By B.B. Pelletier
Here is a gift from me to you. It’s not a physical thing, just information; though, if you act on my suggestion, it will become very real for you.
My gift is the IZH 61 air rifle. If you already have one, you’re nodding your head in agreement. If you don’t have one yet, you should think about correcting that deficiency real soon.
Why this one over any other? Accuracy! Price! Features out the wazoo include two kinds of rear sights (peep and sporting), a globe front sight with interchangeable elements, adjustable trigger, adjustable stock, EASY cocking and it’s a five-shot repeater! Best of all, it has a super Russian barrel, and the Russians are one people who know how to rifle barrels. By just telling your airgunning buddies about the IZH 61, you could score more points than Shaq on a good night.
Olympic accuracy for under $100?
This little sidelever spring is nearly as accurate as a $2,000 Olympic target rifle. Unfortunately, the 61 is also dog-ugly and could turn you off if looks are important. Several years ago I read an article about a guy who bought a 61 for under a hundred bucks and dolled it up with Olympic rifle sights and a full-featured target-style laminated stock! Those things set him back more than $500, or so the story went. The thing is, the gun was so darned accurate that it was worth it!
It’s like those Hondas that guys soup up to bury muscle cars. Of course, with $20,000 or more invested in the engine and a nitrous oxide injector you would expect them to. And, so it goes with the IZH 61, only you don’t have to do anything beyond buying the gun and shooting it.
Here is a tip for new owners. Just take the gun out of the box and shoot it! You can read a ton of so-called improvements on any of the chat forums, but you don’t need them to shoot like a champ. Simply load the five-shot magazine with good target pellets and shoot, shoot SHOOT!
For my money, the IZH 61 is one of the most value-packed airguns available today.
Was there another gun like this but it came apart?
The AirForce Talon is a takedown gun and it does look like this a little. That’s the only one I can think of.
B.B.
How much recoil does the IZH 61 have? Is the trigger “heavy” to pull? How does recoil and trigger pull compair to the Daisy Powerline 1000? Will my Daisy 1000 trigger improve with use?
Phil,
I answered this question already on the March 10 posting where you asked it first.
The IZH 61 trigger is lighter and smoother than the Daisy 1000 and will remain so. It is not as powerful, though. Consider the 61 as a target rifle. It is wonderfully accurate.
B.B.
Sorry about the second post of same question. I thought I had put it here, and it wasn’t here and I couldn’t find it so I posted again. Sorry and thanks again.
hi, i was wondering if this izh 61 is as quiet as the daisy buck rifle is? i ask this because it seems to have the same spring type action as the buck..
The IZH is about as quiet as a Daisy Buck, but the spring-piston mechanism is considerably different. The Buck has a BB gun mechanism, which can be seen in the Blue Book of Airguns, 5th Edition. It’s a combination of a catapult and a spring-piston.
B.B.
Is this gun light and accurate enough to shoot mice in a barn? Could it consistently hit a nickel at around 15 feet? Also, how quickly can this gun be fired? Thanks.
Joey
Joey,
It would be difficult to miss a nickel at 30 feet with an IZH 61. And, yes, it will roll a mouse.
I imagine with some practice you could get off five aimed shots in 15 seconds.
B.B.
hi I am new to airgunning and was wanting your thoughts on the RWS model 45 made in germany by DIANA I got what I thought was a good deal on this very nice rifle I paid $90.00 for it with a bushnell 3x9x32 sportview scope already mounted i am now looking at purchasing an izh61 and izh46m for small bore competition any information on this rifle would be very appreciated thank you ..Kenny
Kenny,
The RWS 45 was one of the first magnum air rifles available. Back in the 1970s, it was advertised as having 800 to 850 f.p.s. in .177. Later on, they changed the piston seal from leather to synthetic and picked up another 100 f.p.s., or so.
The REAL 45 has a large round plug in the stock above the trigger. The current model 45 is simply the model 34 in a different stock. There is no plug with this model and performance is the same as the 34.
B.B.
IZH 61 … I purchased and returned and one in March 06. It seems there are some differences between the 61 that I received compared to what others have written. 1st- Mine only came with one rear sight…open not peep and the front sight did not have interchangeable inserts. 2nd- I suspect there is much more plastic in the newer versions as mine was primarily plastic. 3rd- The magazine and pellet indexing mechanism were quite poor. The indexing mechanism would fail to lock forcing you to remove the magazine (so you dont load a second pellet while trying to get it to lock) while you fiddle to get it to lock. Also, none of the pellets I tried would seat securely in the magazine (gamo, daisy, crosman). So basically the pellets fall out when you fire the rifle…..and if you did not notice that the pellets fell out you may end up dry firing the rifle, which as we all know is a terrible thing to do. 4th- When the rifle arrived the shipping box was fine (Pyramid Air did their part) however, when I opened the IZH box I noticed that the front site had rotated a quarter turn around the barrel. 5th- The barrel it self was mounted crooked (veering to the left) into the receiver and the barrel itself looked slightly bent. So since both the Pyramid Air Box and the IZH box were in good condition that leads one to believe that the rifle was actually shipped this way from the factory!!!
The only good comment I have is that the IZH 61 has a good trigger (all things considered).
Who knows maybe I just got a dud? Regardless though a NEW version of the IZH 61 needs to be reviewed because it just does not seem to be the same rifle described by others.
Bad experience,
I HOPE the rifle you got was just a dud! If Baikal has lowered their quality control, then it’s the end of a wonderful era.
About 8 years ago, there was a different problem with the 61. It was being shipped with silica gel packs that were breaking open in shipment. The insides of many guns had a gritty sand-like material in their spring cylinder. They were sold as seconds and the buyers had to clean them out. Baikal stopped using that type of dehumidifier, but there were hundreds of guns in the pipeline by the time they found out.
The plastic comment is disturbing, as is the one about no peep sight. It’s just a plate with a hole in it that is screwed to the regular rear sight, turning it into a peep sight. Are you sure it wasn’t there? Also, Baikal used to put a spare mainspring in the box. Are they still doing that?
Thank you for your report. I hope other new owners will tell us what they are experiencing with theis (once) fine rifle.
B.B.
My 10 yr old son is starting Colorado 4-H shooting sports this summer and we are gun shopping. I have a list of questions:
1) Does anyone know if the stock on the 61 in allow in 4-H competion? I like the price and the accuracy claims.
2) I see alot of recomendations for the Daisy 753/853/953’s. I like the price on the 953, but would like a wood stock (a bit more “keepsakeish”, than plastic”, but the 853 is alot more money that the 953. Does the accuracy & features of the 853 make it that much more of a value over the 953?
3) My son held a Gamo Delta, and liked the size and wt. Is it good as a 4-H target gun?
4) Are the Gamo and Daisy sites interchangable? I heard that the Gamo sites fit the 753/853/953’s and are a better quality and the Daisy sites a junk. True?
5) Do you have a better alternative to the guns mentioned here, for 4-H, and be of a first gun keepsake quality, yet under $150?
6) Accuaracy wise, how would you rate the following:
61
753
853
953
Gamo Delta
Any other comments would be great, thanks!
4-H dad!
Wow! We should have had a phone conversation. I will answer your questions by number.
1. I don’t know.
2. The 853 and 753 both have Lothar Walther barrels. THAT is a good reason fot getting the 853 for your son. Though is does have some plastic, it is definitely more of an heirloom airgun. Many older shooters own 853s for their accuracy, alone.
3. Forget the Gamo Delta. It is sized right but woefully inaccurate for what your son will be doing.
4. Believe it or not, Daisy offers the Gamo sights as upgrades to the 853 and 953. Diasy’s sights are not junk but they do need to be adjusted several clicks in one direction before they start to move. The plastic gears have a lot of slop in them.
5. Based on your price constraint, my pick is the 953 with upgraded sights. The 61 is more accurate but it is a repeater which MIGHT keep it from competition, and I am not sure of the adjustable stock issue.
6.
853/753
61
953
Slingshot
Gamo Delta
Other comments. Get GOOD pellets! Gamo Match are good, as are H&N Match. Give Crosman wadcutters a try. Also try Daisy wadcutters.
If you get an 853 (and I hope you do) keep the pump head oiled per the instructions. Same for the 953.
B.B.
B.B.
I suppose if the peep is just a reversable blade that I may have missed it. No extra mainspring, but the rifle came with a cleaning rod and a 2nd magazine.
I have had an IZH 61 for about a week now. In my expereince it is very sensitive to how it is held. I have little luck with a loose artilery hold as I use on other air guns.
This gun responds best for me with a firm grip iwth my fingers wrapped around the bottom of the foremost part of the fore end and a light touch on the cheek piece and pistol grip.
If others have techniques that work well I would like to learn of them.
By all means do what works, but every 61 I’ve see liked a loose hold all over.
B.B.
Are the Daisy 753 and 853 triggers the same? On an earlier post the only differences noted were the stock and sights. Some websites list the 753 pull at 2 lbs and the 853 at 5 lbs.
As far as I know, the 753 and 853 are identical except for the things you noted.
The 2-pound trigger pull might be due to a modified trigger, which the 853 can have, as well.
B.B.
Has Pyramid Air experienced recent IZH-61 sales returns that are above the norm for the price range or that would alter your support…? Thanks, JB.
JB,
The Russians never change anything, once they start making it. I have no idea what Pyramyd’s returns are like, but on Saturday, I saw a 61 that a man just spent $350 re-stocking with a custom laminated stock. If you want the gun, get it!
B.B.
Do you have an IZH-61 scope-mount or peep sight recommendation for bug bustin…? Sounds like a fun air rifle for the entire family and it has been designated a classic…;-) Thanks, JB.
JB,
The Leapers Bug Buster scope, of course!
For mounts use anything that will fit the 61, which needs two-piece rings for adjustability.
B.B.
And so I got the IZH61 – so far has been very pleased with it but couldn’t get the scope to stay in place.
I initially got a Tasco 3~9x 32mm .22 rimfire but replaced the scope with the see thru ones
The scope feel off the rail after 10 shots
Questions,
1. How do you get the scope to stay in place other than zip tying it?
2. Can the Tasco rated for .22 rimfire withstand the shock from a springer?
DirtBuster
DirtBuster,
The problem is with your mounts. An inexpensive .22 scope mount has a lot of flex in it. I don’t know if the Tasco can take a springer or not, but the 61 is about as tame as they come. However, it does vibrate and a loose-fitting dovetail clamp will not hold.
Also, a .22 mount is not the correct size for an airgun. Airguns want 11mm dovetails, .22s are 3/8-inch.
B.B.
Do you still feel the same about the 61 today? Are there any other airguns that you feel are anywhere near the value for the $?
adin,
Yes, I do. The next best value is the Benjamin 392. Then the Daisy 499B.
B.B.
what about the daisy 22sg?
The 22SG is a fine airgun.
B.B.
Purchased the IZH-61 and was impressed by its modernistic clean lines and handling. The scope mount rail however, is too short to handle the Accushot Medium Profile Rings (21mm) for 1 inch 4X Bug Buster scope. Not sure if the 16mm width will work either. At 10m some 7.9 CP’s stuck in the target and some penetrated into the GAMO plasticized 5 inch targets. My son’s groups shrank mine by at least half, so the rifle’s potential justifies a scope. Highs: style, compactness, repeater, ease of cocking, low noise level which did not bother frequent flyer bird feeder visitors and last but not least the most impressive trigger I have ever pulled. Not so highs: short scope mounting rail, borderline power. This same style rifle in a higher (R7 .177..??) power range would be a direct hit on my wallet as this style to me is much more user friendly. Rifle shipped with a cleaning rod, extra spring and plastic seal, which is not mentioned in Pyramyd’s on-line specs. After 100 or so rounds, nothing has fallen off or broke. The plastic magazine has not been a problem and feeds reliably.
Mounted the Accushot Medium Profile Rings (21mm) and the 4X Bug Buster scope on my Wischo 55 with outstanding results. It’s a bug buster now and very accurate.
JB
JB,
The extras you received are not always included. It seems to be up to the factory.
Last month I saw a 61 with a $350 stock on it!
B.B.
Three questions:
1) Is this quiet enough to shoot without the neighbors getting too curious?
2) At close range, say 10-30 feet, would this kill birds and squirrels?
3) Other gun options? Main goal is to kill squirrels and misc. birds at close range with limited noise. But also want a gun to grow into, so next week I don’t need a different one. <$150, rifle or pistol. There are just too many guns, and too many reviews, to help me make a decision. Thanks.
I want one, but 1st I would like to ask if you’d perfer this 61 over a XS-B18?
Thanks for any input!! Thanks!!
i want to know the true velocity of this gun, because i saw on several different sites that the velocity is completely different from each one of them??? pyramid air says that the velocity is 490 but the manufactorer site says that the velocity is 430 and another site says it has the velocity at 400, and another siter says that the velocity is from 430-close to 500(different pellets) and i am gettinf this rifle in about 2 weeks
Well, there is no true velocity of this or any other air rifle! It depends on the condition of the gun and the weight of the pellet tested.
I have tested more than 20 IZH 61s and they ranged between 425 and 475 with 7.5 to 8-grain pellets, which are about the right weight to use in the gun.
The reason for the difference? Lubrication! If an owner over-lubes the gun, and especially if he lubes the pellets, the velocity goes down. If the gun is over-lubed at the factory, same thing.
There can never be a single velocity for any air rifle.
B.B.
Dear B.B.
I have read several information about the IZH-61, but I couldn’t find direct answers for these questions:
A) Is it recoiless?
b) If not, is the recoil too hard?
c) Can a diopter sight replace the rear factory default sight?
d) If yes, what kind of diopter sights can be placed on?
The reason is I want to buy this rifle for my niece, he is 7 years old, and she is skinny, but God! she hits always in the black area of the 33 feet official bullseye! with a 753 Avanti (too large for her)
Would you recommend this IZH-61 for practice?
Please help
HErbert,
A. No it recoils a little. I’ve seen 7 year-olds handle it fine.
C. It comes with a diopter adaptor for the open sight. That may be all you need.
Get it!
B.B.
dear BB,
I need a new tweety-bird/mouse buster. Is this IZH 61 accurate enough to kill a bird at thirty yards?
How would you compare it to a Daisy powerline 953 targetpro?
what would you suggest?
thanks,
Anonymous
The IZH is so accurate that you will not be able to use everything it has. Thirty yerads is a stretch for something this low-powered, but the Daisy 953 will be just as challenged.
The 61 compares better to the accuracy of the 853 with the Lothar Walther barrel.
I would not shoot a bird at 90 feet with something this low-powered.
I would suggest an R7.
B.B.
I’m interested in trying tu turn an IZH 61 into an olympic starter gun like the guy you mentioned. Coild you suggest an olympic sight & stock upgrade and place to get them installed for about the $500 total + the gun price?
Or maybe you could recommend somewhere to get a used olympic starter for an adult man for about $600, instead. PCP or a good springer.
Dal,
Turning an IZH 61 into an Olympic gun was an excercise in what was possible. It wasn’t practical. Today the same work would cost more because of the Euro/dollar relationship. And the stock was custom made for the project; they don’t exist.
As for target rifles, there are plenty. The Alfa CO2 Target is one choice, but I like the IZH rifle version of the model 46 single stroke pistol better. Pyramyd AIR used to carry it but they don’t have it anymore.
Spring guns are out as far as target shooting goes. There are a number of good used guns from the 1980s, however. The FWB 300 seems to be the favorite.
Your top price keeps you from buying a new PCP. Most of them now sell for more than $2,000.
B.B.
Spring
Ok, so I’m leaning toward a single stroke for convenience. A few questions (1st, all questions targeted towards Olympic level competition):1) Will the IZH MP532 offer a high chance of competing at the Olympic level? 2) I notice the high priced 10-meter rifles often have a Junior model with very little difference for slightly smaller price. So will the Juniors do for adult competition? 3) How much do the extra bell & whistles really help, i.e. IZH MP532 vs. FWB 603? 4) When searching the net for information what is the best way to tell if the mentioned rifle is adequate for high level 10-meter competition? The field target competition rifles look very similar to the 10-meter competition rifles, for example the LG300 Dominator. Also they normally all just say recommended for competition but doesn’t say which type. 5) What are the most popular or widely used high competition level 10-meter air rifles? 6) Finally Pyramyd AIR doesn’t have any review on Olympic level rifles & there doesn’t seem to be a wide resource of review anywhere. How does a person get the education when there are almost no air rifle suppliers close to DFW with public access that allow you to test them 1st?
I ask all of this because I recently bought a Gamo Shadow 1000 after reading your blogs. In 2.5 weeks I have managed to improve to 6 of 14 10s on a regulation 10-meter target at regulation distance with stocked sights & no scope. The other 8 shots are normally 8s & 9s. I feel since it is impossible to aim “direct” center with the Shadow (because the fiber optic sight dot covers the entire target), I’m self taught (aside of Army Basic Training), not using a competition level rifle or sights and it only took 2.5 weeks to get to this level then I might just have a chance in high level competition. I realize I’ll need a lot more practice with adequate equipment which is why I want to get it right 1st instead of spending too much money taking to many smaller steps. I’d rather take a 1 step that will at least allow me to seriously compete in high level matches for a while without my rifle being the actual issue. Even if I need to save more than the $600 I have, I want to get a rifle that’s not actually TOP END in price & gadgets but has Top End ability & enough (necessary) gadgets that even Top End users could do “about” the same with it.
With all this considered do you still feel the IZH MP532 is the best buy or would it really be best I wait & save some more money? If waiting is best about how much will I need & what rifle would you suggest trying.
By the way your reply was faster than a speeding bullet.
Dal, Do you mean Olympic LEVEL competition or Olympic TYPE?
No air rifle under $2,000 is suitable for Olympic LEVEL competition. That is the top of world class and you will only find the best rifles used.
The Junior models are great, but none of them could compete in the Olympics. They are not adjustable enough.
If you want reviews on Olympic level guns, why haven’t you Googeled that yet? You will find TONS of reviews and helpful information on Scott Pilkington’s website
pilkguns.com
Scott attends all the Olympics and repairs the guns of the competitors during the games.
You really need to get into an NRA sanctioned regional match. Go to the NRA website and locate a match near you
nrahq.org
As of this time I think you need to do more research before selecting a rifle. I don’t think the MP532 is the gun for you. You probably will want to spend about $1000 and buy a good used 10-meter rifle.
I do understand your excitement. I get it myself when I shoot 10-meter pistol. But you need to get some good equipment and get into some matches. Things change when everyone in the room is shooting just as good as you or better.
There is also a shooting jacket to buy and that will set you back $400 or so (used).
B.B.
Thanks a million! Your blogs and advice have been priceless. If I ever amount to anything worth interviewing, B.B. Pelletier of the Pyramydair blogs will be my 1st mention & thanks. You have ignited a fire that’s burning out of control. For 2 weeks I have been doing some type of practice or control excercise, that I learned from your blogs and links, for an average of 4-5 hours a day. I hope to meet you someday!
Dal,
Yep, you definitely have the bug!
My recommendations for good used rifles are anyof the Anschutz, Steyr or FWB precharged models. My personal favorite is the P70, and since it has recently been replaced by the P700, there will be some used ones on the market.
B.B.
HI bb, what retailers would carry this gun that are in the US. WOuld dicks sports have it or wal mart? If you know of any in the maryland region that would be great, thanks
The IZH 61 is a specialty airgun. Don’t expect a sporting goods store like Dick’s to carry anything beyond the run of the mill airguns like Gamo and Crosman.
95 percent of all quality airguns are sold by mail order in this country, which is why Pyramyd AIR is so successful. You’re going to have to call to place an order.
B.B.
Hey B.B., after your last advice, I did a lot of research & made a lot of calls. I actually found a dealer (ISS) Sat., that said he had some used Anschutz 2002’s but none of the FWB 601-3’s. Get this, his shop is literally 7 mins. up the street in an industrial park but not advertised anywhere. This brings me to ask, is your advice towards PCP’s because they give some advantage over SSP’s. I noticed SSP’s didn’t seem to offer the aluminum stocks which I noticed are more adjustable. However SSP’s are normally less expensive to buy & shoot. Although the current record is PCP which upseated an SSP, was it the stock, air type or skill or a combo of them all that made the differance. I geuss I should just ask, are the aluminum users of today mostly beating the non-alu. users or just matching them or is the ratio of the two type too disproportionate to accurately judge. In closing, if I can afford the rifle, I plan to make the competition in Colorado on Feb. 14th. I go tomorrow to check them out.
Dal,
Sounds like you live in Fort Worth.
A single stroke pneumatic can take a shooter to the Olympics. They are not putting the ergonomic stocks on them because top competitors don’t use them, but to answer your question, the shooter is what wins the match more than the gun. That said, most of the best shooters use precharged guns.
B.B.
Hi There
In my opinion the Baikal MP5-12M was the best air rifle made, I even kept the 4X20 scope on because the rifle was so accurate it didn’t need a better one. It was a shame when they stopped shipping them outside of Russia. I tried to obtain one for a friend but to no avail. I live in England (Yorkshire) and am looking to sell mine (any interest contact me : apealert@hotmail.co.uk) and with whatever proceeds intend to try a different gun. Any ideas?
Thanks
Adam Robinson
(Yorks, England)
Right B.B., Fort Worth it is! I went to see the 2002 but I forgot to tell him I shoot left handed. I haven’t been able to find a used Anchutz 2002 or FWB 601-603 & deadline for the Feb. 14th PTO is Jan. 10th. I guess I’ll miss this one but I’ll keep looking. Any suggestions on a source would be appreciated. Especially if I could make the purchase by Jan. 9th. I’ve looked on njguns & pilkguns websites with no luck. Hey, if you’re ever down this way send me a message to (daldport@vtext.com) & I’ll buy you a great dinner. It’ll be my pleasure. Thanks for ALL you do!!!!
Dal,
Left-handed target rifles are a hard thing to find, however, it’s just the stock that changes in nearly all situations. And Pilkington should be able to locate a left-hand stock, given enough time.
Have you checked Champion’s Choice? They are a large dealer for 10 meter guns, but they’re very internet-shy, so a phone call is probably best.
800-345-7179
B.B.
B.B., look what I found by searching around on Scott’s “targettalk.com” site. http://www.gunsamerica.com/Classifieds/View/_976747835.aspx A lefthanded Anschutz 2002 SuperAir with an aluminum stock. Sure it’s 2 1/2 times what I really had to spend right now and I’m having to rob Peter to pay Paul but it’s everything I wanted. Convenience of SSP with the options of an aluminum stock and I can get it by the Feb. 14th competition in Colorado. I sent the check off last night right after I talked to the seller. He had an unfortunate death in the family so I may not get it as fast as I paid for it but oh well, I’m blessed as it is. Hey do you know much about Custom Leather Wear out of Niagra Falls, Canada? From the postings I’ve read it seems to fit like a glove with the extensive measurements required, but I can’t find much on the net as far as contacting them. Most companies have a website these days. Again thanks!
Dal,
I don’t know about Custom Leather Wear. I sort of only know 10X because I’m a pistol shooter and don’t have th wear any of that stuff.
I looked at your rifle and it looks like a nice one. I know it seems expensive, but have you priced a new one?!!!
B.B.
Hey B.B., I leave to Colorado Springs tomorrow morning for the Rocky Mountain Rifle Championship. This will be my 1st shoot but with less than 1 month of practicing it will be just for fun. Is there any chance you’ll be there? I figure since you’re a pistol shooter maybe not. If so I’d like to buy you that dinner I promised!
Dal,
No, I won’t be there. Good luck in the match and watch out for snow on I-25!
B.B.
IZH vs 853/753 for apartment shooting? Sound level is a big factor but I am intrested in setting up a minisniping range down a long hallway so I would like to mount a scope. Which do you think would be the best? Also, does the new version of the IZH 61 have a steel scope base?
EK
EK,
The 61 is quieter by far. It’s just as accurate and has the better trigger.
The 61 scope base is now plastic, I hear.
B.B.
Any chance of the IZH-60 being offered by Pyramidair? I downloaded the IZH60 manual from the Baikal website http://baikalinc.ru/res_en/0_value_4636_192.pdf – it states that the gun has two versions (no not the multi/ single shot difference), the difference being that one is heavier than the other. I would imagine this would be the one with fewer plastic parts and the metal receiver. Is this (all metal) version still being sold new? Or are all new IZH60/61’s the plastic heavy versions?
Cheers!
Abhijeet
Abhijeet,
The hinderance to importation of the IZH 60 is EAA, the importer. They decide which IZH guns come into this country. Pyramyd AIR can only buy what they sell.
B.B.
Thanks for the response BB, it helps clear things up a bit.
Cheers!
Abhijeet
Hi B.B.
Just got my IZH 61 on your suggestion, thank you. Its a great little gun and I found a way to make it a little better. A few months back I ordered a BSA scope and bquare mounts for my Dasiy 747(which I bought aswell on your suggestion and LOVE). Well after geting tired of the irons on the IZH I started looking to see how I could mount a scope. Well the B square barrel mount for the 747, works great on the IZH 61. I mounted it and the pistol scope just ahead of the rear sight and presto, IZH scout rifle. The amazing thing was after mounting it I took a couple shots to see how it worked…dead on!! No adjustments and I mean same hole right on the money. I was affraid I was going to need to max out the elevation adjustments but same sight in for the 747 worked perfectly.
My one concern with my new toy is the magazine. I noticed that the pellets are coming loose and geting deformed before loading. As I was geting wild fliers(I tested this by single loading and geting great groups). Is the aftermarket magazine superior to the ones supplied with the gun? Or is the another solution. I tried a half dozen different types of pellets from match to hollow point but the all come loose. Any recomendation?
Thanks in advance.
EK
EK,
It sounds like you aren’t seating the pellets deeply enough in the magazine. Do you feel them pop when you press them in? That’s the secret.
If they still fall out you may be using the wrong pellets.
You should use wadcutters from Gamo, Beeman and H&N in this gun. One of those three (probably all of them) will fit your magazine properly.
B.B.
I’ve been using wadcutters from all of the above and a couple other wadcutters from my “stash O’ pellets.” Even when pushing them to max depth or tring to seat them with a pen I still have the same issue. There is no “pop” with these mags similar to say a crosman revolver clip. If I flip either magzine over pellets drop out so I know they are coming loose under firing. I guess I’ll order the metal clip and see if it works any better. Unless you know of a wadcutter with a exceptionaly wide skirt?
The RWS Hobby has a very wide skirt. I think the plastic clip is at fault here.
B.B.
Hello B.B., I’m torn between getting this rifle or the Crosman Quest 1000X. Could you answer a few questions for me?
A: Which one is quieter?
B: Which is more suitable for close range small pest elimination?
C: How much harder to cock is the Quest?
D: Which has the greatest effective range?
Thanks
Undecided,
The IZH 61 is a small target-type air rifle. The Crosman Quest 1000 is a powerful breakbarrel sportiung rifle.
The 61 is much quieter.
The Quest is about 4 times more powerful, so it is the only rifle for hunting, and effective range goes with that.
The Quest will feel twice as hard to cock as the 61.
B.B.
Grettings from Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada,
i just got my IZH-60 (single shot modle) and let me tell you- I REALLY HAPPY WITH IT!!! i don’t like guns that don’t shoot good groups or have a crappy trigger. and i like this gun. accurate and very light crisp trigger (i have some nice rim fires- and this trigger is right up there with them). easy to cock and cycle. i kind wish i got the IZH-61 modle instead. it is quite. there is litte recoil. sholeders nicely, sites line up well, cofortable to hold and shoot in different positions. not your avarage crown either??? well done!! check it out!! has plastic mussle/crown gaurd. nice! the plastic reciver seemd to be pretty solid.. and i was talking to a guy that has the same one and he said that his has stood up to all kinds of use.
what can i say, i’m kida picky about my guns, and i really like this one.easy to cock, shoulds nicly, beuatiful trigger, little recoil and low low noise, and shoot good groups. (still learning and refining my dancing style eith this one). mine came with cleaning rod and extra (beefer) manin spring.IF YOUR THINKING ABOUT GETTING THIS ONE- READ THE REVIEWS- THE ORDER ONE- i really like mine.
ping, ping, ping- i shoot different size alluminum plate targets-(paper too) but the alumimun dimond plate is cool because you can hear a hit from well over 100 feet. ping!!!
only bad thing is everyone can tell if you miss because the gun fire but no ping- not to worrie with this gun because YOU WON’T MISS!!!
thanks and good luck and play safe.
ps. i was going to get a high power one- but because of where i live- i can use this 500f/s one any where and never get in trouble- nice touch.
Creg from Halifax,
greetings again. i have spent more time with tis fine rifle. i love it even more. grouping .75 inch and 30 feet while standing (this gun makes it easy).
QUESTION: the ad states: “Not only can you adjust the first-stage overtravel and pull weight of the second stage”
my question is
-how do you adjust these. i read the (online)”manual” and it says
nothing about this.
thanks for yout healp and such a great gun. i’m sure i can fugure it out but i wanted to ask befor i start just turning screw on a rifle i’m not that familer with yet. ( although the stock set up is just great)
ps- i am just going to “just shoot” this one. GREAT ADVICE!!!it doesn’t need to be modded. just want to set the trigger up for me.
Creg,
The adjustment instructions are in paragraph number one in the operating instructions.
B.B.
wow, how did i miss that. when i saw the trigger diagram in the MAIN section, i though it had something to do with the sear.
foward screw- travel lenght
rear screw- pull weight
gotcha!!!
HOW’S THAT FOR CUSTOME SERVICE FOLK?!?!
many thanks for all your hard work and trying to give the customers good advice and good reviews. i really aprecate it!!!
B.B.,
I currently am torn between two rifles, the IZH 61, and the Crosman Phantom 1000. I mainly aim to use an air rifle for 10m target shooting and competitions (for .177 caliber air rifles). Which gun would better suit me? Or are there any other guns that are better for .177 caliber competition target shooting with a price tag around $100? If the IZH 61 is best, I have a few questions about it rifle.
1) Where can you buy metal clips? I heard the plastic ones are shoddy and if I purchase the IZH 61, i want to know where to buy them.
2) Are the iron sights good enough for target shooting, since some competitions prohibit the use of scopes.
3) Is it great for 10m shooting?
Thanks for your time.
(2 and 3 apply to any gun you recommend)
The IZH 61 is a good starter gun for 10 meter competition. The Crosman Phantom 1000 is completely out of the question. It would be like trying to race a pickup truck at Indy.
As far as the shoddiness of the plastic clips, I just received a 61 to test for this blog, and the plastic receiver and clips are something I intend looking at. My guess is they work fine but a few anti-plastic types have given them a bad rap.
Iron sights are not only suitable for target shooting – they’re all that can be used. There are no optical sights permitted in 10 meter competition. I better do a blog on that subject this week to calrify, because I get the same question all the time.
A Daisy 853 is a better 10 meter starter rifle, but the price reflects that.
B.B.
Thx B.B., I intend to order an IZH 61 soon, I hope I get one that isn’t messed up like some people have complained *knock on wood*.
BB I’m interested in purchasing an IZH 53 pistol. Did you do a review of this airgun?
If not can you suggest some posts in other blogs?
Giancarlo
Giancarlo,
I have not tested the IZH 53 pistol. Try a Google search for the gun to turn up any reports.
B.B.
B.B.,
Up to what distances can ths rifle deliver the accuracy it is known for? Up to 18 yards maximum?
I do most of my shooting in the 10-15 yard range due to “back yard safety” limitations.
Also, would gamo raptors be accurate with the IZH 61 because of lower speeds?
Thanks a lot
ansreas,
Raptors are not good pellets. Forget them.
Yes, and IZH is accurate out to 30 yards or so.
B.B.
BB,
How would this gun do for the elmanation of small pests biggest being a squirrel? 20 yards is the max distance. $200 cdn. is what i’m willing to spend. That being said also needs to be under 500 f.p.s.
C.G
C.G,
The IZH 61 has but one-third the power needed for squirrels. You need to shoot a .22 or .25 that gets just under 500 f.p.s., or go with a firearm-rated airgun.
There aren’t any airguns made today that fit your needs, so I suggest getting a used .22 caliber Diana 27. It shoots just under 500 f.p.s. and should do the job, as long as the shot is close.
B.B.
Dear BB, I just got my IZH 61 from Pyramyd, and it’s a fun gun. I am having a hard time trying to figure how to get chamber oil in the chamber. this gun is different since it has the clip that blocks the chamber hole. I would be grateful for your help.
Thank You
Jeff,
The transfer port is forward of the breech, inside the barrel like a CO2 gun. I have never found the need to oil a 61, but if I had to do it, I’d look for a way to get oil up into the barrel and down the transfer port.
One way would be to drop the oil down the muzzle and rest the gun with the muzzle at a 30-45 degree incline. The bolt probe will block the breech and the oil should flow into the transfer port. Leave the rifle in that position for at least 4 hours, then cock and shoot it safely without changing positions. When the piston is withdrawn it will suck the oil into the compression chamber.
B.B.
dear BB
I am about to buy izh61 with the pellets also. My only question is which of these pellets is the best for the riffle : gamo wadcutter, h&n match, or daisy wadcutter ? or is there any pellet in your experience that I don’t mention it above is the best ? thank you.
I think the Gamo Match (which you call the wadcutter) is the best for the IXH 61.
B.B.
BB,
This may be impractical, but how hard is it to put the izh61 in a wooden stock? Would such a stock have to be custom made?
sk73
sk73,
Yes, it would have to be hand made. You need to talk to a custom stockmaker.
B.B.
Why does the 61 come with an extra spring? Is it the same as the one in the gun? And how and why would you change it?
It is Russian practice to include replacement springs with their spring guns. Yes, the spring is the same one.
You must disassemble the rifle to replace the spring. See my 13-part blog on spring-gun tuning to see how that’s done:
/blog/2006/08/spring-gun-tune-part-13-range-testing-the-r1-we-tuned/
B.B.
Fine, would not work last night ! B.B. I’m still waiting for my Izh-61 and am trying to figure out a scope setup. It is tough without the rifle.I would like to put a short scope with low mounts on it.I will remove the sights. Would an 8 in. scope come back far enough – would narrow rings help- how long is the rear ramp? I’ll be ordering 5 of them. Everyone wants one, so I need to know. Thanks ,Fasdraw
Also , before I order the other 4- do you think the quality is still there ?
Fasdraw,
You should read my latest blog on the 61:
/blog/2007/9/izh-61-part-4-new-gun-now-were-cookin/
I think it answers all your questions.
B.B.
Hello, B.B. Dad just found a Daisy PowerLine Model 45 in the attic. Do you know where he might find an operating manual? Thanks!
Contact Daisy Customer Service. They will send you a manual for free.
http://www.daisy.com
B.B.
BB-
Would a Leapers Bug Buster Scope fit on this gun? I would think if it did that would be a sweet combo. I think it would be capable of taking blackbirds at 20 yards or so. Do you agree?
Thanks,
Aaron in MI
Aaron,
The Bug Buster will probably work on the 61, but forget about shooting it animals. I doesn’t have the power needed for a kill.
B.B.
BB-
That is a bummer. The 61 was going to be my next airgun, but I personally wouldn’t want a gun I can’t “hunt” with. I like the Crossman Nightstalker. I see it has a little higher fps than the 61,but still probably not enough for the blackbirds? I also am skeptical about how accurate it is. My next choice is probably going to be the Crossman 2250XT. I like the carbine and the fact it already comes with the steal breech. I wanted to stay with a .177 caliber though. I have a couple 22 rimfires and some super colibri shells that are just awesome! Quite and accurate. Anyway, that is why I want a .177. I don’t want to get a pistol either as I am in MI and anything under 30 inches requires a permit. Are there any 177 caliber carbine type guns along the lines of the 61 or nightstalker (I would consider CO2 or spring, I’m just looking for something smaller to keep hidden from my nosey neighbor) that would pack enough punch to dust off some blackbirds? I really like that $100 price tag on the 61 and nightstalker too!!
After re-reading this I realized I just turned into that guy. You know the one you always rant about wanting the perfect airgun for cheap! Sorry about that!! At least I’m only trying to kill stationary birds at 20 yards rather than mow down a stampeding Cape Buffalo from 6000 yards. Oh well, I’ll keep looking, as always any suggestion would be appreciated. Perhaps the .62 caliber Cold Steel Big Bore Blowgun I found online today will be the next addition to my back yard hunting arsenal. Of course, it may be more difficult to hide a seven ft blowgun than a 31″ pellet gun, but people (I’m talking about my neighbor here) tend to get really worked up about guns, no matter what kind they are. Oh well,
Thanks for listening,
Aaron in MI
Aaron,
Yep – you’re that guy, all right!
However, you kept it real and I think I can help you. You want an inexpensive and quiet .177 for popping blackbirds.
For $5 over your budget, PA has a Ruger Air Hawk that will do the job. It’s the one in an opened box. Air HAWK – auspicious name for killing blackbirds, wouldn’t you say?
The Winchester 800X is another one that fits the bill. I don’t know anything about it except it’s made in Turkey.
The Winchester 1000B is another you could choose.
The IZH 512M is another for you.
B.B.
Hey B.B.! Thank you for making these air gun blogs!
I’m very baffled at which gun is better; this gun, the IZH-61, or the daisy powerline 953. I have researched a lot for both air guns, and even read your blogs on each of them. I want to know, which gun is better?
Which gun is better for accuracy? I read that both these air guns are very accurate, but then again, it’s up to me (or the shooter) and the pellets that will be used.And which gun is better at a 10 m target, or even 15 m or 20 m? Also, which one has the better barrel? I know that the 953 doesn’t have the Lothar Walther barrel like the 853, but it has a very decent barrel, and the izh 61 has the good quality Russian hammered barrel. I guess that’s all I’ll ask, I don’t really mind which one is better looking or the cost, just a $30 difference. So please, if you can, tell me which gun is the best. Again, thanks for all the blogs you make. Good Day.
Baffled,
You have asked a very tough question, since the accuracy and power of these two models is pretty equivalent. A good 61 will out-shoot a 953, and vice-versa.
If you are primarily target shooting, I like the 953 best. If you are plinking, I like the 61.
I can’t really say which is “better,” because that depends of what you want.
B.B.
O.K. Thank you very much B.B. for the quick reply and for a good answer, I might still think over everything if I’ll go plinking or target practice. Anyway, thank you sir. May God Bless.
hey b.b.
i have one more question again. and that is if this gun can also compete with the 853 and the 753? it’s a bummer for me, because i was reading one comment on anoter blog that was talking about the 61 vs. the 853, and i forgot the name of the blog, and now i can’t remember which blog it was. so if you can please tell me about the differences, ok thanks again b.b.!
The IZH 61 is a repeater, which cannot be used in a formal 10-meter match. It can of course be used informally any time.
The 853C is also a repeater, but comes with a part that makes it a single-shot. Most shooters prefer the regular 853 to the 853C because of the extra part that fits in the breech. It doesn’t work that well.
The IZH 61 is a single-shot version of the 61. It is the gun that some people convert into a 10-meter target rifle. That can cost anywhere from nothing to over $500. It just depends on what you want to spend.
As a spring-piston gun, the 60/61 will be harder to shoot accurately than any of the 853/753 guns. And by the way, all those different configurations are due to changes in the rear sight. The guns are all the same.
The 853 is much better-suited as a target rifle out of the box.
B.B.
ok thanks b.b.!! I’m really thankful that you told me key facts about the 10 m competition rules too! ok, have a nice day!
I had same symptoms that bb’s describe about grouping. Two plastic 5 pellet magazine that came with the rifle look exactly the same however one clip implements not precise outcome at the point of aim
Loading pallets into receiver by cooking lever give you “uneven-not smooth” resistant stroke at the time when pellet is pushed in by loading rod into the chamber.
In my opinion one clip is alter than the other one therefore please check you loading clips.
I owed this rifle since august 2008. Clips are made of plastic vs. metal.
Thank You
hey guys! just bought my izh 61! i’m so excited to try this bad boy out..it’s still on shipping, might arrive in a week..but i have a few questions. I haven’t fully read the blog if some one already asked, but once the gun arrives, do i have to clean out the barrel? or is it ready to shot out of the box? also, i know it comes with a cleaning rod, but do i also need a type of cleaning oil or wax to go with it? can i also use the cleaning pellets as an alternative? that’s about it..I was just worried on how to clean out the gun. ok, thanks!
You do not have to clean the barrel of your new rifle. Just load it and start shooting.
The rifle requires no cleaning of the barrel at any time. Cleaning pellets should not be used in an IZH 61 because they can get jammed in the mechanism. Just shoot the gun without cleaning.
If you want to run a patch through the barrel, go ahead. It will come out black because of the anti-oxidant coating on the pellets. But each new pellet scrapes off the black from the pellet before, so cleaning isn’t required.
B,B.
oh, I see how it works. Thanks for the help! also, have you shot the izh mp 514? it’s a pretty cool gun, because it’s really small and a fantastic plinking gun!
I did test the IZH 414K, but found it so flawed that I purposely didn’t write a report on it.
Sounds l;ike you got a good one.
B.B.
Привет. Я русский, и я кое что знаю про ИЖ-60/61. Возможно эта информация поможет вам понять почему эта винтовка такая как есть.
Винтовка для обучения детей стрельбе.
Не знаю как справится переводчик: для первоначального обучения стрельбе.
Поэтому винтовка легкая. Поэтому для взрослого мужчины рукоятка мала, а приклад короткий.
Винтовка не опасна. У вас принято блокировать спусковой крючек как у Кросмана и Маргаритка, у нас так не принято. Иж-60/61 имеет автоматический предохранитель. Так же Иж-60/61 имеет трещетку / храповик / стопор рычага взведения. Этого достаточно.
При производстве большого числа винтовок упростили прицел. У винтовки есть рельс 11мм.
Лично я стреляю крыс пулей с плоской головой (Гамо Матч).
Hi. I am Russian and I know something about IZH-60/61. Perhaps this information will help you understand why the rifle, such as it is.
Rifle shooting for the education of children.
I do not know how to cope translator: for initial training in shooting.
Therefore, light rifle. Therefore, for adult men handle small and short butt.
The rifle is not dangerous. You have taken to block the trigger kryuchek as Krosmana and the daisy, we are not accepted. Izh-60/61 has an automatic fuse. Just Izh-60/61 has treschetku / ratchet / stop arming lever. That’s enough.
The production of large numbers of rifles simplified sight. A rifle has a 11mm rail.
Personally, I shoot a bullet in rats with a flat head (Gamo Match).
BB, I'm looking to get a IZH 61, but that barrel looks delicate. Can it rest in a normal gun rack or will that stress the barrel?
Can anyone recommend a good case for this rifle?
Don't worry about the barrel on the 61. It isn't delicate. Yes, it can rest in a rifle rack.
Look at this case:
/product/plano-rifle-case-single-scoped?a=593
B.B.
Seeing as I end up buying everything BB suggests,usually 2 or 3, I was originally pleased with the two IZH 61's I bought a year ago. I also purchased 5 or 6 extra clips. No question regarding accuracy, at least for the first few months. Every clip seemed to hit to a slightly different point of aim. In some cases 2 of the 5 were right on with three choosing to go high, left or right. All Hobbys seated with a pellet pusher. The problem seems to get worse with more use. I just received 2 IZH 60's. Problem solved. Seems that IZH should look into manufacturing a metal clip, as the plastic seems to deform with use. These air rifles are still quite accurate, but for $5 more, I believe there would be a considerable improvement. Just last week I received 2 IZH 46 M's and have a third on back order. Being single shot, I don't foresee clip problems in the future. And thanks again BB for the great suggestions, although I've been forced into buying not only another gun cabinet, but a Bauer air compressor to keep the Air Force Talon SS's and the Condor well fed.
Mark,
Thanks for your interesting post. That particular blog was written in March of 2005. B.B. writes a daily blog Mon-Fri which can be found at/blog//.
There arn't many of us reading the old posts. Come join us. There a bunch of folks shooting the IZH family of air guns that would like to hear about your experience with the mags.
Are your Air Force guns stock? You do you like the Bauer air compressor?
See you on the current blog
Mr B.