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A customer’s review of the Makarov CO2 repeating BB pistol

by B.B. Pelletier

Reminder: Pyramyd AIR has a spring-gun sale going on right now–and today’s the last day! If you’ve wanted to pick up any of the desirable guns listed there, do it today! See it here.

Blog reader Chris Schaefer wanted to share his experiences with the Umarex Makarov CO2 BB pistol with the rest of our blog readers.

If you’d like to write a guest post for this blog, please email me.

Bloggers must be proficient in the simple html that Blogger software uses, know how to take clear photos and size them for the internet (if their post requires them), and they must use proper English. We’ll edit each submission, but we won’t work on any submission that contains gross misspellings and/or grammatical errors.

Now, let’s get on with Chris’ review.

by Christopher Schaefer

As firearm ammunition prices remain high and time and finances limit trips to the range, I began looking at ways to practice at home. The goals: affordability and ease-of-use–easy enough so all my family members could practice with it. I already have a single-stroke Beeman P17 pneumatic pellet gun; and having seen excellent results at the range, I began looking for a repeating BB pistol that I could use for firearm proficiency training (for home defense).

I decided on the Umarex Makarov CO2 pistol replica of a Russian-made Makarov PM from Pyramyd AIR. Why did I choose this particular pistol? The search began much in the same way I would go about finding and fitting a firearm. The factors included grip size, ease-of-use and action (revolver vs. semiauto). My wife and I, being of smaller stature, wanted a pistol whose grip would be comfortable. And with the expectations that my children would eventually be trained to use it, the smaller-framed Makarov quickly rose to the top of the list. Since it’s a replica of a semiautomatic pistol, it gained points, because I was already competent with firearm semiautos at the range.

03-25-10-01

The Umarex Makarov BB pistol is small and easy to shoot. Just right for me and my wife.

Home defense was the primary motive for using a BB repeater. The pistol had to be similar to a firearm in weight and size. Additional bonuses would be if the BB pistol could be maintained and cleaned similarly to the firearm it copied, and the Makarov from Umarex is all of those things. The construction is top-notch with solidly built components such as the slide and frame. The drop-free stick magazine is well-made of metal. It loads and slides into the grip with similar action to that of a firearm. The pistol’s slide cocks the action, and it can fire in both single-action and double-action modes: a benefit to all the shooters in my family. And the Makarov PM disassembles nearly identically to that of its firearm counterpart. These combined factors sealed the choice in my mind. I could clearly see that this would serve as a wonderful training piece for me, family members and friends of like mind.

03-25-10-02

The metal stick magazine drops free from the front of the grip.

Still, some questions remained. There were so many other repeating BB pistols on the market with copious features. One particular feature was the blowback action found in other Umarex products as well as the competing models of other manufacturers. If I wanted to experience the recoil of a real firearm, shouldn’t I consider blowback? The jury’s still out, but I would soon discover that proper grip, trigger control and general practice would weigh in considerably. And what about pellets vs. BBs? From experience I knew that pellets could give better target performance. However, I already owned an airgun for target shooting. While accuracy was still desired in home defense I had set acceptably lower limits for it.

Perhaps you’ve undergone similar research. Various on-line forums and blogs were exceedingly helpful. And the useful feedback from generous souls sharing their opinions in customer reviews–ice those found at Pyramyd Air–helped immensely. Likewise, Pyramyd Air’s blog. All of these opinions and observations helped me decide which repeating BB pistol I would start with.

As the expression goes: the proof is in the pudding. Would the replica Makarov really perform to my requirements? Would it be easy? Would it be affordable? Let’s see.

A primary home defense question is, Can you quickly get the pistol into operation? That involves disengaging the safety, bearing on target and accurately squeezing off two or three quick rounds. To put my Makarov to the test, I began with a homemade indoor BB and pellet trap capable of posting 8.5″x11″ paper targets. Abundant styles of targets are available online for just the cost of printing!

Shots were taken from a multitude of defensive stationary positions and while moving. Tests were performed at distances between 5 and 20 feet. The 18-round magazine ensures plenty of opportunity to practice without reloading, and the lack of blowback in this particular pistol gives me 90+ decently powered shots. It’s definitely an affordable pistol. With the right trap, I’m able to retrieve and re-use many of my BBs. At 20 feet, I’m capable of consistently grouping all shots within a 6.5″ diameter target. At closer ranges, I group less than 2 inches. This is the sort of accuracy I’m looking for.

While the front and rear sights are not adjustable on the Makarov, I learned quickly that my particular pistol shot a little high and to the right. While annoying, this is easily compensated for. Also, a factor in the pistol’s accuracy is the trigger-pull weight difference between SA and DA modes. Long, spongy creep takes up the first stage, although it’s slightly less pronounced in single-action. Both modes have a moderately crisp letoff with little left in the squeeze. This would be my only complaint at this time. Regardless of the creep, in a defensive situation I’m fully capable of engaging the trigger easily and following through with the shot. The grip, however, is an entirely different matter.

The pistol’s grip is one piece and plastic-injected molded. The texturing is fair. Because the grip covers the CO2 cartridge, it’s designed to easily slide away from the frame. Over time, the grip loosens. As a form of preventative maintenance, a rubber band secures the grip with little interference.

03-25-10-03

Rubber band keeps the sliding grip anchored when I’m shooting.

Addressing the grip of this pistol is the same as with any handgun. Its smaller stature, for a two-handed grip, presents little challenge for my smaller hands but would offer some difficulty for larger hands. My palm, thumb and index finger quickly find their resting place with plenty of room left for the remaining fingers to support. The pistol’s safety, the same location as on the firearm, is easily activated by my thumb. And the slide spring offers reasonable resistance should one wish to rack it prior to firing. The magazine release differs from the real-life Makarov PM; there’s a spring-loaded catch at the bottom of the grip. The magazine drops free due to gravity only. A spring-loaded follower in the magazine can be slid and locked down, which makes loading very easy.

03-25-10-05

For fast shooting with a BB gun, this is a very good result, even from close range.

Disassembly for cleaning or just for training purposes is particularly easy with this pistol. The triggerguard pulls down, hinged at the rear, and the slide can be slid and canted off from the frame guide and barrel. The slide spring then slides off the barrel. Besides that, there’s little else the average user would need to perform for disassembly. As another preventative maintenance technique, I always use two small drops of Crosman’s Pellgunoil on the tip of every new CO2 cartridge before loading. This ensures proper lubrication.

As a semi-related note, I treat this BB repeater just as I would any firearm. And that extends to where and how it is stored. Since we have small children in the home and because we desire to train them with sound gun-handling skills, I take the needed precautions now so they get in the habit of treating this BB pistol the same as any firearm. Hopefully, that will fully carry over when they begin learning how to use it.

Since owning this BB repeater, I’ve had much more freedom in practicing various home defense drills. The obvious benefit is that Im practicing safely in my own home. The pistol carries easily, has many different holsters available for it and builds confidence in general firearm handling. But the one surprising aspect to owning and practicing with this BB repeater is discovering that my wife is a natural shot! With the proper care, we hope to get many years of enjoyment from Umarex’s Makarov PM repeating BB pistol.

author avatar
Tom Gaylord (B.B. Pelletier)
Tom Gaylord, also known as B.B. Pelletier, provides expert insights to airgunners all over the world on behalf of Pyramyd AIR. He has earned the title The Godfather of Airguns™ for his contributions to the industry, spending many years with AirForce Airguns and starting magazines dedicated to the sport such as Airgun Illustrated.

102 thoughts on “A customer’s review of the Makarov CO2 repeating BB pistol”

  1. Good morning Chris,

    Thank you sir for taking your time and writing this review for our education. You were talking about practicing self defense drills in your own home and I am wondering what you ment by that statment? Have you figured out a way to set up targets in different rooms to actually shoot at?

    Thanks,
    Mr B.

  2. Chris, You have really illustrated a great way to practice common sense in training yourself and you family in proper home defense. I mean what good is any weapon if no one really knows how to use it. God forbid the situation is real and turned worse because the victim was was not prepared.

    Rich

  3. B.B.
    Do you think the Beeman peep sight would clean up the sight picture on my 48 enough to make it worthwhile?
    I have clear targets, but fuzzy sights. Eyes are "fixed focus" now with B&L lens replacements.
    I was still busting walnuts at a bit over 25yds so well yesterday that I got bored with it rather quickly.

    twotalon

  4. B.B.
    I guess it won't work then. My eyes don't focus. I would have to get different glasses to focus on the front sight, but my distance vision would be bad. My glasses are set up with the top part for distance.

    twotalon

  5. Twotalon, there are opthamologists that are shooters and do cater to our hobby. Talk to your opthamologist (gut who did your operation) to see if he has any recommendations. Otjerwise, do a internet search.

    Fred PRoNJ

  6. twotalon
    busting walnuts gives me an idea. I have 6 pecan tree's out back maybe I'll start putting those old pecans on top of the plastic bottles I shoot at. I understand the vision problem, I have one eye set for distance and the other basically for reading, really takes getting used too.

  7. BB,
    Ever since you recommended the Makarov FIREARM because of it's reliability, I've been keeping an eye out for one (I saw some in a recent Shotgun News). However, yesterday, you posted that the Makarov is being replaced by the MR 445 in .40 because the Russians considered the Makarov (sidearms in general) as useless weight.

    Apparently you and/or the Russians) think the 445 or at least a .40cal is a more creditable weapon. Have you handled a 445 and do you know if is as reliable as the Mak?

    Another question is why would the military choose a .40 over a .45 if the .45 has better stopping power? This also leads me to question why I should choose a .45 for home defense instead of the .40. If the latter is sufficient for military defense why not for me?

    I guess I'm just still fishing for a reason to replace my .38.

    -Chuck

  8. Fred..
    I think I will do better once I get used to the sights on the 48 under different lighting conditions.
    Am also going to try "white out" correction tape on the back of the front sight.

    rikib…
    Nuts make good improvised targets. I really like shooting green walnuts off of trees with my Talon. They blend right in and are tough to spot. They explode with a good center hit. Trouble is…they are a "season" target. This time of year they are black and have been rotting on the ground all winter. You have to beat the tree rats to them.

    twotalon

  9. rikib,

    Yesterday you were asking about using the presence of a pellet pistol as a home invasion deterrent. I'd like to add my comments to that. First, I know that you know a fired pellet is not going to stop anyone. I don't think that was your point. Your point was would the sight of any handgun act as a deterrent or at least cause the perp to balk long enough for you reach the shotgun.

    When I read your question I thought, what would I do if I was the invader in this situation, so I tried to imagine myself in that position.

    I'm thinking if it was me and I was confronting a person in bed and they pulled a gun on me while they swung themselves out of bed I would not wait to see if they were going to fire it. Chances are my gun is already pointed at the person in bed and at the first sight of a gun I would immediately fire in self-defense.

    What this means is if you as the person in bed comes up with a gun in your hand you'd better come up firing. If we as home defenders decide to use a gun we'd better be ready to use it with prejudice. He who hesitates is bleeding on the floor.

    Thanks for the food for thought.

    -Chuck

  10. Chris,

    Good idea for getting training in the house. And your wife's shooting good too, it just doesn't get any better than that. My wife just rolls her eyes when ever I bring the subject of HD preparedness.

    As FrankB said last night, It's important to keep in mind here that this pellet pistol IS NOT TO BE USED IN A HOME DEFENSE SITUATION, but merely a TRAINING TOOL, right?

    I'm curious as to what you're doing for target/pellet trap. I'm working on what I have labeled 'the $6.00 pellet trap'. It's actually complete, just need to take a couple photos and do a write up.

    dsw

  11. CJr;

    Your .38 is fine for self defence as long as you use proven ammo. One is the 158gr. Lead Hollow Point Plus P. The old "FBI' load. With "Good" ammo available today, .38 Special, 9mm Para., .40 S&W, .45 ACP and similar rounds work well. However, Bigger is better if you can handle it.

    Mike

  12. twotalon,

    Re: "..have to get different glasses"

    This will help in communicating with your eye doctor. It will hopefully help in getting glasses that will allow you to enjoy your shooting more. Pay special attention to the EYEGLASS SELECTION section in this article:

    http://www.bullseyepistol.com/wong1.htm

    Please also note on this web page the numerous links to other great articles for shooters with less than 20/20 vision.

    kevin

  13. Chuck,

    Perfect! you are 100% right on, there.

    There is a responsibility to anyone yielding a weapon that if your not going to use it, don't pull it. You will only get shot. If you pull it, use it. If you think you might not be able to shoot, tighten up your 1st and 2nd lines of defense, "opening up your perimeter", limiting the chances of the confrontation at your last line of defense.

  14. rikib,Rule No. 1: Never point a gun at anything you don't want to destroy.Instead of a firearm or pellet pistol, here's something you can put under your pillow, point at an intruder and make them stop in their tracks for up to 30 mins., which should be enough time for you to pick up a shotgun to shoot the guy, call 911 to pick up the dead body and have a cup of coffee while you wait for the police to arrive: a tactical flashlight (we have 3 or 4 in our home).The one linked above is a Fenix and shines 235 lumens into the dilated eyes of an intruder. You can buy a 630 lumen model, but it's a bit larger & might be uncomfortable under your pillow. The 235 lumen model has a nifty bezel that can be pounded into the temple if you so desire.Short story: When my brother walks his dog and aggressive dogs (not on leashes) come up barking and/or trying to intimidate them, my brother shines his Fenix light into the eyes of the other dog, which freezes them in place. They're disoriented and perhaps even in some pain. My brother & his dog simply go about their business, as the other dog is oblivious to everything. At some point, the stunned dog's eyes adjust and he goes about his business.Animals & people suffer no permanent injury from having a high-lumen flashlight shined into their eyes, but it can be rather painful while the effect lasts. Of course, this works only when it's dark. If it's light, then you'll have to have the presence of mind to use your gun. I've asked Tom to mount a tactical flashlight on my bedside 1911. Besides stunning an intruder, it'll shine the light of day on that target.Edith

  15. CJr
    Sounds like a no win situation, if a intruder comes into my bedroom and as soon as I move they shoot. Doesn't seem to matter what I have for a home defense weapon. As I've mentioned before this would not be my case thankfully, with my 4 dogs that run out the door to the slightest sound I would know if someone was here. Even my neighbors like them as a first alert.

  16. rikib,

    The 4 canines in your yard are your 1st or 2nd line of defense. They start barking madly, you wake up and yell at them, "shut up!" before you go back to bed, mumbling d-mn dogs" see what they are barking at. 😉

  17. Mr. B,
    I apologize if this is a duplicate post; my first comment didn't seem to make it.

    First I want to be clear with everyone that the BB pistol is for training purposes only (and for plinking) and not for actual defense. That said, and to answer your question, practice at home involves both "dry" and "live fire" drills. I use the Makarov replica in the house to practice drawing from various environments. (bed, nightside stand, kitchen drawer, etc.) I also do room-clearing drills during daylight and at night (with a flashlight). When doing room-clearing drills both the Mak replica and a real firearm are unloaded or used with Snap caps.

    I currently limit "live fire" with the Makarov replica to my basement range which is also partially furnished. I run drawing and firing drills while sitting, standing, laying "wounded", cornering, and approaching the BG. I'm working on a pellet/BB trap that will be portable and can be used in other rooms of our home.

    Hopefully this answers your's and other's questions. Thank You for the comments and questions.

  18. As usual, I'm going to go ahead and second what Edith said. I have been a flashlight addict long before the high-power tactical flashlights reared their ugly heads.

    I mentioned before I have the Fenix TK40 which is 630 lumens, has 4 different power levels, and runs on 8 AA alkalines. I can light up the entire yard of houses down the street from me. It is larger than most TFs, but is smaller than a 2D-cell Maglight.

    Lithium batteries, such as the CR123A last longer in storage and in burn time, but are expensive and can be hard to find, although it's getting easier. CREE LED lamps are the current standard.

    One day, in a lit room, during daytime, I decided to shine a 200 lumen model at, but not directly in the eyes of, my very patient and forgiving wife, just to demonstrate its power and what an astute shopper I was. She used curse words on me I've never heard before. I'm thinking of using the 630 lumen model on her just to see if she's saving some more gems for special occasions!

    I posted this link to one of BBs old columns just a couple of days ago, but I'm going to do it again, because it is some of his best work. No home defense kit is complete without a T.F.

    /blog/2009/6/tactical-flashlights-and-some-other-light-stuff/

    WV: crymni!

  19. Bobby Nations,

    Congratulations, you just made the visit list!

    It's been a semi life long dream for me to do a 'walk-a-bout' American style. By this I mean that a part of me for well over 25 years has been wanting to load up the tool box, hook it to the truck and make my way across the country with no particular time frame, supporting myself by lining up work in areas that I would be heading off too. I have family and/or contacts in most states west of the Mississippi, Al,FL,NC,SC,IL,WI, and of course TN now.

    The fact that I married a wonderful woman that has NO INTEREST in "Gipsy-ing her way around the country" combined with the many other responsibilities that come with settling down, raising a family, paying taxes, paying taxes, and then there's the taxes that have to be paid, kind of puts a damper on this Idea.

    So far we've only made a few air travel trips, hoteling it with a rent a car. Wife deserves it, and I'm not sure I want to trade my life as it is for a selfish dream.

    Ahh, but what a dream…

  20. Edith,

    My Fenix TK40 arrived yesterday. Last night I dimmed the lights in my office way down and tested it on my 15 year-old daughter as she walked in. Blasted her full in the face on high power. She reared back for all of one second, then came at me like the three furies from Hades and had it out of my hand before I hardly knew what had happened. Of course, she is an accomplished martial artist, but I still learned one thing: Even 630 lumens of light doesn't faze an intruder worth squat, and the only reaction worth having when you discover an intruder in your house is to pull the trigger on your .410, period. Caressing them with beams of light isn't going to work, unless it's a Star Trek phaser set to Stun or Kill.

    The tactical light is just a very nice flashlight. If I didn't have a gun I'd rather have a steel baton in my hands than the light.

    -AlanL

  21. KidAgain,

    Tom's dream has been to talk across America…not drive. He loves to walk. I've told him that I'd wave goodbye on the porch and welcome him back from his travels. Don't know if/when he'll ever be able to do that, though. Yet, I'm sure he still longs to do it.

    I'm with your wife…I have no wanderlust, enjoy staying at home and like doing those mundane everyday tasks. My parents traveled immensely before/during WWII because they had to…to save their lives. I lived vicariously through their horrid war-torn adventures in Germany, Turkey, Russia & China. Their stories of just barely getting out alive or just barely surviving cured me of any desire I might have had to travel. However, I do like to play the slots at Circus, Circus in Vegas (because I always come out way ahead 🙂

    Edith

  22. Chuck,

    I love the little Makarov, but it's hardly the military arm it was meant to be. Just like the current M9 isn't a good military sidearm because of the small caliber, the even smaller Makarov caliber is not meant for battle.

    However, as a defense weapon, it's better than nothing. And the near-100 percent reliability makes it a good choice for personal defense.

    The current U.S. main battle rifle is the M4, and it's another substandard arm for military operations. The caliber is too small. The military compensates with alternative weapons and with the 7.62 SOCOM rifle, based on the M14.

    As for your .38, the gun you have and know how to use is better than the perfect gun in the catalog. But I am always looking for a new solution and I don't know why you wouldn't do the same thing.

    Did you notice that Edith wants me to mount a tactical flashlight on HER defense weapon. Well, HER weapon used to be MY Christmas gift Wilson CQB. However, I understand why she likes it, and since I love my Taurus PT1911, I guess things will remain exactly where they are.

    B.B.

  23. AlanL

    The TK40 would work very nicely as a club. Lots of cross-hatching and surfaces to give you grip. Good heft as well.

    The difference between walking from a lit hallway or room into a dimmed room, and from a dark hallway or room into a dark room is huge. Your daughter's eyes were not dilated enough to overwhelm the optic nerve in that state. The difference is night and day. Also for a defense purpose, the strobe function would work better, or a healthy blast before you turn it off and grab for the shotgun. Leaving it on provides a target for the intruder (as you discovered) even if they can't see worth a crap.

    BB

    Please tell me how to turn my wife into a gun lover. I will pay you.

  24. Edith,

    I didn't catch that 'talk across America 'til you posted the correction. I laughed!

    God forbid that Tom and I meet while walking/working across America. We'd probably talk a hole in the ground!

    You and Tom are on the list too, you know. I've got friends and family in various parts of Texas. (man that word is sooo close to taxes… shiver, shiver!)

  25. rikib,

    Those aren't powerful enough & will not do the trick. Go for the Fenix brand. Use the link I gave you earlier. Fenix is highly affordable compared to other tactical lights, and they're extremely durable. I wouldn't go below 225 lumens. In fact, I'd sure like a more powerful one than the 220 or 225 we currently own.

    Edith

  26. Hi Tom,
    What do you recommend for intial cleaning (barrel particularly) and ongoing maintenance for a new Marauder. I've read that it may be benificial to run some patches thru, what cleaner/solvent, help w/accuracy? Use something like crown saver, something else, breach end, etc? Thanks for your thoughts.
    Steve

  27. Slinging Lead,

    I tried that. She walked from the well-lit bedroom hallway into my (by contrast) almost blacked-out office.

    Also, the TK-40 unfortunately only remembers the last primary mode it was on when you turn it off. This means that you cannot turn it on instantly in the strobe mode. This is a huge disadvantage because you must first turn it on and then hit the tailcap button twice more rapidly to go into strobe mode. This means 1) a lot to remember under pressure, 2) a lot of wasted time, and 3) jerking the light off of target while you struggle to time the button presses correctly. Try it and you'll see.

    Edith,

    Try it out on Tom one night, if you dare. Tom, please don't blame me when you come to your senses and find you've plastered Edith to the wall for unsuccessfully trying to dazzle you. (Dazzle you with the taclight I mean. She already dazzles you in every other way.)

    -AlanL

  28. Stevew,

    I never clean an airgun barrel unless there is a reason. Poor accuracy is one reason. Then I would use JB Non-Embedding Bore Cleaning Compound on a brass brush.

    Pass the brush through the bore 20 times and then clean the bore with dry patches.

    B.B.

  29. rikib,
    I think an intruder will give you the opportunity to roll over in bed because that is an expected move but if they detect a weapon they'll start shooting. I believe you have enough of a second or two to roll over and fire before they have a chance to react even if their gun is pointed at you, if you act sleepy, but you have to come up shooting. We need someone to test this, though. If it's a robbery they're not out to kill first, is my feeling. If you roll over in bed and keep the gun hidden under the covers I wouldn't shoot you, I'd just say, don't move or I'll shoot. At that time you could shoot through the covers. And, I don't mean Bang! I mean Bang, bang, bang, bang and save the fifth (or sixth) for a follow up shot.

    All this is said without any prior experience or training.

    I like Edith's 235 lumens in the eyes approach. Just remember to dodge out of gunpoint after flashing. I think I'll incorporate this into my procedure. This would be beneficial around drug users who have dilated pupils all the time, too, wouldn't it?

    -Chuck

  30. AlanL

    The lit hallway is my point. The hallway with light in it closed up your daughter's pupils to pin points. If her eyes were well-adjusted to the dark, not adjusted to a lit hallway transitioning to a dim office, the effect is more substantial to put it mildly. Also, like any self defense weapon, you need to be well versed on how to use it, to the point were it is reflexive. The best point to be taken from today's blog I think is Chris's dedication to learning the behaviors of making these behaviors reflexive and staying alive, if such an unfortunate event should occur (however unlikely.)

    If you have any doubts as to the power of a TF, go into a black room, such as a closet and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Then shine it into your own eyes, if you dare. If it is just a fancy flashlight, send it back. It is way too expensive if that is all it is worth to you.

    Have you started using the 52 yet?

  31. BTW it is postulated that many pirates wore eye patches as a part time gig.

    They would wear the eye patches only when invading ships so they would have one eye adjusted to bright sunlight, on the decks. When going below, they would switch the patch to enable the eye adjusted to the dark to do the work, since the other eye would be useless, until it adjusted to the darker conditions.

    Then again many pirates probably had an eye or two stabbed out, which is less than they deserve, in my opinion.

  32. SL,
    We have a lot of pirates these days with very many ships being captured by them. Has anyone done a survey to see how many of them are wearing eye patches or have peg legs for that matter. They really need to get with it if they're going to continue that career path.

    HA! WV: synarkma – how'd it know I was being snarky?

    -Chuck

  33. Edith, what is the minimum power in your opinion for a flashlight to serve this intended purpose?
    I have a TacStar T6 rated at 75 lumens.
    I've never used it as a 'stun gun'…but it's plenty bright…I can't imagine 200+ lumens, but it may be time to upgrade.
    CowBoyStar Dad

  34. Edith,

    Then you will never really know how effective the light is, will you? But I think you know I was speaking half in jest.

    Interesting that your brother has no such compunctions with the neighborhood dogs, though.

    Anyway, let's hope none of us ever have to put this to the test for real with an intruder.

    If blinding an intruder with light is the idea though, allow me to suggest a 5 to 10 mW green 532 nm laser pen. They are difficult to obtain here but readily available in England and elsewhere, and cost less than a good tactical light. A laser like this will light a match at a distance or pop a balloon and will definitely cause eye damage instantly. These cannot be fooled around with or played with even for a fraction of a second.

    Slinging Lead,

    Point well taken. You are absolutely right.

    Re 52: No, I sent it back unopened. Reason: I have the 54 which I like, and for recoil I like the 350 with its post and globe front sight better. Also, I was discouraged by the fact that Diana has come out with the new, by all accounts highly rated T-6 trigger since December, but Umarex and Pyramyd are still delivering them here with the T-5. If and when the 52 is delivered with a better front sight and trigger (and new scope rail in the works too, I hear), then I may re-buy it again. But this is months and months away I think.

    -AlanL

  35. Chuck

    Pirates of yore, dangit! Pirates of yore! Everyone knows that all pirates nowadays are Somalis. Peg-legs, hook hands, eye patches, and parrots who make witty remarks are very hard to get in Somalia. AK-47s however, are more plentiful there than sewage collection and treatment facilities. (or sand at the beach) Go figure.

  36. AlanL,

    I said "in our house." Animals encountered outside our house that are threatening, menacing, snarling, attacking, charging, frothing at the mouth and the like are proper targets. Same goes for people who exhibit the same behavior.

    Edith

  37. AlanL

    Looks like you have both ends of the spectrum covered. I was under the impression you were going to send the 350 magnum back for replacement, due to difficulty of cocking reasons. Did it ease up?

    As you know, the 52 has been discontinued. I don't know if any 52s were made with the T-6 trigger or not. In that case you would have to 'settle' for a 48 which is the exact same, but without checkering and the monte carlo cheek-piece stock.

    I hope you realize, twotalon will probably now give me crap for saying "settle for a 48."

    My brother has a 48 and it is a beauty.

  38. I say don't let intruders get the drop on you in the first place. We live in town, lock our doors, keep a couple of lights on outside and have a dog that alerts us to anyone who gets too close to the house.

    The police, who are generally bored, would probably arive with in several seconds and in several squad cars.

    Anyone who would still be dumb enough to break in, I would probably introduce them to my new 12 guage shot gun. Not much aiming required and usually never a follow up shot needed. If I lived out in the country, an Ak-47 would be nice.

  39. Sl. Pb.,

    I know Umarex told me they had discontinued it. But has Diana also? It's in their 2010 catalogue, not that that means too much. I can't imagine the 52 going away altogether.

    Now then, I do know that the T-6 trigger assembly comes complete with piston and fits all Diana models starting with the 240, so if anybody is really serious they can retrofit their 52's. But… that still doesn't take care of the front sight and scope rail. Of course, the latter doesn't matter, what with Tom's nice UTG mount for it. Anyway, what's done is done, but now that Pyramyd has lowered the price yet again I'm tempted…

    Vince,

    Are you game to retrofit a new 52 with T-6 and 350 front sight?

    -AlanL

  40. Then again you could always go the non firearm route with unwanted intruders. You could blind them with light, mace them, taze them and then whack em with a Louisville slugger. If that doesn't work…whack em again!!!!

  41. ajvenom,

    More than one time in the past few years, I've been home alone when I've heard noises in the house and happened to be in the shower. I wrap a towel around myself, grab a .45, cock it (loaded, one in the chamber 24/7) and slowly sneak up through the bedroom into the LR. No one is there, the cat's are asleep & not the source of the noise. Tom is supposed to be at the range or elsewhere. I call his name. If there's no answer, I proceed a few steps further to the source of the noise with the gun ready to fire. I call his name again. Finally, an answer from Tom. If anything other than Tom's voice is heard or other than his face pops around the corner, I will empty my clip.

    I've known women who have been victims. I refuse to be one of them.

    For 20 years, we lived next door to a raging drug- and alcohol-fueled maniac who had loaded guns all over the place and shot them without a care where the bullets went. He spent some time in jail (not nearly enough)…and some of it due to my witness. Hearing screaming, random gun shots, banging on our front door in the middle of the night by a screaming blood-covered person makes you very keen in a crisis situation. It was my battlefield. I'm ready if such a situation ever comes around again. I hope it never does.

    Edith

  42. I had a freind who could probably talk across America…but he eventually was cured of excessive vocalization through therapy and group sessions at OnanOnanOn. d;)

  43. Steve with the Marauder,

    You'll need to remove the muzzle cap, baffles and shroud tube then the bolt to clean the Marauder barrel. It all comes apart in a couple minutes. IIRC all the Marauder fasteners are imperial NOT metric.

    There is an o-ring in the breech which makes cleaning a bit tricky as you don't want to nick the seal. Follow the link Slinging Lead posted and you'll manage. Replacing that o-ring after cleaning the barrel was a minor chore. A dental pick or two is a handy thing here.

  44. Slinging Lead
    Why would I give you a hard time?

    I wanted a rifle with some punch…and open sights. The To5 trigger, sights, and stock work out very well for me. A scope would raise the line of sight too much.

    A 52 has a different stock, and probably not fit well..with or without a scope.

    But what does AlanL want? How would a 48 fit him? With or without a scope??
    How would a 52 fit him…with or without a scope???

    It can be pretty darn hard finding a gun configured the way you want that will still feel good. Pretty darn hard shooting one that is just plain wrong.

    twotalon

  45. Mike,
    Thanks for the info. I am using Winchester lead Hollow Point +P but I don't know the grain content because the box is gone and the cartridge doesn't say. I must have pitched the box after the last practice session and saved enough hollow points to fill the gun and two speed loaders.

    -Chuck

  46. BB,
    I looked up the prices of the Wilson CQB and Tarus 1911. Pretty pricey, the Tarus not too, too bad, but then one wouldn't want to be laying on the floor bleeding to death and thinking, at least I saved $2,000. Would one?

    -Chuck

  47. AJ

    I might need to move to your town. As much as I like it here, my next door neighbors alarm went off for almost an hour one day before the police showed up. I had never heard his alarm go off prior to this. I suppose gun shots might have gotten them here more quickly.

    Dogs are the perfect first line of home defense. Excellent for protection, and goofy as hell, which is good for a laugh.

    I picked up the 953 yesterday, and I have to say it is a great value, especially at $40. As you inferred, but respectfully did not state out rightly, the sights suck. I would like to try a pair of good aperture sights, but the front and rears would cost more than a good scope with rings, which I know I could handle.

  48. twotalon

    I agree with you. Fit is very important.

    I have a 52 and it fits me perfectly. I use a scope on it however, because my sight is apparently worse than yours. I also have no complaints about my T-5 trigger. I have only heard how glorious the T-6 trigger is.

    If I had a 48, I don't think it would work as well for me, because I think I need a scope to be accurate enough to make me happy. The monte carlo cheek piece of the 52 helps me with the fit, using a scope. If I were to want to use open sights on an RWS sidelever I think I would go with a 48.

    I don't know what fits AlanL, but he seems to like scopes, and the fit of the Monte Carlo stock on the 54 so far.

    Fit is a hard thing to nail down, when good air rifles are almost impossible to test drive (at least the ones I am looking at.) I consider myself lucky to be able to buy such a wide selection from our benefactor.

    My comment was purely in jest, as I could not possibly disparage a rifle that had the exact same action of one of my favorites.

  49. Edith that's too bad….

    Well, what comes around goes around…usually they'll do it to themselves eventually. I always liked that movie "In Broad Daylight"…too bad you neighbor couldn't run into trouble with somebody else who won't put up it.

    Sliging Lead – I use an accushot two piece medium scope mounts and a leapers 4x32AO scope on my 953. Like a lazer on a good day. If you get a good barrel, they can be as accurate as anything else out there. 40 bucks is a steal. It's a great way to practice your shooting on rainy day.

    Some of the best shooters out there go through thousands of rounds a year to keep up there skills. Single pump is easy on the body and low cost to operate.

  50. Sligning lead – if you really want to sling some lead…..try out a 1077. I bought one used and it's a great way to let out a little frustration on your target. It's CO2 operated, but has an alright shot count.

  51. Edith

    I am sorry to hear you have had to endure such hardships, but am happy to hear you are now prepared for almost anything. What America needs is more Americans like yourself and fewer born victims (pacifists), and fewer predators, caught and set loose by our 'Judicial system'.

  52. twotalon;

    I have a 52 in .22 Cal. I shoot it with the open sites. It fits me fine.

    CJr; If you have a Lead HP Plus P load, it's almost for certain the 158 grain. I haven't seen factory lead HP's in other weights.

    Mike

  53. Slinging Lead

    We see things the same way.
    Ever go to a gun shop and walk down the racks. Pick up one of each model and find that NONE of them point or shoulder right to bring the sights into line with your eye and a spot on the wall??
    You have to fight every one of them (probably). None of them feel good.

    Then you wonder if ANY of these guns feel good to ANYBODY.

    I think I will do better with the open sights on the 48 as I get used to it. When I was still young I used to hunt with airguns under all kinds of lighting conditions. Night hunting in the barn with a flashlight was not hard at all…because I got used to the blur of the sights in the dark and was able to interpret how to aim with them. It is a different kind of sight picture, but not that hard to adapt to.

    twotalon

  54. Mike…
    Glad it works for you.

    About all I want to do with my 48 is to raise the sights by about 1/8"…..at a later date to get just a bit lighter cheek contact. It's pretty light now, and will wait until I shoot a couple more tins of pellets before experimenting with it.

    I did flip the rear sight over and like it better than the way it came from the factory.

    twotalon

  55. AJ

    I have been looking for a 1077W, which is no longer made. (The wood stock version). I have so many stinkin' air rifles at this point, I really need to start selling before I keep buying. Unless I find a deal…

    I type AJ, so SL seems like a fair trade.

  56. I appreciate your thoughts on the Mak. I've been a Mak owner [9×18 model] for 10 years or so and it's my favorite firearm. I bought the Umarex probably 6 months ago and I share your opinion of it. Just a couple of points for those who love Maks and are interested in the BB version.

    First, since I use Pearce Grips on my 9×18, I wanted to to find a way to fit them on the BB gun. I did it, using a Dremel to hollow out the grip. It fits fine using duct tape to secure it. Now the BB gun feels very much like the 9×18.

    Second, for those interested in low cost Mak practice, Laser Lyte has a device that fits into a gun barrel [probably 32 or greater calibre], that shoots a laser beam. This is essentially a dry-fire tool. I find this really useful for trigger memory and pointing practice, as opposed to aiming. Part of the Mak's appeal to me is that it is a natural pointer like lots of PPK types are.

  57. Bg farmer,

    I am hoping not, but I may have a candidate for your services. First the good news, my 90% + Hy Score 807 arrived yesterday and was pretty much as expected; this was good news as I had been hitting about 50% with used guns lately. Finally a Diana 27 to have and to hold.

    The date stamp says she was born in 1971, which means I would have been a mere lad in middle school. A quick once over shows a replacement screw which is odd given the limited amount of use it appears to have had and that also the rubber bumper is missing. Other than that she is an attractive lass.

    Preliminary testing showed silver bears doing 642-648 fps and STD JSB around 615 to 620.
    Next as part of protocol, I talked her out of her stock, and now the bad news. As I backed out the fore end screws the wood around them lifted up. This was not a crack, but some sort of splintering.

    Certainly an easy fix – oh no, foreshadowing…

    After I applied my patented tune, I turned my attention to her wounds around the screw holes. I recalled reading that a little super glue could be used in cases like this. Well maybe it can, but my results were less than ideal. It puckered up and took off the existing finish. I tried a quick fix with some true – oil, but it will need more. Once again I wished I had a time machine to undo my handy work.

    I went to the hardware store today and picked up some steel wool, sand paper and other necessities. If this tells you anything, I had to feel the sand paper to remember what the higher lower numbers meant. Dooh.

    Back to the good stuff. Today she is shooting the silver bears in the 680’s and the JSB 8.4’s in the 650’s. That’s a nice increase of 40 + fps. Smooth too. Those numbers are just a tad higher than what an R7 will do. I also adjusted the trigger as Tom recommended on a 27, front screw out and rear in.

    Anyway, a couple days and I’ll know if she’ll need a pro…wish me luck.

  58. TwoTalon,
    Some older folks have said that widening the front blade and/or opening up the notch on the rear sight helps with vision problems.

    Apparently the wider back notch (or vee or whatever shape it is) has no downside when kept within reason, and some have reported that easier aiming with the wider front blade is more than payment for a slight loss of accuracy — esp. in cases where they could not see it previously:).

    Glad you are out shooting, anyway. Pretend its shooting one of my "good enough" loads and have fun:).

  59. AlanL,

    I have an RWS 52 with a T01 trigger. I also have an RWS 46with the T06 trigger. This is in .22 cal. while the 52 is in .177. I believe I removed the front sight (I say "believe" as I'm in Boston at this time on a business trip and can't confirm) as it was casting a shadow or ghost image in my scope. You can adjust the T06 trigger very nicely and it's comparable to the T01. Now I wish I got the 46 in .177 as with the low recoil, it's very easy to shoot and gives the 52 a real run for the money as respects accuracy. It's around a 12 ft. lb. rifle and it would be ideal for field target – I haven't given up on the idea of competition – – – – yet.

    Edith, I only shine my LED flashlight into my wife's eyes when we're in bed and ready to go to sleep. It's great for getting a rise out of her! 🙂

    Fred PRoNJ

  60. Volvo,

    Glad to hear the 807 was a pleasant surprise condition wise. Concerned about the forend screws. Is this a candidate for brass screw cups? If it's not too bad then maybe a washer to keep it tight until a permanent fix?

    Try wadcutters for best pellet. Meisterkuglens or H & N finale match if you've got them.

    kevin

  61. B.G._Farmer
    One common complaint about the 48 is that the front sight is too wide. I don't think it's too wide at all. A very narrow sight is hard to see in dim light. The rear notch is not bad..could be a bit wider without a problem, but not anything yet that will make me bring out the dremel tool or swiss files.
    Snowing, blowing, and cold right now. Really need some better weather to work out the best hold and best pellets for it. Of course, "good enough" will be my goal with the open sights. CP shoot good but do not seat right. If Exacts and FTS shoot about as well or better, then I may use them instead. They seat better and will not lead up the bore as fast. May try superdomes as well.

    I really want to shoot some small groundhogs with my Condor powered Talon. It shoots Predators into one hole groups at 30 yds…With a MV of 1045 fps.

    twotalon

  62. Volvo,
    I had just blogged on — 27 sounds like a good one, and your tuning confidence is taking off.

    I'll bet you can fix it, but if not, I'll be happy to take a look.

    The way the finish bubbled up, I wonder if it isn't lacquer — at least thats what comes to mind (and a quick search confirmed that SuperGlue and lacquer aren't good buddies). If so, you might want to dispense with the Tru-Oil and buy a spray can of lacquer, assuming you're only going to do a touch-up and not an entire re-do: its a hot finish (although I wonder after 40 years!) and would integrate with the existing, assuming you could match the gloss level. Just thinking out loud.

  63. Volvo,
    Pictures would be good. It is curious how that happened, unless someone put something in the hole to keep the wood from splitting or the screws from backing out:). Or, I did see a post recently where someone was complaining that there was no finish in the screw holes of their new rifle — maybe someone blacked out the hole?

  64. Slinging Lead,
    I sold my 1077W a few weeks ago, but I know of one for sale. What is your price point? Also the one I had was a dark walnut, this one is a very light color – if you are interested.

  65. Volvo,
    I just meant that maybe they had painted inside the hole, perhaps with the screw inside (making the hole smaller than the screw head) or put it back in too early. You could also be right about the oil — maybe the wood swelled around the screw? I'm really just guessing — it may have happened before either of us could vote :).

  66. twotalon

    My 52 loves RWS pellets, superdomes and hollow-points. Not one other rifle I have will do anything with them. Other than that, I use the 15.8 grain JSBs in it. I save the Premiers for the Marauder.

    Volvo

    Why do you torture me? The dark walnut stock was just what I was looking for. I am sure I could live with the lighter one you know of, but like I said I just bought this 953 yesterday ("like new" my ass) and I have two scopes to buy besides. Also, I am up to 4 rifles that the old lady doesn't even know about at this point.

    I am a horrible person I know, but do I really have any idea how many pairs of black strappy sandles she owns? Hell no! I can't even tell them apart.

    I appreciate the offer however. Enjoy your Hy-Score, which was born the same year I was.(A very good year.)

    PS: After I thin the herd, and save some cash, my next purchase is going to be an R7. I would be interested to hear your opinion of buying new vs. finding an older one.

  67. Volvo,

    If it weren't for the fact that I spent my wad a Wal-mart the other day I'd help you out with that 1077. Next week maybe? $100?

    I copied some silhouette targets off and put 'em out 10 meters and with my Crosman 760 I think I got all of 4 points out of 2 pages! Need better gun, and A LOT more practice!

  68. Well didn't get the steel breech on my 2240 today. Everytime I took it out a honey do list showed up. Then tonight had to go to a BBQ at some friend's house. I may have to do this during the night, but she is always getting up to us her computer to play some sorta farmville game darn near 24/7. Is swapping out the breech a long process, maybe I'll sneak it into the bathroom and say I have a bad stomach ache, hehe. Goodnight all!

  69. Slinging Lead, I know what you mean, I was looking for a 1077w when I came a cross an ad from an good freind of mine in another forum. When I asked him about the 1077w, he said sorry and that the ad was a few years old. He didn't sell it then because he had no offers and he didn't want to sell it now. He had grown too attached to it.

    If I can't find a wood stock, I generally go with black synthetic. The tactical look isn't too bad. You can always dress it up with camo cloth, tape, netting or maybe even paint. Or just add more black accessories like lights, lazers, scopes and bipods etc…… plus it's probably less prone to problems from the elements.

  70. A little off topic but hoping you guys can help. I received my TX200 (.177 in walnut:) a few weeks ago and I love it! I have probably put close to 1000 rounds through it already. My concern is that when I pull down the underlever to cock the gun, there is a very noticable squeak/metal rubbing noise which seems to be coming from where the spring/chamber. I am hesitant to take apart the gun since everyone says it's basically a tuned gun out of the box and I surely don't want to ruin it's performance. To that point, it seems very accurate but I can't help to think I could be missing out on even more accuracy…. I'm not sure if this is something that will pass in time or something I can fix with a little moly. Your advise would be greatly appreciated.

  71. Anonymous,

    I cann't directly answer your question, but sure can point you in the right direction. Repost to the daily blog please at/blog//

    Thousands of readers world wide will see it and forsure someone has the answer for you.

    Mr B.

  72. Just visited Tom, and he's off sedation & painkillers, but there's still residuals of both in his system so he's not fully compos mentis. He's breathing on his own. I walked into the room & he opened his eyes halfway. I held his hand & asked him to squeeze my hand if he could. He did. I asked him a few questions and he nodded yes or no. I told him that he wasn't a great conversationalist, but his listening skills had really improved 🙂

    They plan to take him off the ventilator today. Not for sure, just a plan.

    The doctor says he's 1000x better, and all his vital signs and tests are 100% normal.

    I'll return later tonight. Maybe they will have removed the ventilator by then. His right upper lung is just ever so slightly not inflated. It's so small, though, that the doctors don't agree if it is or isn't. So, they're erring on the side of caution and not pulling the tube that sucks out the air around the outside of his lung.

    I suspect he won't be able to talk at all tonight. His mouth will be very dry & his throat very sore. That's okay. I can talk enough for both of us!

    When I left, he raised his hand a bit and waved goodbye with his fingers.

    Good news on all fronts!

    Edith

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