Hi to all,

I am a beginner, unsure of what to buy in which calibre Thought I should buy a M350,because have heard so much about this model being the ultimate, people simply never stop talking about it.Also I think if i buy it, I'll be happy with it for long time, no need to upgrade.Then I looked at the M34 the velocities stated at that price impresses me. My use would shooting in the backyard and some pest comtrol, mostly bandicoots and bats. Could you guys could offer your suggestions ?

Thanks
aljoe

 Aljoe,

 You'll find the Model 34 is definatelly no slouch, and it is FAR easier to master than the hard to hold 350Magnum. To be honest, the 350 is an experts rifle, one you would get after you'd shot powerfull rifles for a considerable while, and understood the delacate controls necessary to maintain a proper "Hold".

 The Model 34 comes in a number of calibers, and presents a numbet of probable and usable ft lb levels and trajectorys to choose from. Generally, one would select the .177 for all around use, the .20 and .22 for hunting. However in any caliber, very good accuracy can be expected from a properly broke in and lubed gun. BTW, the Models 36 and 38 are essentially the Model 34 action, but with refined stockwoods, trimmings, and finishes.

 Personally I already own a Model 35 in .177cal, a lesser powered, much older, but similar large Diana break-barrel. So if I were to choose a Model 34, 36, or 38 for myself, it would be in .22 caliber, just for a change...

 The Model 34 is very well made, quite accurate, and will last a lifetime, (more likely two!), they are a real workhorse when "stock" and can be custom "tuned" fairly economically, into being excellent rifles!

 HTH,

 ZVP

the 350 is very hold sensitive , and unless you are used to hold sensitive guns it will be very frustrating to shoot accurately.It is also a bear to cock at 58 lbs cocking force , not your shoot all day plinking gun. Add to that its voracious appetite for scopes , it will literally shatter the lenses of any low end scope.I does however fill a nich as a long range hunter 50m , in the hands
of someone used to magnum springers and is using a high end scope and needs the power for the game
he is after , and will only shoot several pellets during the day.
the 34/36 is much more versatile , a magnum in its own right at13-14fpe , capable of takeing small game with ease esp in .22 , much lighter than the 9lb 350 and handier than the 4 foot 350.
the price makes it an incredible value considering what you get.

Frank

to begin i think is better the diana 27 or similar in .177
200-230 m/s
i have the 350 magnum in .22
the .22 is another world
to shot from 10 to 30 meter i like the .177
to shot after 30 meter is better .22

the 350's are great guns with tons of power but as said previously, they can be hold sensitive which from experience can be very frustrating! They are long and a tad heavy. I agree that for a beginner, the 34 or the fancier 36 and 38 is probably the way to go. If you have a ton of patience and don't mind the learning curve of certain holds, well the 350 would be my choice(I chose the 350 for my first magnum powered air rifle). Both guns will deliver awesome performance especially after a tune.

I agree with the others. High-power springers are often excellent guns, but it is important to understand that they are specialized tools. The power comes with compromises in other areas--they are big, heavy, hard to cock, more punishing to shoot, and harder to master.

Beginners often assume they need that extra power, but in truth it is not useful for most airgun jobs. A medium-powered gun is MUCH easier and more pleasant to own all-round, and I think you will discover it more than powerful enough for 99% of all you ask of it. Go for the 34.

Thanks for all the prompt responses, I like this forum.
I got to shoot my friend's M34 yesterday. I felt comfortable with it, cocking effort is ok, nice power and OK weight.This is in .177 and my buddy assures me if i miss something, it's only my fault,not that of the gun! I am starting to like it. Let me do somemore shooting during the weekend. My buddy also feels that the 34 is overall a better buy than the 350, since it's got enough power for most requirements. He has shot both, says the 350 has awesome power but is not pleasant to cock and shoot all day.
aljoe