I have a 1970s version. Not by a long way as finely finished as the earlier ones (which are things of mild beauty - check out the underlever). Shoots fine. Bit twangy, but probably needs a service. On a par with an early Airsporter, but bulkier and heavier to handle. On the other hand, it feels slightly better made (though not at Webley MkIII levels).

No taploader will ever give ultimate accuracy. But they aren't bad.

It is one of the iconic guns from the period when airguns were still made - by some - to traditional pre-war standards of hand work. Why would you not want it? Even if it will only group into 15-25mm at 25M, whereas other more modern guns will group into 5mm, it is a lovely thing to own and use.

By way of comparison, my early Diana 35 is a joy to admire (great wood, nice blueing, full metal sights) and to use. My 70s one shoots just as well, and has a better front sight but that isn't the point: it is much cheapened, admittedly in areas that don't affect performance, but it is just not as nice.

In summary: a classic 50 should put a smile on your face. Buy the thing.