Mortimer
28-06-2005, 02:34 PM
The TAU7 is a CO2 powered pistol designed for target shooting. It comes in a number of different styles, all with the same basic action but with slight differences elsewhere. For example, the Match version has an improved trigger and laminated grips, while the Siluet has a longer barrel. This review is of the Standard model.
The pistol comes in a leather-effect cardboard carrying case, along with tools, various sizes of sight elements, weights, a 0.2 litre CO2 bottle and adapters to use either the bottle or standard CO2 capsules.
The general finish of the TAU7 is not up to the standard we might expect in the UK. While tolerances appear to be fine and everything functions smoothly, the finish is best described as functional. That said, the grip is made of nice walnut, and is fitted with an adjustable palm rest. I have quite large hands, and find the standard (non-ambidextrous) grip to be a good fit. Unlike some more expensive target pistols, the TAU7's grip is not adjustable for cant or rake. This wasn't a problem for me, as I found it perfect.
The sights are of excellent quality. Three foresight posts of different widths are supplied, along with three rearsight elements giving five different rearsight widths. The sights are sturdy, precisely made and easy to adjust.
Weights are provided so that the shooter may adjust the balance of the pistol to his or her liking. My preference is for two weights at the muzzle and one screwed into the back of the pistol; this brings it naturally to aim on the target.
Unlike Umarex style CO2 pistols, the CO2 capsule is inserted upside down into the bottom of the grip. Before screwing on the appropriate cylinder cap, ensure that the pistol is cocked, otherwise the CO2 will all leak out. It can also be charged from the 0.2 litre bottle provided - I have yet to try this so can't comment.
Loading is directly into the barrel, by means of a hinged breech tap. This is a reliable system, provided that it is not oiled excessively - too much lubrication and it may fly open on firing. Make sure that the tap is securely closed by pulling back gently on the breech buttons after shutting it. To cock the striker, push forward a catch on the side of the receiver until it engages the sear. No safety catch is fitted.
The trigger is adjustable for length and weight of pull, from single stage to two stage. It is more than adequate, providing a crisp and very predictable release. Power is adjustable too, by removing the forestock and tightening or loosening a screw underneath.
Accuracy is excellent. TAU Brno quote accuracy of 9mm edge to edge at 10 metres - that's 4.5mm centre to centre. I find hitting 2cm spinners out to 20 metres relatively easy, and I'm no great shot. Mine likes RWS Geco pellets. While the finish may not be up to much, the engineering is beyond question. Due to the adjustability (grip, weights) shooting one handed is a pleasure, just as it should be for a match style pistol.
Having owned a TAU7 for two years, I would recommend it to anyone looking for a top grade plinking pistol or a basic 10 metre match tool. It's obviously not in the same class as say, the Steyr LP10, but it's not in the same price range either. I paid £150 for mine, second hand on this bbs, in very good condition.
Downsides? I had great difficulty in tracking down a set of seals for mine, and ended up ordering from Quality Sporting Arms, Netherlands. (http://www.qsa-trading.nl/) They provide an excellent service.
http://www.taubrno.cz/
The pistol comes in a leather-effect cardboard carrying case, along with tools, various sizes of sight elements, weights, a 0.2 litre CO2 bottle and adapters to use either the bottle or standard CO2 capsules.
The general finish of the TAU7 is not up to the standard we might expect in the UK. While tolerances appear to be fine and everything functions smoothly, the finish is best described as functional. That said, the grip is made of nice walnut, and is fitted with an adjustable palm rest. I have quite large hands, and find the standard (non-ambidextrous) grip to be a good fit. Unlike some more expensive target pistols, the TAU7's grip is not adjustable for cant or rake. This wasn't a problem for me, as I found it perfect.
The sights are of excellent quality. Three foresight posts of different widths are supplied, along with three rearsight elements giving five different rearsight widths. The sights are sturdy, precisely made and easy to adjust.
Weights are provided so that the shooter may adjust the balance of the pistol to his or her liking. My preference is for two weights at the muzzle and one screwed into the back of the pistol; this brings it naturally to aim on the target.
Unlike Umarex style CO2 pistols, the CO2 capsule is inserted upside down into the bottom of the grip. Before screwing on the appropriate cylinder cap, ensure that the pistol is cocked, otherwise the CO2 will all leak out. It can also be charged from the 0.2 litre bottle provided - I have yet to try this so can't comment.
Loading is directly into the barrel, by means of a hinged breech tap. This is a reliable system, provided that it is not oiled excessively - too much lubrication and it may fly open on firing. Make sure that the tap is securely closed by pulling back gently on the breech buttons after shutting it. To cock the striker, push forward a catch on the side of the receiver until it engages the sear. No safety catch is fitted.
The trigger is adjustable for length and weight of pull, from single stage to two stage. It is more than adequate, providing a crisp and very predictable release. Power is adjustable too, by removing the forestock and tightening or loosening a screw underneath.
Accuracy is excellent. TAU Brno quote accuracy of 9mm edge to edge at 10 metres - that's 4.5mm centre to centre. I find hitting 2cm spinners out to 20 metres relatively easy, and I'm no great shot. Mine likes RWS Geco pellets. While the finish may not be up to much, the engineering is beyond question. Due to the adjustability (grip, weights) shooting one handed is a pleasure, just as it should be for a match style pistol.
Having owned a TAU7 for two years, I would recommend it to anyone looking for a top grade plinking pistol or a basic 10 metre match tool. It's obviously not in the same class as say, the Steyr LP10, but it's not in the same price range either. I paid £150 for mine, second hand on this bbs, in very good condition.
Downsides? I had great difficulty in tracking down a set of seals for mine, and ended up ordering from Quality Sporting Arms, Netherlands. (http://www.qsa-trading.nl/) They provide an excellent service.
http://www.taubrno.cz/