TAKE ME DOWN

Pete Evans partakes of a take-down that Air Arms have significantally upgraded

When undertaking an airgun review, I think that you should do so with an open mind and without partiality, so this month is a little difficult for me because I rate Air Arms as one of my favourite brands – for several reasons that I am sure will materialise during the progression of this discourse. Confession is good for the soul, and with mine out of the way let’s take a look at the latest incarnation of the takedown rifle, (TDR) and see if this rifle lives up to the high standards set by its predecessors and peers, and I do solemnly promise to remain objective.

TAKE-DOWN LINEAGE

The TDR principle has been around for some time; back in the late ‘80s I remember a few designs surfacing, but few remain in production today, which is a shame because I think the design holds some merit.

Thankfully, Air Arms’ own offering is going from strength to strength, and testament to this sits beside me as I write. The latest incarnation of the TDR is based on the S510R, and that ‘R’ is in capital form for good reason; it’s a big deal, more of which we will consider later. This being the latest incarnation means that there has been an evolutionary process, and in this case it started around 2004 with the 410 TDR.

Built on the solid foundation of the 400 series, this rifle presented itself in a sculptured material case, which could be worn in back-pack style. The rifle itself broke down into three principle sections; moderator (secured by knurled screw), action, and, rear stock.