by Tom Gaylord
Writing as B.B. Pelletier
Gamo 126 single stroke pneumatic 10-meter target rifle.
This report covers:
- Three different models
- Dimensions
- Markings
- Gamo and Daisy
- Curious
- Description
- Sights
- The 126 is a single stroke pneumatic (SSP)
- Oil-filled piston?
- Velocity
- Trigger
- Summary
This report is one I was goaded into. In the report titled Gamo I wrote the following, “Then there was the Gamo 126 single stroke pneumatic target rifle. Daisy sold them for a while (1984-1994), just as they did FWB 300s. They are not as refined as a Walther LGR, but they do work fine and are quite accurate. They typically sell for a little less than FWB 300s , but still command a fair price. Expect to pay north of $400 for one that works.”
Reader Geezer responded to that with this, “The Gamo 126 does not “work fine”. They are notoriously unreliable and hard to fix.”
That stopped me in my tracks. I will admit that I also have heard that the 126 is difficult to reseal and I know that a lot of them that have not been resealed, perhaps for that reason. The 126 was produced in the 1980s. The Blue Book of Airguns says production ceased in 1994, but they also say the 126 is an El Gamo, and my 126 is just marked Gamo. So, their information may be off in other areas, as well.
Three different models
The Blue Book also describes three models — an El Gamo 126, an El Gamo 126 Super Match Target Rifle and a model 128 Gamo Olympic. No distinction is made between the 126 and the 126 Super Match Target, other than the latter has adjustable sights and a match-style hardwood target stock. The description also mentions that this model weighs 10.6 lbs. Both are SSPs and the regular 126 has no other description with it, other than it was made in 1984.
Dimensions
My rifle measures 43.5-inches overall with an 18-inch barrel. The length of pull is 14 inches, which is very long for a competition rifle. It should be 11.5-12.5-inches because of how it’s held in the offhand position.
Just for kicks I weighed my rifle. It weighs 9 lbs. 12 oz. so I think it’s clear that I have the standard 126. It is quite light for an adult target rifle and is more of a Junior model.
The 128 Gamo Olympic has an adjustable cheekpiece and buttplate and a “high-quality European diopter sight”. My rifle has an adjustable buttplate but the cheekpiece is not adjustable.
Markings
My rifle is not marked with a model number that I can find. It simply says gamo (lower case) Made in Spain on top of the compression tube and MC Cal 4,5 (177) and the serial number, with symbols of what looks like a botched Freimark (Capital F inside a pentagram denoting an energy below 7.5 joules) and the profile of a wadcutter diabolo pellet.
This is the main marking on the rifle. No model number is shown anywhere.
The serial number. The Freimark to the right of the caliber appears to be double-struck.You can also see what has to be hand stippling on the stock.
Gamo and Daisy
Gamo 126s were imported and sold in the US by Daisy. Mine is one of those. Daisy marked the rifle in the center of the aluminum accessory rail under the forearm. Now, there has been a lot of talk on all the forums about these guns over the years. I can tell that a lot of it is just jabber and conjecture, but one fellow who owns one says that Daisy advertised the rifle at 550 f.p.s. and his shoots 536. That’s the sort of report I believe. He also says Daisy sold two different models — one with and the other without the accessory rail. Could that be the difference between the standard 126 and the Super Target version?
Daisy marked the rifle at the bottom of the accessory rail.
Curious
I have shot a 126 at some time in the distant past, but I never owned one. So Geezer’s comment spurred me to look for one. As luck would have it I found one right away and it had been resealed by Champion’s Choice, so I took the plunge. Unlike many vintage airguns a Gamo 126 is not one to invest in, because there is so much bad press surrounding the model like Geezer has mentioned.
Description
My 126 is all metal and wood, with a strange plastic sheath around the barrel that looks like deep bluing, but can be detected by touch. It isn’t a shroud; it’s just a thin sheet of something. The rest of the rifle is blued steel except for a plastic triggerguard. The metal bluing looks deep and the metal is well-polished for today, but it’s not up to the quality level of the contemporary target rifles of the time like the FWB 300.
The stock is a hardwood that might be beech, but if it is, it’s a type of beech I’m not familiar with. It has a subtle grain that beech seldom has. It’s finished in a blonde stain. And there is coarse stippling everywhere your hands go, including on the bottom of the pistol grip. I see no evidence of a strengthening bolt through the pistol grip that is oriented almost 90 degrees the the wood grain, so I will be careful when handling the rifle. FWBs and Anschütz target rifles are notorious for breaking at the pistol grip for this reason.
The forearm narrows after the place where a target shooter would normally hold it, and the aluminum accessory rail on the bottom provides a place for a hand stop/sling swivel or a hand rest for those matches where they are permitted.
The accessory rail is inlet into the forearm.
Sights
The front sight globe that accepts different elements sits on an aluminum muzzle swelling that is finished in a matte gray. The rear target sight is also aluminum and will be familiar to many shooters who have seen them on other target rifles — notably those from Daisy.
The hooded front sight accepts interchangeable inserts.
The Gamo rear target sight is familiar to many airgunners.
The 126 is a single stroke pneumatic (SSP)
The 126 has a long sidelever on the right side. Withdraw it to the rear and there is no resistance. Then there is a second operation that is unique to this model I think. The compression chamber must be slid to the rear manually to access the breech. A pellet is loaded into the breech and the chamber is once more manually slid to the front. If you fail to do this the sidelever will push it closed, but it will not compress air on the stroke. I wonder if there are some working 126s out there that are just not being operated correctly? Probably not, but it makes me wonder.
The sidelever comes back far with no resistance. The rifle pressurizes when the lever is pushed forward, and it is much lighter than any other target SSP target rifle I have experienced.
When the sidelever is back but the compression chamber hasn’t been retracted, the piston is fully exposed for oiling. The brown piston head seal is shown at the left.
The sliding compression chamber is closed.
When the compression chamber is slid back the breech is exposed for loading.
The 126 pressurizes air when the lever closes, which is toward the front of the rifle. Walther also did this with the LGR. The LGR is hard to close but the 126 I have is very easy. Perhaps that is the oil-filled piston helping in some way?
Oil-filled piston?
Several of the listings on the forums I visited mentioned an oil-filled piston. They claim it’s one reason the 126 is so notoriously hard to reseal. That is all I know about it, however I will say that the Anschütz 250 target rifle of a similar timeframe is semi-recoilless and has an oil-damped recoil reducer that is notorious for leaking. I owned a 250 and can tell you that it’s not really recoilless like this 126 or an FWB 300, but the recoil is minimal.
Velocity
The Blue Book says the 126 put pellets out at 590 f.p.s., which is right where a 10-meter rifle should be. But remember the guy who owns the Daisy said they only advertised 550 f.ps. We will find out when I test my rifle because it was resealed and should be up to snuff.
Trigger
The 126 trigger is world-class. It’s every bit as light and precise as an FWB 300S trigger — I think. That’s just me guessing, because I haven’t tested it in any way yet. But it’s adjustable and it looks like there are three adjustment screws. I probably won’t be adjusting it because it is downright perfect the way it’s set now.
The Gamo 126 trigger is perfect! It is adjustable, but I won’t be touching it.
Summary
I really can’t summarize much yet. I have learned a lot about the 126 while researching it for this report. But until we see the velocity and the accuracy there isn’t much more I can say, other than this — The Gamo 126 is a much-maligned 10-meter target rifle. Is it worth all the barbs it attracts, or is it an undiscovered treasure? We shall see.
Guys, I’m gonna post here with some questions because it’s a bit off this Airgun, but I need some help, and the more I read, the more lost I become. I read this column every day, and trust BB and many of the regular posters. Airguns for me are a secondary hobby. I have a 25 caliber Condor, a 22 condor SS, a Diana RWS 36, Benjamin 22 pump, and a Crosman or two. I backyard plink with the Crosman and Beni, hunt Turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and pest with the Condors. I want to step up the game, and want to move to an accurate Hunting/Pesting rifle, and move the Range to the 150 to 200 yard range, for ground squirrel and other pests. 25 or 30 caliber. I have about 3500 bucks, and want a magazine fed gun for follow up shots that is small enough to take in the field and not just bench rest. That 3500 would need to cover the rifle, scope, and an inexpensive air compressor. I have a scuba and a firefighter scba tank,
I looked hard at the FX impact, and watched enough videos to feel that I could swap barrel liners around, but Is the rest of the gun as user serviceable as my Condors? The rifle is 2 K, but is there a decent scope that can be had for 2-300? How would you boys divvy up the loot? Am I looking at the right rifle?
100 yards, no problem! 200 get a power burner! At distance, slugs are better than pellets. Get the FX, and get the slug barrel liner or get a firearm.
-Y
Yogi, I have several powder guns…but the ranches I pest on aren’t fans. I am allowed to shoot the pellet guns there, but not firearms. I do appreciate the vote on the FX.
Well forget about 200 yards then……
-Y
Bejezus,
Good that you waited for the Friday blog. You should get quite a bit of responses. Check out the Daystate Safari which is more powerful than a standard HP Red Wolf. New barrel and new electronics giving 20% more power. The Impact is what is seen a lot when looking at competition videos and pics (always a good thing to note what is being used on the “pro” circuit). They (Safari) are relatively new, so I do not know how much you will find.
You seem to be pretty well covered now. It will be interesting to hear people’s opinions. You have a nice chunk there to play with, so that certainly expands your options. 150-200 is really pushing it for a ground squirrel. 😉
Chris
Thanks, for the reply. I know those distances are pushing it. We are tagging some of the little buggers at 100 to 125 with the Condor in 25. But not consistently. I was hoping the ballistic energy of the 30 could get me a little further out with some consistency, but NO one around this part of extreme northern Ca is dealing or really shooting air rifles, so I’m having to reach out for info.
Bejezus,
Very good. Check out the HAM site and some of their reviews/coverage of the long range events. There is also some new guns on the block which are mentioned/shown, but are newer custom builds. Some are branded and might have small sales/followings. Some articles may be a year old. I am sure they are there,.. just not sure of the best way to sort/find them.
I am reminded of ethical shots. If you can’t hit a squirrel at 100 consistently, then there will be plenty of times when you will hit it and just wound it. Each to their own on that, but something to ponder. Squirrels do not sit still for long. On shots that long, they could well have moved by the time the pellet/slug makes it to them. The best luck I have had is when they have not seen me,.. I make a noise,… and they will stop/pause/look around to investigate.
The best advice,… take your time and do your homework. Your requirements are asking a lot from an air gun.
Chris
Bejezus,
I hate ground squirrels. The holes they dig are dangerous for kids out playing and livestock. They carry fleas that migrate to our dogs. Eliminating them is the primary reason I got into airguns years ago.
Having said that, it’s still critical to kill them humanely. The kill zone on our Robinson ground squirrels is only about 3 inches.
An airgun doesn’t exist that can hit a 3 inch kill zone CONSISTENTLY at 200 yards.
Your .25 caliber condor is capable of hitting a 3 inch kill zone CONSISTENTLY at 100 yards if conditions are perfect (good rest, no wind, you’re not out of breath, etc.).
My suggestion, which is the cheapest, is to dial in your condor and shoot it until you can group consistently at 100 yards. Then stalk the nasty critters until you’re within 100 yards of them. Maybe buy a ghillie suit or build a blind.
“Your .25 caliber condor is capable of hitting a 3 inch kill zone CONSISTENTLY at 100 yards if conditions are perfect (good rest, no wind, you’re not out of breath, etc.)”
This is what we have found. And—the all knowing internet being the source of most of my info—I was hoping that the parameters had been pushed. For the 25 condor I had purchased a longer barrel, the newer tanks and valves, and had started playing with slugs (but found it difficult even three years ago to get consistent results batch to batch) We used to use my 17 hmr to the range I wanted, and YES it required very constant conditions, but as I replied to another post, no more powder burners are welcome on most of the ranches I pest on.
Bejezus,
You are probably on the right track with the FX Impact II if you want to buy a new airgun.
What is wrong with your Condor? It lacks a magazine feed, but is as simple and rugged and dependable and accurate as you can get. With it you are limited only by your imagination and the thickness of your wallet. You can have a barrel made to shoot cast bullets that will drop right in and give you MOA at quite a ways out.
Check out the Talon Airgun Forum. There are quite a few that hang out there who are rude, crude and socially unacceptable, but there are a few there who really know what they are doing with these things. Many of the designs for AirForce airguns were created there long before AirForce brought them out. John McCaslin had a ready made R&D department. When AirForce came out with the Talon, it was not too much longer that there were Talon SS’s and Condors of various calibers before AirForce decided to make the first Talon SS. They were .25 two years before AirForce offered that caliber. There were .257, .308, .357 and .458 years before the Texan was dreamed up.
If you can stand the heathens, explore that for a bit. You will be surprised what you can find.
Do not get me wrong. If I had the money, I would have a FX Impact II, likely in .22. You might get away with that amount of money if you do not dream of things like Meopta and such. An excellent Hawke will do you just fine and will not hurt near as much. You also do not need a 1-1000000x power. You will probably find that 12 or 16 will do. Do go with a fine etched glass reticle though.
A compressor? You are going to want to fill your own tanks. Many will recommend various cheap, small units, but when I took the plunge I went for the big honker from Air Venturi. It filled an 100 cubic foot CF tank from 0 to 4500 PSI in one hour.
I’m with RR. For the amount you have to work with, just get a couple of different barrels for your Condor that don;t have a choke (or cut the choke off your current barrel). Try 257 or 30 cal and start slinging lead. If I had a budget like yours I’d get two compressors. The first would be a Shoebox ,for when whatever BIG compressor I got needs service. Honestly I’d just get the Shoebox.
Rk,
You can indeed spend a lot of time and money tinkering with AirForce airguns.
As far as a compressor goes, the Shoebox is tied to a shop compressor. If I was going to fill the airgun directly I would go as BB recommended and get a Nomad. Now if I was wanting to fill a tank I would get a big honker that is not going to kill itself trying. If you do a lot of shooting, both would actually be a good idea.
Lol—you mention the heathens there…the rudeness there—just reading and not participating—was what drove me to find this site several years ago. I find the same thing in my other hobby, building airplanes. Some lists just build and tolerate meanies. This one seems to be comprised of gentlemen.
And…I LOVE my Condors…a quick follow up shot is awesome though, especially when hunting squirrels or turkeys. What got me looking was selling a tractor and having a few grand in my pocket, and watching a few Utah airgun vids…Believe it or not, I mostly hand pump my Condors. The nearest air is 65 miles away. So I was hoping someone had found the Chinese distributor of a decent branded compressor, or found the magic pill to selecting the right one. Thanks on the scope ideas
Bejezus,
I highly recommend the Nomad II compressor. You can even run it from your car battery.
B.B.
Bejezus,
I have been shooting and hunting ETHICALLY for many years with .25 all the way up to .575 PCPs since the early 1990s (.25 slug gun 80FPE) the issue has always been finding bullets that work with the Internal ballistics of the air power and matching that to the External ballistics that are REALLY short range compared to firearms. Only recently has the battle between those wanting pellets only for airguns stopped influencing the airgun manufacturers and just now it looks like the money for R&D is happening. (See my post to Gunfun1 down a way for more) I think you have two major manufacturers to choose from and in the near future you may see more quality long term companies join in. Look to their track record for rearward compatibility and constant improvement for the future; and then make your choice. I dont know you vision issues as well as your specific hunting environment so on your scope just get a reticle you know well, the best glass you can afford and not way too much magnification.
The bullets and barrels of the future are the place we will see your 150 to 200 wish come true; the power has been there for decades!
shootski
Bejezus,
I do understand. I could stand but so much of the garbage and then had to come up for air. There is indeed a lot of very good, useful information there, but you have to wade through the garbage to find it. Is it worth it. Well, if you are going to get into AirForce airguns you have no choice because there no place else to find the nitty gritty about them. Yes, you are going to get dirty, but you can always take a shower afterwards.
As for follow up shots, there are several pellet holders I have seen over the years and with practice you will be surprised how fast you can send another down range. Most of the powder burners I owned before were single shot. This encourages you to get it right the first time.
Bejezus,
I used a hand pump exclusively until I started shooting .357. With those you spend a lot more time pumping than shooting.
You are not going to find an air rifle that is going to fit every use. What will be great for ground squirrels and prairie dogs at long range is not likely going to be the best for hunting squirrels, turkey, etc. at closer ranges.
This is just a me thing, now. You have to do a Bejezus thing. I would take the Condors to the next level. I would dig around and “talk” with some of the serious long range shooters and get their input. What you will find is there are some serious AirForce dudes up and down the Left Coast.
As for a walk about I have been thinking something compact and light. An Impact would be nice, but it is at the top of the price range. Something to think about is just how useful is that barrel swap technology really going to be. The vast majority will get a certain rig tuned in and leave it there. I personally have been thinking of a Brocock Compatto. Where I live the woods tend to be thick and brushy. An hundred yard shot at a squirrel is almost unheard of. Fifty is a long shot.
Do not be in any rush to spend that money. Ask yourself this question. “What am I going to do with this air rifle?” Once you can answer that question, then you can start doing your homework to find which air rifle best suits that answer.
Do not get me wrong. I am a little boy who wants all of the new, shiny toys to play with. Other than the antique airguns I have been “collecting”, I usually end up buying a new one every three or more years. Right now there is a very good chance that my next “new” air rifle will be a Maximus. Something I can plink and tinker with. There is also an “old” Talon SS that could stand a bit of attention. Like I was saying, this is just a me thing. Go and do your Bejezus thing.
Bejezus,
There are a couple UTG scopes that are in your price range. The new 4-16 that I reviewed with the FX Dreamlite is one:
/blog/2019/10/utg-4-16×44-op3-compact-scope-part-1/
And don’t overlook the 4-16 Bubble Leveler.
/blog/2016/10/utg-4-16×56-bubble-leveler-scope-part-1/
B.B.
Hey BB, thanks! I watched your scope video before posting, went through a few blog posts, read some descriptions in PA’s websight, but didn’t see a heading like “Best Scope For Pests Over 100 Yards”. I did learn about focal planes and such, but part of the problem is shear information overload that a casual shooter faces. I’ve been shooting recreationally and for food for 45 years, but the difference between me and some blog readers is like me sitting in a Sunday pew for half century, and them attending seminary and preaching….I honestly have 10 hours in web page cruising and YouTube review watching, yet my frustration kept growing. You alone have put out thousands of hours of reading and video, and are humble about the shoulders of the giants on which you stand. It is easy to find guides that sort you towards what type of gun to buy, springer, pcp, co2, etc, and guides for target or hunting and the appropriate caliber, and even which pellet to use. But it is harder to refine the fringes. Thanks for all you do for this sport, and to PA for providing you a platform
Bejezus,
at 200 yards, I’m using my M1 Garand (LOL). I will offer you two more scopes to look at that are under $500 – maybe closer to $300. Look at Mueller scopes (what I use in NRA light rifle competition) and the upper value Hawkes. Both allow me to see the holes at 50 yds with .22 pellets. The UTG/Leapers scopes are great value for the money but I don’t know how their optics would stand up out to 200 yds.
Fred formerly of the DPRoNJ now Happily in GA
Bejezus,
I have done a lot of research for a “long range pesting & plinking” airgun and have settled on a .22 caliber Impact MKII with a 700 mm barrel. I chose a .22 because it is economical to shoot (pellet and air wise) and for my application I don’t need extreme range or power. Powerwise, the stock .22 Impact MKII is easily capable of 45 fpe and after market mods can increase that substantially. Be aware that there are considerable differences between the original and the MKII though upgrades are available.
For me, the attraction of the Impact is in how flexible it is in it’s tuning and the secondary consideration of being able to swap barrels and calibers.
I think that the Impact is an ideal gun for the advanced shooter who knows what they are doing and likes to tweak the tune – just like the way a guy who likes to reload his PB cartridges. The flip side is that I would not recommend it to a newbie as “twiddling the knobs” can easily put the rifle totally out of tune.
There are two main approaches to the Impact; the “straight out of the box” and fine tuned to a particular pellet/slug group and the extreme mod & super tune group that do some serious changes to the gun. Each to their own.
For maintenance and tuning the Impact is well supported with detailed videos (like the Masterclass gunsmithing videos from FX), documentation and in the forums. Anybody with some basic tools and a metric set of allens keys should have no trouble totally disassembling AND reassembling the gun if they take their time and work carefully. Lots of info on tuning available.
There are comments about problems with the Impact. It is a considerably more complex design than a typical PCP and the conveniently accessible adjustments invite extreme tunes in the quest for maximum power; think that many issues are related to people messing with things they shouldn’t play with or pushing things too far. There have been some manufacturing issues but in the real world there is always a percentage of problems. Considering the number of Impacts produced and that people will scream loudly if their $2k gun is not perfect – I am not overly concerned with the complaints. FX has shown to be good to remedy problems. FX bashing is common on some forums, think that it is either “sour grapes” or (extreme) loyalty to other brands.
The Impact is a proven performer (check out the benchrest competitions) capable of MOA accuracy. Seen a video where it took the guy three shots to dope the wind and trajectory to kill a pigeon at 218 yards – seen him shoot targets and believe that shot; guess that that kinda range is possible but IMHO don’t think that it is practical. A lot of the long range shooting videos are done with heavily modified guns and I don’t know what editing has been done… I take them with a pound of salt. Personally, I am hoping (with a lot of practice) to have a 100-125 yard effective range on feathered pests and though there are no ground squirrels around here I (guess) that 150-200 yards is possible for them if you know what you are doing.
The Impact is an expensive rifle but considering it’s performance and flexibility I think that it is good value for the money. At worst case, the demand is high and resale value is good. Demand is greater than production so unless you happen to find what you want in stock be aware that you may have to wait quite a while for delivery.
Practical stuff aside, I like the way FX supports the third party developers by partnering with them and the way they support the product owners with information and upgrade parts for older models. Seems that FX is driven by a passion for airguns rather than just making a profit, that means a lot to me.
So there is my 2 cents, sorry for the long post. I have just gone through the selection stresses thing and while I am waiting for the the Impact to be available I am thinking about this a lot. These are the conclusions I have come to after all my research.
There are a lot of really excellent airguns available; take your time in reviewing them and comparing them to your (realistic) requirements list. Good luck and have fun.
Cheers,
Hank
Hank, THIS ^^ POST is why I asked my question here and not elsewhere. I’m a good shot with rifle, bow, and slingshot—an intuitive (and with the bow and slingshot, instinctive) shooter. I don’t know why, but biomechanical stuff has always come easy to me. But I’ve been so fascinated with airplanes my whole life that most of my cerebral spare time has gone into “what if’s” in aircraft construction. I shoot like some people golf, to take my mind off of things. But the nearest golf course is 65 miles away, and there’s not a public road for ten miles out my back door. I have the room and time to shoot. I bought my first Condor on a whim from an archery/gun shop I liked. He retired and closed. I bought my second because the first was so damn loud, lol.
I know that the impact is a better rifle than I am a shooter. But I think it will allow me room to grow. Your mention of the online resources helps confirm that, and I think that it provides the accuracy POTENTIAL that I’m looking for. And it may be that I won’t be able to achieve that potential. But at worst case, I will have a damn fun repeater to hunt with—even if I can’t reach out an inch farther than I am now with the 25 condor.
Bejezus,
Ahh!,…. it sounds as if you have arrived at the “finish line” of deciding. That is indeed a fine place to be.
Please keep us posted as to how you progress with it. On scopes,…. give the FFP ones some thought. I have a Athlon on my RW and love it. Plus,…. you can switch mags and not have to change hold overs. Something to think about.
Chris
Bejezus,
Seems that in addition to airguns we have a lot of common interests. I started flying with my Father when I was 7 years old, haven’t piloted a plane for a very long time (can’t justify the costs) but I still have a thing for flying. After Christmas I spend a lot of time flying (virtual) WWII fighters on software that is incredibly realistic.
I agree that the Impact has a lot of potential to allow growth into and I am really looking forward to that. I find that within the typical 20-40 yard ranges pellets are very consistent and predictable; out to 60 yards things get more demanding. Once you break 60 yards it’s like going supersonic – a whole new set of rules apply. I just extended my shooting range out to 125 yards – it is going to be a hoot playing around with different pellets; slugs and tunes.
Please keep in touch – it would be interesting to compare notes.
Hank
Bejezus,
I’ll start by saying I don’t have one, but I’d suggest at least looking into something fairly new on the market – the Raptor from Jefferson State Air Rifles. You can google them. The Raptor can be set up any number of ways, but they do offer it in an HP variant that has a choice of a .257 slug barrel or a .30 cal pellet barrel, and it can be set to shoot at up to over 150 FPE.
If I had a need for the kind of ranges you are looking for, I’d certainly look into the ,257 set up. While I don’t have the Raptor, I have several custom parts from JSAR and they are all top notch. Someday I may get one.
Alan
B.B.,
I perked up at your observation that the Gamo 126 cocks easily compared to other SSPs because like the Walther LGR the lever hinge is on the wrong end for ideal leverage, the flaw the Feinwerkbau 600 series corrected. (Of course, the LGR’s place in history is nevertheless certain as it was used by the first-ever Gold Medalist in Olympic Air Rifle at Los Angeles in 1984.)
Pretty cool 10 meter air rifle, even if a bear to reseal. I will await further Gamo 126 installments impatiently.
Michael
Can you help me? I don’t get how the whole compression chamber can be movable. Where is the valve? Does the whole valve assembly slide back and forth?
Mel,
The valve does slide, I believe. That is a good question and may be the reason for the oil-filled piston. And I just don’t know.
B.B.
Oh gosh.. according to Pilkguns, the Gamo126 has a hybrid gas ram. Similar to some old Dais BB guns, but way more complicated. Go figure!
http://www.pilkguns.com/tenp/spgama126.htm
Mel,
That’s a good article and there was a lot of stuff that I didn’t know.
Thanks,
B.B.
B.B.
Are there any SSP match rifles that cock underneath? Why is it that all SSP’s that come to mind are side cockers?
Is there and inherent design reason?
Glad that not all El Gamo’s are disposable pieces of tin and plastic.
Did Gamo ever produce any firearms? Were they around during the Spanish Civil War?
I like your Friday’s “History Lesson” Blogs!
-Yogi
Yogi,
The Hammerli 450 is an OVERlever SSP, if I recall correctly.
B.B.
Yogi,
El Gamo was founded in the late 19th century, so they certainly were around in the 1930s for the Spanish war. They were a lead foundry for most of the time and started making airguns in 1959.
B.B.
The Haenel Mlg550 is another.
There is a fair bit of info on the Gamo Supermatch on airgunbbs. Including lots of technical!
From what I’ve just read about the Hammerli 450, I’d take the 126 any day. A LOT of problems with the power plant on the 450.
The 450 had an innovative pop open valve, similar to the Parker Hale dragon. It was very efficient, but proved itself to be too fragile.
B.B.,
Your rememberer has the Hämmerli 450 as a top cocking overlever correctly remembered. Some folks were so hidebound with the change in the shot process that the rifle never was a fantastic seller…which it should have been!
Just my opinion it was a better way to go ergonomically for a shooter.
shootski
Yogi,
While they are not world class, the Daisy Avanti SSPs are decent beginner 10 meter air rifles, and they are underlevers.
I suspect that they were (SSPs were long ago replaced by PCPs as the state-of-the-art for 10 Meter) mostly sidelevers because of the constrictions of the 10 Meter sport’s ancillary equipment. The jackets limit movement such, and the air rifle stands for periodic rest are such, that underlevers might have been a great disadvantage. Just my guess.
Michael
Michael,
Good catch! I forgot about them.
Thanks,
B.B.
Michael,
Thanks for your insights. Yes, I forgot about the 85? Daisy. Hope this is as accurate!
-Y
Yogi,
I bought one used and it cost me very little. The so-so triggers are the weak point, but they are lightweight and accurate, especially the model (forgot the number) that has the Lothar Walther barrel.
Michael
Side lever is easier to cock, and most target airguns have an UTG rail on the bottom of the forearm, to attach a rifle sling. And an underlever needs a slotted slot, which doesn’t work well with heavy target stocks..
Mel83,
Good points. My FWB 601 currently has a bench rest wedge mounted to its bottom rail, so it weighs maybe 14 or 15 pounds. With it sitting on a rest that doesn’t much matter, though.
Michael
BB,
Now this is one Gamo that I can see being invited to stay at RRHFWA.
BB ,
We have serviced some of these here . They have issues with the oil filled piston . The solution is to remove the gas assist parts from the piston and fill it in with Bondo or Marine epoxy. This eliminates the piston issue . Then you are left with 3 seals being needed ,2 o rings on the firing valve stem and the piston seal . The fly in the soup is the piston seal . These have been discontinued and are only available from Randy at Bimrose Precision Airguns ( He had them reproduced out of urethane ) . If anyone needs a gun rebuilt Bimrose Precision or Pilkguns are the only options besides Air Venturi . Keep in mind that your bargain find will cost about $150.00 to bring back to life . I always refer customers to either Pilkguns or Bimrose precision since both of these guys have allot more time repairing these.
Parts info for You DIYers the valve stem needs (1) #006 and (1) 2.5 x 1.5 mm o rings . and contact Randy at Bimrose precision for the piston seal .
I hope this has helped out people who want to bring one of these back to life .
Merry Christmas everyone .
Gene
Gene,
Thanks for that info.
B.B.
Gene and all.
Then why make that system if you have to do that repair/mod to make it work.
I was almost excited about this ssp from Gamo. But nope note for me. From what I see anyway.
I can’t do Gamo or Crosman springers or nitro pistons or even the Hatsan springer nitro gas ram guns. Although the Hatsan’s do have better triggers than the Gamo and Crosman guns of that type.
Give me a pcp or multi pump and even certian Co2 guns and I can be a happy camper. Well and of course the German and English springers.
Notice the different categories of quality I just mentioned. This is me. But I only like a few particular groups of air guns I just mentioned. I’m sure other people have thier opinion too.
What guns you think I like.?
Gunfun1,
I had many of the same thoughts. The technology of today has made a lot of vintage air guns less desireable to own as shooters. Plus, your mention of multipumpers is something I hadn’t thought of but agree with completely.
If one wishes to collect 10 Meter air rifles and has the cash to spread around . . . but since I retired, that sure isn’t me.
Michael
Michael
I like the old air guns too. And I really do have a deep spot in my heart for the FWB 300. I will get another one day.
But yep the modern guns especially the pcp’s are on my radar screen. Matter of fact I just ran across a good deal on a Crosman Challenger with sights. It’s suppose to be here Monday. I always wanted one but a little high in price to me. So when this one I’m getting popped up for a real good price I couldn’t pass it up. Can’t wait to get it actually.
Gunfun1,
I had my eye out for a priced-right Challenger for quite a while, but as I neared retiring, I decided to give up on that one. I bet you’ll like yours a lot.
Michael
Michael
It’s turning out to be a real nice gun.
And don’t give up. You never know you still might end up with one.
BB ,
The velocities posted by Gamo were very high . Most guns shoot about 450 to 525 after being rebuilt . This is with 8.2 gns. .
Bimrose Precision = barrelbender@charter.net
Pilkington Competition = scott@pilkguns.com
Bejezus ,
Keep in mind the FX is a delicate gun that is not easy to service . The Air Force guns cant be beat for rugged simplicity . Maybe a new barrel and shoot slugs in 257 ? This way You will gain some distance over diabolo pellets. Since You will be using it as a tool and not a hobby gun the Texan in 257 should be a good fit . Definitely check out the Talon site . Rick at Urban Airgunner and also Eric at Adventures Afield have excellent hunting info with this platform on You Tube .
Gene,
Do you really think that the new Impacts are “delicate”?
I’ve seen that a couple of parts need servicing but those guns are tuned way up to shoot heavy slugs at high velocities.
Best as I can tell, that in stock configuration, in spite of their complexity they are pretty reliable and steady performers.
Curious because I have one on order.
Thanks,
Hank
Hank,
Are you getting nervous?
RR,
Nervous? I would be getting more excited/anxious if anything. For me personally, I am more “nervous” at the research (aka: homework) stage. Hank has done a whole bunch and that tends to quell the nerves once you have “pulled the trigger”,… so to speak. 🙂 You know Hank will wring that thing out all the way (with data). Looking forwards with much anticipation with regards to future reports.
Chris
Chris,
For sure. I wish I could swing one right now, but part of me is glad because that allows me to concentrate on what is already here. Also, “What am I going to do with this air rifle?”
RR,
Nah, more like impatient because I have researched this to death and can’t do much until I can get one in my hands. Seen enough videos that I won’t even have to take the gun apart to see inside ’cause I’ve already been there (virtually) LOL!
Plan on making some parts (grip and cheek piece) from buckthorn (that orange wood I used on that carved slingshot) that should look good against the black rifle.
I did cut a new 125 yard shooting lane for the range and need to make a bunch more spinners and wind-icators. Other than that it is a waiting game.
Figure I will get some shooting in (from the bedroom window when the wife is off shopping) this winter but it will be March/April before I can get seriously into it.
Take care and Merry Christmas RR!
Hank,
just don’t forget me in your will.
RR,
You are shameless!!!! BB’s estate sale, Hank’s will. RRHFWAG,…… Where does it all end? 😉
I suppose that a limited edition Red Wolf would not suit your highly refined taste? 🙂 Now,.. if you were to put a “small” deposit down,… I could put you in that slot. Make it big enough and you might get it (before) I kick the proverbial bucket. 😉
LOL!,……… Chris
Chris,
Hmmm… I might have to give that some consideration. 😉
As for BB’s estate sale,I am hoping it is long after RidgeRunner’s Home For Wayward Airguns closes it’s doors.
RR,
I love it and would be hard pressed to buy something other again. While it shoots great in all ways,… there may in fact be something more accurate/powerful. Second thought,…. the Safari Red Wolf model would have been my first pick,…. but it was not out yet,… or even announced. 20% more power than a standard HP Red Wolf.
The benefits of slugs has my current interest,… so that might be “skewing” my thinking a bit! 😉 The HN Grizzlies did not do as well as pellets in it. That is the only slug I have tried.
Chris
Chris,
I tried the Grizzlies in my HM1000X and was not impressed. Now H&N has a line of new slugs out you might want to try.
I too am finding it difficult to add another high ender to my collection. The Maximus is sounding more like what I want to play with.
Gene
I think the distance is getting pushed for a humane kill.
If you want to shoot at a non living target at that distance that’s another thing.
And yes I have some rimfire guns that are accurate at 150 yards.
Let me say this. I shoot my Condor SS in .25 caliber at a150 yards plus at a gallon plastic milk jug tied to a pole. Yes I can hit it, yes it goes flying when I hit it, yes that’s why it’s attached by some twine to the pole. Just because I can do it doesn’t mean I should hunt or pest with that gun. I’m more in the ball game of stalking to a reasonable distance that would make a humane kill.
We need some perspective here with this subject. It would of been a whole different story if pesting and hunting was left out of the equation.
Gunfun1,
It certainly would make it simpler “…if pesting and hunting was left out of the equation.” But Bejezus is Pesting for a rodent that causes really big problems for livestock and humans. I think he needs to consider the issue and he has come to us gentlemen and gentle ladies for help. He has his heart in the right place; dont you think?
The 150 is doable if he does his job. Beyond that I think it is just a matter of time before the ammo (bullets) are up to the job of reaching out to 200. I know my “antique” .308 DAQ with the 1:10 barrel has the power to reach out to 200 and actually a lot further with enough umpf to DRT a Ground Squirrel (even at 350+) but not with the repeatability standard I’m needing to feel ethical.
As you well know only recently has the bullet and airguns World made an armed peace.
shootski
Shootski
Let me tell you a little secret. Don’t tell no one ok.
Done this stuff on the farm growing up as a kid. I pest for the local township. I pest far the farmers in the area.
Yes he’s got his heart in the right place. But if your doing like he’s talking about you better know what your gun is capable of and what it’s not.
Experimenting on living objects is not the name of this ball game.
Say what you want. Been there done that living targets is different than paper and plastic.
Next subject. What air gun would be ethical at those distances. I think that’s the appropriate question.
Gunfun1,
As I pointed out the barrel and bullet R&D is only now happening by the major manufacturers. It isn’t a matter of choosing an airgun at the moment as choosing a manufacturer and line that you trust and can live with for a few years. For a long time the Big Bore PCP World was all boutique builders and many came and went. Finding bullets that worked was a onerous job if you didn’t like detailed, repetitive shooting at targets both indoor and outdoors. It really is awful when a bullet does well indoor and just goes South out in the wind!
OBTW: your SECRET is safe withme!
shootski
Shootski
All in time.
Yes I know they need to do more to get it to work out.
And yes the internet. There has been some pretty cool stuff happening. Edgun has been doing it for some time. How about some Shootski long range scope cam video. You done that yet? Or you still working up to it. I would like to see some of your videos.
Gunfun1,
I only spend money on stuff that helps my shooting. So I spend it on stuff like shooting Chronographs and Doppler RADAR as in the LAB RADAR but I just don’t see a need for scope cam video device since I don’t do a VLOG. So videos of my shooting won’t be something that Santa gives you for Christmas.
Hope his sleigh has lots of other goodies for you and yours!
shootski
Shootski
See there you go again. Broaden your mindset.
Here’s something me and my daughters did a while back. I had my Iscope cell phone adapter on my .25 caliber Marauder. We used the “scope cam” as training for hold overs with long distance shooting. I was able to stand behind them and look at the phone screen and see where they placed the mildot for elevation and windage.it was so much easier than each of us trying to explain what we was seeing.
It’s like playing a video game. Your placing the reticle on your target and shooting. I have even put it on a dot sight. Here’s a short video of it attached to a red dot on my WildFire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCU9-O2dSas
Here’s a few others with the scope.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6OhKR4-JSM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJhsdlK6a0M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qw4NuXElIfA
And remember all this was done while looking at my phone screen. And I can even connect to my big screen TV and the whole family can watch the videos and talk about them. Heck I bet I can make a connection to my phone while it’s mounted on my gun and we can watch my daughter shooting real time outside while we are in the house watching on the TV.
Now you tell me that won’t help with learning about shooting. I know you got intensions with your posts you make but you need to think outside the box more. Old ways and new ways you know what I mean.
Gunfun1,
I watched the videos and I’m thinking on it.
I have Spotted for lots of shooters using a spotting scope and now almost instinctive!y know how to call the shots and corrections for the shooter. With BIATHLON practice since the shooter is using iron sights as well as the plate falling on/over the target we use magnetic Grey dots placed on a steel plate with a target size ring for prone or standing to let the shooter know the hit point as well as for sight in groups. But this scope cam video might have applications on the spotting scope. So the Old Dog isn’t as close minded as you might have believed.
shootski
Shootski
Some time back BB did a report on a nice spotting scope. I had got my Iscope adapter and had done some videos with it attached to the scopes on my guns. He was suppose to try it on the spotting scope he was reporting on but I don’t remember if he ever did. I believe his spotting scope even came with a cell phone adapter.
If your interested in getting a adapter search “I phone cell phone adapter for gun scopes”
If you check them out let me know what you think.
Gunfun1,
We ran out of REPLY!
I don’t do Apple but other stuff is out there for both smartphones, video cameras, SLR and more. My first bunch (157) is found here: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Digiscoping/ci/14671/N/4294541778
Most of my sporting, audio, computer, surveillance, security and video gear is from them. I have some research to do with the big cameras and scope photograph too, only 136 of them: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/t-mount-adapters/ci/24706/cp/978+980+24706
See what you have done now! Lol!
But it will have to wait until I’m skied out or my grandsons are! : )
shootski
Shootski
Yep kind of fun to mess with.
I got some long distance videos too. But haven’t got them on you tube yet. I’ll have to see if I can get them loaded up and post them.
Definitely not saying Gamo is a bad brand as they make some nice guns. But, I’ve had terrible luck with 1 Gamo product I had, the Swarm Maxxim. That thing couldn’t hit water if you shot it in the middle of the ocean.
I don’t believe that you get what you pay for as they’re are some amazing gems at a steal if you know what your looking for. But, as a retired fabricator, I can assure you, everything is in they’re respective price points for a reason! I ALWAYS ask myself “What corners did they have to cut to offer me this item at this price?”. I have found when you do that “value” items become more of a frustration than value. I never “climb the ladder” if you will with purchases. First, I do a minimum of 100 hours of research on everything I buy, even pellets. Then, I always buy the best I can afford. It lasts infinity longer, will have much tighter tolerances, be made with better raw materials, machined with higher quality tools and will be all around cheaper in the long run on not needing replacement/repair as often, if at all.
For my very specific applications, accuracy reigns supreme. I want sub 1 inch groups at 60 yards and it won’t come from any Gamo that sells at Bass Pro. Does that mean they are bad? Absolutely not. My teen daughter loves it and has a blast in the backyard. But she really loves my fully custom precision rifle that shoots same hole at 25 yards.
But, at home, both rifles produce the same outcome, quality time with my daughter having a blast together. And that beats accuracy any day of the week. In the woods, accuracy reigns supreme and I don’t feel Gamo has the accuracy I’m looking for in a hunting situation.
MrJosh,
Nicely said! 🙂
B.B.
Josh
My oldest daughter got her first scope tatoo from a Gamo springer.
Probably another reason I don’t like them. There is so much better springers out there than to waist time on them. Smoother, nice and accurate and so on.
Hmm sounds like I’m bashing the Gamo springer type guns pretty hard. Sorry what can I say. It is what it is.
Hey Gun, hows it going? I don’t feel your bashing Gamo at all. I absolutely agree they’re are much better options to be had but for an entry lever gun, they do make some nice models.
For instance, the Urban, is a very attractive pcp at an awesome price point. For the $300 asking price you get an unregulated 6lb hunting rig that will deliver 24 great quality shots in the range of 22-24 fpe in a bull pup style. The bull pup is light weight and very visually striking if you’re into that design, which I am.
So not all bad for the Gamo brand. I don’t feel any brand is complete junk. If they were they wouldn’t be in business long, remember Daewoo ()?
But, as I stated above, I completely agree. They’re are better models to be had but what we have to ask ourselves is how much quality am I willing to pay for? Everyone of us has a very different answer to that question.
So sorry to hear about your daughter’s injury!!! Always painful to see our children hurt regardless of the severity. For me personally, I wouldn’t blame Gamo for user error. In my opinion, it’s never the guns fault for how we handle it!
I had an instance where I was shooting in the house (very safe indoor area to shoot 15 straight yards) and my scope was over the top of the chair but my barrel was under it. When I pulled the trigger the pellet nicked the edge of our brand new dining room set and caused the pellet to veer off into the bathroom and hit the edge of the counter. That piece in turn ricocheted back and hit me in the face.
Was it the guns fault for the injury to my face? Absolutely not. I thought I had taken every precaution but still hit what I couldn’t see.
So I built a huge range in my backyard because I know the next injury I would sustain would be my wife beating me for damaging anything else in the house .
Awesome job being a great father and teaching the next generation how fun airguns are!!! Take care.
Josh
Your kind of skipping back and forth.
I’m talking about the springers and nitro piston and gas ram guns of the lower end of the spectrum.
I could live with a Gamo pcp. Not one of thier springers or nitro guns as well as Crosman. And I’m definitely a Crosman air gun fan.
Here it is plain and simple. The Gamo springer is a different gun than the Gamo pcp.
And another point. Don’t teach your kids to shoot with a 30-06 or Gamo springer. They are not beginners guns.
If we want to get more people involved in air gunning, don’t start them on a Gamo or Crosman or Hatsan springer. They will probably never come back once they experiance them unless they are really determined. I say spend the money on something better.
I wish them guns weren’t even made. But then again they do serve as a teaching purpose. I guess there is a big picture plan in affect. I say get rid of those models and let the manufacturers save some money and put it into quality guns.
Obviously that won’t happen though. They already got people thinking we need those low end models. Most all know. But some don’t.
Hey Gun, thanks for the reply. After rereading my comment I fail to see your statement that I’m skipping back and forth?
I was pointing out that not all Gamo products are bad or low quality. The Urban is an example of a Gamo that I would own. The power plant that propels the munition forward doesn’t dictate if the gun is good or bad. Too many variables into play to base quality on one of a hundred parts of an airgun.
As you have said in paragraph 4 and 5, Crosman, Gamo and Hatsan are not beginner guns. What does the name on the side of the gun have to do with the level of expertise to shoot it? I am not aware of any additional expertise needed to use one gun over another because of the name that’s stamped on the side!
You said you wish they were not even made but went on to say they do serve a teaching purpose.
Which is it because I’m very confused??? Do they serve a purpose to teach or are they not for beginners?
Are you just throwing out random opinions or are you going to be presenting any factual evidence to stand behind what you said?
I also highly doubt it’s them who has us convinced we need the lower quality guns. I have seen no evidence of any airgun company activity attempting to convince my to by a cheaper gun. I’m sure they would much rather sell their $500 models as opposed to their $180 models. But, since not everyone is in the same socioeconomic state, I think those guns are very appropriate. Because I can afford a weapon at a certain price point doesn’t mean the next family can. But his children will still want to airgun just like mine. Would it be fair to say that his kids shouldn’t get to unless they can afford something spectacular? No. And that’s why they make guns in every price point. So everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it.
Thanks for the reply and have a great day!
Josh
They definitely serve a purpose to teach.
And any brand gun not just Gamo or Hatsan or Crosman and so on.
And I have to disagree. I have owned many air guns. Why would I comment anyway if I didn’t experience them. No. Can’t do Gamo or Crosman or Hatsan springers. And thinking more. Benjamin nitro guns.
And every price point. Yep so they can enjoy it. Sometimes that just ain’t true at every price point. If you haven’t found that out yet maybe you will sooner or later.
Have fun getting there. If you haven’t already.
Lol. Your so much fun, Gun.
Take care and have a great day!
Josh
And you are too.
You have a great day too.
😉
Hello Josh,
Saw your mention of the Gamo Urban and thought that I would comment a little about it as I do own one. As you are probably aware, the Urban is manufactured in the UK by BSA (owned by Gamo). It is basically a BSA Buccaneer rebranded. I’ve had my Urban for about 1 1/2 years and I love it. It has all of the attributes I like. It’s light (6.5#), compact & short, and easy to carry with a 10-shot magazine. The thumb hole stock is very comfortable too. It is very easy to hand pump to 3000 psi. It has the BSA hammer forged barrel which is known for great accuracy. I have not shot a lot at longer ranges but I have shot several 10-shot groups at 30 yards of 1/2″ or less. This is the tool I use to protect my bluebird nesting boxes in the spring from harassing sparrows. Also, to keep the starlings from raiding my feeders. I also own a Crosman Nitro Venom .22 and a Diana RWS 34P .22. The Urban easily out shoots either of them with no special technique required to do so. I purchased my Urban for $220 and there’s not another entry level PCP that can touch it for quality or accuracy. I have a compact UTG 3-12x44SWAT scope with etched reticle with is also very nice for $150. Just had to jump in with my experience with this PCP.
Merry Christmas to ya!
Geo
BB- today’s conversation is going in a direction that falls in with what happened to me this week. After unsuccessfully trying to make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear I decided that I wanted a new gun that was up to my expectations right from the start. Started looking around and decided on the AirForce Condor. In doing my research, I found myself coming out of what must have been a 3 or 4 year long “old man moment”! I forgot that I had heard of a real airgun store in Colorado several years ago! I never followed up on it then, that was the start of my extended OMM. – airguns is alive and well near Pueblo, Colo. I took the 2 1/2 hr drive down there on Wed. and met the owner, Randy, and got to shoot a Condor SS. That will be my next gun. – is also an AirForce . Now I don’t feel quite so isolated as an airgunner out here in Colo. Oh, by the way, I just turned 70 yrs. old today. That’s why the extended Old Man Moment!
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Bruce
A couple breaks in text above due to removal of a name that might not be allowed. opps
Bruce,
Happy birthday, old man! 🙂
B.B.
Tom, Thanks a bunch! Isn’t it grand to be getting younger each year!
B B B,
Happy Birthday!
“Isn’t it grand to be getting younger each year!” You have that correct Bruce! I’ll be turning 1 in a few short weeks.
Wishing you the best of health, shooting and even better fitness.
shootski
Shootski-
Thanks for the birthday wishes! With all the “fix up and repair as needed”
I have had to go through the last 5 or 6 yrs I really am getting younger! All the new replacement parts for both knees, both eyes, and both arteries to my legs have greatly extended my expiration date!
Bruce
Bruce,
Happy Birthday!
Glad you made it to R & L. Randy is first class and passionate about airguns. He’s got a good repair center and a nice range to shot on. Last time I was down there Erik and I shot 8 or 9 airguns. Didn’t buy an airgun from him but he sold me an omega air compressor.
Thanks, Kevin! Randy and I got along well and it was a treat for me to see the many different guns he has. Once I get the Condor up and running Randy has said I could go down for some P dog hunting come this spring. Looking forward to that.
Bruce
My .25 Condor SS is a bad boy if you know what I mean.
You don’t have to listen to me but I say get that Condor SS. Then it’s your turn to tell the rest of the story. 🙂
GF-1
Yes, I am going with the SS model. I will get both .22 and .25 barrels. Change in a few minutes from one to another caliber. At first I was a little concerned about using the air bottle for a cheek rest but as soon as I had the chance to see and shoot it I found I was quite comfortable shooting it.
Bruce
Happy for ya. I know your gonna be happy. You know I want to hear all about it when you get it. I love my .25 Condor SS. And mind you it’s not my first. I had a couple others before it. And yep was happy with them also.
Vana2 ,
The FX guns are probably the most intricate gun on the market , especially the Impact. They are good guns made out of excellent materials. But He needs a gun for commercial usage . I believe in that role the AirForce will be more rugged and will take abuse the FX will not . FX are probably the most accurate gun out there now. Just trying to steer him to the best tool for His job . I have seen what people do to simple guns !! I just can’t picture the average DIYer tearing into a FX . Just my 2 cents , now with FX USA and the service support It could be used and probably without allot of downtime. The AirForce models will hold up better for commercial use due to less things to fail . Just my opinion from seeing all the brands here . I am by no means bashing FX , they make a excellent gun and You will enjoy yours.
Gene
Gene
What about the RAW in .30caliber?
Still yet I think we need to remember humane shooting. When hunting or pesting. Target paper and plinking is another thing.
Keep hunting and pesting distances ethical.
Sorry all but I’m afraid I will have to argue this one till the end. And a warning I don’t go back to work till January 3rd. I’m ready. 😉
Thanks for the comments Gene! Understand where you are coming from.
Can imagine what you have seen come into the shop to be fixed… recently, a guy on another forum was asking about filling his Impact 50 bar over the maximum fill level to increase his shot count. He figured that at worst case he might blow a couple of O-rings and that was no big deal.
Cheers!
Hank
Vana2,
You haven’t stopped reading that kind of post Hank! I shuddered Everytime someone posted something like that one too many times…so I stopped reading other forums entirely. I read HAM and have noticed they are stepping up their technical throughput to their readership of late. That makes me smile.
British statistician George Box once wrote “all models are wrong, some are useful.” When it comes to observations, I have respect for Jim Steenburgh (a Professor of Meteorology who also loves SNOW) who likes to paraphrase that to “all observations are bad, some are useful.”
shootski
Shootski,
Yeah, I still read those posts out of a fascination/disbelief of how stupid people can be. Obviously he is one of those “hold my beer and watch this” kinda guys.
Watched this video on “Anvil Shooting” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhQ4dE_RGnQ the other day – don’t know about you but I wouldn’t be within 1000 yards of that stunt. I’ve done home made rockets and stuff but always used common sense. Launching 100 pounds of iron into the air (uncontrolled) like that is a good way to kill someone. A piloted drone over 250 grams is regulated – but flying 100 pound anvils is not… go figure.
“all observations are bad, some are useful.” Like that.
I frequent HAM as well. Been following their technical guy, Bob Sterne, for years and always make a point of reading anything he posts – on any subject. Where I am “technical practical” Bob is “technical engineering” and having worked with engineers my whole life can relate well to his approach of graphs and numbers.
Hank
Vana2,
I didn’t realize so much anvil abuse was going on Hank! I have always had a thing for anvils, tongs and big hammers. I have used those for both wrought iron as well is steel projects. Got pretty good with the soft iron but the steel is something that takes way more time than I had to devote to it. Armour, knife and sword makers are a special breed. I guess I must have been a metal or blacksmith in a past life; I hated seeing all the anvil abuse on Utube!
I think the key to the drone regulations is that they are piloted…so far none has sat on the top anvil for the anvil launch! That must be next for the ‘“hold my beer and watch this” kinda guys. ”
I’m going to be watching with great interest how you stretch the performance of your FX .22 Impact MKII. I have been watching this platform as you probably noticed. I like the .177-.30 but need to see more folks reviews that I believe. You have the .22 and are my man in that caliber!
I have also seen some aftermarket stuff that makes sense with this platform that you might be interested in looking at: https://utahairguns.com/fx-impact-extended-trigger-guard-kraford-lypt/
I like this concept for forward bottom mount for various accessories better than anything else I have seen!
Looks like a snowy week or more for us : )
Merry Christmas!
shootski
Shootski,
Yeah, anvils see a lot of abuse – tortured with red-hot metal, beaten with big hammers – then they shoot them into the air! Oh, the cruelty of it all!! LOL!
I’ve done enough casual “smithing” to know that I like working hot metal – machining is one thing, forging is something else that I could get into. I made a pair of burners and collected the bits & pieces needed for a forge/foundry and anvil to put together next summer. My setup will be pretty basic – just for puttering around and making small stuff. Would like to make a katana but that will probably be too ambitious as a newbie project.
Agreed! IMHO, .22 is THE caliber for general use. It seems to be in the sweet-spot of performance and cost for general plinking, pesting and small game hunting. At 30 to 45 fpe certainly no slouch in the power department either.
Lots of 3rd party accessories and mod kits for the Impact. Been looking at that Kraford-Lypt trigger guard that you mentioned. Like it but they are $150 so I will be making up something similar on the milling machine. Thinking of a wooden “hamster” with an extended bipod mount on it.
Looking forward to the Impact – never used a bullpup before. Plan is to start close and work outward in 5 yard “baby-steps” to see what my maximum effective range is. I know the gun is capable of MOA accuracy at 100 yards, it is going to be fun to see how far I can maintain my 1 inch groups. Slugs are going to be a whole other level of entertainment – lots of new ground to be explored there.
Yup, the Impact is an interesting platform and FX has been improving it steadily. FX encourages user modifications and is quick to incorporate the good ones into the design. Might be something new announced at the IWA 2020 show – heard rumors of a new plenum design for a larger (9 mm ??) caliber Impact.
I’m not interested in large calibers but that plenum would mean that 36-40 grain .22 caliber slugs (running around 980 fps) would be possible from stock guns. Right now you have to install an aftermarket mod for that kinda FPE.
Lots of exciting things happening in the airgun world.
Merry Christmas Shootski!
Hank
GunFun1 ,
This is a obsolete rifle ( Gamo 126 ) just making it work without support / parts is tough . The piston had a plunger in it that added to the velocity , I have never seen one that worked !! I am by no means an expert on these guns , best to talk to Randy Bimrose or Scott Pilkington on these . Gamo discontinued these in 1994 !! Just like any obsolete design there are folks who will help keep them going ( Think Jim Maccari and the 124 ) . Even when they were new , they were trouble . I agree on the issue of shooting too far , Just because You can doesn’t mean you should.
Gene
Yep he’s a good guy. He has fixed me up with some FWB 300’s I had.
I’m not arguing that. The use of the guns that started this subject is what I’m talking about.
GunFun1 ,
Yes the RAW in 30 would be great for that , more power and accuracy to match the FX . I just think that these target guns are best for the range / hunting trip . The 30 is a great caliber . The FX Boss could fit into that role as well . Commercial usage is tough on guns , they get tossed around . Left in the truck , etc. These things don’t happen to enthusiasts guns , because they are lovingly cared for. I believe 100 yards should be maximum range for reliable kills !
Gene
Yep. With you there.
I’m sure people understand the different types of shooting. But you really really got to know how to use your gun for a intended purpose.
Soon as read today’s comments I knew this was going to be a good one. I said to myself.
Gunfun1 just don’t comment. You know what your getting yourself into. But dog gone it anyway. I just couldn’t stop myself.
But I have faith. This will all turn out for the good to spread our air gunning cheer. It’s that time of year. 🙂
Gene,
Thank you for taking the time to participate in the blog. I am sure that you have in the past,… but it seems quite a bit more frequently as of late. I for one appreciate it! 🙂
Chris
Tom, could you, sir, please review one of the Crosman SBD models and let us know if that system might make some air rifles truly back yard friendly? Looks like the base model is the Quest SBD.
Birdmove,
I will try to fit it in soon. Please remind me if you don’t see it in a month.
B.B.
Don’t know if you all seen my post to Michael above.
But I got a real good deal on a used Crosman Challenger with the sights. Always wanted one but thought they was a bit expensive. So I got it. It was suppose to be delivered Monday but got it today. So that was a surprise.
And what better of a day. It’s in the upper 50’s today and as calm as can be outside. That’s like summer since we been in the mid 20’s F. for a while with about 6 inches of snow the other day.
But the gun is great. I have put about 30 shots through it from it’s 2000 psi fill and the gauge is now on around 1700 psi. And the gun is so smooth and quiet and accurate it’s not funny. It’s got a Lothar Walther barrel and the Benjamin Marauder rifle trigger. But I am getting ready to try a scope on it in a minute.
Anyway here’s a picture of it.
GF1,
An interesting choice. I am sure that it will be quite the tack driver.
Chris
Chris
All I know is I messed up waiting to get this gun. I should of got it a long time ago. And thank goodness for BB pushing Crosman to make the Discovery. If he didn’t this gun and the Maximus and Fortitude probably would not exist.
But yes it is a tack driver. I turned up the striker spring adjustment and it equals the performance I was getting out of the modded FWB 300 I did up at 50 yards. It’s loving the JSB 10.34’s.
And check out the butt of the gun. It can be adjusted for legnth of pull, rotation left or right to lock on the gun to your shoulder to help eliminate cant. Also the butt pad adjust up or down. Then add in the adjustable comb. The gun just locks right into your hold when you shoulder it.
And check this out. The gun is still getting 70+ shots even with the power adjuster turned up. And it’s liking around 1750 down to 950 on the fill pressure.
Oh and the gun sounds almost like my modded 300. It’s like a plunk sound when it shoots.
I’m definitely liking it. 🙂
GF1,
To me,…the adjustments make all the difference. Until you spend some time with something that does adjust,… you will not appreciate it. It should always be a consideration when making a new purchase,.. for anyone.
Chris
GF1,
I will add,…. if you look at the high end target guns,… they have adjustemnts about a billion ways to Sunday. Those are there for a reason. That is what drew me to get the RAI stock, FAB Defense 6 position w/cheek riser for the .25 M-rod. Good conforming front and rear grips. I think,… like BB said on drones,…… you look at what is “the best of the best”,… (understand it),…. and then pare down from that.
Chris
Chris
Oh yeah. It all makes a difference.
Gene
This is completely off topic but I was looking for some input from you or anyone else from this vast pool of airgun knowledge. It concerns long term storage of a gas piston power plant airgun.
Picked up a SIG ASP20, 22Cal., synthetic stock awhile back and it has become my go to hunting \ fun gun! I would like to be able to leave the rifle at my cabin permanently but was unsure of long term storage at below freezing temps. Spring, summer and fall up until mid December it will probably get shot once a month or more but from then till April not so much. Have been storing centerfires and rimfire’s for years with no problems. All have synthetic stocks, RIG the bore, slather with balistol, put away. For some reason I can’t bring myself to RIG a perfectly JSB seasoned SIG barrel! Muzzle up or muzzle down? Would a drop of silicon chamber oil down the transfer port benefit the seals before storage? Would oiling the bore even be necessary?
So many questions, so little practical experience with gas pistons for me!
Thanks for any and all input, and hope everyone has a ” Very Merry Christmas ”
Bob F
Bob
I have had a few nitro piston guns but never stored them in the conditions your talking about.
I do know that one of the things they say about gas springs is you can leave them cocked unlike steel spring air guns. Plus they say cold weather is not suppose to affect the performance of the gun.
Only thing I do know is the gas struts that hold open hatchbacks on cars do become weak over time. But a air gun with a nitro piston is probably a bit different situation. Heck look at gas shocks and struts on cars and trucks. They withstand cold temperatures.
I would think that you would be ok storing the gun as far as the nitro piston goes. And I would say muzzle up or down wouldn’t matter. But I would say stand the gun muzzle up and a few drops of silicone oil down the transfer port hole to keep piston seal lubed. That would be the only reason I would store the gun muzzle up.
I’m sure there is other ways that someone else here on the blog can tell about too. That was just my thought on the topic. I’m sure I probably missed something.
Gene Salvino,
Apparently, PA does not repair Umarex airguns but logic would dictate that any returned as “defective” are inspected by you or other technicians to verify that they actually do have issues.
I recently purchased a new Umarex Synergis from PA on 12/5/19, it arrived on 12/12/19, and last Sunday, 12/15/19, I finally took the time to give it a through external examination and discovered that there is a crescent shaped obstruction at approximately two o’clock just inside the muzzle which would impede the clear passage of the pellet. It appears that some internal component located just behind the muzzle nut (for want of a better term) is either misaligned or broken.
I contacted Umarex and did receive a prompt reply, then thought that I might be able to get a faster turn around through PA and contacted them. I am currently waiting for the RMA to return the rifle for replacement.
The customer reviews for this rifle on PA’s website are few and in my opinion mostly worthless, submitted by wimpy idiots. The specifications for this rifle are clearly stated yet they purchase this rifle and then complain that it is too heavy or that the cocking force is too great or both. Other complaints have been pellets being sheared in half lengthwise during feeding (which would ALSO have to shear off the internal part of the magazine since the hollow probe is like a hole punch) and last but not least cocking and shooting the rifle numerous times when nothing is exiting the barrel! “Here’s your sign”! Gene, I apologize for the rant!
Now my question, what have you and your fellow technicians found upon examining these returned rifles to have caused these specific issues?
Sincerely,
Bugbuster
Vana 2,
Hank, have you ever posted your personal email address on this site? If so, would you please guide me to it because I would like to communicate with you personally.
Sincerely,
Bugbuster
B.B.,
What are your thoughts on sizing pellets and slugs? Weighing aside. You have mentioned the critical importance of fit to bore in the past. To me,… it sounds like a good idea. (eliminate a variable = controlled fit to bore)
On that,….. a fellow that tried to size pellets,.. found that when he tried to size pellets to be the “best” size,… found it difficult to get pellets that were larger than the desired OD,… despite the pellets being advertised (larger) as such. We all know the story a “can size” vs “actual size”.
Is this something that us air gunners need to pay more attention to? Is this something that hand loaders of PB’s do?,..(size bullets). I am thinking along the lines of,… “slugs are making more and more of an entry into air gunning”,… so as to give you a base for my question.
Chris
Chris,
I know more about firearm bullet sizes than I do about airgun bullet or pellet sizes. A firearm shooting a lead bullet usually does best if the bullet is up to one-thousandth larger than the bore. And I am talking about soft lead bullets — not hard ones. The soft ones are the ones that shoot the records. This is why a 9mm lead bullet (0.355-0.356-inches) usually doesn’t do so well in a .357 bore, where the bullets are 0.357-0.358-inches.
Air rifle rifling is shallower than firearm rifling and air rifles shoot at FAR less pressure (3,000 psi vs 15,000-25,000 psi), so I think the bullet has to fit the bore closer. It must obturate the bore for a seal and yet not cause too much friction.
B.B.
BB,
Thank you. That is pretty much what I have gathered.
“…. so I think the bullet has to fit the bore closer”. Would that not lend itself to the fact that it is (more) important?
Pellets have skirts,… that expand,… to establish seal,… also,… less contact area. Slugs/bullets,… on the other hand have much more surface area/drag/contact.
That is the basis for the question,… which you have confirmed. By doing that,… you have further reinforced my original question,…. “is this something that us air gunners need to pay more attention to when shooting slugs”?
Disclaimer: I do know that that different twist rates and fps factor in. What type of grooves/lands? How deep are they?
Blog worthy?,… or too early to make a “jump” at this point? (to clarify,… I am talking about running slugs/bullets through a smooth sizer) That too,… brings in the question of what to do with excess lead that has been shaved off/out the back end. Give it a quick trim with an Exacto knife and call it good? At that point,… weight would be changed. Fit to bore is most important?
Chris
Chris,
Too early for me to take the leap. Yes, it all matters, but how each thing matters is different.
Don’t forget I did test twist rates with pellets.
/blog/2013/07/how-does-rifling-twist-rate-affect-velocity-andor-accuracy-part-13/
B.B.
BB,
Yes, many factors. I am not sure I would make that “leap” either. My gut is that slug/bullet fit to barrel is very critical for optimal performance in air guns. If I were diving hard into bullets for air guns,.. I would get a sizer. (T Robb type for example).
Chris
Chris USA ,
Thanks , I only chime in when it is something I have had bench time on . I try to check it everyday but sometimes it is too busy , Thank goodness for that.
Vana2 ,
You will really like the Impact . I am a simpleton and hate too many adjustments, too many variables. But that gun can be tuned/optimized for any pellet You put in it. The FX Boss is a sweet rifle . It is nice too see a gun company that is owned/operated by shooters and not controllers .
Bugbuster ,
UMAREX products are not inspected by us , they go straight back to them . We only inspect/repair guns that Air Venturi imports. I have seen this problem on all of the silenced spring guns with the baffles going into the pellet path , usually it is mold flashing. Problem is with epoxied on moderators you destroy them getting them off .
Gene Salvino,
Gene, thank you for your prompt reply.
I am quite familiar with flashing on many plastic parts, especially those which are manufactured in China, this particular obstruction appears to be a little more substantial than that.
I know that you are a busy man so there is no need for you to reply to this, once again thanks.
Sincerely,
Bugbuster
Bfrey56.House@Gmail.Com,
On the ASP20 , just wipe it down with Ballistol and when You put it away , pull a patch of oil through the barrel and store it muzzle down so it doesn’t run into the compression chamber and cause dieseling. There is nothing else to worry about since it is a gas-ram rifle.
Gene
I think silicone oil in the barrel too would be a better choice. And like I mentioned above. A few drops of silicone oil in the transfer port and store the gun muzzle up. You don’t want the seal drying up. Even the synthetic piston seals.
If silicone based oil is used in the transfer port or the barrel you shouldn’t have to worry about detonation. It still might smoke a little for a few shots but not detonate and fry the piston seal.