I have been thinking about getting a new 80 but looking for reassurance

[look no hands]

That's a bit naïve Tone,😁 if they were bothered about longevity they wouldn't have changed it , it's been a solid piece of engineering for many years, the change will be down in part to cost reduction.

Spot on Nick, it's the same in all industry, it's all cutting corners now to save that extra penny or two, just think BSA/Gamo.

[Shed tuner]

plus replacing that part doesn't look very expensive, and as others have said, I doubt it breaks every 5 minutes...

certainly easier than re-welding front stock lugs.

[Waddy]

If it was a problem all the airgun related forums would have threads on it.

Lots of people love to rubbish Wiehrauchs, no idea why they just do, but they'd be all over it like a nasty rash.