New Webley Service

[tonibel]

Only tenish?1 In that case, I really cannot see how this project will work. Why will modern shooters buy a rifle that underperforms on power? The answer is that they will not, particularly given the price premium.

I would like to see the business plans behind this project. Clearly, that will not be possible, so I am scratching my head, trying to work out how this is going to generate money to cover the cost of capital.

I am cheering for Sterling but just cannot see how this is going to work from the financial perspective. I hope I am worrying unnecessarily!

There were two MK2 prototypes shown of the 5 made, the highest output so far was just over 10fpe, but Sterling has a target of 11+ and the rifle is unlikely to be manufactured until that goal is met - as it at least needs to compete with its contemporary's on power. It also has another trick up its sleeve, but lets not talk about that here.

The intention is not to replicate a Webley Service MKII but to take the design on further, while not loosing its essence which is one of the most iconic and desirable airguns ever made. I have access to three originals and using these I felt that its also one of the most frustrating airguns with small design failings everywhere, the enhancement project was intended to dial those out. Someone made the point 'why would you want a replica when you can buy a original cheaper'. So the Sterling MK2 has to offer more, while retaining the desirability of the original. The Sterling MK2 is but one thread of the three airguns being initially offered, but do not think for one moment that that is the end of it, Sterling just needs to go step by step. and the mK2 is one of the first tentative steps.

Tony Belas (business development for Sterling)

[oneseven]

It's great to see another UK airgun manufacturer emerging and just as importantly innovating. Tony, you have my undivided attention. Make a genuine quality product and you will get sales.

[andrewM]

There were two MK2 prototypes shown of the 5 made, the highest output so far was just over 10fpe, but Sterling has a target of 11+ and the rifle is unlikely to be manufactured until that goal is met - as it at least needs to compete with its contemporary's on power. It also has another trick up its sleeve, but lets not talk about that here.

The intention is not to replicate a Webley Service MKII but to take the design on further, while not loosing its essence which is one of the most iconic and desirable airguns ever made. I have access to three originals and using these I felt that its also one of the most frustrating airguns with small design failings everywhere, the enhancement project was intended to dial those out. Someone made the point 'why would you want a replica when you can buy a original cheaper'. So the Sterling MK2 has to offer more, while retaining the desirability of the original. The Sterling MK2 is but one thread of the three airguns being initially offered, but do not think for one moment that that is the end of it, Sterling just needs to go step by step. and the mK2 is one of the first tentative steps.

Tony Belas (business development for Sterling)

Tony, that is heartening news. As you say, tentative steps; there is no rush and far better to get this right at the start after investigating every angle. I am glad to hear you have a trick or two up your sleeve!

I recall, by the way, visiting the Sterling factory when I was about 15, many years ago through the contacts of a good family friend, who was a pal of the owner or largest shareholder. They were most courteous and it was an exciting visit for a teenager.

I hope you can knock 'Gerry' into a cocked hat - even although they do produce good stuff.

A

[Garvin]

There were two MK2 prototypes shown of the 5 made, the highest output so far was just over 10fpe, but Sterling has a target of 11+ and the rifle is unlikely to be manufactured until that goal is met - as it at least needs to compete with its contemporary's on power. It also has another trick up its sleeve, but lets not talk about that here.

The intention is not to replicate a Webley Service MKII but to take the design on further, while not loosing its essence which is one of the most iconic and desirable airguns ever made. I have access to three originals and using these I felt that its also one of the most frustrating airguns with small design failings everywhere, the enhancement project was intended to dial those out. Someone made the point 'why would you want a replica when you can buy a original cheaper'. So the Sterling MK2 has to offer more, while retaining the desirability of the original. The Sterling MK2 is but one thread of the three airguns being initially offered, but do not think for one moment that that is the end of it, Sterling just needs to go step by step. and the mK2 is one of the first tentative steps.

Tony Belas (business development for Sterling)

Well, brilliant though I think it is that you're here and discussing it at all, Tony, I'm still not convinced this particular idea is a runner. I'm the first person to appreciate the beauty of the original Webley Service design, but I suspect that airgunners like to own and shoot them because they were made in the 1930s, not for any other reason.

I'm not sure you can go back and correct the design mistakes of the past, any more than you would take a Ford Model T, uprate the engine, brakes and suspension, and expect many people to buy one now. (Even the new BMW-made Mini bears just a token resemblance to the Issigonis Mini...).

You mention the word iconic and desirable and I would fully agree, but mainly from a collector's point of view and in part because of the no-expense-spared construction of the original Mk2 Service (not least the fabulous peep sight, which probably alone turned this rifle into a loss maker back in the day).

Anyway, these are just my armchair reservations, while you are the ones at the sharp end putting your hard-earned cash at risk. I genuinely wish you every success with all your creations.