Options for CMP Vintage Practice

Late last year I caught the bug for shooting in the CMP Vintage (bolt) matches, and after spending time and money throwing rounds downrange it's become painfully aware that my eyes don't do bullseye shooting with iron sights the way they once did. Years ago I started back into airguns for this exact reason, and I bought an HW77 and put a Williams peep on the receiver. That rifle is long gone, and I know there are plenty of good options for practicing at 10m, but I have two that seem to fit the bill the best; the AV M1A and the Diana K98 springer. The thinking is these would not only allow me to practice getting a good 6 o'clock sight picture, but they should feel much more like what I'll be using in the vintage matches.

I know the K98 is discontinued but they're still around at this point. The M1A is a plus because it already comes with the rear peep, which I'd have to add for the K98, and from what I've read it balances pretty well, where the K98 is very front heavy. However, I'd expect the K98 is going to be better quality in manufacturing, etc., but that may be my own personal bias. The biggest factor here though is the attainable accuracy, as I need to train my eyes again for a bullseye in a peep, and I need to be able to measure my progress.

I've read reviews of both, but I'm still looking for advice. Thanks in advance!

Dear Chuck;

A friend and I have just started a parallel project with two guns, both of them DIANA K-98 Springers.

We're going to turn them into SSG's, so two different scopes, but after having analyzed the guns, I have to say that IF the main point is to re-train yourself for peep sight shooting, the DIANA would seem like a better option.

Price-wise, they are not even close, you can get the K98 for around $300 all in (prices and shipping included) from Numrich Arms Corp, but the M1A will be a good $65 under that when all is considered and, as you said the peep is already included.

IMHO, the all wooden stock and furniture of the K98 deserve that price difference and more, originally these guns were $400 guns, but that is just my biased opinion.

For target shooting and training purposes, you should think of getting a 0.177" cal gun and tuning it down to about 14 ft-lbs., or less, this will allow extended shooting sessions at lower cost and increased shootability.

Now, what is truly exceptional for a current airgun are the sights on the K98. The front sight is truly a "globe" and the pyramid-shaped post is adjustable for height. In the gun box you will find the tools to adjust it.

You would probably need to glue a small magnet to hold the underlever closed, as some of the detente springs are somewhat weak, but that is a $1.98 "upgrade".

So, no matter what pellet/energy combination, you will be able to find the right "Spot" for the iron sights.

I would install a WGRS peep on the rear rail and remove the VNotch. This will give you a wide range of rear apertures to choose from. The Williams "Twilight" apertures are particularly useful in low lighting/tired eyes conditions.

If you are on a tight budget the rear sight can be converted to a peep with a peep plate secured by screws and bent at an angle to the rear sight, and an additional hole in the rail.

In essence, I don't think you can go wrong with either for the type of training and distance that you mentioned.

Best of lucks and keep us posted!

HM

   +1 on the K98. Purchased one a few years ago on a lark and was delighted by its build quality and accuracy. When the loose nut behind the trigger is having a good day, it will consistently shoot five shots into 1 1/2" at 50M - which is pretty good with any springer. Have an 8mm K98, and the Diana  has a similar weight weight and feel - but a much better trigger. 

   A lot of 10M match sights could fit the dovetail and the WGRS is a fine choice. The existing, front, tapered post is great for precision work, although it may need a riser block if elevation doesn't match. If you have the room, it is powerful enough to practice three position at longer yardage if you get a .22. If all you have is 10M to practice, HM is absolutely correct that a detuned .177 is better for the fine, incremental adjustments you are seeking at that range.

   Have fun!

Wow - how could it be I have never seen or heard of such a springer? Are they even still for safe anywhere? I am more of a Crosman pistol guy but always looking for something exciting. ? 

https://www.gunpartscorp.com/products/1828990  

HTH

HM