Pulling sharply down on the end of a barrel, is nicer than the whacking method, but cannot be compared to a real barrel release mechanism.
I open and close the barrel on my FLZ Original Mod. V just for the sheer pleasure that every aspect of it's mechanism brings...the simple design, its efficiency, the ease of operation, the sound as it closes up, it's so satisfying...and yes, it's a bit like flipping a shotgun closed.
Diana only made airguns, but FLZ at least had the experience from making firearms too, and probably that's where their different approach to the barrel release has its roots. Just my guess.
BSA Mercury S - FWB 600 - BSF S54N - FLZ Original V - Harrington Gat - Diana 16 / 22 / 23 (x2) / 24D / 27 (x2) / 27S (Geco 55R!) / 50M - Crosman 761XL (WTF!)