Ding! Ding!

[Modski66]

Thanks John, the Protek site is very interesting for examples of actual guns with detailed descriptions of their condition. This made the other link more understandable for a vintage newbie!
I am still a little confused about the model letters, I thought they only went up to 'D' so seeing a model 'T' threw me!
Hopefully there might be something I can at least handle (and maybe buy) at the Melbourne gun fair in October.

[Josie & John]

Thanks John, the Protek site is very interesting for examples of actual guns with detailed descriptions of their condition. This made the other link more understandable for a vintage newbie!
I am still a little confused about the model letters, I thought they only went up to 'D' so seeing a model 'T' threw me!
Hopefully there might be something I can at least handle (and maybe buy) at the Melbourne gun fair in October.

Hi Mark,

It's a huge subject! Pre WW1, there were the Improved Model B and D but between the wars, the models are best identified through the serial number prefix, such as L, S and CS between 1919 and 1935 (Light, Standard and Club Standard), then A, C, T and B between 1936 and 1939. The A and T were updated L and S models, sharing the same external dimensions, whilst the C was a shorter CS (the C or Club model made its first appearance in 1930 and to confuse matters further, early short Club models were fitted with CS prefixed trigger blocks), whilst the B was a 'new' Breakdown model.

I've written a book on the subject and am presently seeking a publisher.

Kind regards,

John

[45flint]

Hi Mark,

It's a huge subject! Pre WW1, there were the Improved Model B and D but between the wars, the models are best identified through the serial number prefix, such as L, S and CS between 1919 and 1935 (Light, Standard and Club Standard), then A, C, T and B between 1936 and 1939. The A and T were updated L and S models, sharing the same external dimensions, whilst the C was a shorter CS (the C or Club model made its first appearance in 1930 and to confuse matters further, early short Club models were fitted with CS prefixed trigger blocks), whilst the B was a 'new' Breakdown model.

I've written a book on the subject and am presently seeking a publisher.

Kind regards,

John

I’d buy that book in a second, hope you get it published.

[Lakey]

I’d buy that book in a second, hope you get it published.

Me too John, just tell us when and where. Maybe a book signing session at a future Kempton Fair perhaps ----- Not that I am jumping the gun in ANY way you understand

[Josie & John]

Me too John, just tell us when and where. Maybe a book signing session at a future Kempton Fair perhaps ----- Not that I am jumping the gun in ANY way you understand

Thanks both. I'll let you all know when I have a publisher.

Kind regards,

John

[micky2]

Thanks both. I'll let you all know when I have a publisher.

Kind regards,

John

Hi John, has the film people say it's been a long time in the making. l am realy looking forward to this book. good luck with finding a publisher.
ATB,
Mick.

[micky2]

Thanks John, the Protek site is very interesting for examples of actual guns with detailed descriptions of their condition. This made the other link more understandable for a vintage newbie!
I am still a little confused about the model letters, I thought they only went up to 'D' so seeing a model 'T' threw me!
Hopefully there might be something I can at least handle (and maybe buy) at the Melbourne gun fair in October.

Yes the Melbourne air gun fair would be a good place to get a view and feel of some of these old BSAs and other makes as well.

[Modski66]

Yes the Melbourne air gun fair would be a good place to get a view and feel of some of these old BSAs and other makes as well.

After some more research, the cadet major appears to be a sturdy piece of kit, but is it too 'modern' for the more traditional bell target gun I think I am imagining?

[micky2]

After some more research, the cadet major appears to be a sturdy piece of kit, but is it too 'modern' for the more traditional bell target gun I think I am imagining?

The Cadet Major is a very well made rifle and will last for years and is easy to work on, and it will be cheaper than any of the other rifles. it also has the advantage of a adjustable trigger.

[Modski66]

I seem to be talking myself into buying the Vostok rifle I was using last week, assuming it is still on offer for the princely sum of £40, of course...
The itch it has given me needs to be scratched, and it is a long time until the fair in October!
If I take to ye olde style shooting, I think I would be more confident of what I would be looking for when the time comes.

That sounds a convincing reason, right?

[Modski66]

£40 lighter and one Vostok heavier....