FAS 6004 vs Hammerli AP20

[DonB]

I have been shooting AP for about one year and currently have an IZH-46M. Current scores are around 540 with limited AP practice (<2-3 hours/week), and for what it's worth, 20 shot strings averaging 190. My plan is to "get serious" and start training and competing. I am looking for a second pistol to have as a back up or possibly a new primary. Budget is limited, yes Rover I know I can't buy points, and I'm debating between a FAS 6004 and the Hammerli AP20. My thought on AP20 is that in the long run a few points may be gained by saving energy by not pumping the SSP... Thoughts and recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.
Don

[SamEEE]

I am going to skim over the notion that a shooter needs a backup pistol. Waste of resources in my view.
Actually: Matchguns MG-2 might be worth having two of.

In my view it is worth saving for a decent gun. You can pick up a CO2 or older generation PCP gun for the cost of an AP20.

FWB P30 would be my pick of the bunch. A little further up the market you might snag a deal on an old Morini 162E, or a Steyr LP-1.

Honourable mentions:

Walther CP1
Walther CP2
Walther CP3
Walther CPM1
FWB C25
FWB C20
FWB C10
FWB Model 2 - maybe.
Pardini K2s
Pardini K58

[kevinweiho]

I would not recommend the FAS 6004 (quality problems still persist) or the AP20 because both pistols are third tier guns.

If you're serious on making the leap, I would suggest waiting for a used first tier PCP that is within your budget.

[Rover]

I use an SSP AND a PCP. That "getting tired" thing is bogus. But, if you want a new toy for less bucks, I go with SamEEE.

Don't forget the Pardini K60.

[GOVTMODEL]

"...I know I can't buy points...",
Don

I think you can, and every one you buy is one fewer you have to shoot.

That said, IMHO you are better served saving for a first tier air pistol used rather than buying a new one that's not so good, particularly one that is not well supported. And even if the website says the FAS 6004 "...has won many International championships..." I don't recall them. Maybe I'm just forgetful.

There are a lot of Steyr shooters that are very, very satisfied with their purchase.

(note to David Levene- I realize that choosing a pistol is a very personal thing, and what works best for me may not work best for someone else.)

[David Levene]

(note to David Levene- I realize that choosing a pistol is a very personal thing, and what works best for me may not work best for someone else.)

I agree with everything you said in your post, with one minor difference.

I don't think you can buy points, but you can buy equipment that makes it easier not to drop points. For most of us that amounts to the same thing.

[Rover]

Are saying then, that a PCP will outshoot a CO2 gun?

[David Levene]

Are saying then, that a PCP will outshoot a CO2 gun?

A modern top range PCP pistol will probably be easier to shoot consistently well than a more old-fashioned CO2 gun. The propulsion gas is only a small part of the gun's qualities although, if you travel to matches, the availability of refills at the venue becomes a more important issue..

[kevinweiho]

It's like saying why F1 cars use a paddle steering wheel instead of a clutch pedal? Because it is more consistent and does not wear you out. Every decimal point counts when you're playing with the big boys.

[william]

It's like saying why F1 cars use a paddle steering wheel instead of a clutch pedal? Because it is more consistent and does not wear you out. Every decimal point counts when you're playing with the big boys.

Or wondering whether Rover still hand-cranks his car.

[Rover]

Are you "playing" with the big boys or still "cranking" it like William?

[Wynne G Oldman]

A couple of months ago I bought an old Morini 162E with the interchangeable cylinder kit fitted, and sold my MP-46M. The Morini is a much nicer pistol to shoot, in my opinion, and the build quality is much better, but my scores haven't gone up. I think this shows what a good pistol the MP-46M is, for the money. The Morini cost me £470, so if you are patient, they do pop up at reasonable prices occasionally. If I were you, I'd keep hold of your MP-46M until that bargain that you just can't resist comes along.

[DonB]

Thank you for all the responses. I think I will wait for my budget to increase or a good deal....

Thanks again.
Don