Birthday coming

[Walt]

The big 65 is upon me. I have been cleared for a high end present. Being hooked on springers I think I am down to two, the HW77 or a HW97. They are both great looking guns but what does the $74 dollar difference get me besides losing iron sights and gaining a nicer looking stock get me? Currently my only higher end gun is a BSA Lighting in 177. I call it a high end springer because of the price. Don't get me wrong it's a very nice gun but I have three B-26's and a B-40 that are IMO very nice if plain looking shooters. The .22's are by far the best shooters. So am I just assuming I will get a big step up with one of the  Beeman's or should I look at something else?
W

[daved]

Not only does the 97 stock look better, it fits and feels a lot better, too.  Unless you're a dedicated iron sight shooter, I'd go with the 97.  As far as I know, the action is the same.  I've never handled or shot a BSA so I'm not familiar with the triggers, but the Rekord trigger in the HW's is about as good as it gets.  And no, even though your B 26's may have Rekords in them, it's NOT the same.

While you're looking at high end springers, you might want to check out the Air Arms TX 200 and Prosport.  The HW 77 ruled FT until the TX 200 came out, now the winners in springer classes shoot TX's or occasionally HW 97's.  Caliber is a personal preference, but unless you hunt, I'd stick with .177.  BTW, 50 is just a few weeks away for me, and I haven't been cleared for ANYTHING!  Good luck, hope that helps, and Happy Birthday!

Dave

[Big_Bill]

Golly Walt, So many airguns to pick from !  Everyone has their own taste in airguns, find the one that you just can't live without, that fills your needs best. You already have a BSA Lightning, now that's a beauty and a real keeper. A few years ago I had the hots for the same two air rifles, the HW-77 or HW-97, but then I found that my big fingers have a real hard time putting pellets into those under levers, so I bought a R-9, and I still love it ! But the best advice I can give, is to find one you just can't live without, an airgun you just sit there and have to look at and touch. Then just maybe you'll have the right air gun for YOU !  Best of luck !!   And HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!!....Bill

[VINNY]

Happy Birthday!!

[Jerrycup]

Happy birthday, Walt. Tough choice, and I think Dave's advice is a great guide. I have the B-26 in .22 as well. I might look at a .20.

[Magnum]

Happy Birthday:)  I would go for the nicer look, Tony.

[PelletPaul]

My birthday was Monday and turned 55.  Time to retire.  It was down to two guns for top springer award for me.  TX200 and HW97.  My choice was the HW and I will shoot it in a FT match this weekend. .20 caliber.

Happy Birthday my friend,

[Arkansas Man]

Hello to you Walt and hope you have a great birthday.  I personally have the hw 97k and it is a great rifle.  Great accuracy, as the last few times i have went shooting after i returned home i found the gps. measured 4 out of 5 at 3/4 inch or better at 50 yds.  I know the gun will do better as i am still working on eliminating the heart beat movement from my shooting hold.  I shoot out of a camp chair.  My 97 chronys at about 807 fps. with cpl's.  In my experience the 97 is a wonderful gun for target shooting or one could hunt with it but it is a bit heavy for a long field day, but for table shooting it is great. I have had very god success with Beeman for warranty service, they always did me right.  I also have the r-9 and it is almost as accurate as the 97 but much lighter to carry if one hunts.  Anyway, i can't speak about the TX but i am sure you will make the right decision.