Part #1

The forum has been quiet for a little while so I thought I'd post a review of my latest purchase.

I'm going to do it in several posts as there's quite a bit to relate on how I got it to where the gun is right now (perfect).  Also, my attention span when pencil pushing is quite short after a lifetime of office work.  I'm also hopeful that by doing it this way I might generate some more participation by forum members as well.  Please also note that I am no expert on airguns, I have only been involved with them for a couple of years.  I have purchased and resold quite a few during that time though and this is just my thoughts and experience with this particular gun.

The HW98 is not available in NZ.  I cannot for the life of me understand why not as It's turned out to be a superb gun and probably my best gun purchasing decisions so far.

I'd been considering the TX200 for target shooting at our local range.  They’re available here new for around $2000.  Since I received my 98 a shooting colleague has purchased an as-new TX200 for half that price from Ron Young.  Having had the pleasure of using it, I'm glad I flagged the under-lever options (including the HW97) and went ahead with importing the 98.  I'd have to say though that the TX is probably the most beautifully detailed and finished air rifle I have ever seen and it's deadly accurate.  But it's really quite heavy and the under-lever/anti-beartrap, pellet loading procedure is a real faff compared to a conventional break barrel.  I'm glad I didn't buy one.

During my "research" I came across a video on the TBT channel where Nic compared the HW98 and 97 models.  At that point I'd never heard of the 98 and I was impressed by his comments.  Essentially he said that they were equally accurate and choice was down to application.  After some further "research" (including the HW98 owners Facebook page where various owners raved about how the gun was their favourite etc, etc) I went ahead and ordered one from Krale in .177 cal.

There is no legal requirement to obtain an import permit for a springer air rifle, but I emailed the FSA for confirmation before proceeding.  This turned out to be a good move as Customs said otherwise when it arrived.  However, they soon released it to me after they were supplied with a copy of the email from the FSA.  I've a imported a few air rifles now so have a pretty good understanding of how the system works.  

The all-up cost including shipping, import fees and GST was around NZ$1700.  Not cheap, but it was worth every cent - despite what I found when I dismantled it!

More to follow. 

I would have to say that it is superbly accurate and a pleasure to shoot, only complaint being slightly long in the grip to trigger for me. It is a keeper.

I look forward to following this.

PS:  I think my HW97KT is in trouble!!!  Your HW98 may beat it!!!