I actually got rid of most of my PCP’s because there so boring imo. I’ve been shooting springers for 45 years + and yes it’s a completely different ball game. The lightest of holds as you’ve already said but one of the most important things is to allow the rifle to go through its natural recoil cycle so if shooting off a sand bag never just lean the rifle on the sand bag , put the back of your hand on top of the sandbag then grip the for end firmly but in no way heavy. The palm of your hand will allow the springer to recoil naturally. This will make a massive difference to your grouping and overall enjoyment of a spring piston rifle. I own quite a few weihrauch’s ( all springers ) and shot correctly they’ll eat up any premium pellet, i only shoot .22 but i can put 10mm groups at 30 metres with almost any pellet. The guns are always capable, it’s us fleshy bits behind the butt that’s usually the problem lol. Good luck good sir. I hope this helps.
I’ve been shooting a 97 in .22 shooting drink cans at 90yds, I use H & N Field Trophies. The secret for me don’t hold the gun too tight just enough to keep it under control also I take the recoil on my thumb and two fingers and I don’t have the stock in my shoulder but just off it, with the stock off my shoulder it has the advantage of removing my heart beat from the cross hairs.
I only ever shot springers, I got my first pcp a month ago. All the fun has gone for me. Its too easy and I don't feel like I've shot anything. I will go back to springers in the very near future
Since the age of 9 been shooting with springers & in my 60s now & they are still my preference rifles.Yes i have pcp gear but just prefer to play mostly with my hw-98 both f/t & hunting,Its taken me a lifetime to learn my craft but enjoyed every day of it.The good thing about the pcp gear is that its opened the sport to alot of new shooters who found they get great results in the infancy.Easy to shoot & get great results without over applying yourself is always a fun thing,Springers however do take time to master but when you do its a great feeling Kev so keep at it and enjoy the learning curve.
I did it opposite to you Kev. I had a HW97K as my first rifle. I’ve recently purchased a HW100S . I don’t like the PCP, it’s to easy , not much skill required. I like a challenge , no challenge with a PCP. What helped me with my springer shooting. Watching Si Pithway RUclips videos. Marksman principles .
@@airhunterukSi Pithway has his springers tuned by Sandfield Sports I think it is, then he rebadges them with his own pet names. Makes them seem exclusive to the point that you forget he's using a springer.
Pellet fuzzy - did you give its bore a DEEP clean to get the grease out and give it lots of time to burn off the surplus of action lubes (signalled by loud report and fumes from the muzzle at each shot) ?
@@airhunteruk haha I'm sure you're not. I bought a bundle and the pellets that came with it seem to work straight away (in my gun) so I didn't have piss about 🤙
When the rifle is brand-new, what you should do firstly clean the barrel, plus it will take 250 350 pellets to run the spring and inners in, even before you even start testing different pellets in it, then you will find your testing will be more productive on paper paper,accuracy accuracy
The RWS Superdomes 8.3 grain pellets shoot great out of three different break barrel guns I own. No flyers. 0.3 inch groups at 33 yards at 1000 fps muzzle. But with JSB pellets I get 20% flyers. I don't use JSB anymore. I've also read great reviews about H&N Field Target Trophy .177 Cal, 8.64 Grains, Domed. Give them a try. You've got a great gun there just get the hold right and a good pellet, you shouldn't have any problems. I use artillery hold with my Beeman. Thanks for the video.
I got myself a 97kt last year and although I haven't put 100's and 100's of pellets though it, I have found that I get nice accuracy if I support the front with a sand bag or rest but as soon as I tried another sand bag at the rear that all changed. I'm assuming that it's due to the small amount of recoil but it was enough to frustrate the heck out of me. My rifle appears to like the Air Arms Diablo Field 4.52 as recommended by the shop that I bought my rifle. I look forward to seeing your follow up videos to see how you're getting on.
Thank you buddy , yeah it were really accurate on sand bags , but need to master the atillery hold too for myself, it would be nice to think I could hunt with it , won't be long before I do a follow up on it 😉 , thanks for taking the time to write you're comment 😀
I've got that same gun and the screws in the stock and the trigger gard came lose in the first week, either that or they wasn't tightened in the factory, mabe that shop was bagnel sports in Newcastle. And I've just bought that same gun from Skipton gun shop and like I said the screws have come lose
Thanks for posting this honest video, I also have the Black/Stainless 97kt and a Theoben MFR both in .20cal. The 97kt gives me more pleasure to shoot over the MFR ( which is a real tack drive) because you have to do it right every time. I find using the 97kt makes me take my time because you don't have the option of just cycling another pellet if you miss. My 97 doesn't seem to be pellet fussy and I've put around 50,000 pellets through it over the years. Congrats on your purchase and you've just gained another subscriber, will be watching your progress with great interest 👍
@@airhunteruk Your welcome mate, it's an awesome rifle and my go to rifle for relaxation. Sounds strange but using it slows everything down which in turn relaxes me. mmm, starting to sound like a weirdo now. 🤔🤣🤣🤣
Hi mate , i bought the hw97k in .22 , its not pellet fussy , i use the airarms 16 grain for hunting with it , its as accurate as my pcps , iv taken plenty of crows with it ,head shots , from twenty to 30 yards , standing . I find with mine to hold it snug and tight again the shoulder and just rest my other hand under her loose . Great gun . I bring it out more now than my pcps . I have 4 spinners on a post and id hit them all day at 30 yards . Id say it took about 2 tins of pellets to fire through it before it started to shoot real tight groups . Plenty of practice mate and ull get great enjoyment with it once u master it
@@airhunteruk All the best with it mate , if i was shooting crows coming into a sitty tree id use the trigger sticks , just rest ur hand on the sticks then gun on your hand . ...
Remember when you pull the trigger the pellet dosent leave the barrel straight away. A big piston that weighs a fair bit has to slam forward and hit the end of the compression tube and that movement does through you out. But you need to practice and put the time in and earn your stripes as it were. You will get there. There definitely harder to shoot than pcps but when you get used to it you will love it. Be careful of your rest, not to solid. But not to loose either.
Love your honesty and humility. Learnt to hunt with a springer as a teenager in the 1980s, lovely Webley Omega .22 shooting Eley Wasps and using a Tasco 4 x 40 scope. Treat it as deer stalking in miniature apart from not having a magazine and bolt action for a follow up shot (heaven forbid)! Zero at 25 yards and learn hold over and under out to your max (35 yards for me). Stalking and fieldcraft are key, and take your shots standing, kneeling or prone. Practice loading and firing in the field in all stances. Shoot your springer with eyes closed once safely on target and get the 'feel' of the action - at non-live targets of course! Follow through is key. At least twice as long as when shooting a .308! Recently acquired an HW100 and it is like cheating! However I'm so glad I learnt to shoot with a springer - all else thereafter is a 'piece ay pish' in comparison!
You're right. It is not easy to shoot a springer. Everybody who can shoot a springer can shoot a PCP. Not always the other way. Artillery hold my friend......Start with yourself and than try different pellets. Even with bankrest should one hand be under the stock and always keep your hands at the same place and NO pressure, not even against your shoulder. Let the rifle glide! Don,t concentrate to much on the trigger. Concentrate on the hold and your breath and just slowly increase pressure on the trigger. Don't decide to shoot, let it decide. If you think, now i'm gonna pull the trigger is wrong. My blackline likes the JSB 8,33 in 4,52mm. This will be a new challenge and makes you even a better shooter. With a 97 you can get the same results as with a PCP. Cheers!😁 P.s. A Hawke Airmax Compact will give you better acces to the loading port.
I have a 97K in 177, I've been shooting spring guns since the 80s, it's just so accurate more so than the TXs I've had, the pellets l use are Bisley Magnums, Barracuda match, both basically same pellet, and Superdomes all really accurate.
Falcon accuracy plus (jsb express) airarms express) my 97k prefers the lighter pellets.just a thought.a lot of PCP shooters are surprised by the recoil,and don't know how to hold it.
Having tried lots of different pellets, my .177 HW97k seems to like the JSB Exact Express which are slightly lighter than the normal JSB Exact (which were also good).. My .22 HW97k seems to like the JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy. Gotta be worth a try..
Just FYI, in my guns the JSB Exact Express had about 20% flyers. No flyers with the RWS superdomes 8.3 grain. Every gun is different. Use whatever works best.
My first air rifle was the 97 in black. I then got a 100kt also in synthetic black. PCP is more humane for pest controls for follow up shots if needed, but i prefer the weight of the 97 and i much prefer the feel of the metal trigger and shape. I wish they put the 97 trigger in the 100. IMO.
did you barrell clean before firing ? also never pin a springer down into a fixed position, they need to recoil. Put your hand on the bag and rest your rifle on your palm, Dont grip it otherwise you hinder the rifles recoiling action. when changing pellets on testing you need to lead the barrel into that brand of pellet (approx 15/20 pellets should do the trick ) then do a grouping shoot. Hope this helps.
Did you give the barrel a good clean b4 you started? Otherwise pellet testing will be pointless,,, clean the barrel and start again with good quality pellets such as QYS 👍
On the contrary,, all new guns whatever the model or make need the barrels cleaned thoroughly before use because they are full of heavy lubricant to prevent them rusting and causing severe damage. I recommend you use a good pull through kit for the barrel with soft patches coated in ballisol I think it’s called lubricant,, pull through patches until it’s clean, and then fire a hundred shots through it before you start pellet testing,, this will hopefully help👍
Iv found if you put it on a rest/bag with more of the weight forwards of the bag/rest and just support the stock gently to allow the recoil to do its thing. This is why bipods don't work on springers. I have a HW97kt .22 and it isn't overly pellet fussy, it loves almost anything from h&n and for the distance I'm working at (30yds) it's great with the field target trophy for target practice and I use the slightly heavier hornets or coppa-spitzkugel for pests. Brilliant rifle, definitely worth your time to get the feel of it. Once you've mastered it you'll never want to get rid of it.
Cheers Mike, I'm not too bad of the rest I'm aiming to be good with it in the artillery hold so that if I choose to go hunting with it i wouldn't have to lug around a rest or in the event the rest is not suitable
@@airhunteruk all about holding it gently, when I'm not on a rest I sit on floor and use a leg to support the elbow of the forward arm. Find the balance point of the rifle, I personally find that being ever so slightly closer to you than center of balance so the rifle is front heavy slightly then just be gentle and don't try and stop the recoil. It really is my absolute favorite rifle and I can get results as good as any of my pcp/co2 if not better. I do respect that your not going to try and hunt with it until you can be sure of each shot 👍👏👏 it's definitely capable of hunting though, rabbits rats squirrels all cleanly dispatched. Also the silencer for this actually works!! No unf fitting necessary just Allen key the muzzle end cap off and threads are already inside to accept the silencer.
Aw nice I didn't know that about the treads that's cool and brilliant advice buddy much appreciated take them into account I can't wait till I'm good with it :)
Spot on pal i started on springers always had them and now I have a pcp it's pellet on pellet when I'm on my permission with my hw springer much more rewarding to get kills with springer
Very honest video, I changed from springer to PCP, and discovered I was no longer messing around, contrary to advice the PCP is a piece of cake, Daystate Huntsman Mk 2 with Bisley Magnum 453, springers are what we grew up with and no air tank, you are very brave going back, the advice with torque settings is very good advice, but the settings need redoing often, good luck Kev from Northern Ireland, don’t let it mess with your head mate!
Cheers buddy I'm still staying with pcp but want to get competent with springer too , mums side irish dad's side Scottish im a Yorkshire lad a right mix lol
I added a universal spring bipod for prone hunting, i too had PCP before, stick with it as its a far superior carbine (11 inch barrel), take a breath and hold then breath out...and squeeze the amazingly smooth 'rekord' trigger. 👍😊
My 97kt puts 5 in a 7mm hole at 35 yards your gun will do it if you can practice train your breath don't hold too tight make sure you set up the record trigger right not too sharp a letoff but not too draggy either I use JB s very good consistency practice and concentrate on holding your breath you will get there and shooting well with a spring rifle is very satisfying more difficult but more rewarding plus your springer is self contained no pumps air bottles what have you good luck
Check out field target competitions. That will help you nail down the mobile shooting and become extremely effective. Second suggestion is to put yourself in a target rich environment and hunt from a blind with solid rests worked out. Once you get a few tins under your belt you will really appreciate not being tethered to a giant carbon fiber air tank. So much freedom with springers. Gun and pellets nothing more
Where do you go for gear Skipton Gun Room ? 😅 asked the question one min later you mentioned them. Recently brought a HW100KT and a HW97k from them both in 177. My first springer in over twenty years, yep if a PCP was your first rifle, getting to grips with a springer takes a bit of patience and practice.
Absolutely buddy way more challenging than a pcp but still have there purpose , pcp is good for a quick follow up shot , I get some stuff from Skipton gun room buddy
@@airhunteruk might bump into you one day at SGR, though I won't be buying another rifle in a while, can't believe how much brass I've recently parted with, you know what us Yorkshire folk are like 😯
Springer shooters are the best shooters fact… keep at it, once you get you get it. It’s a cracking rifle, love mine to bits. Will get a pcp when I can’t be bothered to shoot with out thinking😂 springers at circa 30m are just as accurate as a pcp in the right hands😉
Couldn’t agree more, I can sometimes get complacent with a pcp but my 97 really keeps me on my toes, if I don’t pay attention to every shot I don’t hit every shot, it’s a real buzz when I can hit pellet on pellet with it 👍
Iam so close to buying a rifle and this on my list as well as the gamo phox PCP package. Videos of PCP shooting look so easy with no recoil. But some guys shoot them held on what looks like a rest/vice or bipods and bean bags and although you could shoot like that all day so easily is it not a bit boring or low skill... Iam still not decided on either a Springer or pcp
If you're looking to target shoot then springer is more skill , but pest control is always going to be easier to get a clean kill first time buddy , if you can afford both get both each have there merits 👍
Good Luck, The good news is that once you have mastered a quality springer the skill set that you will have achieved will make you much more proficient with all rifles , PCP, FAC, and Springer.
@@barrybutler6375 I grew up shooting firearms. I hold all my guns the same way. I never have any problems with brake barrels or springers or really anything. Just get a good firm hold into the shoulder and hold them all the same way all the time. Then sight the scope. That worked for me. Oh and never pull a trigger. You squeeze triggers. There is a very big difference 😉.
My rifle is the HW77K with 1/2"UNF. In the military days I was used to shooting with the HK G3 assault rifle. It also has a decent setback. When I squeeze my HW77 like the G3, I get good results. Contrary to all the advice. Only when the bench rest is on do I give the gun its freedom. Greetings from Germany
The only thing I can say is practice, I've been shooting for 42 years and every rifle I've had needed a different treatment. Have you tried the QYS pellets, my 97 loves them. I'd like to see some longer vids, they finish far to quickly.
I've used both PCP and Springer...1st groups were terrible with springer...took months..COVID lockdown..lots of different pellets and practice ...now at about 25yds..using a rest bag..10p size every time.. Remington war hawk 22... keep trying.. you'll definitely get 20p size with your 97...
Hunting with springers get a lighter weight one like a hw95 with a compact scope. The 97 is more of a target rifle because for hunting it’s heavy which is a more effort to walk around with. As for accuracy it’s a case of putting in the work on your marksmanship principles and utilising sports psychology so get a copy of with winning in mind by Lanny Bassham it will change how you shoot and it will change your life.
Good video & nice rifle! I've gotta agree with you ...springers are WAY harder to shoot accurately vs pcp airguns! It takes a lot of practice! The key is: however you hold it, you've gotta make sure you hold it that way every time! Usually a looser hold will work better ...loosely shouldering the stock with a light cheek rest & "artillery hold" as they call it, with left hand palm up under the stock so the forend is resting on your hand. And be light with the right hand too ...I like to think about pinching my trigger finger & thumb together, but not really holding the stock tightly with the rest of my hand. This way the rifle can jump around a little when the shot goes off, which is what springers like to do! Don't stop the hop! Ha ha! And honestly man, I never hunt with springers! I have a FX Wildcat in .25 cal for hunting & it's perfect for the job. I'm like you ...I don't want to hurt any of the animals! And for that reason I only use my springers for practice! I shoot paper targets almost every day & really feel like it makes me better when I use my pcp. But I rarely shoot groups with my pcp & NEVER hunt with my springers! Take care!
I had opposite, I went to my local shop, and ordered a HW 57 underlever, I got a phone call just after the weekend and was told it had arrived and their would be no delivery charge. Its the latest model with 1/2" UNF threaded with latest slimmed down stock. I had sold my HW 97 because I found it far too heavy. The HW57 is 2/3rds the weight. I agree with all your points, it seems you have two options. Shoot from a seat in a hide, some shooting seats have a gun supports attached. OR have an thick ample gun slip that you can open like a kipper to lie prone on. A couple of last points, if you chose shoot game or vermin prone, it will be difficult utilise a bipod unlike most PCPs and just about all pest control RUclips channels use gun supports, even if its just a set of elbows. So it's carry some gun support kit or reinforce your elbow padding....... Wow, that is an excellent idea I'm off to my local skate board retailer.
Calm down relax and consideration on the follow through I just own springers a crossman f4 , umerex ictain elite , and a umerex synergis 1 177 f4 , the other two are 22 caliber they all shoot different but the same if that makes sence , it's all in your head so to speak you will improve I garenty
I shoot mine off a primo trigger stick and find I can hit a 10p group at 25 mtr practice is the key. You will find what the right hold is for you and when you do you’ll start to have fun. Good luck and happy hunting.
Hello mate . like what you are doing but i have to let you know that your scope will go bad soon because mounted incorrectly.......it will decalibrate after just a few shots because of the recoil of the springer.......it does matter how you mount the scope on a springer....keep up the good work...cheers.
I can see that you have many comments already ,but I will throw in my two cents worth. The biggest most important aspect of shooting a springer is trigger control. Be very careful not to grip the pistol grip with a strong grip. Grip it the way you would expect a little girl to hold your hand, lol. Put all of your focus on a very light, directly straight back trigger pull. I shoot off a bag very well, but the trigger control and holding on to that pistol grip with a slight amount of shoulder pressure into the buttstock is what is helping me the most. Lastly I have no idea what a PCP shoots like, besides a pumper. 😉👍
I've got exactly the same HW97 black line and mine likes QYS Streamlined Heavies 9.56 gn. If your shooting off a bench rest the rifle on your hand (even if shooting off a bag). I try and find the guns pivot point about an forward of the trigger guard. Trigger control is another important aspect. Try and make sure your finger is in the exact same spot each time you take a shot and you pull the trigger directly back...Try not to hook it sideways.
The number one issue causing the gun not to be accurate is always how you are holding the gun,it aint a PCP,it's a mans gun.If it's the first time shooting a springer,you won't be able to hit your target.Most first timers with a springer,tend to strangle the gun.You have to let the gun do what it needs to,it has recoil and barrel flip up.The shoulder and trigger hand,are the only points holding the gun in place.Your left hand is used to support the weight of the gun.Try what I do,move your left hand as close to the trigger guard as you can with the palm of your hand holding the barrel up,don't grip the gun with your left hand just support the gun with the palm of your hand,then support your elbow if you're standing or sitting down then lock your elbow.Are you comfortable,if so squeeze the trigger to it's second stage then on gently to fire the the gun.There's your bull eye. It sounds a lot to remember but it isn't,just practice,practice,practice. You will be using your HW97K more than your PCP.......Of course,if you want to use a tripod or similar,then just let the gun rest on the support or put the back of your hand palm up between the stand and the gun.
I’ve just bought ( last week ) a 97kt in .177 for my daughter and me to share. We’ve put a few AA Diablo pellets through it and am getting 5mm groups at 25yrds from a prone position and front tripod rest so not too shabby… it is a heavy bit of hit but a lovely engineered tool. The 4.5gr .177 pellets with their flatter trajectory help make us look better shooters than we probably are and the Hawke optics make all the different also. Good luck with getter smaller and more consistent groups.
Great video, I have the exact same gun and also facing the same problems, been today infact and was ready for giving up on it but I will keep going and hopefully have some success after practice
All about loose consistent hold, you have to let the shot cycle do its own thing,. My cometa fusion star is pellet on pellet with a loose hold front and rear but grip it a bit and its like a shotgun bud, just let the action do its thing mate 👍 gud luck 👍
Hi mate. I have the identical rifle and calibre .. run a pull through ..through the barrel as a lot of new rifles arrive with lubricant in the barrel to stop them rusting while in stock. I did this (barrel was filthy) and try JSB Hades. My rifle is inside a 5p at 35m..regards Alan ( new sub)
Thanks Alan yeah you're right I have done it already but I didn't to begin with it actually didn't accur to me but somebody else mentioned it too sound advice, I'm definitely getting mire consistent now 😀
Hi Ben..the other addition I made ..I bought a cocking aid from eBay ..not only is it easier to cock the rifle it’s also an aid against muzzle flip ( tad more weight at the muzzle ) I bought 2 x black anodised aids ( I have 2 x 97’s ) from Lithuania brilliant quality and fairly priced ..worked for mr.alan
I've experienced similar frustration not being able to get one of my spring rifles to group well no matter what pellet I tried or how I held the gun. I finally discovered the cause, the stock securing screws had worked loose (not checking them to begin with was a schoolboy error on my part). Look for good ambush spots which offer some concealment, use camo, cover your face and hands, practice resting the rifle in your hands and resting your front hand on tree limbs, fence posts, shooting sticks or a tripod. When moving walk quietly and into the wind where possible. It's useful to 'recce' the area and familiarise yourself with where you are likely to find quarry. The 97 is quite a heavy rifle to carry around so resting it and shooting from a hide might be the way to go. As you've said, the main thing is get plenty of practice. There's no shame in preferring to use a PCP for hunting.
I just always fancied one in case my pcp broke and I had it as a back up but this is great advice thanks for taking the time to type it out really appreciate it 👍
First thing you should have done is cleaned out the barrel , next shooting off a bag you should place your hand between the forend and sandbag to maintain sound accuracy on target. Try You should clean the barrel out firstly . And place your hand between the foreend and sand bag for correct accuracy and try kaiser 8 gr and remember the more you shoot it the action will loosen up nicely Cheers 🥂
It's a lot about breathing, the rifle will move up & down as you breathe. Settle into the shot, don't hold the fore stock tight & squeeze the trigger only when fully exhaled. I used to shoot small bore rifle in competitions & was a member of the Leeds & District small bore rifle association. (and won a little medal for it in my younger days)
First of, get used (if you haven't already) to the artillery hold - it is much more important with springers than with PCP. Try not to change pellet model(s) once you've realized which one works best with that gun. Make sure you clean the barrel (without putting oil in it) after every couple of hundred shots (especially after switching the pellet models). Set the trigger leaf's pull to lightest level and shortest travel you can.
Sounds like your not letting the gun naturally recoil off the bags , try putting a hand under it as if you was standing and let it recoil in your hands makes a world of difference to accuracy 👍
Before you get too upset with your new rifle, try these things first. Use a plain bag in front, I use a large Weibad. Use the artillery hold and just rest the forend lightly in a cupped hand, don`t grip it. Use your shoulder, not a rear bag. Weihrauch rifles like the 4.52 head size, the other sizes won`t do as well. Don`t set the scope too high, 8x will do just fine to start. Don`t grip the rifle too hard with your trigger hand, and light pressure against the shoulder. You will have to get used to doing these things in a way that works for you and your rifle, but in the long run it will. Practice regularly, a few shots every day will keep you from getting tired, and keep your focus up. A good springer is certainly different, but can also be very rewarding. HW35es .177 with Leupold 3-9x33efr R1K .20 with Hawke AirMax 2-7x32 Pro Sport .22 with Leupold 3-9x33efr Good luck to you!
Great honest up front review, persevere, they are a difficult rifle to shoot and take a bit of mastering, pcp's are very accurate, I enjoy mine, but a springer is a rewarding rifle to shoot, and more fun, stick with it 😁
I had a hw97kt and I got it tuned.. Wow it fired smooth.. I just rested the gun on My arm... And deep breaths... I was hitting 5p piece at 30nyards continuously... I will have it if you don't want it 😂😂
Hello my friend. I politely think I maybe able to help you by raising some points for you to consider. However, there will be lots of knowledgeable people here sending you great advice too. Holding your rifle loosely and letting it recoil, is called artillary hold. Not only that, it makes a difference to your accuracy, if you wear a different, more padded jacket. You need to bear that in mind. When you mounted your scope, did you use the locator holes in the middle of the dovetail rail? Your 97K is a hell of a powerplant, and you risk your scope moving, if you don't anchor it down properly. Don't over tighten your scope mounts around your scope though. You'll risk crushing your scope and making it useless. I just practiced and practiced with my 97K, and as you get more accurate, it's so satisfying. I think most serious airgunners practice every week, regular. I don't think you've ever won with accuracy and springer airguns. You can only be as good as your last shot. It's so pleasing though, when you experience success. Thankyou for recommending those pellets. I just persevered with JSB Exact, 4.52, 8.4 grain. I tried the Heavies, they're pretty good too, I found. My rifle is exactly like yours, though I never was keen on the black, plastic stock. I made my own laminated stock in January this year. Ash and walnut, treated in Danish oil I'm no joiner or craftsman. I took my time, and absolutely love it. It's obviously slightly heavier thanthe plastic stock, and I think my accuracy benefits from that. I've fallen in love with it again. It's a beast. I have an HW 80K. To me, that stock is bland and and lacklustre too. I think that will be this winters project. Taken steady, I humbly think that stock could be so much improved too. If you make your own, you can have it exactly as you wish. Finger grooves in the pistol grip, grooves in the fore end, fancy stock and cheek piece. It's all yours to be had, if you want it. Nice to message with you my friend, and discuss a mutual interest. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. What you, I, are trying to achieve, some people can't manage. They give up, and just go and buy a PCP. Nothing worth having is gotten easily. I'm with you my friend, I'd like to be competent and reliable airgunner with both, and strive to be hopefully called a true airgunner, and practice regular. Respect my friend, and good luck! Ps. Have a look at trigger sticks, I love mine. You must remember, if you use one, rest your gun/fore end, on your hand, then the trigger stick. If you don't shoot the same, identical way every time, your accuracy will suffer. That's what artillary hold is all about. So important, same way, every time.
Hi Ian thanks for taking the time to type this out really appreciate it ive taken all youre advice on board and will put it into practice I get youre point on nothing worth while is easy I used to box ameture and professional for 23 years I get that point more than most , I will persevere this is making me want to get better with it even more now 😊, glad you liked my video 👍
@@airhunteruk Hello again, my friend. I am not well up enough to advise you about this. When you put a scope on a springer, make sure that the scope can cope with the release of the spring when firing, the recoil. Not all scopes can cope with spring air rifles. Your gun shop will advise you. Best wishes.
@@airhunteruk Lol! Hello my friend. I'm not sure if it's anything to do with the price of the scope. It may not follow that the more expensive they go, the more they can cope with a spring air rifle. It may concern another factor. It maybe as well to make sure and find out, as it would be an awful waste to damage a great scope.
@@airhunteruk LOL keep at it. Relax and you’ll get it. By the way I don’t know a damn thing about PCPs. I’d need a lot of help trying to charge, load and shoot one….
Consistency is key with a springer! Try a few hand positions and grips (artillery hold is not ultimate) /shoulder pressure and when you found the best combo try to do the same each time! Hopefully you will enjoy it soon enough id like one myself 😅
That is interesting and coincidental, I've just bought a HW57 and a RUclips channel demo was saying how the pistol grip is a little too far back from the trigger. Even his bigger hands couldn't lay a flat pressure on the trigger without an uncomfortable twist and stretch from his wrist. Iv shot a couple of hundred test shots. The base of my left thumb started to get cramp, so instead of wrapping my thumb around the top of the pistol grip, I lay it flat and straight on top, my normal trigger finger down the side and my longer middle finger has now become my trigger finger. I have compensated for the extra reach, and now I just need my strained thumb to heal.
Drop in one of these TbT PRO Kits and it will change your gun. Less recoil for a start and shoots so much smoother. Well worth the small price for the kit and it is something you can fit at home. The web site has video's on how to. Well worth a look. Put one in mine and it's turned a good gun into an awesome gun.
i have shot air rifles since my early teens bought my hw35 in the seventies still have it today the only advice i can give is shoot it a lot we could do a 500 tin of pellets a day walking round woods tips pig farms you have to develop muscles to hold it up i still shoot today i have several springers they stay in there cases i am a pcp user now for serious pest control there is no way they can compete with a pcp springers in my mind are ok for plinking tin cans bottles etc, dont get me wrong ive shot a lot of stuff rabbits rats pigeons we could even hit stuff flying there was no shooting sticks or trigger sticks then but i have missed hell of a lot more with a springer its like swopping the car your driving now morris minor ok for a laugh but thats it. pcp is the easiest form of shooting i know but a springer its practice .regular once you develop the muscle you have to keep it .good luck
It's all in the hold, apparently. I'm sticking with my PCP (yes - I am lazy). Keith mentioned Si Pittaway's channel which is Vermin Hunters TV. Entertaining and informative and well worth a look.
First off with a new gun you need to clean the barrel as it's lined with grease or something like grease then you need to watch some videos about artillery hold a Springer needs to recoil so don't hold it tight takes a bit of practice but you will get there good luck
A bit late with comment to help, owning a HW97K for more than 20 years, I find the grip is the key to accurate shooting, try a gentle grip so that the recoil is unhindered, if you grip to tight and fight the natural movement of the gun your groups suffer badly. As for pellets Bisley Wasp No2 5.6mm or Bisley Long Range Gold is my choice, but I shoot .22
With springers buddy just cradle the gun don’t hold a tight grip on it let the gun do it’s thing just support it and I’m sure you’ll soon get into it, with a sand bag just let it rest on it just support it.
I like to have a couple of hundred shots with my S510 tactical and then finish a session off with my HW97 Blue laminate to remind me how to shoot properly, It’s definitely in the hold and at 30 metres I get about a 10p piece group which I’m happy with. I had an air arms pro sport before that which was equally as accurate 👍🏼👍🏼
The 97K is my favorite springer (and I've amassed quite the collection over the past several years!) -- as soon as I heard you were having trouble grouping, my mind immediately went to loose screws! Torque the stock screws to 20 in/lbs, the front trigger guard screw to 40 in/lbs and the rear to 20 in/lbs.
It's funny you mentioned that because last night I checked the screws and they all needed tightening made a massive difference to my groups and less twangy 👍
Great Vid great gun obviously harder to shoot than a PCB well let’s face it Etch A SKetch came first before I Pad only thing to look out for is to use it and learn and live with it but your back scope mount is too far to the rear tubes like equal tolerances and can crush .
I practice with my 2 hw97ks I got one in .22 and the other in .25 I'm a better shot practicing with these when I hunt I've got a hw100s in .22 and it's a breeze my hw97s the both like h+n field target trophy and the rifles are as accurate as my pcp rifles.
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I actually got rid of most of my PCP’s because there so boring imo. I’ve been shooting springers for 45 years + and yes it’s a completely different ball game. The lightest of holds as you’ve already said but one of the most important things is to allow the rifle to go through its natural recoil cycle so if shooting off a sand bag never just lean the rifle on the sand bag , put the back of your hand on top of the sandbag then grip the for end firmly but in no way heavy. The palm of your hand will allow the springer to recoil naturally. This will make a massive difference to your grouping and overall enjoyment of a spring piston rifle. I own quite a few weihrauch’s ( all springers ) and shot correctly they’ll eat up any premium pellet, i only shoot .22 but i can put 10mm groups at 30 metres with almost any pellet. The guns are always capable, it’s us fleshy bits behind the butt that’s usually the problem lol. Good luck good sir. I hope this helps.
Cheers buddy much appreciated 👍
I’ve been shooting a 97 in .22 shooting drink cans at 90yds, I use H & N Field Trophies. The secret for me don’t hold the gun too tight just enough to keep it under control also I take the recoil on my thumb and two fingers and I don’t have the stock in my shoulder but just off it, with the stock off my shoulder it has the advantage of removing my heart beat from the cross hairs.
I only ever shot springers,
I got my first pcp a month ago. All the fun has gone for me. Its too easy and I don't feel like I've shot anything.
I will go back to springers in the very near future
Same to me pcp is a tension device.
I sold a fantastic Daystate Huntsman PCP for exactly that reason. I really missed the mechanical feeling of a springer. I've got an R7 now. Heaven!
Since the age of 9 been shooting with springers & in my 60s now & they are still my preference rifles.Yes i have pcp gear but just prefer to play mostly with my hw-98 both f/t & hunting,Its taken me a lifetime to learn my craft but enjoyed every day of it.The good thing about the pcp gear is that its opened the sport to alot of new shooters who found they get great results in the infancy.Easy to shoot & get great results without over applying yourself is always a fun thing,Springers however do take time to master but when you do its a great feeling Kev so keep at it and enjoy the learning curve.
Thankyou I've been back out today and getting good results feeling alot better about it now 😊
I did it opposite to you Kev. I had a HW97K as my first rifle. I’ve recently purchased a HW100S . I don’t like the PCP, it’s to easy , not much skill required. I like a challenge , no challenge with a PCP.
What helped me with my springer shooting. Watching Si Pithway RUclips videos. Marksman principles .
Brilliant kieth il check him out name sounds familiar 👍
@@airhunterukSi Pithway has his springers tuned by Sandfield Sports I think it is, then he rebadges them with his own pet names.
Makes them seem exclusive to the point that you forget he's using a springer.
Pellet fuzzy - did you give its bore a DEEP clean to get the grease out and give it lots of time to burn off the surplus of action lubes (signalled by loud report and fumes from the muzzle at each shot) ?
No at first I didn't, but somebody else had mentioned it , so I did give it a deep clean and made a massive improvement 👍
I bought the hw97kt as my first air rifle. I've hardly missed, not like I'm bragging or anything 😁
Haha maybe I'm just crap lol , il keep trying pressure is on now 😅
@@airhunteruk haha I'm sure you're not. I bought a bundle and the pellets that came with it seem to work straight away (in my gun) so I didn't have piss about 🤙
@Terminator- just standard pal.
When the rifle is brand-new, what you should do firstly clean the barrel, plus it will take 250 350 pellets to run the spring and inners in, even before you even start testing different pellets in it, then you will find your testing will be more productive on paper paper,accuracy accuracy
The RWS Superdomes 8.3 grain pellets shoot great out of three different break barrel guns I own. No flyers. 0.3 inch groups at 33 yards at 1000 fps muzzle. But with JSB pellets I get 20% flyers. I don't use JSB anymore.
I've also read great reviews about
H&N Field Target Trophy .177 Cal, 8.64 Grains, Domed. Give them a try. You've got a great gun there just get the hold right and a good pellet, you shouldn't have any problems. I use artillery hold with my Beeman. Thanks for the video.
I got myself a 97kt last year and although I haven't put 100's and 100's of pellets though it, I have found that I get nice accuracy if I support the front with a sand bag or rest but as soon as I tried another sand bag at the rear that all changed. I'm assuming that it's due to the small amount of recoil but it was enough to frustrate the heck out of me. My rifle appears to like the Air Arms Diablo Field 4.52 as recommended by the shop that I bought my rifle. I look forward to seeing your follow up videos to see how you're getting on.
Thank you buddy , yeah it were really accurate on sand bags , but need to master the atillery hold too for myself, it would be nice to think I could hunt with it , won't be long before I do a follow up on it 😉 , thanks for taking the time to write you're comment 😀
With a springer the hold is super important any devation shot to shot will greatly affect your impact points
I've got that same gun and the screws in the stock and the trigger gard came lose in the first week, either that or they wasn't tightened in the factory, mabe that shop was bagnel sports in Newcastle. And I've just bought that same gun from Skipton gun shop and like I said the screws have come lose
Thanks for posting this honest video, I also have the Black/Stainless 97kt and a Theoben MFR both in .20cal. The 97kt gives me more pleasure to shoot over the MFR ( which is a real tack drive) because you have to do it right every time. I find using the 97kt makes me take my time because you don't have the option of just cycling another pellet if you miss. My 97 doesn't seem to be pellet fussy and I've put around 50,000 pellets through it over the years. Congrats on your purchase and you've just gained another subscriber, will be watching your progress with great interest 👍
Thanks Colin really appreciate it can't wait to get better 👍
@@airhunteruk Your welcome mate, it's an awesome rifle and my go to rifle for relaxation. Sounds strange but using it slows everything down which in turn relaxes me. mmm, starting to sound like a weirdo now. 🤔🤣🤣🤣
Haha not at all , well maybe a little 🤪
Hi mate , i bought the hw97k in .22 , its not pellet fussy , i use the airarms 16 grain for hunting with it , its as accurate as my pcps , iv taken plenty of crows with it ,head shots , from twenty to 30 yards , standing . I find with mine to hold it snug and tight again the shoulder and just rest my other hand under her loose . Great gun . I bring it out more now than my pcps . I have 4 spinners on a post and id hit them all day at 30 yards . Id say it took about 2 tins of pellets to fire through it before it started to shoot real tight groups . Plenty of practice mate and ull get great enjoyment with it once u master it
That's reassuring thankyou Oliver appreciated 👍
@@airhunteruk All the best with it mate , if i was shooting crows coming into a sitty tree id use the trigger sticks , just rest ur hand on the sticks then gun on your hand . ...
Remember when you pull the trigger the pellet dosent leave the barrel straight away. A big piston that weighs a fair bit has to slam forward and hit the end of the compression tube and that movement does through you out. But you need to practice and put the time in and earn your stripes as it were. You will get there. There definitely harder to shoot than pcps but when you get used to it you will love it. Be careful of your rest, not to solid. But not to loose either.
Thanks Graham sound advice thst 👍
Love your honesty and humility. Learnt to hunt with a springer as a teenager in the 1980s, lovely Webley Omega .22 shooting Eley Wasps and using a Tasco 4 x 40 scope. Treat it as deer stalking in miniature apart from not having a magazine and bolt action for a follow up shot (heaven forbid)! Zero at 25 yards and learn hold over and under out to your max (35 yards for me). Stalking and fieldcraft are key, and take your shots standing, kneeling or prone. Practice loading and firing in the field in all stances. Shoot your springer with eyes closed once safely on target and get the 'feel' of the action - at non-live targets of course! Follow through is key. At least twice as long as when shooting a .308! Recently acquired an HW100 and it is like cheating! However I'm so glad I learnt to shoot with a springer - all else thereafter is a 'piece ay pish' in comparison!
Really enjoyed this comment pal 👍
You're right. It is not easy to shoot a springer. Everybody who can shoot a springer can shoot a PCP. Not always the other way. Artillery hold my friend......Start with yourself and than try different pellets. Even with bankrest should one hand be under the stock and always keep your hands at the same place and NO pressure, not even against your shoulder. Let the rifle glide! Don,t concentrate to much on the trigger. Concentrate on the hold and your breath and just slowly increase pressure on the trigger. Don't decide to shoot, let it decide. If you think, now i'm gonna pull the trigger is wrong. My blackline likes the JSB 8,33 in 4,52mm. This will be a new challenge and makes you even a better shooter. With a 97 you can get the same results as with a PCP. Cheers!😁 P.s. A Hawke Airmax Compact will give you better acces to the loading port.
Cheers buddy much appreciated, amd thanks for watching 👍
I think you mean jsb 8.44 4.52mm
I have a 97K in 177, I've been shooting spring guns since the 80s, it's just so accurate more so than the TXs I've had, the pellets l use are Bisley Magnums, Barracuda match, both basically same pellet, and Superdomes all really accurate.
Hi mate where did you get the strap for your hw97. After buying one after watching your video, thank you 👌
Amazon I believe il see if I can find the link
Fuwok Gun Sling Paracord Rifle Sling 550lb 2 Point Adjustable Strap for Tactical Rifle or Shotgun with Swivels amzn.eu/d/3zWmUbi
Happy days cheers mate. And how does the strap fit to the under lever then 🤔
Have to buy a barrel clip on eBay fits to the underlever , shall I show you how to shoot it too lol
Lol thanks pal was just looking for what it was called to search for one..just getting into the air guns so maybe I'll take you up on that offer 😂
Falcon accuracy plus (jsb express) airarms express) my 97k prefers the lighter pellets.just a thought.a lot of PCP shooters are surprised by the recoil,and don't know how to hold it.
Having tried lots of different pellets, my .177 HW97k seems to like the JSB Exact Express which are slightly lighter than the normal JSB Exact (which were also good).. My .22 HW97k seems to like the JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy. Gotta be worth a try..
Just FYI, in my guns the JSB Exact Express had about 20% flyers. No flyers with the RWS superdomes 8.3 grain. Every gun is different. Use whatever works best.
My first air rifle was the 97 in black. I then got a 100kt also in synthetic black. PCP is more humane for pest controls for follow up shots if needed, but i prefer the weight of the 97 and i much prefer the feel of the metal trigger and shape. I wish they put the 97 trigger in the 100. IMO.
You got the colour hw97k I wanted I've got a black n beech one I absolutely love mine always shoot from bag or sticks
did you barrell clean before firing ? also never pin a springer down into a fixed position, they need to recoil. Put your hand on the bag and rest your rifle on your palm, Dont grip it otherwise you hinder the rifles recoiling action. when changing pellets on testing you need to lead the barrel into that brand of pellet (approx 15/20 pellets should do the trick ) then do a grouping shoot. Hope this helps.
Cheers Robert, quite an old video now but appreciate the advice I eventually learned how to shoot it properly with amazing results 😀 👍
Did you give the barrel a good clean b4 you started? Otherwise pellet testing will be pointless,,, clean the barrel and start again with good quality pellets such as QYS 👍
I'm going to ne honest no I didn't I thought with it been brand new it wouldn't need it !😬
On the contrary,, all new guns whatever the model or make need the barrels cleaned thoroughly before use because they are full of heavy lubricant to prevent them rusting and causing severe damage. I recommend you use a good pull through kit for the barrel with soft patches coated in ballisol I think it’s called lubricant,, pull through patches until it’s clean, and then fire a hundred shots through it before you start pellet testing,, this will hopefully help👍
Thats brilliant advice I have a pull through kit so will do that straight away , every day is a school day 👍
Iv found if you put it on a rest/bag with more of the weight forwards of the bag/rest and just support the stock gently to allow the recoil to do its thing. This is why bipods don't work on springers. I have a HW97kt .22 and it isn't overly pellet fussy, it loves almost anything from h&n and for the distance I'm working at (30yds) it's great with the field target trophy for target practice and I use the slightly heavier hornets or coppa-spitzkugel for pests. Brilliant rifle, definitely worth your time to get the feel of it. Once you've mastered it you'll never want to get rid of it.
Cheers Mike, I'm not too bad of the rest I'm aiming to be good with it in the artillery hold so that if I choose to go hunting with it i wouldn't have to lug around a rest or in the event the rest is not suitable
@@airhunteruk all about holding it gently, when I'm not on a rest I sit on floor and use a leg to support the elbow of the forward arm. Find the balance point of the rifle, I personally find that being ever so slightly closer to you than center of balance so the rifle is front heavy slightly then just be gentle and don't try and stop the recoil. It really is my absolute favorite rifle and I can get results as good as any of my pcp/co2 if not better. I do respect that your not going to try and hunt with it until you can be sure of each shot 👍👏👏 it's definitely capable of hunting though, rabbits rats squirrels all cleanly dispatched. Also the silencer for this actually works!! No unf fitting necessary just Allen key the muzzle end cap off and threads are already inside to accept the silencer.
Aw nice I didn't know that about the treads that's cool and brilliant advice buddy much appreciated take them into account I can't wait till I'm good with it :)
Spot on pal i started on springers always had them and now I have a pcp it's pellet on pellet when I'm on my permission with my hw springer much more rewarding to get kills with springer
Very honest video, I changed from springer to PCP, and discovered I was no longer messing around, contrary to advice the PCP is a piece of cake, Daystate Huntsman Mk 2 with Bisley Magnum 453, springers are what we grew up with and no air tank, you are very brave going back, the advice with torque settings is very good advice, but the settings need redoing often, good luck Kev from Northern Ireland, don’t let it mess with your head mate!
Cheers buddy I'm still staying with pcp but want to get competent with springer too , mums side irish dad's side Scottish im a Yorkshire lad a right mix lol
I added a universal spring bipod for prone hunting, i too had PCP before, stick with it as its a far superior carbine (11 inch barrel), take a breath and hold then breath out...and squeeze the amazingly smooth 'rekord' trigger. 👍😊
Cheers buddy much appreciated 👍
My 97kt puts 5 in a 7mm hole at 35 yards your gun will do it if you can practice train your breath don't hold too tight make sure you set up the record trigger right not too sharp a letoff but not too draggy either I use JB s very good consistency practice and concentrate on holding your breath you will get there and shooting well with a spring rifle is very satisfying more difficult but more rewarding plus your springer is self contained no pumps air bottles what have you good luck
Cheers buddy
Check out field target competitions. That will help you nail down the mobile shooting and become extremely effective.
Second suggestion is to put yourself in a target rich environment and hunt from a blind with solid rests worked out.
Once you get a few tins under your belt you will really appreciate not being tethered to a giant carbon fiber air tank. So much freedom with springers. Gun and pellets nothing more
I shot springers for 30 years now, just keep practicing mate 👍
👍
Where do you go for gear Skipton Gun Room ? 😅 asked the question one min later you mentioned them.
Recently brought a HW100KT and a HW97k from them both in 177. My first springer in over twenty years, yep if a PCP was your first rifle, getting to grips with a springer takes a bit of patience and practice.
Absolutely buddy way more challenging than a pcp but still have there purpose , pcp is good for a quick follow up shot , I get some stuff from Skipton gun room buddy
@@airhunteruk might bump into you one day at SGR, though I won't be buying another rifle in a while, can't believe how much brass I've recently parted with, you know what us Yorkshire folk are like 😯
Haha very true, it’s soon mounts up buying for a shooting sport
Springer shooters are the best shooters fact… keep at it, once you get you get it. It’s a cracking rifle, love mine to bits. Will get a pcp when I can’t be bothered to shoot with out thinking😂 springers at circa 30m are just as accurate as a pcp in the right hands😉
Couldn’t agree more, I can sometimes get complacent with a pcp but my 97 really keeps me on my toes, if I don’t pay attention to every shot I don’t hit every shot, it’s a real buzz when I can hit pellet on pellet with it 👍
Looking forward to that day with it 😀
Best of look mate love your honest content 👍
Cheers buddy
Iam so close to buying a rifle and this on my list as well as the gamo phox PCP package. Videos of PCP shooting look so easy with no recoil. But some guys shoot them held on what looks like a rest/vice or bipods and bean bags and although you could shoot like that all day so easily is it not a bit boring or low skill... Iam still not decided on either a Springer or pcp
If you're looking to target shoot then springer is more skill , but pest control is always going to be easier to get a clean kill first time buddy , if you can afford both get both each have there merits 👍
Good Luck, The good news is that once you have mastered a quality springer the skill set that you will have achieved will make you much more proficient with all rifles , PCP, FAC, and Springer.
@@barrybutler6375 I grew up shooting firearms. I hold all my guns the same way. I never have any problems with brake barrels or springers or really anything. Just get a good firm hold into the shoulder and hold them all the same way all the time. Then sight the scope. That worked for me. Oh and never pull a trigger. You squeeze triggers. There is a very big difference 😉.
My rifle is the HW77K with 1/2"UNF.
In the military days I was used to shooting with the HK G3 assault rifle. It also has a decent setback. When I squeeze my HW77 like the G3, I get good results.
Contrary to all the advice. Only when the bench rest is on do I give the gun its freedom.
Greetings from Germany
Cheers buddy thanks for the advice , much appreciated 👍
Wellcom to the Springer world practice your hold when it comes together you will be hooked
The only thing I can say is practice, I've been shooting for 42 years and every rifle I've had needed a different treatment. Have you tried the QYS pellets, my 97 loves them. I'd like to see some longer vids, they finish far to quickly.
Hi Mart , id like to do some longer vids , in terms of longer vids what would you like to see more of , as I actually hate sound of my own voice lol
I've used both PCP and Springer...1st groups were terrible with springer...took months..COVID lockdown..lots of different pellets and practice ...now at about 25yds..using a rest bag..10p size every time.. Remington war hawk 22... keep trying.. you'll definitely get 20p size with your 97...
Hunting with springers get a lighter weight one like a hw95 with a compact scope. The 97 is more of a target rifle because for hunting it’s heavy which is a more effort to walk around with.
As for accuracy it’s a case of putting in the work on your marksmanship principles and utilising sports psychology so get a copy of with winning in mind by Lanny Bassham it will change how you shoot and it will change your life.
Agreed buddy 👍
Good video & nice rifle!
I've gotta agree with you ...springers are WAY harder to shoot accurately vs pcp airguns! It takes a lot of practice! The key is: however you hold it, you've gotta make sure you hold it that way every time!
Usually a looser hold will work better ...loosely shouldering the stock with a light cheek rest & "artillery hold" as they call it, with left hand palm up under the stock so the forend is resting on your hand. And be light with the right hand too ...I like to think about pinching my trigger finger & thumb together, but not really holding the stock tightly with the rest of my hand. This way the rifle can jump around a little when the shot goes off, which is what springers like to do! Don't stop the hop! Ha ha!
And honestly man, I never hunt with springers! I have a FX Wildcat in .25 cal for hunting & it's perfect for the job. I'm like you ...I don't want to hurt any of the animals! And for that reason I only use my springers for practice!
I shoot paper targets almost every day & really feel like it makes me better when I use my pcp. But I rarely shoot groups with my pcp & NEVER hunt with my springers! Take care!
Cheers buddy thanks for taking the time to write this really appreciate it , all really good advice 👍
I had opposite, I went to my local shop, and ordered a HW 57 underlever, I got a phone call just after the weekend and was told it had arrived and their would be no delivery charge. Its the latest model with 1/2" UNF threaded with latest slimmed down stock.
I had sold my HW 97 because I found it far too heavy. The HW57 is 2/3rds the weight.
I agree with all your points, it seems you have two options. Shoot from a seat in a hide, some shooting seats have a gun supports attached.
OR have an thick ample gun slip that you can open like a kipper to lie prone on.
A couple of last points, if you chose shoot game or vermin prone, it will be difficult utilise a bipod unlike most PCPs and just about all pest control RUclips channels use gun supports, even if its just a set of elbows. So it's carry some gun support kit or reinforce your elbow padding....... Wow, that is an excellent idea I'm off to my local skate board retailer.
Yeah I am finding heavy but I am getting more accurate, but it's definitely awkward to hunt with , fine if you're laid prone of bench rested !
Crosman great pellets , Bisley long range gold both sound accuracy 👌, and get a TBT kit
Try cleaning the barrel as they are often full of crap and I would suggest giving it a basic tune tpd kit will make a big difference
Cheers buddy just cleaned and think I will go for a drop in kit 👌 thanks for advice much appreciated 👍
Calm down relax and consideration on the follow through I just own springers a crossman f4 , umerex ictain elite , and a umerex synergis 1 177 f4 , the other two are 22 caliber they all shoot different but the same if that makes sence , it's all in your head so to speak you will improve I garenty
I shoot mine off a primo trigger stick and find I can hit a 10p group at 25 mtr practice is the key. You will find what the right hold is for you and when you do you’ll start to have fun. Good luck and happy hunting.
Thanks den much appreciated
Hello mate . like what you are doing but i have to let you know that your scope will go bad soon because mounted incorrectly.......it will decalibrate after just a few shots because of the recoil of the springer.......it does matter how you mount the scope on a springer....keep up the good work...cheers.
Did you take that gun back to Skipton gun shop
I can see that you have many comments already ,but I will throw in my two cents worth. The biggest most important aspect of shooting a springer is trigger control. Be very careful not to grip the pistol grip with a strong grip. Grip it the way you would expect a little girl to hold your hand, lol. Put all of your focus on a very light, directly straight back trigger pull. I shoot off a bag very well, but the trigger control and holding on to that pistol grip with a slight amount of shoulder pressure into the buttstock is what is helping me the most. Lastly I have no idea what a PCP shoots like, besides a pumper. 😉👍
Brilliant advice buddy really do appreciate it 👍
Should try the little HW 30 it's as accurate as any of the others up to 20 yards. Is for me anyway. Thinking of the thumbhole 97 though. Great vid. 👍
Cheers buddy 👍
I've got exactly the same HW97 black line and mine likes QYS Streamlined Heavies 9.56 gn. If your shooting off a bench rest the rifle on your hand (even if shooting off a bag). I try and find the guns pivot point about an forward of the trigger guard. Trigger control is another important aspect. Try and make sure your finger is in the exact same spot each time you take a shot and you pull the trigger directly back...Try not to hook it sideways.
Cheers dom thanks for the advice much appreciated 👍
don't give up mate try JSB EXACT 0,547g 8,44 gr
Cheers buddy 👍
You may want to check Vortek tuning kits for 97K . Guy is in US but he will ship to UK no probs.
Cheers buddy
I got best result on my HW80 with H&N Barracuda power and Barracuda hunter. JSB's not fit with Weihrauch, I think.
I’ve had the same problem with shops saying they have stock. Only to find out once I’ve payed that they don’t. Should not be aloud.
I agree buddy 👍
The number one issue causing the gun not to be accurate is always how you are holding the gun,it aint a PCP,it's a mans gun.If it's the first time shooting a springer,you won't be able to hit your target.Most first timers with a springer,tend to strangle the gun.You have to let the gun do what it needs to,it has recoil and barrel flip up.The shoulder and trigger hand,are the only points holding the gun in place.Your left hand is used to support the weight of the gun.Try what I do,move your left hand as close to the trigger guard as you can with the palm of your hand holding the barrel up,don't grip the gun with your left hand just support the gun with the palm of your hand,then support your elbow if you're standing or sitting down then lock your elbow.Are you comfortable,if so squeeze the trigger to it's second stage then on gently to fire the the gun.There's your bull eye. It sounds a lot to remember but it isn't,just practice,practice,practice. You will be using your HW97K more than your PCP.......Of course,if you want to use a tripod or similar,then just let the gun rest on the support or put the back of your hand palm up between the stand and the gun.
My hw97k shoots ragged holes at 25yrds with h&n 10.65 gr, 4.52 mm.
Nice 👍
H&N Barracuda 8....AirArms DF 7.87 gr (Blue tin) Try them mate.
I’ve just bought ( last week ) a 97kt in .177 for my daughter and me to share. We’ve put a few AA Diablo pellets through it and am getting 5mm groups at 25yrds from a prone position and front tripod rest so not too shabby… it is a heavy bit of hit but a lovely engineered tool. The 4.5gr .177 pellets with their flatter trajectory help make us look better shooters than we probably are and the Hawke optics make all the different also. Good luck with getter smaller and more consistent groups.
Thanks Campbell much appreciated 👍
Great video, I have the exact same gun and also facing the same problems, been today infact and was ready for giving up on it but I will keep going and hopefully have some success after practice
Thanks Lee , I've pretty much got there now with it but it was infuriating at times but glad I stuck with it , good luck buddy 👍
All about loose consistent hold, you have to let the shot cycle do its own thing,. My cometa fusion star is pellet on pellet with a loose hold front and rear but grip it a bit and its like a shotgun bud, just let the action do its thing mate 👍 gud luck 👍
Cheers pal much appreciated 👍
find the holdthat works and hold the same for every shot with springers its all about consistancy good luck down the road you have chosen
Haha thanks Lee much appreciated 👍
Hi mate. I have the identical rifle and calibre .. run a pull through ..through the barrel as a lot of new rifles arrive with lubricant in the barrel to stop them rusting while in stock. I did this (barrel was filthy) and try JSB Hades. My rifle is inside a 5p at 35m..regards Alan ( new sub)
Thanks Alan yeah you're right I have done it already but I didn't to begin with it actually didn't accur to me but somebody else mentioned it too sound advice, I'm definitely getting mire consistent now 😀
Hi Ben..the other addition I made ..I bought a cocking aid from eBay ..not only is it easier to cock the rifle it’s also an aid against muzzle flip ( tad more weight at the muzzle ) I bought 2 x black anodised aids ( I have 2 x 97’s ) from Lithuania brilliant quality and fairly priced ..worked for mr.alan
I've experienced similar frustration not being able to get one of my spring rifles to group well no matter what pellet I tried or how I held the gun. I finally discovered the cause, the stock securing screws had worked loose (not checking them to begin with was a schoolboy error on my part). Look for good ambush spots which offer some concealment, use camo, cover your face and hands, practice resting the rifle in your hands and resting your front hand on tree limbs, fence posts, shooting sticks or a tripod. When moving walk quietly and into the wind where possible. It's useful to 'recce' the area and familiarise yourself with where you are likely to find quarry. The 97 is quite a heavy rifle to carry around so resting it and shooting from a hide might be the way to go. As you've said, the main thing is get plenty of practice. There's no shame in preferring to use a PCP for hunting.
I just always fancied one in case my pcp broke and I had it as a back up but this is great advice thanks for taking the time to type it out really appreciate it 👍
@@airhunteruk I'm a fan of spring guns myself, they are more satisfying to shoot, cheers!
Fire Away ,, There's a reason it has the reputation of being one of the best air rifles ever ,, it's because it is
First thing you should have done is cleaned out the barrel , next shooting off a bag you should place your hand between the forend and sandbag to maintain sound accuracy on target.
Try
You should clean the barrel out firstly .
And place your hand between the foreend and sand bag for correct accuracy and try kaiser 8 gr and remember the more you shoot it the action will loosen up nicely Cheers 🥂
It's a lot about breathing, the rifle will move up & down as you breathe. Settle into the shot, don't hold the fore stock tight & squeeze the trigger only when fully exhaled. I used to shoot small bore rifle in competitions & was a member of the Leeds & District small bore rifle association. (and won a little medal for it in my younger days)
First of, get used (if you haven't already) to the artillery hold - it is much more important with springers than with PCP. Try not to change pellet model(s) once you've realized which one works best with that gun. Make sure you clean the barrel (without putting oil in it) after every couple of hundred shots (especially after switching the pellet models). Set the trigger leaf's pull to lightest level and shortest travel you can.
Sounds like your not letting the gun naturally recoil off the bags , try putting a hand under it as if you was standing and let it recoil in your hands makes a world of difference to accuracy 👍
Old saying, if it’s not broken , don’t try and fix it 😅, definitely have a go if you want to, but enjoy your HW 100 , 👍🤠
Before you get too upset with your new rifle, try these things first. Use a plain bag in front, I use a large Weibad. Use the artillery hold and just rest the forend lightly in a cupped hand, don`t grip it. Use your shoulder, not a rear bag. Weihrauch rifles like the 4.52 head size, the other sizes won`t do as well. Don`t set the scope too high, 8x will do just fine to start. Don`t grip the rifle too hard with your trigger hand, and light pressure against the shoulder. You will have to get used to doing these things in a way that works for you and your rifle, but in the long run it will. Practice regularly, a few shots every day will keep you from getting tired, and keep your focus up. A good springer is certainly different, but can also be very rewarding.
HW35es .177 with Leupold 3-9x33efr
R1K .20 with Hawke AirMax 2-7x32
Pro Sport .22 with Leupold 3-9x33efr
Good luck to you!
Thanks, David 👍
I have a PCP and a 97kt.
I have had more problems with the seals with the PCP.
The springer iv never had an issue yet.
Definitely more reliable is a springer
Great honest up front review, persevere, they are a difficult rifle to shoot and take a bit of mastering, pcp's are very accurate, I enjoy mine, but a springer is a rewarding rifle to shoot, and more fun, stick with it 😁
I had a hw97kt and I got it tuned.. Wow it fired smooth.. I just rested the gun on My arm... And deep breaths... I was hitting 5p piece at 30nyards continuously... I will have it if you don't want it 😂😂
Haha I bet we'll if I ever get fed up it's a deal lol
@@airhunteruk I mean it😂.. I will. Buy it for my lad 👍🏼
@@airhunteruk fed up with it yet 🤔.. I'm still happy to buy it 😂👍🏼
Not yet lol I'm getting better every time , maybe after I've done a hunt with it first ;)
@@airhunteruk I live not far from. You so hit me up if you ever do.. 🙏🏼
Hi air hunter uk this is V hay try cleaning your barrel real clean and try jsb head size 5.2mm or H&N field target trophy head size 5.1mm good luck.
Cheers buddy 👍
Watch some videos on using the artillery hold with your spring rifle and watch those groups close up nice and tight.
Will do Paul 👍
Hello my friend.
I politely think I maybe able to help you by raising some points for you to consider. However, there will be lots of knowledgeable people here sending you great advice too.
Holding your rifle loosely and letting it recoil, is called artillary hold. Not only that, it makes a difference to your accuracy, if you wear a different, more padded jacket. You need to bear that in mind.
When you mounted your scope, did you use the locator holes in the middle of the dovetail rail? Your 97K is a hell of a powerplant, and you risk your scope moving, if you don't anchor it down properly. Don't over tighten your scope mounts around your scope though. You'll risk crushing your scope and making it useless.
I just practiced and practiced with my 97K, and as you get more accurate, it's so satisfying. I think most serious airgunners practice every week, regular. I don't think you've ever won with accuracy and springer airguns. You can only be as good as your last shot. It's so pleasing though, when you experience success.
Thankyou for recommending those pellets. I just persevered with JSB Exact, 4.52, 8.4 grain. I tried the Heavies, they're pretty good too, I found.
My rifle is exactly like yours, though I never was keen on the black, plastic stock. I made my own laminated stock in January this year. Ash and walnut, treated in Danish oil I'm no joiner or craftsman. I took my time, and absolutely love it. It's obviously slightly heavier thanthe plastic stock, and I think my accuracy benefits from that. I've fallen in love with it again. It's a beast.
I have an HW 80K. To me, that stock is bland and and lacklustre too. I think that will be this winters project. Taken steady, I humbly think that stock could be so much improved too. If you make your own, you can have it exactly as you wish. Finger grooves in the pistol grip, grooves in the fore end, fancy stock and cheek piece. It's all yours to be had, if you want it.
Nice to message with you my friend, and discuss a mutual interest. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. What you, I, are trying to achieve, some people can't manage.
They give up, and just go and buy a PCP.
Nothing worth having is gotten easily. I'm with you my friend, I'd like to be competent and reliable airgunner with both, and strive to be hopefully called a true airgunner, and practice regular.
Respect my friend, and good luck!
Ps. Have a look at trigger sticks, I love mine. You must remember, if you use one, rest your gun/fore end, on your hand, then the trigger stick. If you don't shoot the same, identical way every time, your accuracy will suffer. That's what artillary hold is all about. So important, same way, every time.
Hi Ian thanks for taking the time to type this out really appreciate it ive taken all youre advice on board and will put it into practice I get youre point on nothing worth while is easy I used to box ameture and professional for 23 years I get that point more than most , I will persevere this is making me want to get better with it even more now 😊, glad you liked my video 👍
@@airhunteruk Hello again, my friend.
I am not well up enough to advise you about this. When you put a scope on a springer, make sure that the scope can cope with the release of the spring when firing, the recoil.
Not all scopes can cope with spring air rifles. Your gun shop will advise you.
Best wishes.
I would think a hawke sidewinder was more than capable it were around the 500 pound mark so if that doesn't cope with it il be gutted haha
@@airhunteruk Lol! Hello my friend.
I'm not sure if it's anything to do with the price of the scope. It may not follow that the more expensive they go, the more they can cope with a spring air rifle. It may concern another factor.
It maybe as well to make sure and find out, as it would be an awful waste to damage a great scope.
😰😬
Also stock screws
I’ve been shooting springers for 50 yrs. I never knew they were hard to shoot. Hmmm.
Must just be me lol 😆
@@airhunteruk LOL keep at it. Relax and you’ll get it.
By the way I don’t know a damn thing about PCPs. I’d need a lot of help trying to charge, load and shoot one….
Consistency is key with a springer!
Try a few hand positions and grips (artillery hold is not ultimate) /shoulder pressure and when you found the best combo try to do the same each time!
Hopefully you will enjoy it soon enough id like one myself 😅
Cheers buddy 👍
That is interesting and coincidental, I've just bought a HW57 and a RUclips channel demo was saying how the pistol grip is a little too far back from the trigger.
Even his bigger hands couldn't lay a flat pressure on the trigger without an uncomfortable twist and stretch from his wrist. Iv shot a couple of hundred test shots.
The base of my left thumb started to get cramp, so instead of wrapping my thumb around the top of the pistol grip, I lay it flat and straight on top, my normal trigger finger down the side and my longer middle finger has now become my trigger finger.
I have compensated for the extra reach, and now I just need my strained thumb to heal.
Hold and follow through. Don't rest on out wend shooting.
Drop in one of these TbT PRO Kits and it will change your gun. Less recoil for a start and shoots so much smoother. Well worth the small price for the kit and it is something you can fit at home. The web site has video's on how to. Well worth a look. Put one in mine and it's turned a good gun into an awesome gun.
Cheers buddy yeah I were thinking of doing that , il keep you updated 👍
@@airhunteruk Don't think you will be disappointed if you do.
i have shot air rifles since my early teens bought my hw35 in the seventies still have it today the only advice i can give is shoot it a lot we could do a 500 tin of pellets a day walking round woods tips pig farms you have to develop muscles to hold it up i still shoot today i have several springers they stay in there cases i am a pcp user now for serious pest control there is no way they can compete with a pcp springers in my mind are ok for plinking tin cans bottles etc, dont get me wrong ive shot a lot of stuff rabbits rats pigeons we could even hit stuff flying there was no shooting sticks or trigger sticks then but i have missed hell of a lot more with a springer its like swopping the car your driving now morris minor ok for a laugh but thats it. pcp is the easiest form of shooting i know but a springer its practice .regular once you develop the muscle you have to keep it .good luck
Thanks John, great advice thanks for taking the time to write this 👍
I find my Air Arms S410 incredibly boring to shoot because it’s so accurate.
I love my hw100 but I really want to be able to shoot this good 👍
It's all in the hold, apparently.
I'm sticking with my PCP (yes - I am lazy).
Keith mentioned Si Pittaway's channel which is Vermin Hunters TV.
Entertaining and informative and well worth a look.
Haha , cheers buddy 👍
kev,if your shooting tomorrow take it with you, I'll see you there.
I'm just on that pig farm in morning mate just up road , been to you know were today had a great morning, will have to do a joint day 👍
@@airhunteruk ok will do.
Jsb exact RS do it for me threw my HW77
First off with a new gun you need to clean the barrel as it's lined with grease or something like grease then you need to watch some videos about artillery hold a Springer needs to recoil so don't hold it tight takes a bit of practice but you will get there good luck
Thanks Glen somebody else mentioned about cleaning the barrel from new had no idea you had to clean them from new 🙄 idiot I am 👍
A bit late with comment to help, owning a HW97K for more than 20 years, I find the grip is the key to accurate shooting, try a gentle grip so that the recoil is unhindered, if you grip to tight and fight the natural movement of the gun your groups suffer badly. As for pellets Bisley Wasp No2 5.6mm or Bisley Long Range Gold is my choice, but I shoot .22
Cheers buddy 👍
Nice rifle. Waiting for hunting videos with this rifle
With springers buddy just cradle the gun don’t hold a tight grip on it let the gun do it’s thing just support it and I’m sure you’ll soon get into it, with a sand bag just let it rest on it just support it.
Cheers johnathan 👍
i started with a 97 good education pcp to easy
I like to have a couple of hundred shots with my S510 tactical and then finish a session off with my HW97 Blue laminate to remind me how to shoot properly, It’s definitely in the hold and at 30 metres I get about a 10p piece group which I’m happy with. I had an air arms pro sport before that which was equally as accurate 👍🏼👍🏼
Yeah starting to think 40 yards onwards is to far .
The 97K is my favorite springer (and I've amassed quite the collection over the past several years!) -- as soon as I heard you were having trouble grouping, my mind immediately went to loose screws! Torque the stock screws to 20 in/lbs, the front trigger guard screw to 40 in/lbs and the rear to 20 in/lbs.
It's funny you mentioned that because last night I checked the screws and they all needed tightening made a massive difference to my groups and less twangy 👍
@@airhunteruk It makes a HUGE difference! You'll be one-holing pellets at 30m in no time!
Oh FWIW, the twang should tame down within a tin's worth of shots. If you find it bothersome, I highly recommend a Welsh Willy tuning kit. :)
Cool , I've put around 500 through it and it seems to be getting less twangy and noisy, hoping to be out practising this weekend 😀
@@airhunteruk Cheers! Springers aren't necessarily difficult to shoot well, but they do require attention to technique. They're my favorite. :D
Great Vid great gun obviously harder to shoot than a PCB well let’s face it Etch A SKetch came first before I Pad only thing to look out for is to use it and learn and live with it but your back scope mount is too far to the rear tubes like equal tolerances and can crush .
Cheers buddy never knew thst about scopes good advice 👍 and thanks for watching
Mine likes Crossman 500ct domes
Don’t hold it tight, that’s all.
I practice with my 2 hw97ks I got one in .22 and the other in .25 I'm a better shot practicing with these when I hunt I've got a hw100s in .22 and it's a breeze my hw97s the both like h+n field target trophy and the rifles are as accurate as my pcp rifles.