Years ago I had a Theoben Sirocco 2000 in 22, which I reluctantly sold because it regularly needed topping up. However, I haven't owned a 22 springer since I was a lad. Because I don't hunt I've always used 177 guns.

But I'm not a competitive target shooter either, and when I decided to buy a HW99s I followed the advice of those who said it was sweeter in 22.

My word, for a light weight gun it is very civilised to shoot. Of course, I'm still having to relearn the 22 trajectory, but on a range it doesn't cause suffering if you clip a target (well, only to the frustrated shooter perhaps). I'm also loving the way the larger calibre really knocks those targets down. Very satisifying.

Now I'm beginning to wonder how nice a heavy springer like a HW77/97 or TX would feel in 22. I may have been missing out on a very enjoyable experience for the last thirty years.