by B.B. Pelletier
Last week one of our readers described a Daisy he had as his first airgun, but he didn’t remember the model. Here is the description: “The first gun I owned was a BB gun that cocked with a breaking slide underneath the barrel. The magazine was unscrewed from the barrel, and as I recall it held about 50 bb’s.”
The pump mechanism was a powerful force multiplier!
1930 variation of Daisy’s No. 25 pump gun.
You have a good memory. Your BB gun was a Daisy No. 25 with a 50-shot forced-feed magazine that is removed from the gun to load.
No. 25 is the world’s most popular BB gun!
I bet you thought the Red Ryder held the title as the world’s most popular BB gun. According to Daisy, more than 20 million No. 25 pump guns sold from 1913 through 1986, making it the longest-running BB gun.
It all began in 1913
Blue Book says the gun started production in 1914, but some guns were actually sold in the latter days of 1913. The gun was developed by Fred LeFever, a gun designer and member of the famous LeFever shotgun family. He came to Daisy in 1912 to complete this model – and ended up staying 45 years!
Most powerful BB gun
The compound leverage of the long pump stroke meant Daisy could use a strong mainspring in the 25, making it the most powerful BB gun they had. Since then, it’s been eclipsed by CO2 guns and pneumatics, but for many decades it out-shot every other BB gun. Blue Book claims a velocity of 450 f.p.s. I’ve never seen one go that fast, but I have seen 375 f.p.s. with modern steel BBs.
50-shot forced-feed magazine
The magazine has to be removed from the gun for loading. It holds 50 BBs under spring tension, so there is never a dry fire as there can sometimes be with gravity-feed. All the guns from 1913 to about 1930 had lead BB magazines for 0.175-diameter air rifle shot. When Daisy switched to steel BBs, the size was reduced to 0.171 to 0.173, and a new type of shot holder had to be installed in the magazine. I use Beeman Perfect Rounds in my old guns because, at 0.177, they fit the magazine great!
Many popular variations!
No. 25 guns exist in a wide variety of popular variations. Perhaps, the best-known and most well-liked of all is the 1936 engraved model. It was made until about 1952, when Daisy switched from wood stocks to plastic and from blued steel to electrostatic paint. Many little boys lamented this change, but used guns were – and still are – available.
Detail of the engraving on a 1936 variation.
My 1930 No. 25
I bought my 1930 variation from a flea market vendor about 12 years ago. It still shoots steel BBs at 375 f.p.s., though I shoot only lead in the original magazine (I have several spare magazines for my 25s). With the larger Perfect Rounds, it groups about an inch at 20 feet, which I have learned is about the best you can expect from any BB gun except the super-accurate Daisy Avanti Champion 499. (Read my June 6 blog about the 499!)
A very special No. 25
To commemorate their 100th anniversary, Daisy made a very special No. 25. It resembles the original 1915 blued gun very closely, and they stocked it in walnut. This was the last No. 25 they made, though the model 225 is a variant that continued to 1993. These collectible No. 25s now bring $150 and more on the used gun market, and they will continue to increase with each passing year.
Daisy celebrated their centennial with a special No. 25!
If you ever have the opportunity to get a No. 25, it’s a pretty safe investment. A good used shooter with wood stock is worth $75 today, and the engraved model in good condition now brings $80 or more. In excellent shape, a wood-stocked No. 25 fetches around $350!
Hey BB,
Don’t know if you have done this before, I haven’t look thru your archives. How’s about doing a piece on what would be your ideal springers for FT. Starting with a low end budget of $300 (including scope)…then mid price of $500 …then your dream set up. Then maybe do the same for PCP.
Thanks
Jim Poh
Are we through with airshotguns? The first post on the Farco is what really got me hooked on your blog but you still have so many more to do. I’ll be honest i knew much about the three you done already but what about the others. In America you still have the Plainsman .28 caliber, the Vincent and the Paul both .410 caliber. How bout the several from the phillipines. The Valiente 16 Gauge, LD hammer type shotguns. I believe they even have pump repeaters over there. I read somewhere on an England forum a while back, must’ve been many years ago Daystate made a Ranger shotgun, could of been misinformed. In Korea there was the Yeewah(Spelling) .25 caliber PCP with the pump built into the stock. Please dont give up on the shotguns. Theres still so many more.
B.B.
I took your advise and used some oil in the chamber of my old 25 but the gun still just piddles. the gun appears to be one of the older models since it has the engraving you describe. The steel bb’s also tend to drop out the barrel. Is it possible that the smaller size of modern bb’s are also the reason for the poor performance?
CWI
Jim,
I’ve done a lot of articles on my favorite springers. Take a look at the Sept. 30th posting, which is an index of blogs going back to the beginning of March.
I’ll consider your idea, but give me some time.
B.B.
Air shotguns,
You were probably the little boy who shook his Xmas presents until the wrapping tore and you could see what was inside!
No cookies & milk for you tonight!
B.B.
P.S. Never fear, all those shotguns you mentioned are on the list, except for the weird ones from the Philippines. They made those on a whim, and there was no standardization.
I may even have a surprise left – if you don’t spoil it!
CWI,
I’m on a road trip for the present. But, when I return, I’ll post a lengthy answer to your comment.
B.B.
Don’t know where but there’s one of these in my past too…that long steel rail of the pump lever is real familiar.
airgundoc,
I bet you have a shot tube made for lead shot, not steel. Does it have a wire spring at the base of the tube (where the threads are) on the outside? If not, it is a shot tube made to shoot lead air rifle shot and you should be shooting Beeman Perfect Rounds instead of steel BBs.
The low power may mean the leather piston head is worn out. Sometimes, though, it can take a month for an old leather piston head to soak up enough oil to shoot strong, so keep oiling it and rechecking every couple days. And try shooting lead balls.
B.B.
Thanks, that’s the information I need. I will get some lead shot and try it. I do believe the leather washer is worn out however. Is there any reasonable way I can replace it. It looks like a major job to remove it without damaging the center rod. If I can work it off, is there any problem with replacing it with a self fabricated o-ring piston? I really would like to clean this gun up since it is in relatively good condition otherwise except for some dents on the outer barrel distal to the compression chamber.
CWI
airgundoc,
One thing I forgot to ask. Does the gun have a gritty sound when it’s cocked? If so, it was used to shoot dirt clods and is ruined. The inside of the compression chamber has too many scratches from dirt to allow any seal to generate compression.
No, you will want a leather seal. An O-ring won’t do the job. Just cut up an old belt to fit.
Yes, it is a very big deal to repair one of these. I have done it and it is not easy to get the mechanism apart and back together without a special holding fixture.
B.B.
No gritty sounds on cocking but that brother of mine may have shot just about anything. If there is anything wrong with the gun it certainly was not MY fault! I’ll keep working with it as you have suggested and thanks for the input!
CWI
Do you know where I can purchase a 1993 Centennial model 25?
Thx
I have one how much will you pay me for it
Mine is a 1914 model
Dusty,
Do you mean a 1986 Centennial 25? That’s the only one I know about.
Look on Auction Arms and Gunbroker.com
Expect to pay too much. The Blue Book of Airguns, 5th Edition says a perfect one in the box is worth $150, and I agree with that. I have seen tham at airgun shows for that price. But when folks who don’t know the market get involved, you can expect anything.
B.B.
First off, great article above! I found it very informative.
Secondly, I would like to know if anyone has seen any recent remakes of the model 25? I had a BB gun back in the late 90’s that resembled the mod 25 (bought from Academy for $20-30), but it was not one and for the life of me I cant remember what it was. Im not even sure that it was Diasy who made it. The grip at the fore end was different than the old mod 25, but everything else seemed the same. Does anyone have any idea of what it might be? Thanks
The late ’90s timeframe has me puzzled. Daisy did make a centennial 25 in 1986. It came in a box that looked very vintage. The price would have been $75-90 though.
Anybody help?
B.B.
My understanding is that the Plymouth models between 1886 and 1895 preceded the later models and were similarly designed. I have one from that time period. Any thoughts?
I don’t understand what you are asking.
B.B.
I guess I’m asking when the first Daisy airguns were made. I’ve got a straight stock pump model that was my granmother’s fathers, reportedly pre-1900. Is that possible?
Okay, now I understand.
The No. 25 pump was, as the blog states, first marketed in 1913, probably in December. It was designed by Fred Lefever, who began work in 1912.
There has been more historic documentation on the No. 25 than any other Daisy model, so the date your gun was manufacturered can be narrowed down to a 10-year span, and sometimes considerably less.
So, let’s get started. The earliest model has an adjustable from sight and is plated with black nickel over silver nickel. If your gun is blued, and has a fixed front sight, it can’t be the 1913 model.
Count the number of grooves in the pump handle. If five, the gun is older. If six, not as old.
Please get back to me and we’ll go from there.
B.B.
How old would nineteen mine has 6. Lines on the pump of it please let me know
How does one tell age? I have a Daisy #25, only 5 grooves.
kyle,
You have an early one, but how early I can’t say.
How is it finished? Blue or nickel?
Is the front sight fixed or adjustable?
Is the front of the rod the pump handle slides on welded to the gun or held on by a clamp?
Answer these questions and I may be able to pin it down.
B.B.
BB my centennial 25 box has a place for a wooden box of BB,s that I have. Can you tell me how many of these were made?
I have an old bb pump that resembles the no.25 I saw on your web site. A man who collects bb guns said he thought it was a Benjamin, is there such a bb gun and what does it look like?
There are some Benjamin pneumatics that have a “Tootsie Roll” pump handle like the one on the Daisy 25. The smoothbores are BB guns. So, yes, it is possible that you have a Benjamin BB gun.
It does not work like the Daisy 25 because it is a pneumatic, rather than a spring gun. But the way the pump handle operates looks similar on both guns.
B.B.
I have recently recieved a Daisy Co. No. 25 bb gun. From my previous research, i have concluded that it was made from 1913 to 1925. The gun still has “pop” when you pump it and fire. I have tried several times to load it with bb’s (unfortunely i do not know if they are the appropriate size) They get stuck somewhere deep in the barrel. According to this webpage, there is a removable magazine for it. i have not been able to locate that on my gun and would like further information on where the magazine is located and what size bb’s i wpuld need. Any further information would be greatly appreciated.
P.S. Are there any other webpages that would be helpful about daisy bb guns from the 30’s?
Okay! I will help you.
The removable magazine unscrews at the muzzle. You will notice that there is a separate piece at the very muzzle of the gun. It has a BB-sized hole in the center. This is the shot tube and also the gun’s magazine. If it isn’t there, the gun won’t shoot a BB.
Do you have the shot tube? Can you remove it?
B.B.
I have a model 25 that was my grandfather’s BB gun, so it is probably 70-80 years old. Behind the rear sight, with the Daisy name and model number, it still says patent pending. Do you know about how old this gun would be, and if I could find a more receintly made gun to use for replacement parts? I would very much like to get it working again, since it was my grandfather’s, and is what my dad learned to shoot with.
Thanks, Alex
Mr. Pelletier,
Your comments thus far are useful; I have an older pre-1930 Model 25 in Very Good condition; 5-groove pump grip, patent pending stamp, etc. Only the rear site is adjustable (the one nearest the shooter). And it does seem blued, with the case hardened pump mechanism. I guess that takes it out of the 1914 range, eh? Now I know why the BB’s do not feed easily… I need differerent bb’s. I want to sell this gun. How can I determine the closest year range? Seems like it might be worth around $200. Your comments would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Greg
Greg,
At the Daisy Get-Together two weeks abo, I saw a gun like you describe. It was in 98 percent condition (perfect blue and case colors) and the asking price was $200. A regular gun like you describe (50 percent blue and case, some rust peppering) sells for $70-100.
For 4.4mm balls call .
If they also double-feed, try 4.5mm Gamo round balls or Beeman Perfect Rounds.
John Steed published a small pamphlet that helps determine the year of manufacture more closely, but you have to remember, Daisy made guns from whatever parts were on hand. It’s very possible to find newer and older features on a model that’s not supposed to have them.
B.B.
Thanks BB. I appreciate your taking time to respond. Know anyone who might want to buy this?
thanks,
greg
Greg,
Try the Daisy Talk forum on the Daisy website (go to the museum). They have a place to sell guns.
http://www.daisy.com
B.B.
I have a number of Daisy’s, with model numbers, patent numbers, pat pending notice, registation numbers, city of mfg., and one Daisy/Heddon BB gun. Is there a documented or published source available that will help pinpoint the age of the gun?
hanson17@verizon.net,
Daisys made in Rogers can be dated by their lot numbers by Daisy. Call the Daisy Museum and talk to Orin Ribar.
http://www.daisy.com
B.B.
I have a model 25 and would like a gun with similar features (quick shooting, easy cocking) that I can use regularly for sport. Any suggestions?
The Crosman 1077 migyt suit you. It’s a double action revolver rifle with 12 fast shots.It’s pretty accurate, too.Do a search for it on the home blog page.
B.B.
Thanks BB. I was hoping to avoid CO2. Any other suggestions?
You need a power source of some kind. It has to be either spring, air or CO2. A Remington model 26 is a fast-firing pump BB gun, but they are collector’s items for which you’ll pay ovewr 1,000 dollars.
I can’t think of anything other than another BB gun.
B.B.
I am finding it hard to obtain much info on my vz 35 and is there some place that I may obtain
4.4mm lead bb’s?
thanks in advance
goldmstr@hotmail.com
Mel,
I’ll blog the vz35 and vz49 and you can get 4.4mm balls from this guy:
B.B.
Interesting. My first rifle of any type was a daisy pump. My father bought it for me in 1975. Regretably, at 10 years old, I used it to kill pidgeons and mice. I remember squating on my haunches and using the back porch hand rail as a rest and downing pidgeons on a wire no less than 30 yards away. The birds would fall and often not flap a wing. I am certain that I shot at least 20 or so this way. I remember my Dad not believing that I could shoot mice walking along the workshop roof from some attaching ivy. One late summer day, he sat in the back yard with me and lo a field mouse hopped from the ivy to a fence rail and looked at us for a few seconds. Long enough for me to rest the daisy on my knees, with my back against the house (improvised shooting techniques he laughed about too..!) and shot him the length of his body flipping the little pest up in the air. That was it for airguns for Dad and I because the next week he bought a Marlin semi-auto .22 that he felt I earned. Anyway, sorry for the rant, but I sure wish I had that Daisy pump!
B.B., I have a pre-1940’s Daisy #25 which just ‘piddles’ also. Re: November 2005 blog. Do you know of someone or somewhere I can have it put back in shooting order? I am new, again, to air rifle shooting and thoroughly enjoyed the articles on the Daisy #25.
jorg,
Jim Coplen is your man,
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314
B.B.
Hi,
All I need now is to find one for sale. I have been looking for over a year to purchase one for my best friend who is now 66 and neer had the opportunity to won one.
Derek Allen
Winterville, N.C.
Email: iamtarheel64@yahoo.com
Image One for sale how much would you ay me for it
Derek,
No problem. The 25 is the most popular BB gun ever made (over 20 million) and there are always a dizen or so for sale on the gun auction websites.
B.B.
B.B. I have a Model 25, six grove pump grip, fixed front sight. It works and has great air pressure. However it is completly missing the BB magazine. Is there any place that I can get a magazine to fit this gun?
Jerry Scholler
New Braunfels, Texas
gss@axs4u.net
Jerry,
You live close enough to the Little Rock Airgun Expo to attend Apr. 27 & 28.
Or contact this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314
B.B.
I just got a No. 25 that is in the process of cleaning out her grandmother’s house. It is the one with the hunter and dog engraving. The gun pumps but the trigger assembly doesn’t seem to work and I noticed something in the barrel (mid way) that appears to be jammed. How do you know when these guns were made? How can I learn more about these guns? Any assistance would be appreciated.
Benn Sherman
bssherman@gmail.com
Attleboro, MA
Benn,
The Blue Book of Airguns is a good place to start. If your gun has a wooden stock and pump handle and the engraving is real (not painted) and the gun is blued steel rather than painted, it was made between 1936 and 1952, with time off for WWII.
This man will fix it for you:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314
B.B.
I received a model 25 for Christmas in the early 60’s. It has plastic stocks and breaks down by removing a screw where the barrel meets the receiver. I am looking to find a replacement rear sight that was lost years ago. It was a flip type sight you could change from peep to v-notch. Any ideas where I could find this?
rws
rws,
Go on the Daisy site and go to the museum. There you can enter Daisy Talk and chat with other Daisy owners about parts.
B.B.
I too received a model 25 as a gift in the early 60s. If I remember correctly, the metal parts were painted gold. I had no idea I had been given one of the most popular and most powerful BB rifles made by Daisy. At the time, I was disappointed Dad hadn’t bought me a Red Ryder or some other gun that looked like a “cowboy rifle”! I lost interest in it as I entered my teenage years. Wish I still had it. I’m now 57 and want to get back into airgunning.–Clarke
Clarke,
It’s never too late to get back in. You’re the average age of an airgunner today!
B.B.
B.B,
Any suggestion as to what would be a good type of rifle to start out with? I live in a rural area and have just over 1 acre. I’d like to do a little target shooting and maybe just some plinking. Oh yes, my wife will be shooting too. Co-workers have recommended 3 particular rifles. the Gamo Shadow 1000, Xisico XS-B26, or a Benjamin pump. I realise these are two different types of air guns. Do you have a recommendation for someone who hasn’t fired an air rifle since I had my Daisy model 25 forty five years ago?–Clarke
Clarke,
I’d go with the Benjamin for a number of reasons. First, you control the power by the number of pumps. Second. It will be easier for your wife. Third, if you get a .22, it’s the best of the guns mentioned for hunting, unless the B26 is also a .22.
B.B.
B.B,
Thanks for the suggestion. I mentioned it to an older gentleman at church the other day, and he offered me his Benjamin which has been in a closet for a while. It’s a model 310 he bought about 40 years ago. It looks like it’s in good physical condition. It pumps up and appears to hold air, but since he had no ammo for it, I didn’t test fire it. According to Crosman’s website, the 310 is smooth bore and designed to shoot .177 lead shot, although the owner says he always used pellets. I searched a vintage airgun forum and found comments about the 310 ranging from “good rifle” to “terribly inaccurate…junk”. Do you know anythinig about this rifle? I was wondering if it might be worth keeping or if it’s just a flea market oddity. Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Clarke
Clarke,
If you think this is a flea market oddity, may I have first crack at it?
The 310 is NOT junk. Those who say so haven’t a clue about good airguns. The 310 is a fine vintage airgun that does happen to be smoothbore.
You can still shoot pellets; in fact, you should. They will group around 1.5″ to 2″ at 10 yards.
B.B.
B.B,
Thanks for the info. I figured the 310 is worth keeping. You say I should shoot pellets with it rather than seeking out .177 lead balls such as Pyramyd AIR sells? Why’s that? I’m afraid I’m ignorant in these matters.
Clarke
Clarke,
It’s okay to shoot the .177 lead balls , too. In fact, your gun was made to shoot steel BBs, though I would go with the lead balls. They will be more powerful because they fit the bore better.
Lubricate your pump cup! Which style of 310 do you own, the front-pump or the underlever pump? Tell me and I will tell you how to lubericate the pump cup.
Always leave one pump of air in the gun, with the gun uncocked. That keeps the valve closed against airborn dirt.
B.B.
B.B,
It’s an underlever. I may be mistaken, but I thought the front-pump was a model 300. Anyway, according to the Crosman website, the serial number indicates it was manufactured in 1967 (the year I graduated). Also, the Crosman website doesn’t mention steel BBs for the 310, only lead shot. Of course, Crosman didn’t own Benjamin in 1967. So, what is the BEST ammo to shoot in a 310, lead balls, pellets, or BBs? Also,please tell me how to lubricate the pump cup.
Thanks Again,
Clarke
I found some info on the 310 in the “Blue Book of Airguns” 5th edition, pages 117 and 118. I tried to get more info from Crosman, but was told there was an unrepairable safety issue with the 310s, so all parts and even all literature was destroyed in 1992. So much for finding owner info, I guess.
Clarke
Clarke,
Although the Blue Book doesn’t acknowledge it, There was also a model 310 front-pump gun. Five have been documented, and I have owned one of them.
You have the underlever pump. What you do is flip the gun on its back and extend the pump lever as far as it will go. You should see a felt wiper on the pump rod assembly through the pump slot. Drop five to ten drops of Crosman Pellgunoil or other pure silicone oil (do not use the general-purpose spray sold at hardware store for this) on the felt and it will be applied to the pump head from the compression chamber walls as the pump head moves.
Dean Fletcher sells a book on vintage Benjamins. Google his name and Benjamin. That book will have all the info you will ever need on your gun.
B.B.
B.B,
Thanks for your help. I’ve been in contact with Dean Fletcher. He’s given me some good info. I’ve a question regarding ammo for the 310. I thought you’d be a good one to ask, since you’ve had one. According to Dean Fletcher, and from what I’ve read, the 310 has a smooth bore barrel with an internal diameter of .177 inches, and was originally designed to shoot lead .175 BBs. I’ve shot some .177 pellets through it with no apparent problems. Am I risking getting pellets stuck in the rifle, or are .177 pellets actually smaller than .177? Is the 310’s barrel worn, or is there another explanation? Thanks.
Clarke
Clarke,
I’m surprised you were able to load pellets into the 310. And .177 pellets are all larger than .177, for a good bore seal. I think you don’t want to shoot them.
B.B.
B.B,
I’m confused now. On June 1, you wrote:
Clarke,
If you think this is a flea market oddity, may I have first crack at it?
The 310 is NOT junk. Those who say so haven’t a clue about good airguns. The 310 is a fine vintage airgun that does happen to be smoothbore.
You can still shoot pellets; in fact, you should. They will group around 1.5″ to 2″ at 10 yards.
B.B.
June 01, 2007 10:29 AM
Later that same day, you wrote:
B.B. Pelletier said…
Clarke,
It’s okay to shoot the .177 lead balls , too. In fact, your gun was made to shoot steel BBs, though I would go with the lead balls. They will be more powerful because they fit the bore better.
Lubricate your pump cup! Which style of 310 do you own, the front-pump or the underlever pump? Tell me and I will tell you how to lubericate the pump cup.
Always leave one pump of air in the gun, with the gun uncocked. That keeps the valve closed against airborn dirt.
B.B.
June 01, 2007 12:20 PM
Your two comments seem to indicate that that .177 pellets and .177 lead balls should be used in the 310. Now, you say I should not use pellets in my 310. What am I misunderstanding?
Clarke
Clarke,
I forgot who you were and what we were talking about. When you said 310, I was thinking Haenel 310, which is a 6-shot bolt-action ball-shooter. I forgot about the Benjamin 310.
Sorry. Everything I said before was good, and pellets are better than BBs in this gun.
B.B.
B.B,
Now that we’re both on the same page regarding the Benjamin 310, back to my question…If the Benjamin 310 was originally designed to shoot .175 BBs through a barrel having an inside diameter of .177, why do .177 pellets, which are larger than BBs, work? Is it that the .002 difference isn’t enough to matter? It’s not an earth shaking question. I was just wondering.
Clarke
Clarke,
They work because lead is very malleable and pellets are mostly hollow.
B.B.
B.B,
I’ve been shooting my Benjamin 310 and have found its accuracy to be what you’ve told me. Any wild shots can be attributed to my unsteady aim. It makes me wonder about those who criticize their airgun when they completely miss the target! It looks as though I’ll have to have the Benji resealed. If I leave three pumps in it at night, by morning, it hasn’t enough power to lauch a pellet. Is George Pena a good one to contact about resealing the Benjamin 310, or do recommend someone else? Thanks!
Clarke
Clarke,
George might be able to go it, but John Groenewold is another good resource. Even Boris at Pyramyd AIR can reseal that gun.
B.B.
Hey ya’ll,
I recently came into possession of my grandparent’s daisy bb. I know nothing about them whatsoever…wondering if anyone could offer any help. Only markings on the gun say “Daisy MFG Co. No. 25 Plymouth,Mich. Patents Pending” Is there any way I can find out what year it is? E-mail me if you can help; tiff1987@hotmail.com
Thanks,
Tiffany
Tiffany,
The inscription “Patents Pending” appears only on the earliest number 25s. Your BB gun was probably made before 1916.
Value depends on condition.Your gun could be worth between $35 and $1,000, depending on condition and which exact variation it is. An average shooting gun from this period is worth $150.
DO NOT shoot steel BBs (modern BBs) in the gun! They will destroy it!
B.B.
Thanks B.B.
That was so awesome to hear. 🙂 Another quick question, I’m not too worried about the monetary value necessilary since we are going to keep it obviously. For the long run though, I was wondering, the metal has a sort of patina on it, would it be all right to take steel wool to the muzzle/ restore it, or would it be better to leave it as is?
~Tiffany
Tiffany,
The finish on the very earliest number 25 was black nickle over silver nickle. I have one with all the black gone and just a hint of the silver remaining in the places where the gun doesn’t get touched. If I removed any of this silver, my gun, which is worth about $350 as it is, would lose $100 value.
You can wipe the gun with an oily cloth, but don’t use steel wool.
Now, your gun could also be a later version that was blued. In that case, going to patina, which is a uniform reddish brown color from fine rust, is very normal. Airgunners cherish that color on their guns. I have a much later variation that is all patina and, though it is worth less than $100, that is the way I would keep it. I do oil that gun, however.
If your gun started out with a blued finish and is now all patina, it’s worth $200-250.
Your gun should have a funnel-shaped muzzle instead of a flat one. Also, on the very earliest model only, there is a soldered steel patch under the spot where the lever rides. The later guns don’t have this patch.
You should drop ten drops of household oil (3-in-One is fine) down the muzzle with the gun standing straight up and let it stand that way for several hours. That will lubricate the leather piston seal and bring it back to life.
Remember, shoot no steel BBs in your gun. If you want to shoot it, use 4.4mm lead balls, available by the pound from this source:
B.B.
Hello,
I have what some refer to as a short-pull or short-stroke Daisy Model 25. The cocking lever is a couple of inches shorter than later models. It has a distinct brown partina with a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight. The stock is straight. Can you narrow down the year of production? I’m guessing it is pre-1920. Thanks, -Tom
Tom,
1914 (late) to 1920.
B.B.
Thanks, B.B.
One follow-on question: Did the short-stroke design give way to the current design? Asked another way: Once the longer-stroke design came out did production stop on the shorter design? Thanks, -Tom
Tom,
Yes. Daisy found that some smaller kids were having a problem cocking the gun, so they lengthened the stroke and made it a little easier. That happened just before 1920, if my sources are rifght.
When the long stroke came oput, the stort stroke ended. Of course Daisy used up all old parts, so there is always an overlap of months or years between changes.
B.B.
B.B.
When did Daisy stop using the larger, rounded, takedown screw on the model 25 (some call it the penny-type screw)? Thanks, -Tom
B.B.
What can you tell me about a “nickle-plated” shot tube for the Daisy 25? The pictures I’ve seen show that it has a domed shooting end… Thanks, -Tom
Tom,
The answers to your two questions require a book!
Just as an example, the “penny” sized takedown screw was last seen on a 1933 gun, but a smaller sized screw was already in use for several years by then, and the smallest sized screw was soon to become the standard. There are also two other takedown screws that are saeldom seen but which fit into the timeline as well.
I am going to recommend that you contact John Steed who has done a lot of research and has written a small pamphlet of Daisy 25 features that help to pin down manufacturing dates. I don’t know what he charges for it, but this pamphlet is essential to a Daisy 25 collector.
Daisy never threw anything away, so parts like the nickle-plated shot tube would be used on guns to which they didn’t “belong,” because Daisy had no configuration control. If a part fit, it was put on a gun regardless of what the model called for. There are three variations of the nickle tube that appeared on guns from 1913 to 1918. They are differentiated by whether they have a concave muzzle or not and how much of a concave they have.
John Steed is
steed1@mindspring.com
B.B.
B.B.
Thanks for the information. I tried to email John Steed but it bounces back with an “unknown user” message.
I double checked and I did send to steed1@mindspring.com. Any chance that his address has changed.
Thanks, -Tom
Tom,
Good chance of it. The pamphlet is four years old.
Try his mailing address:
57 Willever Lake Rd.
Oxford, NJ 07863
B.B.
Can someone tell me how you adjust the windage on an old 1930’s Daisy model 25. It shoots too far to the left and I cannot fiqure how to correct this. Thanks.
Sight guy,
You adjust windage the way it’s been done for a century. Bend the front sight to the left to move the BB to the right. I did this with mine.
B.B.
I have a Daisy model 25, Plymouth Mich. with wooden pistol grip stock and wooden 6 groove forend. The pump arm is color case hardened. The gun is about 90 percent. I would like to know if you can tell me approx. age of gun? I have shot steel bb’s with terrible accuracy. Should I be using lead shot? Would that help? The only #’s I can find are Pat. dates. Thanks.
Your gun was made from 1930 (approx.) to 1936 (also approx.). It may have been made to shoot lead shot. If there is no steel wire spring at the rear of the shot tube, it’s made for lead. If there is a wire spring it’s made for steel.
4.4mm shot may perk it up. Buy it by the pound from this guy:
B.B.
Thanks for the info on my model 25.
I have an opportunity to purchase a Daisy Model 225 in the original packaging. Shrink wrap over red white and blue cardboard. I have not seen this gun, only a picture. What should I look for? It looks from the picture that it has a Monte Carlo stock. And says 650 shot. Apparently it loads differently then a Model 25. What would the age of this gun be and what would be the current value? Any info would be very helpful.
Thank You.
Daisy 225,
1991-1993. Blue Book puts your gun at $65. I value it at $100-125 in the package.
B.B.
Thank you for getting back so quickly with the info on the Daisy 225.
Hello All ; Curious if you can tell me what a Daisy 25 with the 300 long scope in the original box with an extra tube , original paperwork , metal target box with bell and BB’s still in the plastic bags , is valued at ?? It is in pristine as new condition with the engraving scene on it .. I have a chance to buy it , so any information would be very helpful .. Thank you ..
Best regards ____
Jewel ___________
Jewel,
The Number 325 set, as you describe it, is worth $800, minimum. Selling it at that price means finding interested airgunners. There cannot be any rust spots on the gun to be pristine. The blue cardboard box is allowed to be slightly deteriorated because it is made of acidic cardboard, but the sides cannot be torn.
The extra “tube” is a cork-firing shot tube, and should have a much larger bore than the BB tube. There should be a package of cork balls with the gun as well, for the package to be complete, but the price I gave isn’t affected by theuir absence.
B.B.
Hi!
I have my dad’s old Plymoth Daisy 25. The L shaped spring in the trigger mechanism fell out, I have it, can you direct me to a drawing of how to reinstall?
THANKS!
I’m going to send you to the Daisy forum with this question. go to http://www.daisy.com and join the Daisy Talk forum. People there will help you.
B.B.
Found you through a google search…I have an Engraved Daisy Model 25 bb gun. Does not shoot. From your articles above, it looks like it’s missing the magazine and the trigger mechanism isn’t working properly. Stock is in decent shape, but the barrel has some surface rust.
I was going to sell it on ebay. Think that’s a good idea? Have any better ideas? How much do you think it’s worth?
Duke,
You can’t post it on Ebay. No BB guns there.
It’s worth $25-50 bucks as a parts gun in its present condition.
B.B.
Can you please provide me with a name and phone number of a company or person that could retore a 1955
Daisy Pump BB gun. Please contact me at hillbilly1969ok@yahoo.com
Thanks
Chris Holder
Chris,
This guy can do it.
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314
B.B.
Help…..I have an older Daisy 25. I have taken it apart to clean and am now having difficulty reassembling the air tube back into the abutment washer. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks
What you need are three strong hands. Right?
What you do is build a makeshift frame with a lever that becomes your third hand. It locks in place holding the plunger where you need it so you can insert the retaining pin.
I’m doing this from memory because it’s been 10 years since I had one of these apart, but that’s what I did.
B.B.
Three Hands….I need Four. I have gotten past the point of spring compression and inserting the retaining pin. But when I put the whole assembly back into the barrel, I can’t align the air tube to pass thru the abutment washer hole in the barrel for proper seating.
On some assemblies the air tube wants to stick off at an angle. You may be able to affect this by taking spring tension off that air tube and twisting it to a new orientation. Sometimes that’s all it takes. Also, check inside and make sure that the hole it goes through is in the center.
To center it if all else fails, use a long thin rod (it will have to be steel) that will pass through the hole from the front and align the air tube as it approaches the hole from the back.
B.B.
B.B.
Thanks for your feedback. I have tried twisting the air tube and that didn’t seem to work. I like your idea about the thin rod and will give it a try and let you know how it works out. Thanks.
B.B.
I tried your idea of the thin rod and it worked great. Thank You.
Rich
Rich,
Success at last! Thanks for the feedback.
B.B.
Hi, BB, Great column! Do you have any information as to potential value on a Benjamin Franklin pistol, lever pump, in excellent condition? Date, value… Thanks much…
Kim
Kim,
Without the model number I can’t give you a value. You say “Benjamin Franklin” so your Benjamin pistol has those words in quotes on the side of the gun as a joke – a play on the company name the Benjamin Air Rifle Company. That places it somewhat, but the model number found on the end cap will tell me what I need to know.
B.B.
Hi B.B.,
I ran across a airgun marked .177 cal with “Made for Daisy” in Scotland, followed by the number 160. The gun breaks about 12″ from the muzzle to cock and is a single shooter. The stock is solid wood up to the forarm where it breaks and has a slot ahead of the trigger guard where the cocking are does its work. Looking in the slot one can see the spring and sear assembly. Any idea on what I’ve described or the value? Thanks, Tom
Tom,
That’s a Scottish Diana breakbarrel by MILBRO. The plans and tools for Diana airguns were war reparations to England from Germany.
Yours is a youth model and not too powerful. It is the equivalent of a Diana model 16, which is one model below the model 20.
It was made and imported from 1965 to 1974.
It’s worth $50-75, depending on condition. If it’s excellent, it might bring $100.
B.B.
Thanks, BB
Would you say that the Diana gun is strickly a pellet shooter?
Thanks, Tom
Tom,
I think so. If it’s rifled then it’s a definite yes – lead pellets, only.
There are round lead balls that look like BBs you can shoot if you like. They are larger (.177) and will fit the bore of your gun, where steel BBs run around 0.171″-0.173″.
B.B.
Good info on the model 25 here! I was 12 years(1973) old when I was sure to recieve a bb gun for my next birthday.(we had just moved outside city limits)I wanted the powerline 880 that all my friends had and was very disappointed to get the model 25 from my cheapskate father. I, being stubborn and with the ability to deal with what I had, was soon very proficient with the gun, amazing my friends by firing shots from my hip faster than they could count or run. I fell in love with it and had no problems other than always being short of bb money. It was not long that I was eighteen and moved away leaving the old worn out gun behind in dad’s garage. It was just in the last few years, thanks to the internet that I have acquired some very good examples of the older guns. I also bought(foolishly just one) a replica in 1986 and carry it with me in my pick-up. My question is that as far back as I can remember the guns seem to need “warmed up” after sitting very long. It might take two or three shots or it may take fifteen. But some of the older guns 1930’s fire perfectly first time when I take them off the display rack. Is it simply the seal being used more on some guns and leaking..needing time or friction to reseal or is there something I can do to remedy the problem. I oil the gun in the truck often and it is the one giving me most trouble, but it is also the ones that I use most often and it does sometimes sit for 3-4 months without being fired. I am an electrical lineman and work with some young guys that tick me off occassionally and like to pop off a 8-10 shots at their backsides from time to time. It is frustrating waiting for the gun to warm up while they are getting away! Any help is appreciated! Thanks and you have a new fan to your website!
D. Brown
D. Brown,
There is a good reason your 1986 Number 25 doesn’t respond to frequent oiling. It has a synthetic seal that doesn’t need frequent oiling. On the other hand, you will need to warm it up, as you say.
The guns with leather seals (made before 1952, approximately) are the ones that need lots of oil. If they are kept oiled, the first shot should be good.
Please can the shooting at people comments, unless you are talking about airsoft. We don’t do that on this blog. Also, if any of those guys ever gets ticked off at you, what you are doing constitutes an assault. Just a caution.
I’m glad you are reading this blog and don’t forget, there are also articles accessed at the bottom of the home page of the Pyramyd AIR website.
B.B.
B.B.
My No.25 was all rusted out, I took it apart and used some steel wool and rem oil. It is cleanning up nicely. However, I can’t get the trigger mech back together correctly. Any tips? Also, do you know where I can get replacement parts? J
J,
Contact this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314
B.B.
Another source for Daisy parts may be found at http://www.daisyrepair.com/parts.htm
They had my replacement air tube as part of a seal kit for my Model 25.
Thanks.
Mike P.
Mike,
Thanks for the link. I added it to my list of repair stations.
B.B.
I was recently given a Daisy Model 25 air rifle for helping an elderly women sell some valueable antique Military Target rifles that belonged to her Great Uncle Capt. Guy Emerson. Capt Emerson 1873-1931 was a very famous and renouned Marksmen in the early 20th Century. This early model 25 belonged to him and he used it to teach marksmanship to young boys in Fremont Ohio about 90 years ago. Behind the rear sight it says Daisy Model 25, Plymount Michigan, Daisy Mfg Co, Patent Pending. It has an adjustable rear sight for elevation and an adjustable front sight for windage. It has a beautiful wood stock with 98% varnish remaining and a 5 groove wood forearm. It has a case colored cocking lever, and a freckled black finish on the barrel and receiver. The magazine tube is silver with the outer cap blues and concaved towards the center of the bore opening. I would like to know the approx year of mfg, and approx range of value for a collector.
Respectfully,
Mark Janusch
Mark,
You are describing an early Number 25 pump gun.
NEVER shoot your gun with steel BBs! It is designed to shoot 0.175″ Air Rifle lead shot, but I use 4mm (0.174″) and it works fine. Steel BBs will destroy your shot tube. If you want to shoot your gun, buy a pound of 4mm shot from this guy:
You may have a first model Daisy. The freckled black finish you describe sounds like black nickel. If that is the case, NEVER wipe the gun with anything! That finish is fragile. With 100 percent finish you have a gun worth close to $1,000. With 50 percent, it’s worth $400. With 20 percent it’s still worth $300.
To be a true first model (1913) the front sight must be adjustable, side-to-side. The concave muzzle is correct, but there were many shot tube that had a concave muzzle, so it doesn’t prove anything.
Perhaps the most telling feature os all, aside from the finish, is the presence of a patch soldered under the barrel to seal it. In 1913 Daisy wasn’t able to butt-weld their barrels, so they all had this patch. In 1914, they learned how to weld the barrel and things started changing in that year.
Black nickel (it isn’t really nickel, but some kind of chemical process) and the patch under the barrel are the hallmarks of the first pump gun.
Congratulations on your very collectible Daisy!
B.B.
I have one. I’m not sure when it is dated, but it still has the wooden stock and it is engraved, but it is hard to make out what it is engraved.
I have a problem with it though: sometimes after you cock it, if you use too much force to bring the pump-handle foreward (it doesn’t take much excess) the gun will misfire. Also, I don’t know if this has anything to do with it, the back of the magazine where the barrel is there appears to be an o-ring or seal or washer of some sort. This is either cracked or became unseated. It still fires and pumps ok, it’s just the misfire problem.
Watcher,
The engraved model with the wood stock is the 1936 variation. Made 1936-1952, minus the war years.
There is no seal on the shot tube like you describe. It sounds like your gun is coming apart. Better get it fixed. Contact this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
B.B.
hey mr.BB
iam a plumber in s. calif,and i found this model25 pump under the house,to me it looks pertty damm good. it pumps great, and fires..but its lightly rusted,at the rear and the barrow looks silver color,it has good wood stock,and wood pull on it still.. what do you think i can get for her.
Rick
p.s. it has some engraving on it.
Rick,
You have found a 1936-type number 25. In the condition you describe, it’s worth between $50 and $75.
B.B.
I have a model 25 that was given to me new in 1954 (plastic stock & forend). Is this too early for modern steel bb’s?
John,
Your gun is safe to use with steel BBs. Daisy switched over just before 1930, so all models from the 1936 engraved version are safe with steel.
B.B.
Hi BB-
My dad just gave me his 25 from when he was a kid in the 50’s. Not much he can tell me though.
It’s engraved with man,dog and 2 birds, has flip up sight with v-notch, plastic stock and tootsie roll with 12 rings around it. I’m not sure if it is blued or painted. It’s black , I can tell you that! Made in Plymouth, Mi.
Patents are
2,204,370
2,204,372
2,724,897
Can you give me a round about year it was made and possible value? 1 small spot by end of barrel has surface rust. This thing works very well. I couldn’t believe the pop it gave after it got a shot of oil in barrel!!! My 9 yo son is really enjoying it along with me!!!!
Thanks,
Barry
Barry,
Your 25 was made between 1952 and 1957. Blued guns were made before 1954, so if you ever figure that out you’ll know more.
In the condition you describe, it’s worth about $80-100.
B.B.
B.B.,
I have a model 25, that my dad gave to me, and his dad gave to him, so it has some sentimental value to me. The magazine has been lost to the gun, and I have no idea where I would look for a new one. Can you point me in the right direction.
Thanks,
Jason
B.B. is the expert, but when I first started looking for a model 25 to replace the one I had when I was young, I found several in the same condition, missing the magazine. I only bought the ones in very good condition and found someone that had parts…I don’t remember if it was through this site or elsewhere, but it seems it was fairly easy to find the parts. I bought 5 of them and still have 3 in my basement. I can’t remember what I paid or where they came from(seems like MASS.)These are the “newer” type with the small spring on the tip to hold the bb’s in place. If you are unable to find one…holler back…I will send you one of mine and let BB quote a fair price. These seem slightly used but in good condition. I will pay the shipping myself because I remember being treated very fairly by the man I bought them from and would hate to hear of a model 25 sitting idle if I could prevent it, even if BB doesn’t approve of me occasionionaly shooting at people(I had a 17 year old on my roof at 5 am trying to talk to my 15 year old daughter one morning and my neighborhood is plagued with jehovah’s witnesses in the springtime telling everyone we are all going to hell) BB is right though, shooting at people can get you in trouble and I don’t condone it myself but if you learn to shoot about fifteen shots in 5-7 seconds from your hip…..some people you don’t like won’t come back….It’s just a BB gun…..right!!!..DannyB
Jason,
What you need is called the shot tube.
Here are two possible sources for it:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
You can get a vintage shot tube, which for your gun MAY be a lead shot tube, but one that shoots steel BBs will be much easier to live with. It should cost about $15-20.
Don’t forget to oil the gun frequently.
B.B.
I need a shot tube for a Daisy model 25. Do you know where I can get one?
Thanks.
Mike A.
Mike,
Check with this guy:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
B.B.
Can somone help me to re-assemble the trigger mechanism on a Daisy 25…looking for perhaps a diagram…somthing thats easy to follow. I am at artybali@yahoo.com
Many thanks
Arty,
Contact this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
5522 Clearwater Rd. Rochester, MN 55901
B.B.
i have a daisy #25 some rust. it has no load tube what is the availability of this item? it has the engraving of the 1936 model on it.
All MODERN Daiosy 25 shot tubes will fit yur gun. Modern tube have a wire spring to retain the steel BB.
These guys may have what you need:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
5522 Clearwater Rd. Rochester, MN 55901
B.B.
I have the Daisy Model 25 Centennial BB gun that I would like to sell. It is brand new – never been out of the box or put together. Not sure what it is worth but have been told between $300 and $400. If anyone is interested, please email me and I will send photos. luckime2@cox.net
I have a Model 310 Haenel Air Gun Rifle. I am looking to purchase some 4.4 lead BB’s. Does anybody have any suggestions for vendors.
Thanks Tom
Tom,
This guy has what you want:
B.B.
I need a trigger spring for a Daisy 25, part #25 TS. Do you have any idea where I can get one?
Kenneth,
Try this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
5522 Clearwater Rd. Rochester, MN 55901
B.B.
I have a Daisy that cocks but seems to have the same spring loaded magazine as the 25 pump. It has no power. Do you know how I wouls replace the magazine and are you familiar with my rifle?
Your lever-action Daisy is probably the model 99.
This isn’t a gun to work on unless you have a jig for it. I recommend you contact this man:
Jim Coplen, PO Box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507)281-2314.
5522 Clearwater Rd. Rochester, MN 55901
B.B.
Hi, I have a 1936 Vairant 7 Daisy model 25.Should I shoot steel bbs or copper ones? Thanks
The choices are steel or lead. I think that’s what you meant by copper.
The gun doesn’t determine the type of BB–the shot tube does.
Look at this report:
/blog/2008/09/daisy-325-2-way-target-outfit-part-2-a-different-pump-bb-gun/
If your shot tube has an external wire spring like the one shown there, shoot steel.
B.B.
My Dad gave me a daisy #25 back about 30 years ago he had it long before that for the longest time it as been sitting in my garage not working because I couldn’t get it to fire I just retired a month ago.
I have the time to work on it now, and I just got it to work like it use to. it still in good condition. Just thought I would share that with you the Daisy was made very well.
Tony,
Great story! I hope you took pictures.
B.B.
Interested in a Daisy Model 25 BB Gun. Please contact if you are interested in selling.
not for sale but i use my dad’s Daisy Model 25 B-B Gun it has a cool design on the side with a dog and the daisy logo. i have been using the gun since i was 6 or seven and i was born in 1995 and i know he has had it longer possibly got it from his dad not completely sure.
it is a VERY nice B-B Gun.
i have a model 25 i found it in my passed grandfathers house along with a glenfield .22, a springfield .22 and a daisy model 717 air pistol can some one tell me what i should do with them
Mike,
You obviously don't want to keep any of the guns. The Daisy No. 25 and 717 pistol are airguns, so you can sell them to anyone in the U.S. Here is a place to advertise them:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/
The Glenfield and Springfield are both firearms. Depending on where you live, you can also sell them to another adult person in your state, or you can sell them to a gun dealer. That's probably the best for you, because the gun dealer will make sure the laws are followed. If you sell directly to another individual, you have to make sure they are not a criminal and can legally own firearms.
B.B.
I have a Daisy 325 two way target outfit I found in the attic of my in laws house. The box fell apart like dead sea scrolls. The gun has the wood stock and the gun is blued not anodized.Little rusty but still strong.It has two tubes. One is a single shot and the other is a spring loaded magazine but dose not have the external spring and the BB's roll out the end. I have the steel target with a pad of targets. It also has a scope. Looks like part of the front mount is missing. The rubber eye piece is in bad shape so I am going to try to make a mold and make another one. I have just oiled the heck out of it and I will get some of the BB's you mentioned earlier.
I have a plastic-stocked version that I took apart and the trigger spring fell out, so the gun won't stay cocked. How does the spring go back in there?
Ok, I got the spring back in but now the gun won't cock unless the trigger is pushed slightly forward form behind. Did I put the spring in wrong?
Anonymous,
I've never had a model 25 apart but from what I've read that spring (not a coiled spring but a wire??) is a tough customer to put back in. You can get a diagram of your gun from the Daisy Museum (www.daisy.com) or you can call this guy and he may have some advice:
Contact Jim Coplen, P.O. box 7297, Rochester, MN. 55903 (507) 281-2314 for repairs.
Daisy no longer repairs their old guns including anything out of warranty.
Good luck.
kevin
I have an old mod 25 setting right here on my lap…
I just found it so I looked it up…
How can I find out what year it is from?
To determine the age of your 25 requires the answerts to several questions.
1. Is the buttstock wood? And the pump handle?
2. Is the gun painted or blued?
3. If the pump handle is wood, how many grooves does it have?
4. Is the gun engraved? Or is it painted to appear engraved?
Give the the answers and I will ask you some more.
B.B.
I believe my Mod. 25 is a variation 7. Is there any way to tell if pre or post WWII? It has the Plymouth addy, pistol grip wood stock, 6 groove pump handle, five patent numbers, the receiver is "engraved" but the barrel doesn't match, it appears to be painted. Maybe a replacement?
Old 14,
Maybe not. Around 1952 (which also answers the pre-post-war question) Daisy transitioned from blued steel and wood stocks to paint and plastic. Often they put out guns that had some of the changes but not all, as they used up everything they had when assembling guns. That is a possibility with your No. 25.
Of course you could also have a replacement barrel group, as there is no dimensional difference between that and paint. It is next to impossible to know for sure.
If the paint matches the blue well then it's more likely that the gun is original. However the paint may have discolored some over the years. The original color is dark blue-black and virtually indistinguishable from bluing.
B.B.
I just got a vintage model 25 for my birthday. It has a 6 groove wooden pump handle and stock and appears to be blued.
The only problem that I have with it is that it fires every time that it is cocked without pulling the trigger. Any solution would be appreciated. Thanks
There is a problem with the trigger (obviously). That part is located in the receiver. You can take the gun apart and see the trigger mechanism inside the sheetmetal receiver, but unless you are a mechanical genius, you are not going to know how to fix it.
I recommend sending your gun to a good repairman. Here are a couple you might contact:
Bucky's Parts (Daisy) http://www.daisyrepair.com
Larry Behling
315-695-7133 or co2bbjlts@juno.com
B.B.
I was able to fix the problem by cleaning up the sear and bending the metal tab that locks into the sear when cocked. Now it cocks and fires like it should but the bb's don't fire with much force. I see in some of the previous comments that you suggest Beeman Perfect Rounds. Is it ok to use these in a model 25 of this vintage? I think it is a 1936 model. Thanks
What you can shoot depends not on the model of gun but the shot tube. You must ascertain whether it is for steel or lead. Look at the second picture in this report to learn the difference:
/blog/2009/4/daisy-no-40-military-model/
B.B.
Looks like I've got the one for steel shot. Thanks for your help. Steve
Hey I was inherited a Daisy model 25 bb gun i dont want to sell it but does anybody know how to keep it in good shape?
I am not the other person who has the name "anonymous" I am just a 13 year old boy looking for help.
13,
The secret to keeping a 25 operating is frequent oiling of the piston seal. Most 25s don't have oil holes, so just remove the shot tube and drop 5-6 drops down the muzzle. Stand the gun on its butt for half and hour, then replace the shot tube and fire the gun several times. If you don't shoot the gun often, do this at least twice a year and your gun will stay fresh for decades.
Don't dry-fire your gun (shoot without BBs). And don't shoot with the shot tube removed.
B.B.
k thanks
Is the Model 25 being sold by Pro-Bass any good.Seen it in paper and is first time I've seen a Model 25 for sale in years.
I haven't tested this gun yet. Obviously there has to be a lot of modern manufacturing technology involved, but what that does to the integrity of the design remains to be seen.
B.B.
I bought 2 through the online catalog and received them a couple of weeks ago….thought they would make good presents to a some family, but I was rather impressed with the quality. The safety is new and I don't really care for it but overall I was impressed. I will surely buy or keep one for myself.
I bought one the new ones from BassPro and I really like it. I've never seen an older model in person but I dare to say this one is well constructed. I don't even see any plastic parts. Some people say the trigger is plastic and the top of the shot tube but they don't look plastic to me. For a BB gun, I think it is very accurate. The only thing I don't like is the "Made in China" mark. Daisy don't have any support for this rifle now but they say they will have support for it by the middle of next year (2010).
Made in China? The MODEL 25????
Hang it up, guys… it's over.
Vince,
All I is that you're absolutely correct.
Mr B.
Thanks for the report on the new Daisy No. 25. As for being made in China, all the parts on Daisy's other guns have been made there for at least a decade. They just assemble them in Rogers (lately–they recently returned from a cave in Missouri).
B.B.
I just got two of the model 25's from Bass Pro yesterday, one for me and one for my buddy. I am 56 and he is 57. He had a model 25 when he was a kid and he told me about it several months ago. He loved the rifle, but had no memory of what ever happened to it. I went to his work place and when he got off, I opened the back of my van, he saw the new model 25, and I told him that it was his. He all but cried. I had tried to get one of these for myself and I was so disappointed when I found out that Daisy didn't make these anymore. I got a Red Ryder instead. Well, today, I fired 500 rounds through the Model 25. I can tell you now…I have lots of BB and Pellet guns, but for the fun value, this is it! Once I got it sighted in, did I have a blast (pun intended)! I like it much better than the Red Ryder. How about this…500 rounds and no missfire at all. I love this gun and am thinking about getting another to have on standby, just in case I wear this one out. If you want to have fun with a BB Gun…get yourself a Daisy Model 25from Pro Bass…you won't be disappointed!
Sureshot,
Thank you for your report, but can you be more specific? Is the new model 25 accurate? Compare it to the Red Ryder I am now blogging.
Go here to read the story:
/blog//
B.B.
Hi, I am trying to pin point a year on a daisy model 25 pump rifles I have done some research on the web but can’t determine the age for sure. The rifle has the patent pending words, fixed front sights, long pull pump with six grooves, straight stock, blued barrel, and the pump rod is held on by a clamp. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Jim,
Unless it's been fooled with it's between 1916 and 1930.
Does it have the squared-out and full folded-metal triggerguard or the stamped plate that's rounded at the back(like the ones in this report)?
Is the disassembly screw head large like a penny or is it a truncated cone with knurled sides?
B.B.
The rifle has a folded squared triggerguard and the disassembly screw head is a truncated cone with knurled sides. It doesn't look like it has been worked on unless it was done early on. Thank you for your help. Jim
Jim,
Then you have a very late version of the 1916-1929 model. I'm going to do a blog on Daisy 25 characteristics for tomorrow. Too many people have the same problem you have.
B.B.
i took apart my dad's no. 25 from the early 50's to clean it out and now i can't get the trigger spring back into place… does anyone have a picture or description of how it fits into the receiver?
You have asked a question in a place that other readers cannot see, unless they happen to look here. This blog is posted five days a week at
/blog//
If you ask the same question there you are more likely to get an answer.
B.B.
Hi
I have a no 25 pump bb gun and a dont know if I sould shoot steel BBs. It has a (steel BB wire?) in the magazine. I have copper coated and zinc coated steel BBs. Can I use these? Thanks
BigBadBBGun
BigBadBBGun,
Yes you sure can. Those are the BB's your gun is made to shoot.
By the way B.B. writes a daily blog Mon-Fri at/blog//. Please reask your question there for a greater response.
Not many of us see comments posted to the older blogs. Hope to see you there.
Mr B.
Hell,i have an old daisy #25 registration nok112279 there r patentened numbers on it it has a plastic handle but the metal gun is engraved. i am looking for someone collecting or willing to prchase and how do i know where to start.
thank you
Mike,
If your 25 was made in Plymouth, Michigan, it will be very desirable to a collector. If it was made in Rogers, Arkansas, less so.
Here are the free classified airgun ad sites:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/
http://www.airguns.net/classifieds/classifieds.php
B.B.
yes it was made in plymouth michigan where would i begain to sell it and any ideal what it might worth
Mike,
I have the same gun in like-new condition and I value it at $125-150. If the paint has been chipped and if there is some rust, the value would drop accordingly. An average one might be worth $50-60.
You see it on those two free classified sites I gave the urls for in my first answer.
B.B.
I have an older model 25 and am impressed with its power for a BB gun. However, is their a way, perhaps by slightly stretching the spring that a little more velocity could be obtained to reach maybe 450fps?
Anonymous, if you stretch the spring you're well on your way to destroying the spring. And if you put a stronger spring in it, you might be well on your way to destroying the rest of the gun.
I'd suggest that your best bet would be to make sure the gun is up to where it should be, and if you need something more powerful – well, get something more powerful. You can get a pellet rifle for under $70 that will have tons more power and accuracy than the Model 25 will EVER have.
FYI – the current blog is/blog//, and off-topic questions are always welcome! A lot more people will see your questions that way.
Where can one download and print out an exploded view of a model 25 daisy pump bb gun? I've already tried a link mentioned on this blog with no success.
You might contact Daisy for this.
http://www.daisy.com
B.B.
Hi All, I just found my Daisy 25 Air Riffle during a move and it appears to be in good shape but the inner spring is not functioning.
Questions, Can you still get parts for these guns and how much is a gun like this worth?
Its probably 35+ years old?
Where would I go to sell it Ebay?
A modern Number 25 like your in excellent condition is worth about $50. Parts should still be available from Daisy.
You can sell one on the free airgun classified ads here:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/
B.B.
Anonymous
You can sell the gun for free on either of these classified sites which receive plenty of traffic:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/
http://www.airguns.net/classifieds/classifieds.php?adsort=forsale
For repairs, contact this guy:
Bucky's Parts (Daisy) http://www.daisyrepair.com
If you fix it, you might enjoy shooting it for a while, before you sell it.
If you have questions in the future, post them to the current blog
/blog//
This way you will get faster responses from way more people, most of whom are smarter than me:^)
someone, anyone know the firepower,fps on the daisy model 225 please answer.
Gerald Trahan,
The Daisy model 225 made by milbro in Scotland is a stablemate to the diana 25. These guns should shoot a medium weight .177 caliber pellet450-500fps.
I've never owned a daisy 225 but do own a diana 25 and it's shooting around 470fps with jsb's.
kevin
Hello does anyone have any idea how much a Daisy model 179 Centenial edition 1971 cost its like new shoots great but has no box?
thanks.
abcidk@hotmail.com
A few years ago I sold mine on gunbroker – functional but well worn, and with a damaged holster – and I got $94 for it.
Anonymous,
is that the NRA Centennial edition? If so, if you have the pistol and rifle, like new condition is probably north of $400. I can't give you a price for just the rifle but suggest you go to the Yellow Forum (http://www.network54.com/Forum/79574/) and see if anyone is selling them and what the final bid price is.
Fred PRoNJ
Question: were prewar variant 7's always equipped with black walnut stocks? What woods were used in the postwar 7's?
jalank
jalank
Check out this article:
/blog/2010/01/daisy-25-dating-information-part-2/
If you have questions in the future, I suggest you ask them on the current day's blog. This blog is published every Monday through Friday.
The article you have posted your question on is over 4 years old. Few will see your question here.
Pop on over to the current blog and post your question there. Go to the bottom of the first article on the page and click where it says Comments, with a number next to it. You will get the most responses from the most knowledgeable people, and in shorter time.
This is the address for the current day's blog:
/blog//
See ya there
Would like to know more about daisy pump gun- blue colored Reg No.M731572 model no. 25
Daisy MFG.co. Rogers ARK USA Pats 2.724.897-2,758.586 rare? – value? -ducks prints
on rifle it self has Daisy air rifle*marksmanship-fun-sportmanship- top
handle" I Pledge my self to pro tect people animals and properties in my comunity
try always aiming and shooting my daisy safely soldger standing image
with rifle of a man or boy
From your description you own a vert common Daisy number 25 pump gun. In average condition it's worth about $40 and in like-new condition with the box it's worth about $100. I see this model at every airgun show I attend.
B.B.
My old Daisy model 25 lacks power. Back in the 1960s it had alot. How can I restore that power?
Have you oiled it? They need oil often.
B.B.
Thanks for the tip on my old Daisy Model 25. Put whole bunch of 3 in 1 and it fires fantastic! Who would think 50 years after my Dad bought it for me, we would sit on the back porch and shoot at cans like we used to with smiles on our faces. That's what its all about! Thanks!!!
Thank you for that feedback. Oiling usually works, but it's nice to know when someone has been helped. Enjoy your BB gun.
B.B.
I recently acquired a 1954 Daisy Model No. 25 which shoots strong and is in very good shape for its age. However, occasionally it will shoot 2 bbs at once – I am using Copperheads at present – and wondered if you had any advice as to cause/correction of this issue. Otherwise, the gun is fully operational and accurate – the problem occurs perhaps 5% of the time, but seems to run in bunches. Perhap the cocking speed?
Any help will be appreciated. CHFTN55
Anytime you re-insert the shot tube into the barrel a bb is pushed into the "chamber" and is not held by the crimp in the end of the tube any longer. You should hold the gun muzzle down and it will roll out and prevent 2 bbs from coming out with the first shot. If it is happening after that I imagine the wire spring or crimp at the end of the tube is weak. I assume that could be repaired or another shot tube should not be hard to find. I bought a couple of spares some years ago, but don't remember where, only that they were easy to locate online…..I think it was from a link someone on this site gave me! Good Luck!
Danny B
Thanks for the quick response, Clumsome. Generally happens well after the initial shot, at random. So I will check the spring. Will advise. Regards, CHFTN55
chftn55,
Double-feeding is a common problem with the Daisy guns that use the 50-shot forced-feed magazine. The shot tube is causing the problem and to fix it you might install a different tube. The tube in your gun is allowing more than one BB at a time to pass into the barrel.
B.B.
Thanks. Do you have a referral as to where I might obtain one? I am in Los Angeles, California. I appreciate the reply. Regards, CHFTN55
chftn,
What about Daisy? They are still making the 25 and I'll bet the modern shot tubes will still fit.
If not, try Larry Behling:
Larry Behling 315-695-7133 or co2bbjlts@juno.com
B.B.
Thanks for the info. Wanted to try to keep it somewhat original as it is a survivor. Seems that if I pump steady but not hard the problem doesn't appear. Just shot 30 without a problem. Will watch it and advise. I also have a '52 Red Ryder which has good pop, and a '76 RR which is weak, perhaps Mr. Behling could help me there. I scoped a new Marlin Cowboy and it pops too. Lastly, an '80 Crosman 766 which is nothing short of deadly. 60 going on 10, I am. Thanks for all your help. JAL (CHFTN55)
JAL,
I think Larry Behling is your best bet for everything. Larry fixes the older guns and had numerous parts on hand.
Another problem that's too common on the No. 25 is a broken air tube on the piston head. The air tube is what pushes the BB off its seat and accelerates it up to about 50 f.p.s. when the gun fires. Then the air blast comes through the tube and boosts the BB up over 300 f.p.s.
I am a 25 collector, though I have started to thin out my collection now. But I think I still have six of seven of them.
At the age of 60 you are very close to the average age of an airgunner in the U.S. I think 55 is about the average. I'm soon turning 64 myself and I am also an avid firearms shooter, but I shoot airguns about 50 times as much as I do forearms.
Welcome to the blog. You don't have to post way back here, where only about six people will ever see you. You can post anything you like on the current blog, as we are always talking about airguns and shooting all the time. That's here:
/blog//
B.B.
Thanks BB. Will be monitoring the blog henceforth. I too have some heavier firepower, an '03 A3 30-06 deer rifle, but haven't had the urge to go to the range in a long time. Airguns are, frankly, much more fun and far less dangerous.
Glad to find your insightful blog and website, and will be around.
Best regards, JAL (CHFTN55 – that's my '55 Pontiac)
JAL,
Great! We now have another blog reader who shoots.
I have covered shooting many firearms in this blog and my readers talk about all sorts of firearms as well as airguns.
Heck, I even did a special report on reloading and another one on how to cast lead bullets.
So everything goes here, as long as we keep it clean, for there are a lot of parents reading the blog with their kids.
Welcome aboard!
B.B.
My ex father in law just gave my son a Daisy #25 the only thing I can determine is it was made between 1958 & 1978 is there any way to find out the specific year with the pats.# 2724897-2758586
Jennifer,
Oh there are many ways to do that, but you need to talk to serious collector of Daisys made in Rogers, AR. I am not up on them.
I suggest you contact these gentlemen:
Jim Dry Claremore, Oklahoma (918)341-9104
Larry Behling 315-695-7133 or co2bbjlts@juno.com
B.B.
I just picked up a daisy no 25 patent pending at an auction for $17. It has 5 grooves on the pump, wood stock, fixed front sight, adjustable rear sight, groups good at 20 yards, blued barrel that’s a pretty uniform patina now except where someone at the auction rubbed it down to silver to “clean it up”. Any idea of a time frame for it and value? I’m not planning on selling it, just interested.
Trout,
Welcome to the blog, unless you are the Trout from 8 years ago. Then it’s welcome back.
I need to know:
Does the gun have a pistol grip?
Is there a screw at the top of the tang?
Is the shot tube forced-feed it magnetic (could be replaced)
How does the rear sight adjust?
What kind of wood is the stock made of?
What size and shape is the takedown screw head (domed penny-size or smaller truncated cone?)?
Is the receiver engraved?
Is the pump lever case-hartdened?
B.B.
Nope, I’m new lol and thanks for the quick response.
No pistol grip, there is a screw at the top, the shot tube is spring forced, the rear sight has a leaf in the middle that slides forwards and back, the takedown screw is a square headed bolt with a 6 sided nut on the other side and the receiver is not engraved. Not sure about the wood, it’s almost black with use in some places and almost blonde on top from wear. And not sure how to tell if its case hardened. Thanks for the help
Trout,
I think you have what they call the 1930 variation. The takedown screw has been replaced, as I’m sure you know. And the shot tube may be original, because Daisy switched to steel BBs sometime in the late 1920s.
The case hardening looks like rainbow colors on the steel cocking links. They will be silvery where handled but may show some color under the sun.
The wood is probably ash, oak or gum. Ash and oak will have visible grain through the grime. Gum looks very plain.
B.B.
So probably 1930 then? It looks like it is case hardened, and I can definitely see the grains in the stock even through all the wear… Any idea on an estimated price? I’m sure rubbing off the patina is going to drop it a decent amount
Trout,
That nut and bolt kill the value, too.
It’s worth maybe $50 in this condition.
B.B.
I have what I believe is the first year of production, it has a moveable front side. The wood and varnish are excellent, case colors on the cocking arm, no rust on the black finish which shows some crazing. Can you tell me what this gun would be worth to a collector looking for a 1913?
Mark,
A 1913 Number 25 with all the black over the nickel finish would be a valuable gun. I have never seen one that good, so I think it might bring $800 and up.
B.B.
Had a daisy for Christmas around 1958-1959, plastic stock (blondish), had words of code of conduct molded in plastic butt of the stock, anybody know, can’t find a thing, all Googled out!
Paul,
That was probably a Daisy Eagle. It also came with a scope and sling in a large cardboard box. The paint was light brown with gold lettering.
B.B.
Here is B&W photo http://www.neenah1970.com/New%20Pages/BB-Gun.html I wish I could remember the words on the plastic butt plate about safe handling etc. B.B. Pelletier sounds almost French, more so than Tom Gaylord 🙂 Recently won bidding on Ebay for near mint R1 book you did. Just received my Beeman R1 .20 from Pyramyd AIR, what a machine, need to break it in, then will scope, pointing and shooting for now, good practice. Have Beeman R10 circa 1990 (mint) that still works nice…..
Paul,
That looks like a Daisy Eagle.
Here is the reason for the pen name:
/blog/2007/10/who-am-i/
B.B.
B.B.
Maybe there were variants of the Daisy Eagle 98? See photo again http://www.neenah1970.com/New%20Pages/BB-Gun.html Every thing I see out there for the Eagle had scope/sling. The main thing is, I finally found the words of the pledge of the Daisy air rifleman… thank you for doing what you do!
Paul,
Maybe Daisy sold just the gun under a different name?
The sling hook attached to the front band that you have indicated with an arrow.
B.B.
Hey B.B.,
I bought one of these at an auction a few years ago and have never been able to find information on it until now. Thanks for the articles, I have learned a lot. I have been debating about either trying to put together parts to bring it back to life or just trying to sell it. When I got it at the auction it was cheap and they told me after that it is worth at least $50 in parts. I know zero about these and would like to chat with you about it if you ever get the time.
R/S,
MT
R/S,
Welcome to the blog.
Your gun may be worth rebuilding. Are the stock and pump handle wood?
B.B.
No they look and feel like a hard plastic made to look like wood. The auction house said it was mad in the 1920’s, has Daisy stamped on it and the engraving. So I’m not entirely sure when it truly was made.
Mtorrence22,
Daisy didn’t make plastic stocks until the 1950s, so the auction house is incorrect. That gun was probably made in the 1960s and isn’t worth much today.
B.B.
Ok thank you for the help, it’s appreciated.