NATIONAL TREASURE!

Even the most reliable airguns need a little attention. Pete Evans tends to an ailing Air Arms S410

Last month we studied the Air Arms S400 series, and concluded that it is one of the nation’s favorite rifles. One aspect of its success is its robust design, but any precharged rifle will need a little attention from time to time, invariably involving seal changes, which will degrade over time. My neighbour Lee ‘Evs’ Evans, not a relative – contrary to popular belief not everybody in Wales is related – came to my aid by kindly offering his S410 for this feature. The problem manifested as an inability to retain an air charge overnight, which I am sure you will agree is a little annoying, but before undertaking the work there are a few points to consider.

OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME

Safety is always of paramount importance, so before working on any PCP be certain you have the knowledge and equipment to do so safely and competently. If you have any doubts, have the work carried out by a trained expert.

If you can work on the rifle yourself, first make sure it is unloaded and empty of air. Usually, this means dry-firing until all the air is expelled. Don’t rely solely on the pressure gauge, because they can be deceptive.

The next important issue is stripping the gun, which can be complicated by anti-tamper devices fitted by the manufacturer. These are to help guard against misguided individuals trying to increase power levels. From 2006, anti-tamper devices in the form of screw covers have been fitted to the 400 series, which need to be removed to access the screws securing the breech. It is not illegal to have these covers removed, but it does show anyone scrutinizing your gun that it has been apart, and as the owner, you really need to be absolutely sure that your gun doesn’t exceed the 12 ft.lbs. limit with ANY pellet.