Finally got out in the back yard and got in the first shooting session with my new BAM B26-2 .22 caliber rifle. The gun is fitted with a Leapers 3x9x50 mildot illuminated reticle scope on top of a Beeman 5039 adjustable one piece mount.
The gun is a fine looking rifle, one of the reasons I've wanted one for such a long time. The blueing is very nice and even in appearance and the stock has a nice stain on it that is even and very consistent in appearance and the wood has a nice grain pattern to it. The rifle arrived UPS in great condition with no damage at all to the wood or the metal, although I think the rifle could've actually been packed better than it was.
The cocking effort is very easy and I have to say that the cocking action is smooth as silk. The barrel lock up is very tight, with an audible click, and when fired there is no twang or vibration. The trigger is very nice and I found it very comfortable to use exactly as it was adjusted from the factory. I did have quite a few flyers during my shooting session today, but it wasn't due to the trigger at all but rather to my shaking hands and arm from the brutally cold windy weather. I really have to say the trigger really is nice.
The recoil is mild and when fired the rifle has a mild report. The only thing I noticed was that when I was tightening, and loc-tighting, all the stock screws it felt like the two forearm stock screws just didn't want to fully tighten. I proceeded gently and finally got them to snug down and then I gave the loc-tite a few days to cure. I checked the screws after todays shooting session and they are still snug so I guess they are ok. I will continue to check them for any sign of loosening.
The thumbhole stock, besides having a great look, is really very comfortable and just seemed to make the gun easy for me to shoot, even in such lousy uncomfortable weather. There is a little bit of recoil but nothing bad.
This was my first chinese air rifle so I had no idea what to expect when I ordered it. I have to admit I was a little concerned about the quality control factor of such rifles, but I am not concerned anymore, at least not when it comes to this rifle. Matter of fact I'm going to order the .177 caliber version later tonight. For $159 bucks delivered I think it's a great BANG for your buck.
I posted pics of my targets from todays shooting session, along with chrony results, on the "China Gate". Take a look if you're interested.
Jeff