches to it. Ideal for night vision.
420mm Rail
Extended Rail length 174mm, all with a low height of 9.5mm.
£481.00
Standard Rail - £150.00 Extended Rail, 0 MOA - £182.00 Extended Rail, 20 MOA - £198.00
256mm Rail
£353.00 327mm Rail
£395.00
QD Mount - ATN X-SIGHT II for Blaser
QD Mount - ATN 4K for Blaser
£319.00
£367.00
A quick release mount for Blaser which accepts the ATN X-SIGHT II, plus the Thor HD / Mars HD. Extends back 114mm from the Blaser rear mounting notch.
Universal Interface
A quick release mount for Blaser which accepts the New ATN 4K. With Universal Interface picatinny mounted on the front ring for lamp mounting.
Quick Release for 12mm Euro Rail
The Contessa Quick Release system is based around the 12mm ‘Euro Rail’ system and comprises of an adapter that fits to your rifle to provide the 12mm Euro Rail platform. Once fitted, a multitude of different mounts can be instantly attached and removed without the need to re-zero. Mounts are available in most ring sizes and heights, Zeiss and Swarovski Rail, Burris and others.
Ring Mounts
£290.00 Quick Release Mount
Multiple Ring Sizes and Height Options: 1 Inch - 2.5 / 5.0 / 7.5mm 30mm - 2.5 / 5.0 / 7.5mm 34mm - 6.5 / 8.0mm 36mm - 5.0mm 40mm - 6.0mm Additional Rings - £66.00
with choice of ring size
ATN X-SIGHT II Mount
The Picatinny rail mount is available in standard and extended lengths, front or rear extension, for use with night vision. Please note: you need both the euro rail base, listed below, and the quick Release mount. The euro rail adapts your rifle to take the 12mm Euro Rail System. Some rifles will already be equipped with the Euro Rail as standard. If your dovetail measures 12mm across the top and has a horizontal slot for a recoil lug, it is probably a Euro Rail.
Available 12mm “Euro Rail” Bases
New from Contessa. This mount allows you to mount your X-SIGHT II to the 12mm Eurorail system with an ultra low mounting height and 110mm extension to the rear.
£276.00
Picatinny Rail Mounts Extended Length
£290.00
169mm
Standard Length 117mm
£290.00 Anschutz 11mm Dovetail Bettinsoli Browning BAR Browning X-Bolt Long Browning X-Bolt Short Browning European CZ 550 (19mm Dovetail) CZ 452 (11mm Dovetail) Merkel Helix
alanrhone
£76.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £88.00 £88.00 £88.00
Remington 700 Short Remington 700 Long Sako 75/85 Sauer 202 Standard Sauer 202 Magnum Tikka T3 Winchester 70 Short Winchester 70 Long Winchester 70 WSM
£64.00 £64.00 £88.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00 £64.00
Mounts for Rail Scopes
Burris/Nikon £321.00
Zeiss Rail £292.00
Swarovski Rail £292.00
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
alanrhone The Best Quick Detachable Claw Mount in the World Hook Foot Ring and Back Base The mount is available for most popular rifles and is designed to fit straight to your rifle without any gunsmithing. Versions available for ring and rail mounted scopes and a special Picatinny version for night vision and other applications. With additional Ziegler components for a second or even third scope, you can interchange between scopes in a matter of seconds. A simple process to remove and to attach your scope means no messing around
Lock Foot Ring and Front Base
looking for tools in the field. At last, a mount that The Ziegler ZP mount has been extensively tested by
allows you change scope
one of Europe’ s elite Special Forces. During testing
instantly without the need to re zero each time.
the mount was found to hold repeatable zero out to 600 metres.
Quick Detachable Repeatable Zero Multiple Scopes
ZP mount, standard ring mount or night vision with additional parts for second scope available
See the Video at
www.alanrhone.com
Jones Pad Adjusters
Jones Gun Nut Kit
Adjust the position of your recoil pad for a better gun fit. Adjustments: Vertical drop: 1” Tilt (Left and Right): 22° Horizontal Offset: 5/16”
Ideal for worn or damaged recoil pad screw holes. A quick and simple solution to fix a loose recoil pad. Easy to install at home.
Gun Nut Kit £25.00
Jones Thru-the-Pad Adjuster
£110.00 Jones Original Pad Adjuster
£95.00
The Thru-the-Pad System means you adjust the position without removing the pad.
alanrhone
We also provide a fitting service for the Jones Pad Adjuster Systems. Send us an email to find out more at sales@alanrhone.com
| tel: 01978 66 00 01 | email: sales@alanrhone.com | web: www.alanrhone.com
Alan Rhone Ltd, 6 Coed Aben Road, Wrexham Ind. Est. Wrexham, LL13 9UH, United Kingdom
Denmark’s Best Kept Secret...
Introducing the
Victory Synthetic Wide Range of Scope Mount Options
The exact same Victory action with the extremely popular switch barrel system, now offers a tough and flexible synthetic stock option.
Cut Rifle Barrels for Unbeatable Accuracy
Screw Cut for Sound Moderators
The features of the New Synthetic Stock enhances comfort and usability, as well as being completely weatherproof. This combined with the legendary accuracy of all Schultz & Larsen rifles, makes this a unstoppable rifle.
The Schultz & Larsen Professional Bipod by Spartan Precision
Carried off the rifle and attached in seconds, the bipod is designed to be ready in an instant. Attached to your rifle using the Spartan Magnetic Attachment System, the bipod is easy and quick to operate with a single hand.
Available for All Schultz & Larsen Rifles (RRP £286.00)
Uses the same Victory Switch Barrel System Adjustable Cheek Piece
Slide & Lock Scope Mounts Schultz & Larsen Ultradome Moderator
Rubber Inlay Forearm & Pistol Grips
Professional Bipod by Spartan
Thumbhole Grip Strong Weatherproof Fibreglass Synthetic Stock
UNBEATABLE TRADE PRICES Contact Us Today for Ordering
Find Out More at
www.GreatDaneRifles.com +44 (0) 1978 66 00 01 | sales@alanrhone.com
FIREARMS
SIERRA .308 CALIBRE BULLETS
Sierra bullets and Ramshot TAC powder make a fantastic combination
| Sierra .308 Calibre Bullets › Sierra bullets are amongst the very best available and the range of types and weights is truly impressive. From bench-rest accuracy to super-efficient ‘knockdown power’ for the stalker, there is something for everyone. These are just a couple of their projectiles from their current range.
150-grain Hollow Point Varminter Although these bullets are towards the lighter end of the weight range for .308, they lack absolutely nothing in terms of accuracy and performance. They are also well priced, making them far more affordable than many rifle bullets. Relatively new to Sierra's Varminter range in this weight, the 150-grain bullets are a basic hollow point design with a ‘crimped’ point and no ballistic tip or insert.
Being that much lighter than many game bullets in this calibre, they can be pushed at higher velocities and this contributes to what Sierra describe as 'explosive expansion'. This smaller and lighter bullet is ideal for shooting foxes and is a great alternative to the heavier bullets you may be using for larger quarry. Sat on top of 45-grains of Ramshot TAC, these bullets were achieving 2600 FPS from a 26” barrel.
180-grain TGK (Gamechanger) The Gamechangers are one of Sierra's premium bullets that have brought together their match accuracy with tried and tested knock-down ability. They are somewhat more expensive than the Varminter range but you can immediately see that a lot has gone into the
PRICE:
PRICE:
£53.80
£40.00
(Left) The mighty 180-grain Gamechanger and the 150-grain Varminter are great options for different applications (Right) The 150-grain Sierra Varminter bullets are designed for higher velocity applications
‘high-tech’ build on these projectiles. Sierra has taken their Matchking bullets, reengineered them to include a large hollow point and added a transparent green tip to improve ballistic performance. The result is a very long bullet, with an excellent ballistic coefficient and top-end performance. Loaded over 41- grains of Ramshot TAC, these 180-grain bullets achieved an average muzzle velocity of 2450 FPS and grouped exceptionally well. Consistency with these particular bullets was the best that the Steyr SSG used for testing has ever achieved.
Conclusion As you would expect from Sierra, both of these projectiles proved to be accurate and consistent. The heavier bullets suited the particular twist rate of the test rifle barrel better, which was expected, but both performed very well. More than acceptable for both stalking and target shooting. In the case of the Gamechanger, you are getting a match-quality bullet with all the enhanced expansion characteristics you might need for live quarry. Definitely worth giving a try. GM REVIEWER: MARK UNDERWOOD
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name:
Sierra Gamechanger and Varminter bullets are available in weights to suit most guns and quarry
126
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Price: Contact:
Sierra 150-grain Hollow Point Varminter and 180-grain TGK (Gamechanger) bullets £40.00 and £53.80 per 100 respectively Henry Krank & Co - www.henrykrank.co.uk
LEE BREECH LOCK CLASSIC CAST PRESS
FIREARMS
| Lee Breech Lock Classic Cast Press wooden ball end for comfort, and it can be easily attached to either side of the press. Once in position, it operates the 1 1/8” diameter, hollow ram, which also incorporates the Lee Lever Prime System, which can seat small or large primers. A plastic tube (supplied) can be attached to the base, helping to dispose of spent primers. The frame can accept standard 7/8x14 TPI dies from all the major manufacturers, and to make things faster it is compatible with Lee quick-change Breech Lock Bushings. These can easily be removed by hand, with 1/6 turn. Overall, a strong, versatile and affordable machine, which will give years of valuable service. GM
The Lee Breech Lock Classic Cast Press is effective and affordable
PRICE: £164.50
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Price: Contact:
Lee Breech Lock Classic Cast Press £164.50 www.henrykrank.com
REVIEWER: ED JACKSON
GM08.21/15b/f
› Reloading is a popular pastime here in the UK, allowing shooters to produce their own bespoke rifle, pistol and shotgun ammunition, whenever they need it. Lee Precision has been designing and manufacturing affordable equipment since 1958. This include die sets, shell holders, priming tools, case prep tools, casting equipment and even books. Combined with the correct die/tool, their Breech Lock Classic Cast Press can be used to de-prime, resize, trim, reprime and seat a new bullet into an old case. It can be mounted onto a workbench using just three bolts and is manufactured from cast iron. It includes a durable, powdercoated finish and an all-steel linkage. The handle includes a
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
127
FIREARMS
FOR ALL YOUR SHOOTING NEEDS
• Airguns • Firearms • Shotguns • Ammunition • Accessories Contact us: T: 01484 544600 E: info@kirklees-guns.co.uk
www.kirklees-guns.co.uk
128
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
OPENING TIMES MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9:30 - 5.30 | SATURDAY 9:30 - 5:00 CLOSED - WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY
GM08.21/58/a
GM08.21/12/f
17 Lord Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 1QA
GM08.21/11/f
GM08.21/28/a
FIREARMS
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
129
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
HATSAN ESCORT XTREME
A cost-effective semi-auto 12-gauge with a nicely finished barrel and action that fed 28-gram loads reliably
Magnum
Force
Bruce Potts casts his eyes over a Hatsan Escort Xtreme semi-auto shotgun
The Hatsan Escort range offers a plentiful supply of various semi-automatic 12 or 20-gauge shotguns at very competitive prices. As the name suggests, the Escort is meant to be a reliable and practical companion and is designed as a hunting tool but can also double as a clay gun if required. The model on test is the Xtreme Magnum, which is a gas-operated semi-auto shotgun chambered for 3”/76mm cartridges. The Smart Valve Piston System installed means that the gun can cycle a wide range of cartridges, ranging from 24-grams up to the big 57-gram magnum loads. There is a choice of barrel lengths from 26 to 30” and the tester came with a 28” tube, which I like. The gun comes with a set of five chokes with extended length and a black synthetic stock. However, 130
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
there are camouflage-clad options available for wildfowlers or pigeon shooters. Hatsan also offers the gun in right or lefthanded configuration and for some reason, I got sent one in the latter! However, it did come with a new green anodised finish to the action, which is quite striking!
Action, trigger and safety I wouldn't call the Escort a lightweight semi but it has enough heft to allow a good blend of balance and sturdiness to the main load-bearing parts i.e. the action and barrels. The action is made from aircraft-grade aluminium, which is quite substantial in places. It has a nice overall shape and a swept-back rear section to lead the eye down the rib. If you intend to use slugs, then Hatsan has included some 11mm dovetails on top of the receiver
so that you can fit a red dot sight or scope. Make sure you fit the correct choke thought! There are sculptural lines pressed into the action sides for decoration but it’s the overall finish that really catches the eye. Usually, an Escort comes with a chemically black anodised finish with the option for an Advantage Max4 HD camouflage wrap. In the case of the gun on test, it came with a very nice 'Gas Monkey' green anodised finish to it. I like it as it contrasts well with the black stock and barrel, plus it certainly looks different. However, I'm not sure if it offers any sporting advantages. Operating the Escort is straightforward. The bolt is of a one-piece design and features a tough black/blued finish and a single extractor claw. Ejection is performed by a steel pin that protrudes from the action wall, and as the bolt moves rearward it catches the rim of the spent cases. The bolt handle is not serrated but is reasonably long and curved which helps makes bolt manipulation easy. If the bolt is pulled to the rear while the magazine is empty, it then locks into position, allowing you to pop the first cartridge into the chamber. Then, simply push the polished bolt
HATSAN ESCORT XTREME
release paddle, set into the magazine lifter ramp, and the bolt shuts. You can then load two additional rounds down into the magazine. (FAC versions are available for a higher mag capacity.) To the right of the action and clearly labelled, is the magazine cut-off lever. When depressed, it locks back the bolt so a cartridge can be removed, while simultaneously blocking another case from the magazine entering the carrier. Finally, the trigger guard gives easy access to the blade, which is blued, semi-striated and thin. Behind this is the typical cross-bolt safety system, which when pushed to the left puts the gun on SAFE and when pushed to the right shows the colour red denoting FIRE.
Stock I like the stock both in the way it handles and feels. The soft-touch, semi-matte black finish is very good and does indeed lend an extra layer of grip to the polymer-based, synthetic sporter-type stock. The length of pull (LOP) is set at 14.35” from the factory and can be altered by using the three supplied spacers. There are also four shims that can be used to adjust the stocks drop and cast by inserting them between the stock and rear of the action. For me, as with other Escorts, I found the fit spot on and the comb and cast instantly have your eye looking right down the rib. In regards to the construction, the polymer base is quite sturdy and dense, even though the rear stock is moulded in two halves and is hollow. It feels rigid and is certainly weatherproof. The forend is 11.5” long and features a dished upper profile for the fingers to rest/ grip. At the front, there are four vents on the underside and two on the side, designed to allow the exhaust gases from firing to vent
Hatsan has included a good scope/red dot mounting option on top of the receiver
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
The very tactile stock surface provides a good hold and includes some raised grey soft rubber inserts
out. To boost the grip further, the forend and pistol grip both include panels of tactile rubber inserts. Being slightly raised in profile, they grip the naked hand as well as a gloved one. The recoil pad is grippy too, despite its shallow dimpled finish, so it mounts well without snagging on clothing. There are still no swivel studs for a sling fitment though, which I would like as I often sling my shotgun if walking about carrying kit.
Barrel and chokes Hatsan takes pride in their barrels, and on inspection, the one fitted was well finished off. They are made from nickel chrome-molybdenum steel and the internal surfaces show a good chromed finish,
Just push down on the silver inner loading gate with a cartridge to drop the lifter, then insert it into the magazine
which makes them easier to clean and less likely to rust. This magnum Escort can shoot the shorter 2 ¾” shells as well as the larger 3” (76mm) magnum cases, plus it has been proof tested for steel and magnum loads. The five semi-extended chokes that came with the gun were, full, improved modified, modified, improved cylinder and cylinder. Each one measures 2.75” long and once fitted, 0.75” sits proud of the muzzle. There is no choke key but the protruding portion is wellgrooved for grip, making them easy to replace in the field with no tools. The 7mm chequered rib is ventilated, with eight diminishing sized vents towards the muzzle. Here, we find a green Hi-Viz front sight, which is highly visible and helps speed up aiming.
The forend shows the same grey rubber inserts as the grip, note the vents for escaping combustion gases
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
131
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
HATSAN ESCORT XTREME
I like the green finish, it's actually very hard wearing and gives a nice contrast and change to the usual black
(Below) You get a selection of butt pad spacers as well as inserts to alter the cast
Beneath the barrel is Hatsan's Smart Valve Piston System, which regulates the gas energy generated by different cartridges, ensuring that the gun cycles correctly.
Field use Reliability is always the key with semi-auto's and I have to say I did try to stop the Hatsan working, but it was hard work! Some of the 24-gram cartridges were 50/50 on ejection and the 21-gram loads fired but did not eject. Plastic wad loads were better when compared to fibre wads and all loads above 24-grams were fine, although some of the magnum loads did kick a bit. The Escort handled very well as the balance is literally halfway down the gun,
Five semi-extended chokes are provided, covering all your choke/pattern needs
132
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Name: Type: Overall Length: Barrel: Calibre: Chokes: Weight: Finish: making it feel lighter than it really is. Being a semi-auto, recoil was relatively light on the shoulder. For testing, we fitted the ½ choke and rounds like the Gamebore Extreme Pigeon shot very well, both in terms of reliable function and on the pattern boards. With a payload of 34-grams of #5 shot and a fibre wad, we counted 187 pellet strikes. There were 67 hits to the 15” inner section and 120 pellets were spread around the outer sectors. The 24gram Blue Diamonds struggled a little but the Hull Pro Fibre were much better. At the end of the day, if you stick to 28-gram loads then you will have no problems.
Stock: Length of Pull: Capacity: Price: Contact:
Hatsan Escort Xtreme Gas Operated Semi-Auto 48.75” 28” (26 and 30” available) 12-gauge (20gauge available) Five Included 7.5lbs Green Anodised Action, Blued Barrel Black Synthetic, left hand on test 14.35” 2+1 £350 Edgar Brothers – shootingsports. edgarbrothers.com
If wildfowling is your thing, then Hull's Steel Game Extra performed well, with 71 pellets in the inner sector and 81 within the outer 30”.
Conclusion The Hatsan Escort Xtreme is a semi-auto gun for all seasons or game. The synthetic stock is rugged and weatherproof, plus the green anodised finish gives a touch of uniqueness. If fed the right ammunition, it was reliable in testing and the combination of the barrel and semi extended chokes meant it shot some nice even patterns. At a street price of £400ish, it's hard to knock this rugged multi-purpose semi. GM
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
FINAL CLEARANCE 10 PAIRS 70CM 12 BORE & 10 PAIRS 20 BORE SLEEVING TUBES - ONLY £60 A PAIR
PLUS 5 PAIRS 28 BORE 75CM THREADED FOR MULTI CHOKE
S.ENTWISTLE (BLACKPOOL)
GM08.21/85/a
GM08.21/J/a
01253 790465
SHOT GUN SILENCER
• Mobilchoke (Beretta, Benelli, Franchi, etc.) • Crio Plus (Benelli M2) • Invector (Mossberg, older Winchesters, • • •
Weatherby) Invector Plus (Winchester, Browning) Optima HP (Beretta) Remington (870, 1100)
Distributed by
Trade enquiries: Tel: +44 (0) 1644 470223 Glenswinton, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NL GM07.21/37/f
The silencer is currently supplied with a 12 gauge choke tube to fit one of the following choke systems:
www.jacksonrifles.com AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
133
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN • COUNTRY MAN WOULD LIKE, LOOKING FOR, somewhere in Suffolk to do pigeon shooting, crops or wood, experienced shooter for over 40 years. Ex farm willing to pay for. Call: 07851 892699. Suffolk. 08/21/g • BRNO 12 BORE OVER/UNDER. 28ins barrels, £180.00. C.H. Smith 12 Bore Side by Side 30ins barrels, £140.00. SUHL, German. 12 Bore Side by Side 30ins barrels, £120.00. Tel 01204 778965. Bury. 06/21/f
NOW ON SALE 2019 EDITION
• BERETTA 682 O/U, 12 BORE; Beretta 682 O/U, 12 bore; just had two new stub shafts and two ejector springs fitted. Complete with 5 chokes, nice clean gun in very good working order. £1,200 ovno. Call: 07816 03/21/a 995624.
• VINTAGE AIR RIFLES and Air pistols wanted. Also old signs, pellets and related items, collections purchased, Antique flintlock and percussions. Guns also wanted. Will travel. Tel: 01908 526666 / Mob: 07831 398114. (P)
ADVERTISERS
• WANTED WINCHESTER LEVER ACTION .410 shotgun. It must be in good condition. Call 07874 048780. Kent. 02/21/a
• PIGEON SHOOTING WANTED OVER CROPS or wood, experienced guns for over 40 years, willing to pay per day. Call: 07851 892699. Suffolk. 08/21/g
TO BUY YOUR COPY PLEASE CALL:
01293 312215
COPY DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 EDITION IS
23rd July 2021 GM08.21/7/a
• DISABLED ARMY VETERAN SERVED in 1960s Germany including the Berlin Wall, seeks to purchase German MP40 to complete his great collection of weapons that were actually handled during historical military service. These are displayed at Military Events to fundraise for the Help For Heroes Charity. Box No: 2020, Gun Mart Magazine - please email your enquiry to vanessa.english@aceville.co.uk. 07/20/a
All advertisement copy must be received prior to the date shown below.
21/23 Phoenix Ct, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY.
Tel: 01206 506247
COPY DEADLINES
To advertise in COUNTRY & SHOTGUN please call Vanessa on 01206 506247
OR VISIT:
www.gunmart.net OR POST:
Gun, Unit 6 The Enterprise Centre, Kelvin Lane, Manor Royal, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9PE
THE BELOW IS ONLY A SMALL SAMPLE OF OUR NEW RIFLE STOCK!
www.theskiptongunroom.co.uk
(Cheques made payable to Aceville Magazines Ltd.) Please send me The Essential Shotgun Guide for £8.99 + £2.00 postage. Please choose which year by ticking the box on the right. I enclose my cheque/postal order for £10.99 made payable to Aceville Magazines Ltd or please debit my Mastercard/ Visa/American Express/Switch/Maestro account the sum of £10.99
Armsan A620 ADVANTAGE REALTREE Semi-Auto 20 £489 ATA SP Silver Line Sideplate Game Over and Under 12 £1,175 ATA SP Silver Line Game Over and Under 12 £900 ATA SP Avantgarde Sideplate Sporter Over and Under 12 £1,299 ATA Venza Camo Max 5 Semi-Auto 12 £500 Benelli M2 Comfortech Camo Semi-Auto 12 £1,325 Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Sport Over and Under 12 £1,655 Beretta 692 Black Edition Over and Under 12 £3,225 Beretta 687 EELL Over and Under 20 £5,845 Beretta 690 Sporting Black Over and Under 12 £2,655 Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Adjustable Stock SPORTING Over and Under 12 £1,885 Beretta A400 Upland Semi-Auto 12 £1,515 Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Field Over and Under 12 £1,585 Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III Adjustable SPORTER Over and Under 12 £2,390 Beretta 694 Sport Limited Edition Over and Under 12 £3,485 Browning B725 Pro Sport Adjustable Over and Under 12 £2,950 Browning B525 Liberty Light Over and Under 12 £2,095 Franchi Affinity Elite 3 Camo Cobalt Semi-Auto 12 £875 Hatsan Arms Escort PS Synthetic Black Semi-Auto 12 £294 KOFS SCEPTRE SXE GAME Over and Under 28 £500 Mossberg M500 Stealth Wood Stock Pump Action 410 £675 Redolfi EOS Sport Over and Under 12 £895 Winchester SX4 Semi-Auto 12 £690 Yildiz SPZ M Over and Under 28 £425 Yildiz Pro Black Action Adjustable Over and Under 12 £1,495 Yildiz SPZME Sporter Adjustable Over and Under 12 £795 Yildiz SPZ ME Over and Under 28 £599 Yildiz SPZ M Over and Under 28 £499 MAJOR STOCKIST OF AIRGUNS, SHOTGUNS & SHOOTING ACCESSORIES
(Your account will be debited in the name of Aceville Magazines Ltd)
/
Security No: (last 3 digits on back of card)
If using Switch/Maestro, please also give your Card Issue No: or Valid from Date: SIGNATURE ............................................................................................................................................ NAME ...................................................................................................................................................... ADDRESS ................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................. POST CODE..............................................................................DAYTIME TEL. NO ...............................
Essential Shotgun Guide 2015/16
Essential Shotgun Guide 2017/18
Essential Shotgun Guide 2014/15
Essential Shotgun Guide 2016/17
Essential Shotgun Guide 2013/14
Your order details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Shooting Sports Magazine). We will use your information to fulfill your subscription and communicate other information deemed relevant in connection with this service. Aceville Publications Ltd would like to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS . Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
✂
134
SAGH 2019
01756 792 630 GM08.21/8S/a
Essential Shotgun Guide 2018/19
Open 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm Monday & 9am to 4pm Saturday
UNIT 7, CARLETON BUSINESS PARK, CARLETON NEW ROAD, SKIPTON BD23 2DE
GM08.21/71/f
Expiry Date on card
SHOTGUN DEALER GUIDE BERKSHIRE
KC SPORTS
KENT Firearms Dealers
Specialist in New & Secondhand Shotguns, Air Rifles, Ammunition, Rifles, Sec.1 Firearms ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
26 Barkham Road, Wokingham Berkshire RG41 2XP
Tel: (0118) 9781712 www.freewebs.com/kcsport
DERBYSHIRE Melbourne Gun
West Kent Shooting School New Hay Farm, New Hay, Paddock Wood, Brenchley, Kent TN12 7DG
Telephone: 01892 834306
www.westkentshooting.co.uk
NORTHERN IRELAND
64 Church St., Melbourne, Derbyshire
Tober Road, Knockahollet, Cloughmills, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 9BE
Sporting Rifles, Shotguns & Air Rifles, Barbour & Aigle Stockists, Outdoor Clothing Corporate clay shooting, training can be arranged on our own ground.
www.lavinguns.com
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
NORTHERN IRELAND Maryland Country Sports
PRACTI CAL SHOOTI NG SUPPLI ES
practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk Suppliers of Innovative and marketing leading Shotguns, Rifles, Airguns and accessories dedicated to the practical outdoor sportsman. Unit 17, Churchill Business Park, Churchill Road, Doncaster, South Yorks, DN1 2TF
02827 641204
WEST YORKSHIRE YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUNS AIRGUN REPAIR SPECIALIST
18A Maryland Industrial Estate Crossnacreery, Moneyreagh County Down BT23 6BL
Tel: 01924 764740
Tel: 02890 448598
01302 730052 | info@practicalsportingsupplies.co.uk
www.maryland-country-sports.co.uk
www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk
EAST WALES DRAGON FIELD SPORTS LTD
EAST YORKSHIRE
NORTH YORKSHIRE
SHOTGUNS, AIRGUNS, FIREARMS, AMMO EXPERT - FRIENDLY - CHEAP
Field Sports Supplies
PHOENIX
DAVEY & SON EAST COAST FIELD & STREAM
All Sorts of Ammo, Accessories & Clothing www.dragonfieldsports.co.uk 21 Pentre Felin, Wrexham LL13 7NB Tel: 01978 290990
NORTH YORKSHIRE PICKERING GUNS www.pickeringguns.co.uk Huge array of new and used Airguns, Shotguns, Rifles and Ammunition. Part exchanges welcome.
Email: info@pickeringairguns.co.uk Tel: 01751 476904
Shotguns, Airguns, Country Clothing, Archery Equipment Working Dog Equipment, Walking Sticks, Ammunition – Pellets & Shotgun Cartridges, Lamps, Gun Lights & Lasers and also Hide Nets and Decoys Fishing Tackle Now In 37-41 High St., Old Town, Bridlington, E. Yorks YO16 4PR
T: 01262 605512 M: 07778 342464
SHOOTERS WORLD Stockists of Barbour, Le Chameau, Hoggs & other country clothing. Beretta, Browning, Miroku & other Shotguns, Firearms & Air rifles. 3-5 Swinton Road, Mexborough, S. Yorks S64 9JB Tel: 01709 578189. RFD S. Yorks 31
LINCOLNSHIRE
WORCESTERSHIRE
Kexby Fieldsports Ltd High Street, Kexby, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire DN21 5LZ Contact Paul on: 01427 787157
www.kexbycountrystore.co.uk
New & Used Shotguns by all major manufacturers Huge range of cartridges including non-toxic wild fowling loads Plus stockists of clothing, footwear & all shotgun accessories
Tel: 01723 865039 Email: info@daveyandson.co.uk www.daveyandson.co.uk
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
7-8 Birdgate, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AL Mon-Sat 9-5 pm. Closed Weds.
Suppliers of new & used shotguns, rifles & air rifles
The Old Post Office, Wykeham, Yorkshire YO13 9QP
You can have one of these spaces from just £30 YORKSHIRE www.swillingtonshootingsupplies.co.uk
www.shootingsuppliesltd.co.uk 38 Sherwood Road Bromsgrove B60 3DR (Just off the A38, 300yds from Morrisons) Shotguns, rifles, air guns, cartridges, ammunition, reloading equipment, scopes, accessories, clothing and footwear
01527 831261
Tues-Sat 9am to 5.30pm Late night Fri ’til 7pm
Deerhunter * Harkila * Laksen * Dubarry * Rivers West * Musto * Barbour * Diotto Boots * Le Chameau * Swedteam * Swazi
SHOTGUNS
RIFLES
BLASER BERETTA BROWNING MIROKU etc
HAENEL SAKO/ TIKKA BLASER SAUER & MERKEL etc
AIR RIFLES AIR ARMS DAYSTATE WEIHRAUCH etc
OPTICS SWAROVSKI ZEISS/LEICA NIGHTFORCE etc
Home Farm, Wakefield Road, Swillington, Leeds, LS26 8UA
Tel: 0113 286 4097 - Tel & Fax: 0113 287 5685 Email: info@swillingtonshootingsupplies.co.uk
Please contact our advertising department now on
01206 506247/506 242/506246
SHOTGUN DEALER GUIDE/08.21/a
Tel: 01332 862091
www.melbournegun.com
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
HULL'S PARTRIDGE CARTRIDGE
Hull's Partridge Cartridge
The cartridge's grey case and greyed or scuffed brass parts instantly tell you what you have in your hand
Bruce Potts tries out some game-specific ammunition from Hull Cartridge More and more we are seeing calibre and game-specific ammunition, be that in rifle or shotgun cartridges. Certainly, game loads do need a specific blend of shot size, velocity and density of pattern to maximise their effective killing range. Get it wrong and you either hit too hard with too much shot or too little and a wound is inevitable, neither is desirable.
Shooting awards Hull have their Royal Warrant of Appointment status and continue to develop innovative cartridges. One such load, that is very game orientated, is the Partridge Cartridge, which was shortlisted for the 'Game Cartridge of The Year' in the 2020 Shooting Awards. It is designed to achieve the ideal effective pattern at long range, making it perfect for smaller, faster
game, where the density of the pattern is more important than the actual shot size. It achieves a good blend between knockdown power and excellent patterns, making it great for high birds or at achieving superior longer-range shots. Taking a quick look at the Just Cartridges website shows that they are priced at £389 per 1000 rounds.
Spec Like many cartridges these days, Hull's Partridge Cartridge is available in just one size, weight and shot size. This is because it has been developed to work perfectly with a specific combination of components. The case measures 70mm in length and is quite distinctive in the way it looks. It shows a see-through, smoked grey colour that includes red lettering that denotes the make and shot content. It has a nice six-star crimp with defined edges and closure, plus comes in a box
These cartridges are specifically designed for the Partridge shooter with a 12-gauge
136
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Hull use only the best components for consistent velocities and even patterns
HULL'S PARTRIDGE CARTRIDGE
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN
The #5.5 shot and fibre wadding gives the right amount of spread and lethality to the patterns
Good hard-hitting patterns with the ½ choke in the Browning Black Shadow at 30 yards
with a partridge’s head on it, so there is no mistaking what you are buying! What's also interesting is that the 12mm high brass head has been 'greyed' or scuffed to take off the bright shine. This very practical finish gives a dull, non-reflective look to a very purposeful cartridge, I like it. The magic happens internally, where there is a 32-gram load of #5.5 shot, so each pellet measure 2.75mm in diameter. This shot size is popular now as you get more pellets per case when compared to a cartridge containing 32-grams of #4 shot and better potential knockdown power when compared to a round containing the same weight of #6 shot. Of course, to round things off is the obligatory biodegradable fibre wad, which has a thick powder card beneath. This acts as a driving force to achieve a good seal in the bore and consistent velocities. All in all, a really nice looking and well thought round, with what looks like a great combination of components. Let’s see how it fared on the pattern boards.
Results Armed with my trusty 12-gauge Browning Black Shadow and ½ choke,
A precise and even crimp closure keeps the back pressure correct for excellent ballistics
we set up pattern boards at 30 yards to judge for ourselves the effectiveness of Hull's Partridge Cartridge. First up, the velocity is reported to be 1410 FPS and in use, I found the cartridges were very easy to handle on the shoulder. To its credit, even on fast repeated rounds, the Black Shadow returned to the sightline very quickly. With this loading of 32-grams of #5.5 shot, each cartridge should contain around 275 pellets. When we tested on the pattern boards with ½ choke, we counted a total of 201 pellet strikes, which is a very good density
and total number of hits. The pattern was even, although favoured slightly to the left, probably because it was windy! We counted 61 inner hits to the 15” sector and the remaining 140 pellet strikes covered the remaining board. It seems this combination of shot weight and size does work very well. This is in no doubt partly due to the hardened lead shot that Hull uses in this load. It maintains its spherical properties on firing, through the bore and in flight, and thus produces patterns that are nice and even without clumping of shot.
Conclusion I can see this ammunition appealing not only to specific Partridge days but it would make a good walked-up load and pigeon cartridge too. It shot great patterns and the recoil was mild. Also, after testing, the bores were remarkably clean when compared to other rounds tested at the same time. All in all, a good all-rounder. GM
Contacts: The Partridge Cartridge was very smooth to shoot, ejection was positive and little fouling was left in the bores
Hull Cartridge www.hullcartridge.co.uk Just Cartridges www.justcartridges.com AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
137
COUNTRY & SHOTGUN 5 & 6 Cropper Row, Haigh Industrial Estate, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 5LA 01989 763859 rob@rbsporting.co.uk Perazzi 12g MX12 29 ½” Teague ................................£5,450 Perazzi 20g MX20 SC3 Wood 30” FC ...........................£7,950 Blaser 12g F16 Fusion 32” ........................................ £2,250 Blaser 12g F3 Vantage ADJ 32” ..................................£6,250 Blaser 12g F3 Vantage 32”.........................................£4,950 Beretta 690 Black 28” MC ..........................................£1,895 Beretta 690 I Scroll 30” MC........................................£1,595 Beretta 12g A400 Unico 28” MC ................................ £1,195 Beretta 692 Black Edition 32” MC ...............................£2,950 Beretta 12g 682 Gold 29 ½” MC ................................. £1,695 Beretta 12g DT10 X-Trap ADJ 30” MC ........................ £3,350 Benelli 12g 828U Black Edition 30” MC ........................£2,150 Fabarm 12g L4S Sport 28” MC ...................................... £950 Browning 12g Elite Hunter 28” MC ...................................... £1,495 Browning 12g B725 Sporter II LH 30” MC ............................. £1,425 Browning 12g B325 V Sport 28” MC .................................... £1,595 Browning 12g B325 V Trap 30” 5/8 & 7/8 ............................. £1,495 Miroku 12g MK38 III Trap 30” 5/8 & 7/8 .............................. £1,250 Caesar Guerini 12g RFI 30” MC ........................................... £3,750 Caesar Guerini 12g Essex Game LH 28” MC .......................... £2,150 Caesar Guerini 12g Summit Ascent 30” MC .......................... £1,950 Caesar Guerini 12g Apex ADJ 32” MC .................................. £3,500
ON ALL AUTOMATIC TRAPS
SEE US AT
PLENTY MORE NEW & SECONDHAND SHOTGUNS, RIFLES AND AIR RIFLES ONLINE AT:
www.bowmantraps.co.uk
www.rbsporting.co.uk GM08.21/542/a
Call: +44 (0) 1777 870243 Fax: +44 (0) 1777 870924 Email: sales@bowmantraps.co.uk
PLUS OPTICS, AMMUNITION, CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
@rbsporting
@RB_Sporting
@rbsporting
GM08.21/60/f
Clay pigeon traps and bases to suit all disciplines See website for full details
Chichester Armoury 43 West Street Chichester PO19 1RP SP Nickel SP Silver Line Silver Pigeon Field Silver Pigeon Sport Silver Pigeon Sport LH Silver Pigeon 1 Vittoria 687 Silver pigeon 3 690 1 Sporter 691 Sport 692 Black Edition 693 Sporting 694 White Onyx Sport B525 B525 Game One LH B525 Game One B525 Liberty Light B525 New Sporter One B525 New Sporter One B525 Shadow B525 Sporter 1 Micro B525 Laminate Adj B725 Sporter II Ultra XS PRO Ultra XS Pro Adj MK 38 Grade 1 Sport MK 70 Grade 5 MK Game Artemis BR 110 Select Sporting II
30" 30" 28" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 28" 30" 32" 28" 30" 28" 30" 32" 32" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30" 30"
Used 12 Gauge Over & Under £599 £899 £1,585 £1,695 £1,695 £1,885 £2,135 £2,415 £2,175 £3,250 £2,450 £3,300 £1,445 £1,545 £1,490 £1,575 £2,095 £1,575 £1,575 £1,795 £1,490 £2,045 £1,975 £3,395 £3,395 £1,750 £2,995 £3,865 £3,170 £1,725 £1,195
ATA Baikal Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Bettinsoli Blaser Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning C Guerini C-Doubles Gamba Lanber Lanber Miroku Miroku Perazzi Rizzini, B. Rizzini, E. Webley Winchester
SP Nickel 611 682 Gold 682 Supersport 682 X Trap 686 E LH 686 Silver Pigeon 686 Special 690 I Sport DT10 Trap SV10 Prevail 3 Sporter F16 Sporting Gr 4 B25 A1 B325 Grade 1 B425 Grade 1 B525 B525 Sporter One B525 Sporter One Citori Summit Black Impact 101 Sporter Gold Field Sporting Delux 7000 Sporter MX8 Sporter Premier Sport 951 LH Select Sporting 11
30" 28" 28" 30" 29" 30" 28" 28" 32" 32" 30" 30" 30" 27" 28" 30" 28" 28" 30" 28" 30" 30" 28" 28" 30" 28" 30" 31" 30" 28" 30" 30"
£575 £225 £945 £1,195 £795 £945 £795 £795 £1,995 £3,295 £1,495 £395 £2,395 £695 £695 £795 £1,195 £1,145 £1,395 £395 £2,195 £695 £595 £245 £445 £695 £645 £3,695 £1,395 £295 £545 £845
Please note that due to the Coronavirus outbreak our opening hours will change. Please email or visit our website for up to date opening times
TEL 01243 774687 or visit www.Chiarm.co.uk 138
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/76/f
New 12 Gauge Over & Under TA ATA Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Beretta Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Browning Miroku Miroku Miroku Rizzini, B. Rizzini, B. Winchester
GM08.21/23/g
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
MUSEUM VISIT
The entrance to the new RLC Museum at Worthy Down
A New Museum for the ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS For an army on a campaign to function well, it must be supported by a supply column that will keep it provided with food, fuel, ammunition and all the other essentials that are vital to keeping it combat-ready. This is called logistic support and in today’s British army it is provided by the regiment known as the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC). In historical terms, the regiment is a relatively recent addition, being founded on 5th April 1993 when five existing regiments, the Army Catering Corps, Royal Corps of Transport, Royal Army Ordnance Corps, Royal Pioneer Corps and the Royal Engineers Postal and Courier Service, were amalgamated. Although only a young regiment, the RLC has already amassed a wealth of combat experience in many operational deployments, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia and numerous other operations to provide humanitarian aid. Indeed, during the current COVID pandemic, it was the RLC that moved much of the vaccine to where it was needed.
and the RLC has met each one headon and proven to be up to the task. This is the regiment’s modern history and it is adding to it every day. History from earlier times can be seen in the displays and exhibitions at the purpose-built regimental museum, which opened its doors to the public for the first time on 18th May this year. In 2018, the RLC closed the doors of its regimental museum at Deepcut in Surrey and packed up the exhibits
New museum Each of these operations has come with its own unique set of challenges 140
GUNMART.NET / JULY 2021
Uniforms across the wars with WWI at the end
in readiness for moving to its new location at Worthy Down, just off the A34 in Hampshire. As with any military operation, good preparation and forward planning meant a smooth transition to the new museum, which was built in about a year at a cost of some three million pounds. The RLC was involved in all stages, including the two weeks it took to transport the collection, using it as an exercise to gain experience in handling cargo. The doors to the new
MUSEUM VISIT
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
museum were officially opened on Monday the 17th May 2021, and Gun Mart was invited along to take a look.
Inside The first thing that strikes you, is being a modern building it has been planned for ease of access, with most of the exhibition laid out on the ground floor. A lift has been installed to allow access to the upper gallery, where there is some artwork and a view looking down over the displays below. It has full facilities on-site, which will extend to a shop with a range of books and a well-stocked library for research. From bicycles to wagons, the history of logistics is told through all manner of artefacts, from Marlborough’s War in the 18th century, through both world wars and up to modern day. Dependency on logistics stretches back even further as visitors are reminded with a display of the Hundred Year War and the English Civil War, before going on to lead through to the rest of the exhibition. The lighting is subdued to preserve the integrity of the items on display but it is sufficient to see everything in detail, and photography is allowed. The cabinets contain uniforms from all periods, along with weapons and personal items, with first-hand accounts and diaries. A separate medal room containing thousands of items, including five Victoria Crosses associated with the history of the RLC, will satisfy the interests of collectors. In one of the cabinets is the very impressive collection of service medals awarded
One of the many cabinets featuring weapons of the period
to Colonel Lucy Giles, who at one time commanded 47 Air Despatch Squadron RLC, balancing out the history between male and female service personnel. The museum is not large when set against the likes of the Tank Museum or the Royal Signal Corps Museum at Blandford, but it has enough to interest all ages during a family visit. For the younger visitors, there are plenty of interactive, touch-screen displays with activities. For older visitors, there are two screens showing film presentations and information boards, full of fascinating facts on things such as the Chinese Labour Corps during WWI. The displays themselves have been carefully selected to present a well-balanced history of the RLC and that of the regiments it incorporated when it was formed in 1993. Visitors will find a second wander around the exhibition reveals some bits which they overlooked the first time around, such as the story of the explosive device developed by Captain Finch, which killed the German pilot Rudolf von Eschwege in WWI.
A few of the thousands of medals in the Medal Room
Weapons enthusiasts will enjoy seeing a cross-section of historical firearms and some of the improvised weapons used during trench raids in WWI. The museum holds a unique collection of horse-drawn General Service wagons, Horse Ambulance and Water Cart, which will be displayed during special event days in the future. Other vehicles include a Humber ‘Pig’ complete with a remote-controlled vehicle called a ‘Wheelbarrow’, which was used for bomb disposal during the ‘troubles’ in Northern Ireland. The field kitchen display shows how army cooks prepare food for the soldiers on operational deployment and reminds visitors that an army marches on its stomach.
Well worth a visit Like other military museums, visitors will make what they will of the exhibition. An average length for a visit would perhaps be around two hours, while others may find much to keep their attention and remain for three hours. This is the part of the army that goes largely unknown, but without the RLC those forces deployed on peacekeeping operations with vehicles would not be able to function. At the time of writing the museum is open, but due to the COVID situation, changes may be implemented. To avoid disappointment it is best to check the website for details (www. royallogisticcorps.co.uk/museum). The museum is planning some events for later in the year and more facilities will open as COVID restrictions are relaxed. This is an excellent museum and one which will certainly grow a following as well as gain a reputation as a place to visit for research purposes or just as an interesting day out. GM JULY 2021 / GUNMART.NET
141
MILITARIA DEALER GUIDE NORTHERN IRELAND
WEST YORKSHIRE
Maryland Country Sports
ESTABLISHED
18A Maryland Industrial Estate Crossnacreery, Moneyreagh County Down BT23 6BL
www.andrewbottomley.com
1968 mail order only
Antique Arms & Armour EMAIL: ASBOTTOMLEY@YAHOO.COM
Tel: 02890 448598
Telephone: 01484 685234 Mobile: 07770 398270
www.maryland-country-sports.co.uk
The Coach House, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 3JJ
CHESHIRE
LEICESTERSHIRE
JC. Militaria
MICHAEL J NOBLE
MILITARY COLLECTABLES BOUGHT AND SOLD
ANYTIME (CLOSED WEDNESDAY) ANTIQUE GUNS NO LICENCE REQUIRED
Single items or collections - free search and valuation service discretion guaranteed.
BUY - SELL - EXCHANGE. Lay-Away Scheme - Deposit Secures. ALL PRICES INCLUDE UK DELIVERY
www.jcmilitaria.com
T: 0161 476 0436 (24hr answer phone & fax) or M: 07786 707191 E.Mail jc.militaria@btinternet.com.
STAFFORDSHIRE All guns are legally de-activated with proof house certificate. Many other de-acts and militaria in stock – please call for details
PO BOX NO 8000, ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH LE65 9AB
01530 411627 STAFFORDSHIRE
NORFOLK
Antique Armoury
BECKETTS
Buy, Sell & Part Exchange: Genuine Antique and Deactivated Guns, Armour, Swords, Daggers, Bayonets, Helmets, Caps, Medals & Militaria
www.saracenexports.com
www.antiquearmouryuk.com
P.O. Box 1927, Gnosall, Stafford ST20 0WB Tel: 01952 691132 Mobile: 07939 226976 Email: sales@saracenexports.com www.saracenexports.com
Contact Dave on: 07964 858098 Email: dave.r.cooper@btinternet.com
77-79 DEREHAM RD NORWICH, NORFOLK NR2 4HT www.armynnavy.com
NORFOLK
LONDON
SURREY
103 HIGH ST, ETON, Nr WINDSOR SL4 6AF
01483 277788 – 07778 008008
We Buy, Sell & Part Exchange Militaria, Deactivated Guns & Replica Weapons For Film & Theatre Use. Military Related Giftware & Collectables Please View Our Websites Or Make An Appointment To Visit Our Shop.
Unit One, Walnut Tree Farm, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2LF
Tel. 01953 454744 www.grahamcurriemilitaria.co.uk www.bcmilitarytreasures.co.uk
SURREY
Tel: 01753 800009 NEAR TO RAIL STATIONS AND M25 – GOOD PARKING
Pete Holder PO Box 1199, Guildford, Surrey GU1 9JR info@peteholder.com
www.peteholder.com
HAMPSHIRE
HAMPSHIRE
Bordon
MILITARY & POLICE Offering a wide range of Vintage and Antique Timepieces, Firearms and other Equipment, formerly used by Professionals. Always a good range of WW1 and WW2 available. Please enquire
8 Midhurst Road, Liphook, Hampshire, GU30 7ED
www.zmwmilitaria.com 07811 327010
Tel: 07435 962825
YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUNS AIRGUN REPAIR SPECIALIST
Tel: 01924 764740 www.yorkshiresportingguns.co.uk
Tel: 01420 478215 Email: britishbobby3@gmail.com
www.britishbobby.co.uk
Your Guide to your local specialist Militaria Dealers You can have one of these spaces
from just £30
Please contact our advertising department now on
01206 506247/506 242/506246
MILITARIA DEALER GUIDE/08.21/a
WEST YORKSHIRE
Collectables
JC. Militaria MILITARY COLLECTABLES BOUGHT AND SOLD Single items or collections - free search and valuation service discretion guaranteed.
BUY - SELL - EXCHANGE. Lay-Away Scheme - Deposit Secures. ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE UK DELIVERY
ANTIQUE & OBSOLETE CALIBRE
Rifle, VG original cond .............................................£1675
C1850 Deane Adams Deane .700 Revolving Rifle Percussion, RARE VGC .........................................£4850
C1885 BSA Snider .577 Cavalry Carbine , WD, 19inch barrel. NSW Cadets....................................£1375
Colt 1855 .56 cal Revolving Rifle, Prize Rifle, Middlesex Rifle Vols. History ...............................£9975
C1865 Rare Maynard Carbine Patt 1851,50 cal Capping BL, & 10 empty cases ......................... £2200
1892 Marlin .32RF Lever Action Rifle , tube mag, excellent action and bore..................................... £1495
C1820.Flintlock Holster Pistol, Probin, London. Dolphin Hammer ........................................................ £895
1799-1803 Dunderdale & Mabson 54 bore Flintlock Pocket Pistol Brass action ..................£575
1850 Scarce, Beattie & Sons Liverpool 50 bore Under hammer boot pistol.................................... £795
1810-1822 Rea London 54 bore Flintlock Pocket Pistol turn off barrel VGC .........................................£575
C 1880 Colt No2 .41RF Derringer London BP proofs, Knuckle Duster Type................................. £925
1872 Adams ,300 Prize Rifle, side lever, break action. Silver engraved plate ...............................£1295
C 1770 English Colcomb London 54 Bore Flintlock Pocket pistol, cannon barrel .............£675
C1830 William Parker .500 cal Percussion Overcoat Pistol, walnut stock. VGC................... £895
C1850 Gough & Bowen steel Frame .38 bore travelling Pistol Octagonal Barrel...................... £695
1741-1804 Henry Nock .650 Flintlock Holster Pistol, 15” overall, London Proof .......................... £995
1850 Cased Deane Adams Deane 54 bore D.A. Spurless Revolver, Accessories .........................£2400
1869-71 .44 Evans Rifle , 1: of15000 Mechanic Falls, Maine. 34 Round Rifle .................................£1875
1860 Patt Colt .44 Army Percussion revolver, all matching dates to 1862, Exc .............................. £2200
Exceptional 1861 Rifled WD Enfield .577 Cavalry Carbine, Saddle bar etc ........................................ £2200
1880 Cased Tranter S.A. 7 shot .32 RF, John Rigby London with Accessories .......................................£1475
1872 BSA .577 MK III Snider Rifle, .577 calibre, two band, excellent bore .................................................£1595
C1850 Pair Ward No 471 80 bore Over & Under Turn Over Perc Pistols ............................................£1900
1880 Webley & Scott Martini Henry .577 x 450
Superb Silver Inlaid & carved Martini Carbine 11 x
EDGED WEAPONS & BAYONETS
Cutlass & Scabbard, Etched ...................................£675
Superb 1803 Flank Officer’s Blue & Gilt Sabre & Scabbard. Original Finish .....................................£2750
Ancient Blade C16th Wakizashi Short Sword by Toyama Suki , & Ko-Gatana .................................£1545
Napoleonic 1796 Yeomanry Cavalry Sabre by Johnston of Bland & Foster ................................... £895 Japanese NCO’s Type 95 Katana, Matching Numbers, Lijima sword Factory.......................... £895 1912 Wilkinson Sword, Silver mounted sword stick, Bamboo cover & etched ............................. £695 Napoleonic Peninsular Wars, 1796 Other Ranks cavalry Sabre & Scabbard. VGC ............................£975
WW2 FS Beaded & Ribbed, 9 x rows beads, Commando Fighting Knife.....................................£975 Original WW2 German Luftwaffe & Fallschirmjaeger Boot Knife & Scabbard .......£395 Napoleonic 1804 Patt Royal Navy Boarding Cutlass with Figure of 8 Guard ........................... £795 Mint WW2 Officer’s Sterile Nickel FS Commando Dagger & Sheath ........................................................£1295
Victorian Berkshire Constabulary / River Police
WW2 2nd Pattern B2 FS Commando Dagger in excellent original cond............................................. £945
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
made by Hiatts. Ovoid steel. VGC ...................... £695
1945 US M2 .30 carbine (Selective Fire) General Motors, Mags, Case, Sling. EU cert .................... £975 WW2 No32 MKI Sniper Scope for the No4(T) Sniper’s Rifle; Excellent order............................. £1650 WW2 & Cold War, Mint Cased seco hand cranked air raid siren, . VERY LOUD ! .............. £795 WW2 Sten MK II, moving parts, T stock, sling, UK/EU cert, very good cond .................................£845 WW2 Sten MK V, moving parts, sling, wood furniture, UK/ EU cert all original....................... £895 C1910 ‘Gladstone’ Pattern Police Riot Shield,
CALL:
1850-70 Giffard 4.5mm / .177 Ball 1st PreCharged air rifle, complete and original........ £975 WW1 Thornton Pickard Lewis Machine Gun Camera, boxed, accessories & mag .................£1975 1970s Cased Original Model 10 Recoilless .177 Target Air Pistol, access & papers ......................£495 1944 US. .30 cal M1 Carbine, General Motors Ltd, moving parts, with UK/EU cert ........................... £795 US Model 1917 MKII Brodie helmet, original liner and chin strap. Excellent condition ...................£375 Colt Model 1903 .32 semi auto pistol, dates to 1910-26. Moving parts & UK/EU cert ................. £695
57R Obsolete. VGC Bore. £975.00 George III .650 16th Light Dragoon Flintlock Pistol, D-16 & Notts Yeomanry ........................................................................£1475 1869 WD Birmingham EIC .700 Dragoon Pistol, captive ramrod. Excellent.....................................£1200 Rare 1856 Patt .577 Perc Cavalry Pistol, rifled barrel Derrington Birmingham ........................£1575 1873 Smiths Patent .32RF 5 shot pocket Revolver, shrouded trigger. Original ......................................£575 US Civil War Savage Revolving Firearms Navy 1st Model .36 Cal Revolver ...........................................£2750 1912 Austro-Hungarian Velo-Dog 5.5mm D?A Revolver, swing out cylinder..................................£675 C1860 Eli Whitney .32 RF Brass Framed S/A 6 shot revolver, shrouded trigger .......................... £695
Colt No3 .41RF nickel Derringer Pistol, excellent original condition .........................................................£675 1894 .32 Long RF A J Stevens ‘Take Down’ Under Lever Hunting / Rook Rifle..................................... £745 1844 Enfield Yeomanry .650 Percussion Cavalry Carbine Saddle Bar ...................................................£1375 1857-1865 US Civil War Burnside .54 calibre Cavalry Carbine with saddle bar ...................... £1495 Spencer Rifle Model 1865 .52 Cal Mint Bore, 7 shot Tube mag. No 563 ..........................................£2750 1870 Dble Percussion Big Game .577 Rifle & 12 bore Shotgun,, Irish Reg.......................................... £995 Model 1862 Sharps .52RF Naval Carbine Leather Covered Barrel All Original ..................................£2250
1843-46 Pair Scottish Form 54b Steel Conv to Perc Pistols. Irish KE-256 Reg ............................ £2450
V. Rare Cased Kerr’s Patent .54 bore SA Perc Revolver LAC Side Hammer ............................... £4950
1860 Deane & Son London Bridge, Adams Patt .38 bore 5 shot Perc Revolver ............................. £1895
Napoleonic Belgian Sea Service .700 Flintlock Royal Navy Pistol Original ...................................... £975
Sharps New Model 1863 .52 Breech Loading Rifle in excellent original cond .................................... £4250
Smith’s 1863 .50 cal Cavalry Carbine Poultney & Trimble Mass. Break Action................................. £1695
Mint Bore 5.5mm Volo Dog Revolver & holster, exceptional condition ............................................... £695
1869 BSA Co Snider .577 Rifle, 3 band, 54 1/2 inch, clean & crisp rifling ....................................................£1275
Napoleonic George III Enfield .650 Light Dragoon Flintlock Pistol, Re-finished ............. £975
1849 Pagett George III .700 Rifled Cavalry Carbine, Tiger Stripe Stock ..................................£2750
1888 Silver Mounted sword Stick Inscribed to Dr Barr, Bury Div Constabulary ................................. £695
Horseman’s Knife by Turner ................................. £745
1897 Presentation Sword 1904 Lt Shaw 6th V.B. Royal Highlanders, Kircaldy .................................. £695
Mint, SOE 1st Type Sterile Escape Tool, as issued, all tools and blades ...................................................£1975
WW2 1827 Patt Naval Sword & Dirk, belts & Provenance Commander Caton ....................... £1200
Rare WW1 Imperial German
Sword Etched,
1796 Wooley & Deakin Improved Steel Napoleonic Sabre & Scabbard. VGC ..................£975
1916 Prussian Blucher 1811 Patt Cavalry Sabre &
1940 Hitler Youth dagger & Scabbard Anton Wingen Solingen RZM. M7/51 ...............................£625
1796 British Officer’s sword, scabbard & Knot.
Wurttemberg Train Battery No13....................... £895
Scabbard, to “.R.R. 18.250” ...................................... £895
Blue & Gilt Excellent ................................................ £1895
Shinto Gawa Shrine Presentation Long Sword, Smith Signed in Shira Saya ................................ £4950
1786 British 5 Ball Spadroon Infantry Officer’s
Boer War cavalry Officer’s Large Multi Blade
Sword, etched blade, Ivory Hilt ........................... £795
Victorian 16th Lancer’s Sabretache Pouch large Victoria Crown Plate, complete .........................£1475
in perfect cond with rare Container ............. £1400
WW1 Trio & Death Plaque & research to Pte Wright 2nd Batt Royal Scots Fusiliers............. £425
WW2 1941 Bren MK 11 LMG, moving slide, mag & trigger, VGC. EU Cert................................................. £795
Inert WW1 French P1 (Pear) Fragmentation Grenade with spoon VGC ....................................... £245
Liverpool Mounted Officer’s Full Dress Plumed
WW2 Inert MKII US Frag Grenade, ‘Pineapple’ complete original yellow paint............................ £345
Boer War MK IV .455 Webley Revolver, Bird’s
Outstanding BSA C 1979 Airsporter S Full Stock (Stutzen) .177 Underlever Air Rifle ..................... £925
WW1 Original Tanker’s Splatter Mask & Ties,
Helmet. Aintree – Grand National ..................... £695
Head Grips, Lanyard Ring. EU Cert ................... £895
Chain Mail Veil in excellent cond ......................£1295
Original Inert 1943 dated Model 1924 German Stick Grenade, Excellent condition....................£575
1918 MK 1 Raw Edge British Brodie helmet and
U Boat 88mm dated 1943 Deck Gun H.E. Round
liner, by H.Long marked FKS 74 ......................... £695
0161 476 0436 | 07786 707191 | EMAIL: jc.militaria@btinternet.com WEB:
www.jcmilitaria.com P/EXS WELCOME AND DEPOSIT SECURES GM08.21/24/g
LARGE BAYONET SECTION NOW ON WEBSITE
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
A unique selection of fine quality collectibles from around the world
New shipment of mixed military weapons now arrived from the States
I specialise in sourcing and selling fine quality collectible arms and armour. In some cases careful restoration may have to be undertaken, but never at the cost of originality.
www.byswordandmusket.co.uk T: 07891 379071 | E: byswordandmusket@hotmail.co.uk
GM07.21/P/a
GM08.21/57/g
NEW SPECIALITY MILITARY RIFLE FACILITY NOW OPEN
Saracen Exports (UK) Ltd
WANTED DE-ACTIVATED WEAPONS WANTED SINGLE ITEMS OR COMPLETE COLLECTIONS Cash waiting, can travel to collect or arrange for courier collection. Discretion assured. Good prices paid. Anything considered, work carried out to bring up to latest specification. Please call or email with details.
P.O. Box 1927 Gnosall Stafford ST20 0WB Email: sales@saracenexports.com Tel: 01952 691132 Mob: 07939 226976 PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR CURRENT STOCK LIST
144
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.20/77/f
www.saracenexports.com
GM08.21/50/f
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
ZMW MILITARIA Vintage & Military Timepieces, Antique Guns and Militaria
WW2 RAF Air Ministry Longines, c.1942 - £790
We Buy, Sell & Part Exchange Militaria, Deactivated Guns & Replica Weapons For Film & Theatre Use. Vintage & Collectable Airguns Bought & Sold. Please View Our Website Or Make An Appointment To Visit Our Shop. Unit One, Walnut Tree Farm, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2LF
Unsigned Officer’s Percussion Pistol, c.1840 ........................£320 Good S&W No.2 Army .32RF Revolver, c.1863.................... £SOLD Good Irish Percussion Pocket Pistol by Calderwood, c.1835 ......... ........................................................................................ £SOLD V.Good 11mm Danish Rolling Block Rifle ........................... £SOLD Constabulary Musket, c.1856 ............................................ £SOLD Tower Coastguard Flintlock Pistol, c.1825 ......................... £SOLD Unissued Light Dragoon Flintlock c.1800 ........................... £SOLD
MILITARY WATCHES Always a good range of WW1 & WW2 Military Timepieces available – Please enquire
Visit our website: www.zmwmilitaria.com
Tel: 07811 327010
PLATOON
GM08.21/14/f
ANTIQUE GUNS Tower GR Coastguard Flintlock Pistol, c.1825.......................£790 Good Webley .32RF Revolver, c.1870....................................£690 Signal Cannon, c.1920 ...................................................... £SOLD Good Parker, Field Police Numbered Coat Pistol, c.1845 .......£750 V.Good 30%+ Starr DA Martial Marked .44 Army, c.1865 .... £SOLD Good London Percussion Revolver, c.1855 ...........................£590 Sleepy Ordnance Marked Light Dragoon Flintlock, c.1800 .. £SOLD Mint Unissued EIG Percussion Pistol, c.1871 ........................£995
Tel. 01953 454744 www.grahamcurriemilitaria.co.uk
GM08.21/64/a
Excellent Brace of W. Parker Public Office Type Flintlock Pistols, c.1800 - £1200
SUPPLIERS OF: SURPLUS CLOTHING • HISTORICAL & MODERN MILITARY COLLECTABLES • NO CATALOGUE AVAILABLE MAIL ORDER • ENQUIRIES WELCOME
TEL: 0161 764 5195
mob: 07977 638080 platoon1barry@outlook.com UNIT 40, ALBION MILL, ALBION STREET, BURY, LANCS. BL8 2AE
Prop: B. Ryan
GM08.21/39/a
THE OLD BRIGADE
POSTAL ADDRESS: C/O Jubilee House, 32 Duncan Close, Moulton Park, Northampton NN3 6WL, England.
Tel: 01604 719389 stewart@theoldbrigade.co.uk theoldbrigade@btconnect.com One of England’s leading dealers of original Third Reich collectors items, uniforms, medals, daggers, swords and flags etc. Also a good selection of English antique military head dress, antique guns, swords and other military collectors items.
We always have a good selection of WW2 German daggers and swords for sale with over 100 to choose from.
A fine selection of German WW2 badges, medals and awards always available.
We always have a good selection of Antique guns available
www.theoldbrigade.co.uk
where you will find a large & interesting selection of original Third Reich and Antique Militaria for sale. 146
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/25/a
Please visit our web site:
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
WATERLOO MILITARIA
American Winchester 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine. Retains a lot of original finish, with nice wooden stock. .38 WCF calibre which is deactivated to modern spec and comes with certificate length 98 cm ....... £1,100
WW1 German Pilots Helmet WW1 German leather flight cap for pilots. This one has the throat and neck protection it is in used but good condition the leather is in supple condition...............£225
A very rare Georgian Troop jacket. Scarlet melton cloth body, black velvet facings, trimmed with silver wire braid. 38 gilded brass buttons to front, engraved with “DYT”, a further two secure chained shoulder wings and two to rear skirt. Velvet cuffs show floral designed buttons. Right sleeve shows a velvet chevron. Lining of the jacket is a course cotton ...... £2,750
Incorporating Section 1&2 – Guns & Ammunition – Airguns – Antique, Flintlock, Percussion & Deactivated Guns – Swords – Bayonets and other Militaria Collectables Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines Road East, Sunbury-on-Thames TW16 5AQ
Georgian Light Company Officers Sword
Easy access off M3/M25, Ample FREE Parking, Trains to Kempton Park, Premier Inn/Travelodge, on and off site ATMs, Hot/Cold Food/Drinks available.
Georgian light company officers sword. A scarce example, having a polished steel blade which shows remnants of engraving. Brass lion headed hilt, knuckle bow and front langet has an applied silver light infantry bugle. Wooden grip is shagreen covered and wire bound, some shagreen missing .......... £610
ALL DATES BELOW ARE OPEN AIR
WW1 RFC Officers Belt
1st August, 5th September PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK & WEBSITE PAGES BEFORE MAKING ANY TRAVEL PLANS TO THE FAIR. TRADE ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:
First World War “Sam Brown” belt which has been very well converted by its original owner to take a buckle. The brass buckle has an applied RFC cap badge and the owner has embossed his name to one of the leather sliders “J.Gale”. Condition is very good, with the leather being quite supple. ............................................................£320
Gary Lawrence 07935 324562/01708 500994
WWW.WATERLOOMILITARIA.COM
info@kemptonclassicarmsfair.co.uk www.kemptonclassicarmsfair.co.uk
GM08.21/38/g
Winchester 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine
Doddington Yeomanry Troop Jacket
GM08.21/86/f
A very rare Georgian guidon, the blue silk body painted with opposing red dragons and the regimental titles DENBIGHSHIRE YC, all within laurel wreaths, the Prince of Wales feathers centred within a laurel and oak leaf wreath. Opposing side painted to match, silver bullion trim, 91 x 53cm. Professionally conserved and framed. Losses and wear. Circa 1799 ..................................................... £3,550
GM08.21/16/f
Denbighshire Yeomanry Cavalry Guidon
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
147
Visit our website: www.andrewbottomley.com ESTABLISHED 1968
ANDREW BOTTOMLEY ANTIQUE ARMS & ARMOUR EMAIL: ASBOTTOMLEY@YAHOO.COM
T: 01484 685234 | M: 07770 398270 MAIL ORDER ONLY A rare South Indian spiked axe 18th-19th century, covered with inlaid silver decoration & flowers.
£1,650
Ref 8093
A very long Balkan or Greek Miquelet flintlock pistol, elaborate silver work, rat-tail shaped butt, early 19th century.
£2,850
Ref 8989
A rare iron barrelled English flintlock blunderbuss, top spring bayonet, by P. Bond, Cornhill, London. Circa 1794-1816.
£2,900
Ref 8990
A scarce pair of Balkan or Greek Miquelet pistols, stocks covered with silvered decoration, rat-tail shaped butts.
£4,350
Ref 9000
A rare French Napoleonic era, light cavalry sabre. Circa 1811-1815. Good condition.
An American Moores patent teat-fire 32 rf. revolver Circa 1864 1870
A scarce Russian or Turkish very long Miquelet pistol with a ball butt, well used condition.
A rare double-barrelled. turn-over percussion pistol by T Lowe, Chester. Circa 1830.
£1,950 Ref 9003
£600 Ref 9766
£1,650 Ref 9774
£840 Ref 9795
A high quality, extremely long, 17th century Spanish Cup hilt Rapier with a very deep bowl .
An English flintlock box-lock pistol by Elliott Co., London Circa 1810.
An English single-shot 46 cal. percussion box-lock pocket pistol with brass frame. Circa 1840.
A rare 18th century British Military spear-point bayonet. For Durrsegg flintlock carbine .
£5,950 Ref 2497
£700 Ref 2895
£380 Ref 2971
£1,950 Ref 3144
A rare, decorated iron main gauche or left-hand dagger. Manufactured in Toledo. Circa 1880.
An English single-barreled percussion pistol by Smith of London. Circa 1835.
A scarce single-shot 60 cal., British percussion pistol by J Tarratt, London. Circa 1830.
A scarce 19th century greek Miquelet pistol, heavily chased with nickel silver decoration.
£590 Ref 3168
£860 Ref 3200
£950
Ref 3157
£1,950
Ref 3205
ANTIQUE WEAPONS ALWAYS WANTED Email: ASBOTTOMLEY@YAHOO.COM
ANTIQUE WEAPONS ALWAYS WANTED FOR SALE … BY MAIL ORDER ONLY – FREE UK DELIVERIES
£380
Ref 3267
A very rare 17th century English Mortuary basket Hilt sword.
£3,800
Ref 3306
A superb example of a London Colt, model 1851 36, Navy percussion revolver. Circa 1853.
£12,850
Ref 3345
Extremely rare, 75cal, Napoleonic British sea service, Tower GR flintlock musket. Circa 1800.
£4,200
Ref 3385
A rare revolutionary war era Dragoons or horsemans Basket hilt sword. Circa 1750.
£2,850
Ref 3305
A very fine authentic antique Scottish Highland Dirk, mounted with Amber Cairngorm stones.
£1,400
Ref 3268
A rare Scottish Basket hilt sword. Circa 1830 1860.
£1,950
Ref 3320
A rare double-action Tranter style 6-shot, 38 cal, rimfire revolver by Westley Richards.
£1,450
Ref 3359
A long continental flintlock pistol with 13 inch decorati ve barrel. Circa 1800.
£1,500
Ref 3387
A superb and extremely rare 14-15th century European medieval, knightly sword.
£16,500
Ref 3414
A rare antique English silver hilted small sword. Dated London. 1721.
£1,850
Ref 3269
A good Belgian 6-shot double action, 9mm pinfire revolver, with silver inlay. Circa 1865.
£950
Ref 3336
A scarce US Civil war era, 5-shot 32 rimfire tip-up revolver by Smith & Wesson. Circa 1865 1875.
£950
Ref 3371
A rare Napoleonic era French Military flintlock pistol. Dating from circa 1777-1815.
£2,850
Ref 3394
A fine, silver mounted, brass framed flintlock Cannon barrel pistol by Bunney, London. Circa 1780.
£2,250
Ref 3419
A rare Tranter bronze frame 7-shot 36 cal. rimfire revolver. Circa 1875. Action at fault.
£950
Ref 3291
A very rare and possibly unique! antique silver, hilt small sword. Circa 1740.
£2,850 Ref 3339 An interesting 19th century Jambya dagger with silver mounted scabbard.
£750
Ref 3378
A good transitional Rapier . Circa 1640-1660. Probably English.
£1,600
Ref 3304
An extremely rare, two trigger, 5-shot 32 percussion revolver by E Whitney. Circa 1852-1854.
£2,750
Ref 3422
Visit our website: www.andrewbottomley.com
GM08.21/54/a
A scarce Military Scottish Sgian duhb with the badge of the Argyle Sutherland Highlanders.
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
RE-ENACTMENT
A replica M3A1 in use during a battle re-enactment
The US Army’s M3A1 37mm Anti-Tank Gun John Norris takes a detailed look at an AT gun from the USA When America entered WWII in December 1941, the anti-tank gun the army had taken into service only two years earlier as the 37mm calibre M3, was already obsolete. It was not a question of poor weapon design, but rather the development of the heavier armour fitted to German tanks, which defeated the calibre of the ammunition being used. To be fair, in the immediate pre-war years, no one could have predicted how powerful tanks would become and few armies had anti-tank guns with a calibre heavier than 37mm, which included the German PaK 36. However, not all was lost when it was discovered that it could defeat Japanese tanks, which were notorious for having only light armour, which the 37mm ammunition could defeat. The gun was also put into a secondary role as a means to ‘snipe’ against Japanese pillboxes and machine gun sites using the HE ammunition. The first major combat commitment for the US Army was the invasion of North Africa, ‘Operation Torch’ in November 1941, and it was during the campaign which followed that the M3 anti-tank gun, or rather the ammunition, showed a lack of ‘punch’ when it failed against German tanks.
Updates By the time of the operation the gun had already undergone some modifications, which included 150
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
the fitting of a muzzle brake to try to reduce the recoil, leading to it being designated the M3A1. However, it was often removed, something which comes through in wartime photographs. A new two-wheeled carriage was also designed for the gun, this being the M4A1, fitted with a clutch on the traverse mechanism, allowing the gun to be freely swung by hand. Despite these changes, the decision was taken to remove it from the theatre of operations and during the European campaign in 1944 it had a very limited role.
Specifications The length of the gun barrel was 6ft-10, but taking into account the legs of the split trail carriage meant that the overall length measured in at 12ft-10. The width was approximately 5ft-3 and the height to the top of the gun shield was around
3ft-2. The total weight of the gun in action was 912lbs. The M3A1 was operated by a crew of four to six men and the breech mechanism was a handoperated, vertical sliding blocktype with percussion firing. The barrel could be elevated between -10 and +15° with a 30° arc of traverse. Its light weight meant it could be towed by a Jeep or a Dodge ‘Weapons Carrier’, either of which could carry the crew and ammunition ready for use. The maximum range given, very optimistically, was around 1,300 yards, while the maximum effective range was given, more realistically, as 500 yards. Several different types of fixed ammunition were developed for the M3A1 gun, measuring 37mm in calibre and 223mm in length, which included training rounds, however, only five main types were used in action against targets. The first were anti-tank rounds, which included the M-74
RE-ENACTMENT
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
BOOKSHELF
A jeep showing how the M3A1 was towed into action
Armour-Piercing-Tracer (AP-T) and the M-51 Armour-Piercing Cap Ballistic Capped-Tracer (APCBC-T). Both of them weighed 3.3lbs complete with the projectile weighing 1.9lbs. They reached a muzzle velocity of 2,900 FPS with the M-74 penetrating up to 53mm of armour at 500 yards and the M-51 defeating 61mm at the same range. The performance dropped off considerably at longer ranges, but overall remained comparable to other guns of a similar calibre. The high explosive (HE) ammo included the M-63 and the MkII shells, which weighed 3.1lbs and 2.7lbs respectively as complete rounds. These could be used against soft targets such as trucks and machine-gun positions. The projectile of the M-63 weighed 1.6lbs and contained just over 1oz of TNT, while the MkII one came in at 1.2lbs and housed approximately
1oz of TNT. Lastly, the canister anti-personnel weighed 3.4lbs and fired a 1.9lb projectile filled with 122 steel balls. Delivered at a muzzle velocity of 2,500 FPS, like a shotgun shell, the pattern of the steel balls spread out to rip through the dense jungle vegetation on the Pacific islands, such as Iwo Jima, Saipan and Tarawa. The effective range was 250 yards and at close range would have been devastating. Versions of the 37mm calibre gun were developed as armament for armoured cars and light tanks, such as the M-3 ‘Honey' and M-5 ‘Stuart’. The M3A1 could be used with extemporised mounts to fire from light vehicles, including the Jeep and M-3 White halftracks. A small number of the towed versions were supplied to Britain and the Soviet Union. After the war, several countries including Nicaragua, Bolivia and
A battle re-enactment display with blank-firing M3A1 guns in action
TITLE: SAS Combat Vehicles 1942-91 AUTHOR: Gavin Mortimer PUBLISHER: Osprey, Oxford ISBN: 9781472846808 PRICE: £11.99 During the course of its history, the SAS has used a wide range of vehicles for operations from the Austin Champ to the Jeep and the Land Rover series. All types used during the 50 year period covered in this well written and superbly illustrated book will please modellers as a reference source. Of all the vehicle types used by the SAS, the regiment will always be known for the development of the ‘Pink Panther’ version of the Land Rover, and this gets good coverage. The author explains how the vehicles were used as a weapons platform in the hit and run tactics used in the desert and Europe during WWII. He continues the story into the 1990s and the operations conducted by the SAS into Iraq against the SCUD missile launching sites. Vehicles are not always driven directly into combat, sometimes they have to be delivered by parachute and landing craft, and these means are also featured.
TITLE: The M4 Carbine AUTHOR: Chris McNab PUBLISHER: Osprey, Oxford ISBN: 9781472842275 PRICE: £13.99 Since the M-16 rifle was introduced into service with the American army during the Vietnam War, the basic design has inspired the development of many similar-looking weapons. One of these is the M4 Carbine, as the author reminds the reader very early on in this well-researched book. It is pointed out in the text that the M4 Carbine is not without its faults and it has become the subject of debate on the many forums to be found on the internet. The author has sifted through this mass of information, as well as drawing on his own personal experience, to produce this monograph, which will satisfy weapons enthusiasts from shooters to collectors. The text examines the weapon stage by stage and its ballistic capabilities to explain why it has become the preferred weapon of choice of many close protection teams and elite military forces. As explored in this book, it is the weapon’s ability to function in extreme climates that has led to it being widely adopted by the military, including the Danish, Israeli and Australian armies. AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
151
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
RE-ENACTMENT
A jeep and replica M3A1 gun at Saunton Sands in Devon, which was the site of a wartime training area for US troops
A replica M3A1 gun with a display of replica ammunition
A Dodge Weapon Carrier towing a replica M3A1 to a battle re-enactment event
France continued the use the gun throughout the 1950s. A total of 18,702 M3A1 guns were built by Watervliet Arsenal, with carriages being produced by the Rock Island Arsenal.
Availability Like all weapons, the M3A1 and its ammunition types have become of interest to collectors and re-enactors for use in static displays. Original examples of the gun, which have been renovated or require attention are available through specialist websites. The different types of ammunition with identification colours are also available. It amounts to the old words of wisdom to first look around at what is being offered. If owning an original example is outside your budget, then there is
A replica M3A1 37mm anti-tank gun being towed by a Jeep on a road-run convoy
152
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
The traversing gear and breech look very authentic
always a replica alternative, and several companies are making the M3A1 and other similar weapons. Made from sheet steel, these are very passable copies, which can fit into a static display or even a liveaction battle re-enactment. Some vehicle owners have an example of the gun, either replica or real, which they attach to their Jeeps or Dodge WC-51 ‘Weapons Carrier’ and reproduce an authentic image straight from WWII. The effect gives modellers a great photo opportunity and weapon enthusiasts something to remember, also. When seen as part of a convoy on a ‘road run’, the combination is like looking back into the past. Collectors who specialise in ammunition can purchase examples of the different types either from online traders or at a militaria fair, where dealers will have items. The chance of picking up training manuals or other documentation
connected with the gun is always something to look for. Because of its history, the M3A1 gun is a versatile piece of kit that can be included in various displays to depict different theatres of war, including North Africa, the Pacific with the US Marines, Sicily 1943 or Europe. It can also be used by groups depicting the WWII Russian army or even the British army. Replica versions can be modified to mount on vehicles such as the M3 half-track, to show it in another role. For groups depicting post-war conflicts, for example, the French army at Dien Bien Phu during the 1950s Indo-China War, the gun can fit in with such a display. There are some very good replicas available, along with ammunition, which might just tempt some groups to consider including an M3A1 anti-tank gun in their displays. It is a possibility, but in the meantime, we will just have to wait and see. GM
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
COLT Excellent condition Colt Model 1860 Richards conversion s/n 2392 in obsolete 44 Colt ...................POR Rare Colt Model 1848 Baby Dragoon s/n 9002 with desirable 6" barrel, very good con. ........£4,500.00 British proofed Von Oppen marked Colt 1865 Pocket Navy revolver s/n 13889L, 6 ½" ...........£2,250.00 Cased Colt 1849 London Pocket revolver s/n 9379 with 6" barrel, small trigger-guard. ..........£3,200.00 Early, cased Hartford London Dragoon s/n 3 with hand engraved “SAML COLT” address ................POR Colt Model 1849 percussion revolver s/n 272028/L (1865) with 6" barrel ................................. £1,200.00 Colt Model 1849 percussion revolver s/n 306227 (1868) with 5" barrel .................................... £1,250.00 Colt Model 1851 Navy percussion revolver s/n 177906 in fine to excellent condition ...............£5,500.00 Frame, hammer, trigger, grip-strap, trigger-guard & grips of Colt London Pocket s/n 5334..........£500.00 Rare six shot Colt 1849 Pocket percussion revolver s/n 275998, 4" barrel in ex. con ..............£3,500.00 Factory engraved .32 Rimfire New Line revolver s/n 9045. Plated with pearl grips.................£3,500.00 Factory engraved .30 Rimfire New Line revolver s/n 1274. Plated with pearl grips. .................£3,500.00 British proofed Colt No 1 deringer s/n 2823 in obsolete .41 calibre. Nice condition ..................£1,350.00 Excellent cased Colt 1849 London Pocket percussion revolver s/n 2659 with 4" barrel ......... £6,000.00 1851 Great Exhibition cased engraved Colt 1851 Square-back Navy revolver s/n 3550......................POR Near mint Colt 1855 Model 2 Root percussion revolver s/n 16731. Deserves to be cased ..........£4,000.00 Rare cased British-proofed Colt Model 1860 Richards conversion s/n 198459. Ex. con ............£10,000.00 Colt Model 1873 SAA s/n 268825 with 4 ¾" barrel in obsolete 41 Colt .....................................£3,500.00 Colt Old House Model “Jim Fisk Model” five shot .41 rimfire revolver s/n 9395. Nice con .........£2,500.00 Colt No1 deringer s/n 2385. Very fine and rare pistol in nice condition. Traces of finish ..............£1,150.00 Colt No1 deringer s/n 3088 with original leather holster. Very attractive in excellent con. ......... £2,750.00 Low numbered & British proofed Colt No2 deringer s/n 65 in good condition ............................£900.00 Very rare Colt First Type No3 deringer s/n 928 with raised bolster in very good con ............. £2,000.00 Brit-proofed Colt No 3 Thuer derringer s/n 37528. Nickel-plated with two-piece grips. Ex.............£875.00 Very rare, factory engraved Colt No 3 Thuer derringer with two-piece ivory grips. .................£3,250.00 SMITH & WESSON S&W Model 1 ½ Second Issue revolver s/n 101207. Nickel finish ..................................................£900.00 Civil War period S&W No 2 Army .32 rimfire revolver s/n 34329 in very fine condition ............£1,975.00 S&W Model 1 ½ Second Issue revolver s/n 87489. Nickel finish with rare short barrel ............ £1,250.00 REMINGTON Martially inspected Remington Model 1871 Army Rolling Block pistol in minty condition ............£3,000.00 Remington Over & Under derringer s/n 465. Plated with hard rubber grips. Very nice................£1,200.00 Near mint No. 3 Remington-Hepburn rifle s/n 4509. 28" oct. bbl. In obsolete 38/40 RH ........... £3,750.00 WINCHESTER Engraved Winchester Model 1866 under-lever rifle s/n 36072B. Very good condition ............£8,750.00 Minty Winchester Model 1885 High Wall rifle s/n 63850 in 40/82. Half round/oct. 30" ...........£3,000.00 Winchester Mod 1886 rifle s/n 83628 manu circa 1894 in 38/56 calibre, 23" oct. barrel .........£2,850.00 OTHER AMERICAN MANUFACTURERS Sharps carbine s/n 74682 ............................................................................................................ £1,900.00 Swedish contract Remington Rolling Block carbine s/n 2511 and marked 1869 ....................... £1,000.00 Rare Whitney Navy percussion revolver in .36 calibre. Very nice condition..............................£2,250.00 Near mint special order Marlin 1893 rifle s/n 330802 in 32/40 calibre. Short mag. 26" ......... £6,000.00 Excellent Manhattan Firearms Co. percussion Navy revolver s/n 15447. Much original finish ........£2,100.00 Engraved Moore’s Patent Firearms Co. 7 shot revolver s/n 1748 with 5" barrel. 32 RF............£2,500.00 Engraved Moore’s Patent Firearms Co. 7 shot revolver s/n 7629 with 4" barrel. 32 RF...........£2,250.00 Rare Sharps Model 1874 Sporting rifle s/n 154776 in obsolete 40 cal. Excellent con ...............£7,500.00 ENGLISH & EUROPEAN Lefaucheux (French Brevete) single action pinfire revolver s/n 80105 .........................................£900.00 Uncased pair of flintlock pistols by Mortimer of London, in excellent original condition .........£5,250.00 Mauser Model 1878 zig-zag cylinder revolver s/n 2077, 5 ½" barrel, in obsolete 10.4mm cal ......£5,500.00 BOWIE KNIVES Bowie knife “Taylors Celebrated Witness”, with stag horn grip ............................................ £100.00 Bowie knife by Unwin & Rodgers of Sheffield .21.25cm blade with scabbard ......................£250.00 George Woodhead, Sheffield clip-point bowie knife with half horse/half alligator pommel .............. ............................................................................................................................................... £4,000.00 POWDER FLASKS Dixon & Sons bag-type powder flask with lanyard ring in excellent condition ................£600.00 Dixon flask with charger for Colt Model 1849 Pocket stamped “COLTS POCKET FLASK” .....£850.00 Pocket flask by Hawksley with double curvature, embossed eagle & “E Pluribus Unum.”....£500.00
POWDER FLASKS (continued) Sykes Patent bag-type powder flask with lanyard ring for Pocket revolvers. Ex con .........£450.00 American one sided “COLTS/PATENT” eagle & shield pocket flask with crossed pistols ................... ....................................................................................................................................................£1,450.00 Very rare double sided Colt Dragoon plunger flask, marked “COLTS/PATENT”. Ex. con ..........POR Unusual, American small powder flask for Colt 1855 Root percussion revolver or similar ............ ........................................................................................................................................... £1,200.00 Near mint Peacock flask, for Colt 1855 Root percussion revolver / small calibre revolvers .......... ........................................................................................................................................... £1,450.00 One sided American eagle & shield pocket flask, crossed pistols, laurel branch & spears ........... ..............................................................................................................................................£550.00 Rare powder flask embossed with a Colt Baby Dragoon percussion revolver with lever....£500.00 American eagle & shield pocket flask, crossed pistols and embossed “COLTS/PATENT”............. ..............................................................................................................................................£550.00 Double sided American eagle & shield pocket flask, crossed pistols, laurel branch & spears ...... ..............................................................................................................................................£900.00 Minty double sided American eagle & shield pocket flask, crossed pistols, laurels & spears ....... ..............................................................................................................................................£900.00 Rare Peacock flask, for Colt 1855 Root percussion revolver or small calibre revolvers .... £650.00 Rare Peacock flask, for Colt 1855 Root percussion revolver or small calibre revolvers .....£975.00 Dixon flask with charger for Colt Pocket Navy / Police stamped “COLTS POCKET FLASK”........... .......................................................................................................................................... £2,000.00 Small Dixon & Sons, bag-type powder flask, for small bore British percussion revolvers.... £450.00 GUN CASES Original walnut case for a 5" Colt Model 1849 Pocket percussion revolver .............................. £1,500.00 Original American walnut case for a 5" Colt 1849 Pocket percussion revolver......................... £1,800.00 Deluxe brass-bound walnut case for a 4" Colt 1849 Pocket percussion revolver .................... £2,000.00 Original walnut case for a 4" Colt Model 1849 Pocket percussion revolver ...............................£1,750.00 MOULDS .44 Brass bow leg mould with iron sprue-cutter for Colt Third Model Dragoon ........................ £1,000.00 “WAT” inspected brass bow-legged 44 mould with iron spruecutter for 3rd Model Dragoon ..£1,750.00 “WAT” inspected brass straight-legged 44 Colt Dragoon mould with iron spruecutter............£2,500.00 9215 “W.A.T.” inspected 36 calibre mould, sprue-cutter stamped “COLT’S / PATENT” for Colt Navy ...... ....................................................................................................................................................... £1,000.00 REFERENCE BOOKS (PRICES ON BOOKS INCLUDE 2ND CLASS SHIPPING WITHIN UK) “Colt Peacemaker British Model” by Keith Cochran. 1989. Including shipping within UK..............£27.50 “Colt’s SAA Post War Models” by George Garton. First edition 1979 ............................................. £35.00 CAP TINS Large Eley Bros 500 count primers tin, for a Colt Thuer revolver circa 1868. No primers...........£600.00 Eley Bros, London 250 count percussion cap tin for Colt Thuer revolver. No primers .................£150.00 GUN GRIPS Pair of chequered walnut grips for a Colt New Service D/A Target revolver. Ex con ...................£400.00 Original one-piece walnut grips for Colt Model 1849 Pocket percussion revolver.......................£400.00 Original two-piece walnut grips for Colt No3 Thuer pistol ............................................................ £275.00 MISCELLANIA Unnamed circular brass percussion pistol capper. Two inch diameter. Ex. con ..........................£200.00 Miniature Paterson single cavity bullet mould to case one round ball. Excellent con ................... £75.00 OIL BOTTLES Pewter oil bottle by “G & J.W Hawksley. 40mm x 20mm. Top diameter 25mm. Ex con ..............£175.00 GUN HOLSTERS Right-handed “Mexican Loop” holster for a 4 3/4" or 5 1/2" Colt single action revolver ..............£500.00 Brown leather flap holster for Colt Model 1860 Army percussion revolver ................................... £450.00 Brown leather flap holster for Colt Model 1908 .25 semi auto pistol .............................................. £80.00 Military style, black leather flap holster for Colt Model 1860 London army revolver ..................£1,500.00 Two brown leather holsters and cartridge belt ................................................................................ £50.00 British style, right handed brown leather flap holster for a Colt New Line in .38 or .41 cal ...........£150.00 “California” pattern fully beaded, right handed holster for Colt 1873 SAA revolver................... £1,000.00 Brown leather holster for Colt Double Action .32 Pocket revolver with 3 ½" or 4 " barrel ..............£75.00
The above is just part of my list of antique and licensed guns that are for sale. Please telephone with regards to other items and any specific or special request.
Call
Pete Holder Telephone 01483 277788 AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
GM08.21/44/f
Address: PO BOX 1199, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 9JR Mobile: 07778 008 008 email: info@peteholder.com 153
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
• MILITARIA S.K.S SOVIET CARBINE DEE AC. “new” with certificate £300-00 built in bayonet sling WW1 Springfield rifle Dee ac with bayonet no sling. £400. Call 01928 08/21/g 727653. Chester. • DEACT SALE 5MG 5SMG 7 RIFLES 4 PISTOLS mixed UK and stamped including MG42 1944 dated old (UK) spec MG42 1944 dated old (UK) spec MG34 1937 dated old (UK) spec MP44 1944 dated old (UK) spec. Other rare items list on request breaking up collection. Please contact Box No: 2000, Gun Mart Magazine, please email your interest to vanessa.english@ 08/21/g aceville.co.uk.
THE WIDEST RANGE OF UK LEGAL DEACTS IN THE UK CONSTANTLY UPDATED STOCK THE BEST RANGE OF MILITARIA AND INERT AMMO FROM ALL ERAS IN THE UK
• SUPERB ANTIQUE WEBLEY RIC 442. centrefire revolver, early-model, handsome scroll-engraving, nickel-plated, oak-cased with all-tools, lovely-gun, decent-price £3,250. Remington Derringer 41. rimfire pistol, made 1880’s-1890’s 100% nickle -plated, replacement lucite-grips £925 ono. Distinguished service-cross medal, USA For Valour Superb! £50 Age of the gunfighter 1844-1900, Hugh-book printed 2000 £20. Call 07526 657737. Cardiff, 08/21/g South Wales.
LARGE COLLECTION OF OBSOLETE CALIBRE, AIRSOFT, RELICS, AND ANTIQUE WEAPONS GUNS DEACTIVATED BY US WITH MANY MOVING PARTS THE VERY BEST STANDARD IN THE UK
• COUNTRY MAN WOULD LIKE, LOOKING FOR, somewhere in Suffolk to do pigeon shooting, crops or wood, experienced shooter for over 40 years. Ex farm, willing to pay for. Call 07851 08/21/g 892699. Suffolk. • SWEDISH ARMY WW2 DATED 1942 monocular and binoculars both in leather cases complete with leather carrying straps and sun lenses both in good condition monocular £75 binoculars £100. Call: 01162 865772 or 07774 168595. 08/21/g Cosby, Leicester.
ENTIRE COLLECTIONS AND SINGLE ITEMS BOUGHT HUGE RANGE OF SECTION 5 AND 7 GUNS AVAILABLE
• THE HAYES HANDGUN OMNIBUS BOOK, Featuring antique and modern pistols, printed 2008, colour-photos, huge book! £50. The Illustrated Book of Pistols, printed 1979, by Frederick Wilkinson, large hardbeck £20. 5 great books on antique pistols/rifles sporting guns, £50 all. Remington-Rider 30 rimfire conversion revolver, made 1870’s, gutta-percha grips £700. Call 07526 657737. Cardiff, 08/21/g South Wales.
ALL RFD AND SECTION 5 GUNSMITH WORK CONSIDERED CALL FOR DETAILS
01342 837 766
• ANY UNMADE PLASTIC MODEL KITS WANTED. Armour, aircraft, cars etc also 1/6th model action figures, RAF and flying items write 27-A The Grove Biggin Hill Kent TN16 37A. Call 07973 885754. Kent. 08/21/g
07782 188 138 sales@dandbmilitaria.com www.dandbmilitaria.com
GM08.21/20/f
• WANTED DEACTIVATED COLT PYTHON. Must be blue with 6 inch barrel in nice condition. Please call Tony on 07/21/a 01282 438947. Burnley, Lancs.
154
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
To advertise in ANTIQUES & MILITARIA please call Vanessa on 01206 506247
ADVERTISERS All advertisement copy must be received prior to the date shown below.
COPY DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 EDITION IS GM08.21/7/a
• SUSSEXARMOURY.COM Medieval Arms and Armour, Re-enactor quality, Japanese Sword Fittings, and unusual items . . . showroom by appointment only. emponetbartonbeach@gmail.com, www.sussexarmoury.com or call Graham on 07831 635786. (P) 07.21/66/a
23rd July 2021 21/23 Phoenix Ct, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY.
Tel: 01206 506247
COPY DEADLINES • PIGEON SHOOTING WANTED OVER CROPS or wood, experienced guns for over 40 years, willing to pay per day. Call 08/21/g 07851 892699. Suffolk. • REMINGTON 38 RIMFIRE “POLIEMODEL” conversion revolver, made early 1800’s. 98% nickel plated, great Rosewood grips, really nice £1,000. Age of The Gunfighter 1844-1900, printed 2000, very large hardback book, excellent! £20. Tranter 38 rimfire revolver, made 1866, 90% blued, in original walnut case, cleaning rod, very nice £1,425. Call 07526 07/21/a 657 737. Cardiff. • WANTED BAYONETS, DAGGERS, SWORDS, Antique weapons and all Militaria single items or whole collections purchased. Call 01635 628624 or 07554 07/21/a 444 956. Will travel. Berkshire. • ANY RAF, AERONAUTICAL AND AIRLINE items wanted. Books, models, toys, uniform, diecast toys, plastic kits, airfix models, 1/6th action figures. All wanted. Kit collections collected. Contact 07973 885 754. Write to 27A The Grove, Biggin Hill, Kent TN16 3TA. 07/21/a Email: davidsutton16@aol.com • ONE 120MM MOBAT ROUND CASE & war head and 120mm Tank round. Collection please. Small mark on Mobat case owing to firing, £50. Call 01757 07/21/a 740585. Selby. • FIVE GREAT HARD-BACK BOOKS ON ANTIQUE Pistols and Rifles and Sporting Guns. Original dustjackets on four of them, £50. All The Hayes Hand Gun Omnibus book printed 2008, Antique and Modern Hand Guns, colour photos, huge book! Great mint, £50. The English Revolver A Collector’s Guide, printed 2014, colour photos, great book! Mint, £30. Call 07526 657737. Wales. 06/21/f • FRITUM 6MM BLANK FIRER £125. Belgium .230 Centre Fire Revolver. Early 1900s. Obsolete calibre £375. Umarex Brigader MOD 95 Semi Auto 8mm Blank Firer £200. Call Tony 07539518535. North East. 06/21/f • EXCHANGE 2 Uberti nickel plated blank firing revolvers 4 3/4 & 7 1/2 inch barrels, for Uberti 1851 old model and 1861 new model inert revolvers or whatever you have to offer. John 07904 091186. 05/21/f
• VINTAGE AIR RIFLES and Air pistols wanted. Also old signs, pellets and related items, collections purchased, Antique flintlock and percussions. Guns also wanted. Will travel. Tel: 01908 526666 / Mob: 07831 398114. (P)
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
WEST STREET ANTIQUES www.antiquearmsandarmour.com
GM078.21/36/a
Email: weststant@aol.com Tel: 01306 883487
GM08.21/34A/a
Quality English Flintlock & Percussion Firearms, & Edged Weapons bought and sold
Please mention
HERTFORDSHIRE MILITARIA & MEDAL FAIR Sunday 8th August 2021 RICKMANSWORTH SCHOOL, SCOTS HILL, RICKMANSWORTH, HERTFORDSHIRE WD3 3AQ
10.00am - 2.00pm FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CALL:
01438 - 811657 or 01923 - 448903
www.hertfordshiremilitariamedalfair.com
GM08.21/79/g
SOVEREIGN ARMS FAIRS when responding to advertisements
SEE US AT THE KEMPTON VINTAGE AND CLASSIC ARMS FAIR
Sunday 1st August (Check with Organisers) Always something interesting for shooters and collectors ANTIQUE GUNS FOR SALE. NO LICENSE REQUIRED
Ready to emerge from lockdown?
Good Colt Roots Side hammer USA cased revolver .................................... £4,500 Rare Experimental Minie Rifle Crimea Era ................................................... £2,950 Very good Colt Navy Revolver .36 Calibre ................................................... £2,950 Very Good USA Cased Colt Pocket 1849 31 Calibre .................................... £3,200 Excellent Remington Rider percussion revolver ...........................................£1,600 Outstanding 54 Bore Deane & Harding Revolver .........................................£3,750 Excellent Winchester Low Wall Rifle 32/40 calibre..................................... £3,400 Very Good Stevens Rifle with original scope 25/20 calibre ........................ £2,600 Cased Adams 54 Bore revolver with accessories........................................ £4,500 Outstanding Wilson brass Flintlock Boarding pistol w/bayonet c1800 ....... £2,650 Very good pattern 1842 Indian Mutiny Musket ............................................... £650 TH Potts 1842 pattern musket very good .75 calibre ......................................£750 Good Civil War Colt Army cut for shoulder stock ......................................... £3,950 Good Brasher Later Sea Service Flintlock Pistol ........................................... £1,950 Fantastic Joslyn Carbine Civil War issue .......................................................£3,750 Interesting Martini Rook Rifle .297 Calibre ......................................................£750 Rare Allan & Wheelock Centre Hammer Army Revolver ............................. £3,000 Good Remington police .36 calibre ...............................................................£1,250 Excellent Sharps Trials Rifle 1 of only 300 50-70 calibre ............................ £8,500 Good Merrills Civil War Carbine 58 cal..........................................................£1,950
New individual members £39.50 New groups (3 or more) £22 a head All new memberships run 15 months Inclusive of £10 million VCR Act compliant PLI Membership card & certificate Periodic Shooters’ Journal Advice line for firearms related problems
WHO DO YOU CALL? SHOOTERSRIGHTSASSOCIATION.CO.UK FOR MORE INFOMATION
NO AGE LIMITS VCR ACT 2006 COMPLIANT
Phone: 01239 698 607 Email: enquiries@shootersrightsassociation.co.uk
AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
155
GM08.21/32/a
Tel: 01646 680391 / 07969 132060 Email: Dscheeres@aol.com www.pembrokefinearms.co.uk
GM08.21/40/f
Photographs available on request. We consider part exchanges and also trades for gold and silver coins.
FREE CLASSIFIEDS
No.1
The place to advertise
From the October Issue we are giving you a FREE chance to advertise in Gun Mart! Fill in the form NOW! We still require your name, address and contact details.
Buying, Selling Swapping?
Get results for £5.00 FREE Just follow these simple steps 1. Fill in the coupon below, giving as much detail as possible 2. Advertisers of firearms & shotguns are strongly recommended to utilise the box number service 3. Ensure you have included your phone number, we recommend that personal addresses should not be included within your advert 4. Indicate which section you would like your advert to appear in, please note cost of advert is for one section only! 5. Enclose cheque/postal order made payable to Gun Mart, or fill in your credit card details below 6. Post or fax it to: Gun Mart Action Ads, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY. Tel: 01206 506247. Fax: 01206 500226. IMPORTANT. YOU MUST INCLUDE YOUR NAME, ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER ON THE FORM EVEN IF YOU DO NOT WANT THEM PRINTED IN YOUR ADVERTISEMENT. IF YOU WISH TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR BOX NUMBER FACILITY – SIMPLY TICK THE BOX AND ENCLOSE A FURTHER £5.00 AND WE WILL FORWARD REPLIES ON TO YOU. THIS FACILITY IS FOR PRIVATE ADVERTISEMENTS ONLY. 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
PLEASE PLACE MY ADVERTISEMENT IN THE FOLLOWING SECTION:
☐ SHOTGUNS ☐ BUSHCRAFT ☐ FIREARMS ☐ AIRGUNS ☐ I require a box number and enclose an extra £5.00 (optional service)
☐ MILITARIA MART DEADLINE FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS:
I enclose total payment of £....................................... (made payable to GUN MART)
Friday 30th July 2021
Name ........................................................................................................ Address.....................................................................................................
Card No.
...................................................................................................................
Expires: ...................................................... Valid from: (Switch only)...............................
Tel No:.......................................................................................................
Issue No. (Switch only) ......................................................................................................
Email: ........................................................................................................
Security No: (Last 3 digits - back of card) ...................................................................
THIS STATEMENT MUST BE SIGNED
☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐
MY ADVERTISEMENT IS BOTH LEGAL & HONEST
☐
☐
☐
☐
...........................................................................................................................................
Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Gun Mart Magazine) in full accordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd may wish to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by post ☐ phone ☐ Email ☐ Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else. GM08.21/6/a
SUBSCRIBE
GUNMART.NET LARGEST GUN & SHOOTING KIT REVIEW SITE ON THE WEB
32 PAGEs inside ▶ ▶ ▶ ▶
SUPER SAVINGS 3 ISSUES
MILITARIA Re-enactment, Antique Guns and Places of Interest
TREME THE ESCORT X
A S K C A P *
£6 PUNCH E DELTA 5 PRO
Call and quote : GUN20T
Subscribe online at:
GUNMART.NET/GUN20T
I WOULD LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO GUN MART
3 EASY WAYS TO PAY
I WOULD LIKE TO RENEW USING THIS OFFER
1
I WOULD LIKE TO BUY A SUBSCRIPTION AS A GIFT
Please return the order form to: GUN, Unit 6, The Enterprise Centre, Kelvin Lane, Manor Royal, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 9PE
GUN20T
INSTRUCTION TO YOUR BANK OR BUILDING SOCIETY TO PAY DIRECT DEBIT Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society
Title Mr / Mrs / Ms_________ Forename _____________________________________________ Surname______________________________________________________________________
Name(s) of Account Holder(s)
Address ______________________________________________________________________ Branch Sort Code
__________________________________Postcode ___________________________________ Daytime No ____________________________ Mobile No _______________________________
Lines are open Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-1pm
DIRECT DEBIT - 3 issues for £6*, then step up to 6 issues for £23.94
To the Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................................ ............................................ Postcode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SUBSCRIBER DETAILS Please complete DETAILS in BLOCK CAPITALS
01293 312215
Bank/Building Society Account Number
Email ________________________________________________________________________
GUN20T Originator’s ID No. 677183 Reference Number
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society Please pay Aceville Publications Ltd Direct Debit from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Aceville Publications Ltd and, if so, details may be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society
Signature(s)
THIS IS A GIFT Please complete DONOR DETAILS in BLOCK CAPITALS Title Mr / Mrs / Ms_________ Forename ______________________________________________ Surname ______________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ __________________________________Postcode ____________________________________
Date Data Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions for some types of accounts
The direct debit guarantee If the amount to be paid by direct debit changes you wil be told of this in advance by at least 10 days. If an error is made by Aceville Publications Ltd or your bank/building society, you are guaranteed a full and immediate refund from your branch. You can cancel the direct debit at any time by writing to your bank and building society and sending as copy to us. We cannot accept faxes or photocopies of the Direct Debit form.
or complete the postal coupon below
CHEQUE/CREDIT CARD - 12 issues for £43.10 (UK), OVERSEAS RATES: Call +44 (0) 1293 312215 - £71.00 (EUR/EIRE), £81.00 (ROW). 2 I enclose a cheque made payable to Gun Mart 3 Please charge my Visa Mastercard Amex Switch/Maestro (issue no.) CARD NUMBER
EXPIRY DATE ______/______ VALID FROM ______/______ SIGNED: ____________________________________ TODAY’S DATE _____________________
Your order details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Gun Mart Magazine). We will use your information to fulfil your subscription and communicate other information deemed relevant in connection with this service. Aceville Publications Ltd would like to contact you with information about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box below if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by post phone email SMS . Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.
*This is a no obligation Direct Debit trial offer open to UK residents only. If you wish to cancel, please inform us within 14 days of receiving your second issue and no more payments will be taken. Your subscription will increase to £23.94 every 6 issues. Existing subscribers can renew using this offer. Your subscription will begin with the next available issue. If your subscription is a gift, the gift card will be sent to the donor. You can also subscribe via cheque or credit card. Cheque/credit card subscriptions are for a 12 month period including all gift subscriptions. This is a limited offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Photocopies accepted.
GM10.20/5s/L
kV
The Alecto M
RISK FREE TRIAL OFFER
RACYED ACCUA GUAR NTE
770956 660191
FREE DELIVERY STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR
9
FIND GREAT BARGAINS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!
0 8
S DANIEL DEFEN
GET THE LATEST PRODUCT INFORMATION
0956-6600
Great reasons to subscribe
i-purpose A rugged muoltm Hatsan semi-auto fr
ISSN
FOR JUST
40 YEARS AS THE UK’S BIGGEST & BEST SHOOTING MAGAZINE
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
ANTIQUE GT - THE HISTORY MAKERS SERIES
The impressive display just off the factory foyer (pic courtesy of Davide Pedersoli & C)
The History
Makers
Part 2
On the morning of the 11th May 2005, I sat in the foyer of a small hotel in Brescia, Italy waiting for the driver to collect us for the second day of a short trip to three of the area’s reproduction firearms manufacturers. We were scheduled for a visit to the Pedersoli factory and our driver turned out to be none other than Mr Pierangelo Pedersoli himself. After a guided tour of the factory, we had lunch, visited the Italian proof house and met one of the engravers who adorn Pedersoli firearms. I’m sure he could have found more productive things to do that day, but it was one of the most entertaining days I’ve ever had and I cannot thank him enough.
Derek Landers continues his history makers series and takes an in-depth look at Pedersoli
Early beginnings Shotguns have been the mainstay of the Italian firearms industry in Brescia for hundreds of years, with Beretta having a presence in the area since the 16th century. There are still large numbers of small shops making bespoke guns for this sector as well as the larger shotgun manufacturers and those turning out a variety of reproduction firearms. One of the largest of the latter group is Davide Pedersoli & C. who themselves started out making shotguns. The company was founded by Davide Pedersoli in 1957 making side by side guns along with an over & under model built on their own patent. In 1960 they began producing muzzle loading guns and within 10 years this had grown to be the major part of their work, so much so that in 1973 hunting shotgun production was ended to allow them to fully concentrate on reproduction muzzle loading firearms. As demand for the guns grew so did the need for accessories, and this sector is now a major part of the business, 158
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
including items for loading, cleaning, carrying and displaying, as well as optional sights and spare parts. From the beginning of the venture in 1960, they had produced their own powder flasks and this area too has expanded with their current catalogue showing a couple of dozen examples. Such is their inventory of extras that a new company was formed, U.S.A. (Universal Special Accessories) to handle this department, which includes not only parts for their own products, but accessories suitable for muzzle loading in general.
Full control Sadly, Davide Pedersoli passed away in 1996 and the running
of the business passed into the hands of his son, Pierangelo, assisted by his brother-in-law Giovanni Gottardi. Ensuring that the Pedersoli name is carried to the next generation, Pierangelo’s son, Stefano, takes an ever-increasing interest in the business and can be seen on many of the company’s videos giving knowledgeable and informative advice on new products. It's obvious from watching him that he shares the passion and pride that his father has for their products. In 1982 the company decided to become fully autonomous by bringing the manufacture of all parts in house, giving them total control over the quality of
ANTIQUE GT - THE HISTORY MAKERS SERIES
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
BOOKSHELF The Boar Buster (Winchester 1886)
A Le Page pistol
(Above) The catalogues always had impressive front covers (Left) Pierangelo proudly displaying his product (pic courtesy of Davide Pedersoli & C)
everything from the smallest screw to the barrels and stocks. The latter are manufactured from American walnut or maple and large piles of this can be seen around the factory, which is constantly replenished as it is dried and cut. There will usually be around two years supply of wood on hand and from delivery to final assembly is around one year. The rough blanks are cut with a band
saw, with the operator trying to get the maximum pieces out of each slab, but even so up to 50% can be lost at this point. Final shaping and inletting for parts is done on computerised machines, with some hand fitting required for assembly. Any sawdust and shavings are collected in hoppers and, with the waste from the blank cutting stage, goes to power the boilers
TITLE: Fated to Defeat AUTHOR: Lukasz Gladysiak PUBLISHER: Helion & Company, Oxford ISBN: 9781912866175 PRICE: £19.95 It is a well-known fact that Germany recruited foreign nationals to serve in its elite SS Divisions, including volunteers from occupied countries such as Belgium and France. Mostly the histories of these units concentrate on the halcyon days when they were at their peak of fighting prowess. This is a different approach by looking at the last desperate days of the war when the survivors of the French 33rd Charlemagne Division were fighting for their lives. This is the sad history of the 4,500 Frenchmen who fought in Pomerania, many of who were captured by the Russians. The photos show then and now for comparison and the maps are useful. This is a history worth telling and well worth reading.
TITLE: British Military Medals AUTHOR: Peter Duckers PUBLISHER: Pen & Sword, Barnsley, South Yorkshire ISBN: 9781526791917 PRICE: £14.99 Militaria collectors love their medals because of the history behind the individual to whom it was awarded. This book, by a highly-respected authority on the subject of medal collecting, is a fascinating and useful work that is compact enough to be used as a handy reference by novices who may want detail about a medal, whilst at a militaria fair. Experienced collectors will also find this a useful work and perhaps even derive some ideas for new additions to add to their collections. All the usual medals are listed but some rarities dating back to Britain’s involvement in 19th century India, make for a tantalising desire to own an example. Medals for campaigns and bravery are listed here along with examples for long-service. The author includes useful tips for research, which includes using the internet as a tool. This is a book meant to be used for the purpose for which it is intended. AUGUST 2021 / GUNMART.NET
159
ANTIQUES & MILITARIA
ANTIQUE GT - THE HISTORY MAKERS SERIES
Serial numbers and other pertinent information being engraved onto pistol barrels
that heat the factory. After final fitting and sanding, the oil and any stain is applied by hand. The latest CAD-CAM systems allow them to ensure exact duplication of parts and to instantly tweak and modify items as may be required by customers worldwide. Although this modern machinery will relentlessly turn out identical parts, there is still a certain amount of hand fitting and polishing that goes into ensuring that every gun leaves the factory as near to perfect as possible, both mechanically and cosmetically. One process which fascinated me was the straightening of a rifle barrel by hand on a piece of equipment that looked like it had come right out of the 19th century.
Worldwide selection The Pedersoli range of muzzle loading arms can truly be described as international as there are single-shot pistols representing a number of European countries as well as those from the early settling of the American West. Whether your preference is for flintlock or percussion, you will surely find something among the 40 or so models in the catalogue, many of which can be supplied in fitted presentation cases. Their deluxe models are works of art. Their sole percussion revolver now is the Remington New Model Army, having eliminated the Rogers & Spencer from their line-up. The assortment of black powder long guns is even more impressive, again offering models in both flintlock and percussion. The range includes everything from a simple American gun as might have been used by early fur trappers, up to serious target models like the English Gibbs. You will find
A barrel reaming machine in action
the Brown Bess with a barrel approaching 4ft long as well as guns from the American Civil War and the Napoleonic era. For good measure there is a range of double-barrelled shotguns and, should you fancy a bit of tiger hunting, a .50” calibre Howdah pistol with a detachable shoulder stock. Whatever tickles your fancy, there is a full range of equipment and accessories to aid your enjoyment.
Load from the rear Pedersoli’s move into the reproduction firearms market was initially focused on muzzle loading guns, but they have since expanded their repertoire to include several famous breech loading rifles from the American frontier. Their range of Sharps rifles is second to none, with everything from a .22LR model up to the mighty .45-120, with calibres, barrel lengths and finishes to suit just about every taste and wallet. The Remington rolling block rifle is also well represented, again in a variety of calibres, and their three versions of the Springfield Trapdoor are among my favourite single-shot rifles.
More recently they have entered the repeating rifle sector, with superb recreations of the Winchester 1886 rifle, in both traditional and modern guises. Sadly, their version of the Colt Lightning slide-action rifle is not available in the UK. A walk along the shooting line at a serious long range rifle competition will find several competitors using Pedersoli products. Their sole entry into the cartridge revolver sphere is in the form of a hybrid Colt reproduction. Based on the action of the famed Colt Single Action Army, with a grip more akin to the Colt Model 1887 double-action revolver, the Doc Holliday is a .38 Special pistol available in blue or nickel – unless you live in the UK of course. In which case it is not available full stop.
Have a look Pedersoli arms and accessories are imported into the UK by Henry Krank and their free catalogue will indicate which items are available for sale. For up to date prices check out their website. For further information visit the Pedersoli website and sign up to their newsletter. If you are one of those who like to have a paper catalogue you should be able to purchase the latest edition online.
Contacts:
A Sharps .22LR
160
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
Henry Krank www.henrykrank.com Pedersoli www.davide-pedersoli.com
FOR ALL YOUR MOVIE & HISTORICAL REPLICAS & COLLECTABLES www.battleorders.co.uk
Winchester Western Lever Action Rifle 47-1063W
Colt 45 - Peacemaker Replica Gun Black with Snake Grips 47-1062-1MS
Colt 45 - Peacemaker Replica Steel Finish Wood Grips 47-1062-1WNP
Colt Army 1860’s (Black & brass) G1007/L
Dragoon Revolver Antique Grey G1055
English Percussion Pistol 47-1110 L
Colt Army 45 Cavalry (Nickel & brass) 47-1064-1WN
Many more available! Tel: (01323) 488 445
GM08.21/51/a
Brown Bess Musket Replica G1054
Yellowboy Winchester 1866 Underlever Action G1140L
advertisers index A
H
ALAN RHONE.......................... 118-125 ANDREW BOTTOMLEY ...........148, 149 ARTEMIS WEB .................................57
HANNAMS RELOADING..... 63, 114, 127 HAWKE OPTICS ......................... 19, 85 HENRY KRANK ........................ 102-105 HIGHLAND OUTDOORS ....................68 HULL CARTRIDG ..............................98
BATTLE ORDERS ............................161 BLASER GROUP LTD .......................113 BRATTONSOUND ENGINEERING.......84 BROWNING ......................................11 BSA ........................................... 45, 78
JC MILITARIA ................................143 JMS SPORTING................................88 JOHN ROTHERY...............................21
C
K
C&G ANTIQUE FIREARMS ...............128 CASSTROM OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT .56 CHICHESTER ARMOURY .......... 51, 138 CITY AIRWEAPONS ..........................46 COOLGAME UK ................................84 CRAWLEY SURPLUS STORE..............47 CUSTOM TARGETS ..........................46
K F GRAHAM .................................114 KEMPTON CLASSIC ARMS FAIR .....147 KIRKLEES ......................................128
D D&B MILITARIA ..............................154 DPT EURO ........................................92 DREWS LAB .....................................46 DURRANTS AUCTIONEERS .............145
E EDGAR BROTHERS ..................... 53, 95 EMERALD COUNTRY STORE .............50 ENTWISLTE OF BLACKPOOL ..........133 ERNEST HILL ...................................15 ETONCASTLE ..................................35
J
L LEICA ..............................................93 LINCOLN JEFFRIES ..........................51 LINTRAN ...........................................9
MICHAEL J NOBLE.........................155 MICHAEL TAWN.......................... 30-31 MILITARY 1ST ................................ IBC MTC OPTICS............................... 36-37 MY FENIX ........................................92
O OGDENS ..........................................88
P
F FLECKTARN ............................. 20, 144 FORGE CONSULTING ...............110, 116
R
GILBERT DISTRIBUTION ...................50 GMK ................................................69 GRAHAM CURRIE ...........................146 GT SHOOTING..................................25 GUNSHOP......................................111
TALKING HEADSETS ........................96 THE OLD BRIGADE .........................146 THE SKIPTON GUNROOM......... 50, 134 THOMAS JACKS ........................ 79, 89 TRACKSIDE AIRGUN.........................51 TW CHAMBERS ...............................46
M
PEMBROKE FINE ARMS..................155 PETE HOLDER................................153 PLATOON ......................................146
G
T
R&B SPORTING ..............................138 RANGE RIGHT ............................... OBC RUAG ...............................................77
U UK CUSTOM SHOP...........................88
V VIKING ARMS ................3, 97, 117, 139
W WATERLOO MILITARIA ...................147 WEST ST ANTIQUES.... ............ 25, 155 WESTLAKE ENGINEERING..............114 WHITBY & CO............................. 56, 94 WILSON AND WILSON................. 64-65 WINCHESTER ................................129 WJ BOWMAN.................................138
Y YORKSHIRE SPORTING GUN.............47
S SARACEN EXPORTS .......................144 SCOTT COUNTRY ...................... IFC, 73
Z ZMW MILITARIA ............................146
The Advertisers Index is a facility Gun Mart magazine provides for Advertisers Free of Charge and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the Publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors. 162
GUNMART.NET / AUGUST 2021
GM08.21/4/a
B
SENTRY TRADING ............................99 SEVERNSIDE ARMS........................114 SHOOTERS RIGHTS........................155 SHOOTING SUPPLIES . ...........115, 129 SOUTH YORKSHIRE SHOOTING SHOW . 15 SOUTHERN GUN CO .........................94 SOVEREIGN ARMS FAIRS ...............155 SPECIAL AUCTION SERVICES.........147 SPORTING SERVICES .......................92 STS NORTHWALES ..........................59 SURESHOT AIRGUNS .......................50 SWAROVSKI UK ...............................83
GM08.21/CV2/f
GM08.21/CV3/f