As has often been said, a big factor in airgun shooting is that it can be enjoyed by all, at any level. Many guns are inexpensive, and an army of enthusiasts are totally content blasting away at spinners on the range, with the odd informal target shoot, and why not! It can be a great stress release, as well as a wholesome challenge, especially on a pleasant day.
But if you’re one of those shooters that really likes to push for more accuracy, and demands that little bit more out of the equipment, then this blog may well give you food for thought.
Upgrades
It’s a common thing in the airgun community, to use and enjoy a particular gun for a period of time, then consider upgrading to something maybe a little more sophisticated further down the line. A typical example is newcomers to the sport. No one wants to over invest, in a new found sport or pastime, until they know it really is for them, so we often start out with a simplified gun, with a view to splashing out once we get the bug so to speak.
However, certain guns are of a high enough quality for us to realise that the basics may well be in place, such as an accurate and fairly consistent power plant. If we like the fundamentals of a particular model, it can seem a shame just to trade it in. There is of course another option….. the custom stock!
AirMaks Stock Options
AirMaks are a good example, and for owners and fans of some of their popular PCP’s there are stock replacements and upgrades for certain models waiting in the wings. Happen to own an AirMaks Krait Lite or Krait Lite L model? Well if you do, the ‘standard walnut stock can actually be replaced with a striking Red Laminate version, instantly transforming looks and all for fairly reasonably money. Ok, this one doesn’t alter handling, as the configuration is near identical but it does feel like a different gun when fitted.
Likewise with the AirMaks Krait, except here, there’s a choice of Red, Blue, Grey, Orange, or Forest style Laminate. These ones are a bit more expensive as it’s a more elaborate design, but equally stunning, and dead easy to fit.
The AirMaks Katran is popular for its tactical looks, and minimalist folding rear stock, yet a custom stock design is available for this one, which then adds a full wooden laminate rear stock, complete with adjustable cheek and butt pad, all in those same vibrant colours.
Form Riflestocks
Form are a British company that produce high grade custom gunstocks, normally out of laminate, but sometimes from Walnut, and the quality and finish are exceptional. Two main designs are available: the Chieftan, and the CR2 Target Stock.
The Chieftan is a semi target laminate design, and this one offers a thumb-hole contoured grip, push button adjustable cheek piece, and adjustable rubber butt pad too. There is the option for a more simplified version with a fixed cheek section, which obviously trims cost, and again, these are available in a selection of beautiful colours.
Initially available to fit a few popular models of gun, Form have now expanded the range, and they are available to fit any Air Arms in the S400/410/S500 range, TX200, BSA R10, Anschutz 9015, Daystate Revere/ Huntsman, FX Dreamline Classic, most Weihrauch HW100 models, and the Weihrauch HW97/HW77 models.
Fitting is very straightforward, and in the case of the Air Arms S400/410/S500 derivatives, it’s just one large stock bolt, and job done!
As for the Form CR2 Target Stock, this is a full blown no-compromise competition stock, designed to offer the serious shooter every possible adjustable element. The twin thumb grip is sublime in the aim, whilst a full 90degree target grip, complete with palm shelf, supports the trigger hand perfectly.
Up front, there’s a recessed accessory rail, with the option of a hamster, whilst at the back, a fully adjustable cheek section can be set in every conceivable position.
Many competition shooters like to go their own way with regards to customising the butt hook arrangement, so Form took the view that the CR2 stock should be available, with and without a butt hook assembly.
If you do fancy the works, then the precision Gen4 butt hook supplied is made by another prestige British company, PRS.
Conclusion
So there we are. Take time considering any gun upgrade, as a custom stock might just be the answer. All the above stocks mentioned are available from Range and Country, and they can transform looks and feel of a favourite gun, literally in an instant.
Range & Country
