Daystate Harrier X Review

Overall Rating

solidly built, good accuracy, great fit, repeater

lack of a regulator

I purchased a 35fp .22 cal Harrier X from AOA just recently for hunting and general target practice. On top is mounted a Bushnell 4200 Elite 8x32 scope on BKL mounts.

This is my first pcp and it has been more than 35 years since I have owned an airgun of any type (my last airgun was a Benjamin .20 CO2 pistol) so my opinions on this rifle are based as a .22 rimfire shooter who has switched to air rifles.

This was a sight unseen purchase based on conversations with AOA on my needs and wants. My first impression when I opened the box was "this ain't no Daisy BB gun". I am very impressed with the craftsmanship and fit and finsh of this piece. When I shouldered it I knew I could shoot it well as the fit was perfect with the sporter walnut stock. The next day I used a sandbag and sighted in the rifle at 50 yrds. By the 5th shot I was dead on my 1" crosshair dots using 16gr AOA pellets.

I have found that after a fill (220 bar)my first shot (a fouling shot we might say) the gun will stack pellets into a cloverleaf for the next 26-27 shots then I notice a drop off in accuracy. In my opinion for a hunting arm that is very acceptable as most hunts consist of 15 shots or less when I use a .22 rimfire. The accuracy will stand toe to toe with any sporting .22 rimfire rifle I have ever owned or shot (including the Anschutz, Kimbers, or Coopers I have shot)

I have to wonder if a regulator would help the fouling shot and extend the number of consistant shots. I feel that it could.

All in all this rifle is perfectly suited for the needs and wants I initially stated to AoA. But, someone should have warned me that these airguns are more addictive than .22 rimfires. I am now considering purchasing a CRX for FT shooting within the next month or so.

Members' Comments onJimDE's Review

• thumper on 12th Apr 2004

  Daystate are bringing out the Harrier X2 this year, along with other options will be a fully regulated model, but the one Im holding off for is the Air Ranger 3, similar in looks to the Theoben Rapid, which I own myself, but this gun will be power adjustable from 50-110 ftlbs I believe, some might say that there is no point as a rimmie will do that power but it will have a shrouded barrel that incorporates a silencer, that will be handy for our stateside brethren, good luck to you.