Lightweight rifle for HFT - FX Wildcat perhaps?

[Archer50]

Hi Guys.

As part of falling apart with age I’ve got a problem with my left arm that is getting steadily worse. I can still shoot my HW100 carbine and my Steyr HFT (both about 10lb including scope), but they are becoming a problem, especially when standing. So now I’m looking for lightweight rifle, mainly for HFT. I had thought of putting my HW into a skeleton stock, but I don’t think I’d gain much advantage as the weight is mainly in the metal bits (to use the technical term) anyway. One comparatively cheap solution might be an S400 either in the Superlite version or possibly in a custom stock. I know its not regulated, but there have been a lot of cracking scores shot with S400's, and I could always fit a regulator later. On the other hand, I really fancy a Wildcat . In either case I should save about 2lb.

Any of you folks got any thoughts/experience of using lightweight rifles in general for HFT or how the Wildcat is shaping up in practice, now there is a reasonable number out there? How about single shot loading for the Wildcat? Is it practical, or do you need to use the magazine?

Looking forward to your replies.

[DEAN C.]

Hi,
Being a seasoned HFT shooter for the last 8 years I have tried quite a few set ups and shot with GML 400's and MPR's until recently, although I still have my 2 MPR's as a back up to my Steyr. I would still shoot quite happily with and MPR in a lighter custom stock such as a CS800 or GINB which would gain you a couple of pounds with a light scope on top.

Just a thought but if it's just your left arm, maybe adding weight to the back would lighten the weight on the front.Balance is a funny thing on a gun. I couldnt believe what the FTP weighs when I shouldered one as it felt lighter than my EV2 due to the balance. Sorry dont know anything about Wildcats but I do have a spare GML 400 with a Ben Taylor reg fitted.

Dean.

[Bob P]

Maybe just swap the heavy standard cylinder for an after market aluminium version. I shoot a HW101 with an A&M carbine cylinder, can't remember the actual weight saving but it's very noticeable. I manage around 70 shots but I have also fitted a full length barrel and anti bounce hammer/valve springs.
You don't mention what scope you have fitted, might be able to shave a few ounces with a lighter scope.
Bob

[tugg]

I was gong to suggest adding weight to the rear of gun, also I don't know what scope you are using but an mtc connect although fairly heavy for its size can put the weight towards the back a little. Also try using a different stance ,you should be using as little muscle as possible .
Don't know anything about the fx but s400k are great little gun and the ones I've had have been amazingly accurate and light but too light for my liking.

[Charlts]

If you're happy with the HW100, see if you can borrow a lighter cylinder, it'll transform it.

[Mog]

So far advice has been given on making the rifle lighter, have you thought about your standing shooting stance? I assume your right handed and your leading (left hand), the one you're having trouble with, is taking the weight. If, at the moment you're using a hunter/sporter stance you might find it easier to adopt a target stance, supporting the stock nearer the trigger and tucking your elbow into your hip, that's if your physically able to do so. HTH.

[Snapshot]

If you do want to lighten the HW100 then A&M ally cylinder and skeleton CS800 stock is the way to go. The balance is just forward of the magazine slot. It's still a good bit heavier than an S400 Superlite but much better than a standard HW100.

This is mine.

[Mog]

Aa s200?

[Archer50]

If you do want to lighten the HW100 then A&M ally cylinder and skeleton CS800 stock is the way to go. The balance is just forward of the magazine slot. It's still a good bit heavier than an S400 Superlite but much better than a standard HW100.

This is mine.

I wondered about the CS stock and that looks really good. Any idea what the weight actually is?

Btw, I've already got the A&M cylinder - it makes quite a difference.

Alan

[lensman57]

Hi Guys.

As part of falling apart with age I’ve got a problem with my left arm that is getting steadily worse. I can still shoot my HW100 carbine and my Steyr HFT (both about 10lb including scope), but they are becoming a problem, especially when standing. So now I’m looking for lightweight rifle, mainly for HFT. I had thought of putting my HW into a skeleton stock, but I don’t think I’d gain much advantage as the weight is mainly in the metal bits (to use the technical term) anyway. One comparatively cheap solution might be an S400 either in the Superlite version or possibly in a custom stock. I know its not regulated, but there have been a lot of cracking scores shot with S400's, and I could always fit a regulator later. On the other hand, I really fancy a Wildcat . In either case I should save about 2lb.

Any of you folks got any thoughts/experience of using lightweight rifles in general for HFT or how the Wildcat is shaping up in practice, now there is a reasonable number out there? How about single shot loading for the Wildcat? Is it practical, or do you need to use the magazine?

Looking forward to your replies.

Think very carefully before committing yourself to an unregulated rifle for HFT. AA guns are accurate but have a very pronounced power curve. This does make your POI almost unpredictable unless you wish to only use the 40 odd shots around the sweet spot.

A.G

[Gecko]

Aa s200?

Good option with an external reg 70+ regulated shots, or an ally cylinder for an uber light rifle though as standard a 11.3fpe S200 gives enough shots for HFT.

[imorik]

Bit of an oddball but I like the look of the TAU BRNO MK300 http://sureshot-airguns.co.uk/tau-brno-mk-300-sniper/

Not seen one in the flesh. It's a little over 3kg unscoped so not a heavy gun.

[learningcurve]

Have you had a look at the new Brocock Compatto?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJYECikA3L0

[riku]

A bullpup configuration will move most of the weight behind the trigger and you will support much of the weight with your shoulder. I can actually shoot my Viking from standing position with right hand only. Vulcan and Cricket are good ones and FX Wildcat is a possible candidate one FX gets their act together. Alternatively get a bullpup kit for your HW.

[Gecko]

What are bullpups like for shooting prone of the peg?