by B.B. Pelletier
I find it hard to believe that in a year’s time I did not do a posting on this pistol! But a search and examination of the index on September 30 says I didn’t, so today I’m going to rectify that oversight.
The cocking/pump lever swings far forward to cock the action and pump the gun. Such a long lever reduces the effort needed to charge this powerful air pistol.
The linkage allows the fulcrum of the lever to slide to the most effective point, thus reducing the force needed to pump the gun.
One of the finest single-stroke pistols ever made!
By now you ought to know that the Russians really know how to rifle a barrel. The IZH 61 rifle is legendary, and a lot of you have bought it on my recommendation, alone. I haven’t heard from anyone who was not pleased with this rifle. Well, the IZH 46 pistol is a whole other level of quality up from the model 61 rifle. It’s a single-stroke pneumatic pistol that uses an innovative cocking linkage incorporating a sliding fulcrum for the pump. As a result, it is one of the easiest single-strokes to pump, yet also one of the most powerful guns. As a result, this is a pistol that won’t tire you during a standard 60-shot men’s match or a 40-shot women’s match.
World-class features!
The 27.5cm (just a hair shy of 11″) barrel is world-class. No human can shoot as well as this barrel permits, which is true of every world-class target pistol. The sights are adjustable for width in the front – to go with a choice of rear notches (the notches do not adjust). The sights adjust with click-detent wheels. The sighting plane lies low in the hand – a desirable feature. The trigger adjusts for position, pull weight (second stage only), first-stage travel and overtravel. It breaks cleanly without a hint of creep.
A few detractors…
At 40.3 oz., the 46 is several ounces heavier than any of today’s world-class 10-meter pistols. The grips are smooth wood and not very adjustable. All that adjusts is the palm shelf, where the top 10-meter pistol grips also adjust for rake (forward angle), cant (sideways angle) and rotation (forcing the wrist to rotate around to the side to align the sights). These things help a shooter adjust a pistol that will lock in place when the shooter assumes the correct position. The finest pistols have a rear sight notch that adjusts infinitely through a range of widths. The best triggers also have trigger blade rotation, cant angle and the ability to dial a portion of the mandated 500-gram pull weight into the first stage. And, the dry-fire feature on the 46 is a little hokey.
Dry fire
A target pistol has to have a dry-fire feature because 2/3 to 4/5 of all shots a competitor shoots will be dry. It’s part of the training to learn the trigger and to grow accustomed to the balance of the pistol. When I am competing, I can get into my stance, which never changes during the match, then pick up my pistol and fire without sighting. If you were to blindfold me, I’d still shoot a credible score because my arm knows where the pistol needs to be, and my feet keep the gun centered on the bull. That comes from many hours of practice. But the dry-fire feature on the 46 requires you to cock the action by lifting up on the breech cover, then push it closed to the locked position for every shot. Other 10-meter pistols are very light and smooth in dry-fire. The 46 fights you every step of the way. On top of that, when the trigger does break, it doesn’t feel the same as when the gun shoots – which is the kiss of death for a dry-fire feature!
The dry fire feature is engaged by lifting the breech cover until the gun is cocked, then returning it to the lowered position.
The 46M is powerful!
I own a standard model 46, which may not be available any longer. The 46M that replaced it has a longer pump stroke for higher pressures that deliver about 50 to 70 f.p.s. higher velocity with target pellets. Side-by-side, you can tell the M model is a trifle harder to pump. When it’s by itself, you’ll never notice the difference. I would love to trade up to an M, even though my 8-year-old model 46 still functions fine. My 46 gets about 430 f.p.s. with RWS R-10 Match Pellets (light). A 46M will get 480 to 500 f.p.s. with the same pellet.
This is a super bargain!
When the IZH 46 first came to the U.S., it was imported by hobbyist businesses that knew nothing about the American airgun market. They put a price of $650 on it, making it close to the same price as FWB and Walther guns that already had established reputations and credentials at the world cup level. There was no rationale for this “strategy,” which blew up in the faces of the early importers. Within 12 months, they were gone, and a second wave of vendors tried to see how cheaply they could sell them. Whatever dignity the 46 might have had was destroyed by them. Then, EAA began importing most of the IZH/Baikal line, including firearms. The market slowly straightened itself out to what we see today. The low price at which you can purchase this outstanding target pistol will someday be called “The Golden Age of Affordable Airguns” by shooters who missed out.
So, why don’t I shoot a 46 in competition if I like it so much? Simple, I have a pistol I like even better. You’ll pay $1,000 for the Aeron B99, the PCP equivalent of my CO2 target pistol. (Read Aeron B99 – a quality 10-meter target pistol) If I had the money, I would get an FWB P40, because it has all the features I want. They sell for around $1,400 at present, and I have wanted one like it for more than a decade. So many airguns, so little money!
The grip must be worked on for the IZH-46(M). They build them way to large intentionally so there is enough wood to remove to make it fit anyone’s hand. Trouble is, it is too large for almost anyone.
It is easy to work on — I used a wood file (the cheese grater kind works great (no pun intended)) or a Dremel. If you end up taking off too much, you can always use wood putty or filler to build up again.
To refinish, get some stain and penetrating finish (I like Minwax) from the hardware store.
Commercial replacement grips are available but will cost about $150 (and you may still want to go at them with a file).
BB, thanks for the piece on the IZH46. I wrote you earlier about my interest in this pistol and your article helps me better understand this well made and accurate pistol. I am a newbie to air guns and I wanted a pistol that was far better than my ability to shoot so that I would not have any excuse for poor marksmanship. As mentioned in an earlier note to you, when I ordered the pistol, I had read some things that suggested that the build quality was poor. Nothing could be further from the truth. I am amazed at the quality and fit and finish. I had to sand off a sharp edge on the moveable part of the grip, but apart from that, this is a wonderful pistol and several of my friends after seeing mine and taking a few shots with it are going to buy the IZH46m. Now that I am out of excuses for my marksmanship, I can only get better with practice. One point from your article that I was unclear about, is there a narrow front sight blade and a corresponding rear sight blade available for this pistol? Please keep at this Blog. I look forward to reading it daily.
PCR
PCR,
The gun used to come with a replacement front post that was thinner. The rear sight had a second notch machined on the bottom, so it could be flipped upside-down and used with the narrower front post.
Are these items no longer with the gun?
B.B.
B.B., YOUR RIGHT!!!! There is a set of sight posts and a second rear sight blade in the package that hold the extra seals. I guess I was so taken by the pistol that I never opened the little plastic wrapped package thinking it was just a set of extra seals. After trying the narrow post, I swapped it for the widest post thinking that it gave me a sight picture that I found easer to see and bring on target. Once again thanks.
PCR
BB,
Sorry, offtopic. During my travels thru cyberspace I have come accross something I wish I knew more about. I have read it is possible to use a weapon mounted laser pointer viewed thru the scope (the laser dot) to quickly and easily range targets. Do you know how, or have you even ever heared of this???
Jason
Hmmm. interesting off topic. sounds like it will come down to “knowing your gun”. But i do have a lazer mounted on my SS. very good idea.
Turtle,
I know it will be easier to do with a Mil-dot. I don’t know where you are supposed to aim the laser. It probably doesn’t matter. Your right that knowing your gun one could get used to it, but I was looking for a generic formula or mathematical equation. My secret is out!
Jason
BB,
Which pellets for a 1000fps in .177cal are competition material.Please tell me all of them in order of how you like them.
Mr.FPS
Mr. FPS,
A pellet rifle that shoots 1,000 f.p.s. is not a competition gun. Therefore, comtetition pellets will only be mediocre in one.
B.B.
Jason,
If you align a laser to coincide with your point of aim at any distance, the laser will either be higher or lower at all other distances. That’s because the laser looks straight and the scope looks (straight) down.
If you learn how the separation looks, it’s easy to estimate distance by the amount of separation between the laser and the crosshairs.
B.B.
BB,
I meant the most accurate pellets for a 1000fps air rifle.
Mr.FPS
BB,
Thanks for the info.
Jason
Mr FPS: Check out BB’s posts from: 12/06/05 & 02/20/06 & 09/08/05 & 02/02/05 & 12/07/05. Tons of great info on pellets.
Jim.
B.B.
The other day you recommended the Oehler 35P as the chronograph of choice. It appears as though the Oehler folks no longer sell chronographs! So, what is the next best chronograph for us to use for both pellets and bullets? Thanks.
heh reddot scopes don’t use lasers, they use some kind of special LED. I’ve never personally liked the crosman or daisy electronic sights because mine have nearly always been way off target.
But milspec stuff has always been a totally diffrent story with me. Can’t ever have to many holosights or aimpoints now can we?
B.B.
I have been reading with interest your comments on using the proper lubricant in various air guns. Consequently, as a newbie, I bought a cleaning kit and several types of lubricant. I have the following: Crosman Pelgunoil, Crosman Silicon Chamber Oil,(Are the two Crosman oils the same product?) and MP-5 (Metalophilic). I also purchased a small amount of Beeman Metal to Metal Moly Paste. I know what needs paste, but the question is which oil is used for which gun. I have the following guns; Sheridan (old and reliable), RWS 52, and IZH46M. The RWS 52 and IZH are both new,few months old and I do not want to dammage them, The instructions with each gun are vague at best. Any suggestions?
PCR
An L.E.D. IS a laser. Prove me wrong. And the Daisy sight you deride was based off military from fifteen years ago. Mil-spec doesn’t mean a lot in this fast-paced world, not for long.
To the laughing anon,
I believe the subject suggested refers to laser pointers, not dot sights.
And to Jason,
Everyone I have read suggests using a mil-dot reticle for distancing. I have tried it on an aquaintences rifle and found it easy to get used to, and fairly accurate. It is better suited for short to medium ranges, going out too far creates little difference in laser and scope line of sight, and judging becomes harder. And I think using a fixed power scope is best, it’s easier on the brain. Different magnification, different “range chart” for the scope/laser.
Mr. FPS,
If you can keep the velocity UNDER 900 f.p.s., the best pellets in .177 and .22 are JSB Exacts, Crosman Premiers (7.9 for .177 spring guns) and the 20.5-grain Logun Penetrator.
The Beeman Kodiak is always good in PCP rifles and in .177 springers.
B.B.
cold shooter,
Oehler is very much in business. I just saw them at the SHOT Show.
Their web site is
http://www.oehler-research.com/
B.B.
PCR,
Don’t oil the RWS 52. It should be okay for many years. When it does need oil (a squeaking sound ehen cocked) use one drop of RWS Chamber oil through the air transfer port.
Use Pellgunoil on the pump heads of the Sheridans and the IZH 46.
I have no application for the MP-5. The M-2-M greas is for the mainspring of rifles, and the pistol seals. Complete disassembly is required. I wouldn’t do it unless you want to get into spring guns in the big way.
B.B.
B.B. Thanks,
PCR
BB Pelletier,
I would like to buy a gamo nra special edition.Can you do a post on it?
Mr.FPS
Mr. FPS,
I reviewed the Gamo Shadow 1000 on June 24. The NRA Special Edition is a Shadow 1000 with the NRA badge on the stock and scope.
B.B.
B.B.
I wish I was wrong and you were correct, but when I go to the site I get:
“Oehler has reluctantly suspended production of handloader equipment, including the Model 35. Our current inventory of handloader systems is depleted. Production of industrial equipment and technical support for all Oehler equipment continues. You can still get warranty service and parts.”
So, B.B., where do we go now?
cold shooter,
I stand corrected!
I didn’t go into the site far enough to see that message, plue Dr. Oehler never said a word about it when we spoke in Feb.
I guess you go with a PACT chronograph!
B.B.
Anon,
A laser is a laser. Led stands for light emitting diode. No different than the little red power stand by lights on stereo equip. A holographic sight is one with a laser shining on a lens that does not let the laser dot pass thru the glass. It seems the prevailing mentality of some people is to trash what they don’t themselves understand. Nothing new, it has been happening since the dawn of man’s creation. Maybe if one was to open up, they may learn something new. As for the others, the waters only get deeper from here on out.
Jason
357,
I have a mildot 6-24x40mm on my Gladi8or and know how to use it at 10x to range objects by comparing to a close object of known size. The method I was reffering to, looking at the lasers dot thru the scope would be way more useful to me when I night hunt. It is hard to use the mil-dot method in the dark. If you light up the quarry to long while your doing mathematics to compute range, the critter is gone. That is not what I want to happen. The laser method, flick it on, look at the distance between laser dot and crosshairs and the critter is none the wiser.
Jason
BB,
I was looking in the pellet are and found the Beeman Silver Arrow pellets.I kind of like them and they are hevier than the kodiaks.How do they compare to the kodiaks?
Are they better?
Tell me your opinion on this pellet.
CF-X guy
CF-X guy,
I have never gotten any accuracy from Silver Arrows in any caliber, so I cannot recommend them.
B.B.
Jason,
Not that I have the money for it either(two kids, mortgage), but have you thought of going infrared? If you mount an IR laser and have a night scope, you can range and they still don’t see you. I used this setup of a former co-workers to some effect, and rat eyes glow, even when not looking at you.
B.B. explained how laser/scope ranging works, it isn’t as hard as it seems.
The problem you state with time becomes a non-issue with practice during the day, but at night needs a lighted reticle if you do not use a lamp, as you need a good point of reference in the scope. As always, practice takes a significant amount of time off sight-to-shoot, even when calculating distance with a mil-dot setup. It does get easy.
Good luck hunting!
.357,
I certainly wouldn’t mind having a night vision scope with a good infrared illuminator. They are pricey even for 1st gen models. Right now I use the 6-24 mildot that has an illuminated recticle and a scope mounted 6 volt lamp with an amber filter. In my expirience the animals are even less bothered by the light with the amber(really more orange) than the red filter. Thanks for the ideas!
Jason
BB,
Thank for the info on the silver arrows.
I bought at a local flea market some gamo magnum pellets for $5.00 and they are accurate.I read the question that JB posted on the jan 6 post and I want to know too.Why do this pellets have those lines on the skirt?
CF-X guy
B.B.
You make the comment earlier: “A pellet rifle that shoots 1,000 f.p.s. is not a competition gun…” Why not? Are competition guns slower or faster and why?
jw
jw,
The only world-class competition for air rifles and pistols is 10-meter target shooting. Velocities of the guns remain below 600 f.p.s.
Field target is an “ad hoc” world-level competition, in that there is no encompassing organization running things. It takes the cooperation of all the countries involved to hold a world match, so I don’t consider that world-class. You may disagree with me.
And even field target velocities are held at or below 900 f.p.s. by the major competitors. The Brits have to shoot at 12 foot-pounds, which means 825 f.p.s. or less, yet they win most of the time.
That is the rationale behind my remark.
B.B.
the ummm, 1900$ Walther LG300 shoots a .177 @ 1000fps and it sure looks like a competitor to me!
Where did you see that? The Walther Dominator, an FT version of the 300 AluTek, can shoot in the low 900s with pellets too light for field target, but the 300 AluTek is a pure 10 meter target rifle and shoots less than 600 f.p.s.
B.B.
BB,
Thanks for the post on the IZH-46. I think it just moved to the top of my want list.
I have a Shooting Chrony Beta Master. I like it. I have done quite a lot of testing of my CF-X, and have reported some of those numbers in previous comments. I use the indoor lighting fixture. It works very well. There is much debate on which Chrono is best, my subjective opinion is this one is a great value.
Also, looks like someone else is signing their posts with JB, guess I’ll change to…..
Joe B
after viewing ur post on IZH-46, i went to look through whole Baikal air gun line, and i saw MP-514K, wow look really good, but i cant find it anywhere. will you happen to know how can i get my hand on 1 of MP-514K ? thanks for the review
MP-514,
If the importer decides to bring this gun in, then I’m sure Pyramyd AIR will carry it. The question is, will it ne imported?
I’ll ask Pyramyd if they have heard anything
B.B.
BB,
Just placed my order for an IZH-46M. I intend to try a few different pellets. I have, GAMO Match, Crosman Supermatch, JSB Match Diabolo. You mention RWS R-10 in the report, which others should I consider?
Thanks.
JDB
JDB,
Don’t overlook H&N Match (light), Chinese blue label match pellets (light) and Vogel Match (light).
The Chinese and H&N are often the best pellets for me, but the R10s are always near the top.
B.B.
Thanks BB
I will try the Vogel and H&N. Could you point me toward the “Chinese Blue Label” ?
Nothing on Pyramyd, and the other popular airgun sites. Did a google… no luck. Thanks
JDB
JDB,
I checked and apparently the Chinese light (blue label) wadcutter is no longer being imported.
B.B.
I bought one of these a few weeks ago from Pyramid. Although I’ve shot air pistols for many, many years, this was my first “target” pistol. I am thrilled and astonished at the accuracy and quality considering the seemingly low cost of the piece. I only wish I’d bought one sooner. The only drawback is the grip. It has so little adjustment other than the palm rest so does not allow for individual adjustments. That said, this is a truly accurate piece. The grip, if it’s a concern, can be modified. I’ve read some great info on “how to” if that’s a big deal. The reviewer talked about the fact it was far more accurate than the shooter. I’ve no doubt. It has however taken one variable out of the equation…. if there’s a flier, I KNOW it’s my fault, no more excuses. It has also improved the accuracy of my shooting with other airpistols as well as firearms. I practise almost daily with this gun. This is such a joy to shoot, I cannot praise it enough. BTW, the trigger on my pistol is excellent. There’s no creep etc. Highly recommended for any first time target shooter or someone with a limited budget who wants accuracy out of the box.
This is for the guy looking for that MP-514K Air Rifle. I found this site looking through the web.
http://www.goblesgunandtackle.com/BaikalAirGuns.html
They sell all of those hard to fine baikal guns. Enjoy
B.B.,
Any plans on reviewing the MP-672, a PCP version of IZH-46M ? Also, does the 70 bar reducer chamber refer to the fill pressure?
Thanks
B.B.,
Any plans on reviewing the MP-672 PCP version?
Also, does 70 bar reducer chamber refer to the fill pressure?
Thanks
IZH 672,
I saw a 10-meter pistol that IZH was showing at the IWA show in Germany, in March, but it didn’t look like this one. I don’t know that this gun is available or not, yet. Do you?
I’ve asked the folks at Pyramyd AIR whether they know about this one. They saw the other gun I mentioned at IWA, too.
Do you know of any U.S. airgun dealer selling this gun?
B.B.
No, I just saw it on their site after reading this review. Figures it is brand spanking new.
Looks like the grip ergonomics is improved and that they fixed the dry fire issues as well.
I may still just get the 46M as it is calling to me 🙂
Thanks
Pyramyd AIR tells me that this pistol seems to be the gun that IZH is going to produce (rather than the one we saw in Germany). The process of getting the export permit has been started. Pyramyd says to expect it to take until December.
Unfortunately, the retail price will probably be pretty high on this pistol, compared to the 46M. I’d say get what you want now.
B.B.
Lee here,
This is for B.B. Pelletier…
There is a Web Site, The Pellet Trap (www.pellettrap.com) that claims to sell Chinese Pellets the Green and Blue Label tins. I have not ordered any thing from this site, I don’t know where they are located.
Lee,
I don’t know this company, but Compasseco has many dealers for whom they drop ship, so it could be one of them. You ored from the site, but the order goes to Compasseco who fills it.
B.B.
http://www.goblesgunandtackle.com/BaikalAirGuns.html does not exist. Was this spelled wrong or has that place gone out of business?
I just went to the site and it is up.
B.B.
Is it correct that Baikal provides no option for a left-hand grip? I’ve found an aftermarket 46 grip but it’s $160!
Yes, you will have to buy an aftermarket grip for left-hand use. They are $125 here at Pyramyd AIR. That’s about right for the cost.
B.B.
In Soviet Russia the grip chooses you! 😉
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a carbine version of the IZH 46?
Vonfilm,
There is a target rifle version, but it isn’t very popular.
B.B.
Yes the MP-532 + a running target configuration of the same, the MP-532T. Do these suffer from the same odd dry-fire mechanism as the pistol?
speaking of running target..
I bet that some version of running target could be (re)popularized if the target system was simplified and reactive targets were used. It strikes me as a sport that became too technical and expensive for its own good.
dlb,
Funny you should say that. Gamo is working on the exact target you talkj about. Instead of $2,600, it is targeted to cost $100.
See it here
http://gamousa.com/Catalog.aspx?Product=112
I hear from the grapevine that the bugs aren’t worked out yet, but when they are I will be hot on this one!
B.B.
you said the trigger can break. How long does it take to brake or how much abuse will it take. Or at least with a gentle use how long would it last.
No, I didn’t mean the trigger stops functioning. When someone says “break” about a trigger, they are describing the release of the sear. A trigger “breaks” when the gun fires.
The IZH 46 trigger will outliast its first three owners.
B.B.
cool i plan on buying on monday
ok now i have some left over pellets from before consisting of CROSMAN .177 Premier Domed Heavy (might thes damage the gun), and AVANTI .177 Diablo Match pellets (dont know when i got these). Whould these be ok?
The heavy pellets won’t damage the gun, but they won’t be very accurate, either. The Daisy Avanti pellets are more like what the gun likes. And Gamo match would be even closer.
No lead pellet can damage this pistol.
B.B.
The IZH 46M sounds like a nice pistol for a good price. Anyone know who has this online and in stock currently? A lot of places are backordered. Is the $299 price the lowest I’ll find? Thanks.
-Don
Don,
These pistols are imported by EAA. They don’t always keep up with demand. When they get more pistols, everyone will have them, then they will sell out. It’s a sort of peddler mentality.
B.B.
Hi BB,
I’m an IZH fan and die-hard airgunner, and I’ve previously thanked you for setting me on the right direction with my IZH 61. I followed suit with the 46M (absolutely fantastic).. then the 513M (I love it – quirks and all, and it’s my favorite “long range” rifle), and now the MP 514K (I got this purely for the bull-pup aesthetic and I am not disappointed with it). My Dad got me into the sport when I was 5 and I grew up shooting an HW 55 Target and a Sheridan that has seen several sighting transfigurations. Trying Feinwerkbau 124’s, RWS 45? and the intro R1’s in their heyday showed me some really refined airguns. And while the Baikals don’t fall under the same impeccable scrutiny – they have to be the best bargains available. Just my 2 cents.
Any way to see a diagram of a running boar target? I’m a metalworker and the idea of making one of these sounds like a lot of fun…
The running boar became politically incorrect in the 1980s, so it was changed to the running target.
A search of old Shooter’s Bibles will find a picture of the running boar. Before that, it was the running stag.
B.B.
BB,
just wondering where you can see some of these custom IZH 61’s with the laminated stocks, etc. You mentioned seeing them at PyramydAir.. do they have a photo gallery? Or is there a link to a site you know?
The ONLY IZH 61 I remember reportinbg about was one that was shown in Airgun Revue. That publication is out of print and a collector item now.
Sorry,
B.B.
can ikz46m be used by a lefty
Rob Bob,
Only with left hand grips. Several years ago a few grip makers did make them. You may still be able to find a pair on the American Airguns classified forum.
B.B.
BB,
Hello. I am considering this gun. I was reading a user review on pyramid air’s sight where the guy says that the seals blow out frequently with this gun. Have you found that to be true? Have you heard of others with this problem?
Thanks,
Carl
Carl,
No, the seals don’t blow out frequently, but there have been a few guns with problems. I would say that if the gun lasts for several hundred shots, it will probably last a long time. The warranty will get you through that period.
My own 46 is now about 10 years old and has worked for all that time. It now requires a few warm-up shots to get working again, so I guess some people would complain, but I still shoot it without a problem.
B.B.
Hi Carl,
Came across your question on 46m blowing out seals. Yes, they do if you did’nt lock the bolt properly. you will hear a click on the lever
that locks the bolt, one or both seals will be blown away. Well, just pick them up and replace if you can find them. Happened to me twice. Not the gun’s fault, it’s me having too much fun shooting the gun. Go get one before the price goes up again. cost me $268. yr. ago, now is $100+ more which is still a bargain.
Henry
I just ordered a 46M.
In regards to the above comment, if you DO hear the click on the lever that locks the bolt the seals will not be damaged. Is this correct?
Thank you
David
David,
I don’t know what that comment is trying to say. When you close the bolt ( the “lever” the comment refers to is actually the bolt), a lock that is very visible snaps over it and there is a click. If you were able to shoot the gun without locking the bolt (i.e., hearing the click) the force of the air being expelled could pop out the bolt seal. I suppose that is what the message refers to, though it isn’t clear.
The message writer used commas to end his sentences instead of periods. So it looks like you don’t want to hear the click, when in fact, you do.
Anyway, don’t worry about it. Just operate the gun correctly and there will be no problem.
B.B.
BB,
Thanks for the quick answer to my “bolt click” question.
Due to your reviews of the IZH 46 I have ordered one from Pyramyd and will receive it this week.
I have not owned an air gun in over 40 years although I have been an active pistol shooter and competitor in 50′ NRA indoor leagues.
Have you written a blog about the “do’s and don’t” of preparing a new air pistol such as the IZH 46 for its first firing? If not, could you blog back some guidelines for this pistol.
BTW, almost bought a PT1911 last week. I think that I will be glad I bought the IZH 46 instead of another centerfire pistol.
Thanks for your help.
David
David,
There is nothing to do to get an IZH 46M ready to shoot. It’s not like a 1911 that has to be broken in.
The only maintenance tips I have are to keep the piston head oiled, see this blog:
/blog/2008/4/gamo-compact-vs-izh-46-part-4/
And when the gun is stored, don’t close the bolt. That allows the bolt seal to be uncompressed most of the time. You will see what I mean when you receive your gun.
B.B.
I am hoping to use my IZH-46M for shooting chipmunks in addition to match practice. Is there any pellet you would recommend for pest shooting? I use the H & N Match for targets.
As long as you keep the range to 10 meters or less, a good domed pellet like the JSB Exact (the lighter one) would work.
The IZH 46 is marginal as a critter-getter.
B.B.
hmm… I love my IZH46m! but ever since the beginning, I don’t think it has been shooting its stated 500FPS. I use paperboard GAMO targets, and when I shoot it, the wadcutter only rips a hole, not make a clean cut circle. Comparatively, it only has as much power as my airsoft pistol. Can someone tell me why it’s not shooting to its full power and possibly some way I can fix it?
David,
You have to have a chronograph to make the velocity call. How pellets rip paper is not accurate enough to make a call.
Also, 500 f.p.s. is the speed at which tearing starts, so it really isn’t diagnostic. The type of paper makes all the difference in the world. For example, long-grain paper tears differently than short-grain paper.
B.B.
Thanks BB! I guess I’ll have to buy a chronograph to see its real velocity.
But also, I can hear the point where the air releases and the pellet impacts the target…
hmm… what is the chronograph really called? I can’t seem to find one…
Thanks!
David,
It really is called a chronograph. Just enter it in the search on Pyramyd’s main site. The brand that Pyramyd carries is Shooting Chrony.
.22 multi-shot
David,
Here's a link to the chrony's on Pyramyd Air's site. You'll need to copy and paste since this blog doesn't allow live links. Here it is:
/search-results-ext?q=chrony
David, I would also encourage you to join the current/live discussion amongst other airgunners just like yourself. The current discussion is taking place under the daily topic that is different every day Monday-Friday. You can always access the current topic here:
/blog//
Look forward to seeing you there!
kevin
Hey BB,
Thanks for the help so far.
Can you do me one more favor by sending me a picture of the lever where the seals are supposed to go? Originally, it only had the one connecting to the air mechanism. I put the extra seal where the lever connects with the barrel, and now it punches actual holes with what I think is near 500FPS.
So please teach me: am I supposed to put two seals? And so far I’ve only put 2 shots through it with both seals, so will I break the gun?
Thanks,
David
And also, I want to enter some competitions. I’m in California and my high school doesn’t have any shooting clubs or competitions. What should be my first step?
David,
I’m sorry, but I have no idea of what you are asking. Seals don’t go on levers, and that it confusing me.
Besides YOU don’t put seals into tis gun. They are already there. All you do is oil them.
Read this blog to see exactly where to oil the pump seal on an IZH 46:
/blog/2008/4/gamo-compact-vs-izh-46-part-4/
I hope that takes care of your question.
As for shooting competitively, locate the nearest NRA-affiliated club in your area. The NRA runs adult air pistol matches all around the U.S.
B.B.
oh… I read the other thread and it’s called the breech seal. Should there be something between the breech seal or the barrel?
David,
If I understand you, the breech seal IS between the breech and the barrel. It is the only thing you want there
B.B.
OK, then. I am missing the breech seal! Thanks for your help, BB!
David,
The breech seal is a rubber seal (looks like a doughnut) on the barrel end of the triangular piece that’s attached to the lever that flips up when the gun is cocked.
There are two seals on this triangular piece–one that seals the air hole (transfer port) that comes out of the bottom of the receiver and one that fits against the back of the barrel when the breech is closed.
The triangular piece causes the blast of air to change directions from straight up straight forward, to get behind the pellet in the breech.
The seals are the same size.
I always leave the breech unlatched when the gun is stored, so these seals are not under compression.
Do you have both of these seals?
B.B.
Yup, I was missing the barrel/breech seal. I had replacement ones and I put it in, and now it shoots perfectly!
Thanks BB!
David,
I am glad that we were able to help. Enjoy your pistol.
B.B.
B.B.
I returned my 46M to EEA for service work several months ago and they replaced my 7 year old gun with a new one.
Upon trying to fire the new one the trigger would not release.
After waiting over a period of time I opened the breech and it blew out both seals.
I reinstalled the seals and tried to dry fire it.
No porblems on the dry fire.
When I cocked, it developed pressure and I could hear no leaks.
When I placed the pellet in the barrel and closed the bolt it allowed air to leak befor the bolt locked down. The gun will now discharge but at a very low pressure as it leaks out when closing the bolt. The leak can be heard at about the half way point of closing it. Any Ideas?
The first one had been a great gun and I have no idea how many thousands of rounds it had shot.
Thanks for the great post on the 46M
Ken TN
Ken,
Have you oiled the pump piston head with Pellgunoil, as you should? If so and the gun is still leaking, it has to be returned. A small piece of dirt has embedded itself on a seal, or the seal is flawed in some way.
Cleaning and replacement is the solution and on an IZH 46, this is not a job an owner can do. The gun is complex and the seals are proprietary, so EAA has to fix the gun.,
B.B.
I've been looking online at quality air guns for almost a year w/o buying one. Now, I'm almost ready. I'd like one that is an excellent target pistol. The IZH looks great, but I have smaller hands and do not have the woodworking skills that may be needed to hone the grips to a perfect fit. Where would I look to find someone who could craft the grips correctly?
Beyond that, I've looked at the Evanix models. They appear cosmetically gorgeous in photos. However, the need to buy a scuba tank to fill the tank looks troubling and an inconvenience.
Which would anyone here recommend, the IZH or the Evanix?
Hi George,
This post is dated 2006 and only a few of us bloggers can see it.
I've posted your question to the latest blog page which can be found here:
/blog//
Posting at the latest page will ensure that the largest number of people get to read your post and subsequently answer it.
Mo.
I thought I was purchasing an IZH-46M air pistol but I received an MP-46M air pistol instead. They look the same but does anyone know the difference between the two guns?
Doug
Douglas,
Unfortunately, this posting is so old that only a very few folks will even see your question. So, I took the liberty of copying it over to the blog's most recent entry where someone will surely answer it.
My two cents? It's probably the same gun going under a different label. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised to find that the 'MP' is just an abbreviation for 'Match Pistol'.
Doug,
These are the same guns. Both were mfrd by IZH-Baikal in Russia. The one with IZH on it was imported by EAA Corp. The one with MP on it was imported by Pyramyd AIR, which is the current importer. MP is actually correct according to the IZH-Baikal's website. It appears that when EAA brought in the guns, they didn't want MP on them.
Edith
Edith,
I tried to go that IZH-Baikal website but the link didn't work. I'd love to see it if you can find the link that gets me there. I'm a little concerned because in all the research I did before I purchased this gun (IZH-46M), no one had ever referred to it as the MP-46M. It is only referred to as the IZH or Izzy 46M. My gun is stamped MP-46M. I feel like I paid for an IZH-46M but received a knock-off, maybe cheaper gun. The Pyramyd AIR website should not say they are selling you an IZH-46M and then ship you an MP-46M. This has me very uneasy.
Doug
Doug,
Looks like their website is down or it was hacked. I used it frequently for info, exploded views & user manuals. First time it's been unavailable.
You did not receive a knock-off! You got the same gun but with different lettering.
Nevertheless, Pyramyd AIR is speaking with IZH to find out more about why they opted to change the labeling.
Edith
hi,b.b.,
i need ur help,i imported IZH 46 m from P.A. last week ,it is hitting 3-4 inches low on 10 mtr with h&N MATCH KUGLEN PELLETS .i am not able to move POI even with maximum elevation of rear sight nob,
my friend says it doesnt have enough velocity or power,PLS HELP
DINESH
DINESH,
Before you do anything, ARE YOU SURE that H&N Match pellets (we don't have an H&N Match Kugeln over here. We have a Finale Match Pistol, a Finale Match Rifle, an H&N Match Pistol and an H&N Match Rifle) are the pellets you want to use?
Second, Have you oiled the pump piston like it says in the manual? Your lower pellet sounds like a power loss to me.
The way to move the pellet higher on target is to either move the rear sight up, which you have now done, or to lower the height of the front sight.
But I would not start modifying the gun until I know my gun is performing right and that I have found the one best pellet.
You can try lowering the front sight by using a blacked-out card stock in place of the sight blade.
B.B.
BB,
Are those White Pellets made in Slovenia good for my Izzy 46ms barrel?
Thanks
When I tested White pellets for Pyramyd AIR I found them all mediocre. You are better off with Gamo Match pellets than those, on the basis of my test.
B.B.