Origins of the Winchester Diamond Grade trap gun The 101 Winchester Game gun is an example of one of many models produced by the prolific Winchester Repeating Arms Company. The wide range of guns based on the Winchester 101 frame was produced in the Olin-Kodensha factory in Japan. Reputation Production…
Buying guns second-hand
CZ 452: Pick whichever variant you want, they’re all good
Birth of the CZ 452 Some time ago, Blast from the Past looked at the venerable Brno Model 2, a real workhorse of a small-bore rifle that started production in the 1950s. Rugged, unpretentious and dependable, the Model 2 changed its name and was updated when Brno rebranded to CZ.…
Step by step: Check an old gun for wear and tear
It’s always worthwhile to take the time to check an old gun thoroughly. You want to make sure that it is safe and if you’re buying it second-hand, you want to make sure that it doesn’t need a lot of expensive repairs. (Read our piece on gun stock shine –…
Beretta 687 Sporting: you’re unlikely to find a more elegant and durable gun at this price
Beretta has been a prolific firearms manufacturer since the 16th century and although it also produces guns for the military and law-enforcement markets, it is Sporting guns that today account for the greater part of its output. It is possible to spend a great deal of money on one of…
Whiscombe JW50 air rifle. It could be a superb investment and this is why
I’m going to talk about a modern gun the Whiscombe JW50 and one that is sure to be a collectable investment for the future. I would wager with anyone that this air rifle will only increase in value as the years go by. The Whiscombe JW50 So what makes me…
Marlin Golden Model 39A rifle
Marlin Golden Model 39A is regarded as one of the most accurate .22 rifles ever made
Sako M75: why it should definitely be in your sights
Tech specs for the Sako M75 Country of origin: Finland In production 1996-2007 Action: Bolt Stock options:Walnut, laminated or synthetic Barrel length 22-26in Magazine: Detachable, capacity 4+1, 5+1 or 6+1, depending on calibre Left hand version: Yes Weight (bare) 6lb 10oz (Synthetic/ Stainless in .308 Win) Available in calibres Produced…
Second-hand Beretta 682 shotgun: it’s stood the test of time
In 1984 Beretta brought out a new O/U designated the 682. It was a replacement for the 680, which had been their main competition gun for the previous decade, and it was to prove an enduring design.
Bettinsoli Evolution
The Bettinsoli Evolution represents a lot of gun at a mid-range price. Although it no longer features in the Bettinsoli catalogues, a few new guns still appear to be offered on the UK market, although most examples encountered now will be pre-owned. It comes in two versions, the Evolution Black…
Mauser M03 rifle review – a blast from the past
Mauser M03 rifle review: With great design features and an attention to detail that puts other rifles to shame, we find the Mauser M03 stalking rifle a refreshing break from the norm.
Buying a second-hand air rifle: here’s how to do it
You can save a wad of your hard-earned cash by buying a second-hand air rifle. But if you don’t know what to look out for, you could also end up with something worthless. Here’s my step-by-step guide to buying a second-hand air rifle so you make the right decision. (You…
20 of the best shotguns for under £1000
Finding a gun at the right price can be tough. We’ve listed 20 shotguns for under £1000 here that we think are well worth a look, both new and second-hand. It’s also worth reading our advice on buying a shotgun second-hand where you might pick up a real bargain. If…
20 popular secondhand all-rounders
So you’re on the hunt for a reliable, good quality secondhand over under shotgun. Which is going to suit you best? Our experts recommend taking a look at the selection below. Why would you choose an over under shotgun? Many consider that an over-and-under delivers a better and more consistent…
The Breda Xanthos – cheap but holds its own against more expensive rivals
The Breda Xanthos is not expensive but bears comparison with its more pricey competitors
Should his first gun be a Baikal?
We recently had a query from a reader, Tomasz Dojnikowski, who asked: ” Hi guys. I’m looking to buy my first shotgun but do not have a big budget. I’m looking at second-hand Baikal 12g 27E-1C. Are these any good as first shotguns? Not much experience with it. Been using an air…
Hatsan Escort Pump
Every time I pick up a pump-action shotgun I still feel a slight vibration as my ancestors turn in their graves. Traditionalists, they would all have been horrified to see any descendant shooting with such a gun. The gunrooms and safes I grew up around tended to contain selections of…
How to buy a decent shotgun for under £500
If you're looking to buy a cheap shotgun, make sure you read this guide first
Classic Guns – Tikka LSA 55
Bruce Potts pays homage to the LSA 55 - Tikka's first bolt-action rifle made in 1967
Rabbiting with a second-hand CZ BRNO rifle
A classic CZ BRNO Model 2 E-S rifle lives up to expectations when Tony Jackson takes on the burgeoning rabbit population of south Some
Thinking of buying a second-hand Tikka T3 Lite?
When the Tikka T3 Lite first appeared it took the market by storm. Finnish gunmaking company Sako had intended to produce a budget-priced rifle that shot well straight out of the box to meet the exacting demands of an increasingly sophisticated body of hunters. They succeeded where others had failed…