The HW80, set up correctly, even retaining the 30mm piston, can still shoot nicely at sub-12 power. But a reduced cylinder one will be even better, generally. However, I have tried one or two beautifully fettled 30mm examples that shot sublimely (take a bow, WonkyDonky - others also qualify). The underlever 77/97 and 99, 95, 98 and 35 etc might be more suited to our power levels out of the box, but to some the charm and allure and built-like-an-outhouse demeanour and what attract many to the 80. Lovely, legendary beast of a rifle.
Back when the 80 was launched, the backdrop for its success was ideal, with not that many sporting springers easily making close to the limit power, so that was the rifle's main appeal. And, even compared to its '35 stablemate, with which it shared those robust dimensions and solidity etc., it promised more power and sharper, more modern looks. I wonder how different the rifle's popularity might have been in the UK if the 85 and 95 had arrived before it, though?
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