The flagships of the range however, have to be the new Target Hunter (TH) models, offering as they do, an impressive spec sheet. One glance at the latest product brochure reveals that Diana is clearly on the offensive, with a wave of upgrades and models catering for all tastes and budgets.
With 2010 being the 120th anniversary of the famous Diana brand of airguns, it comes as no surprise that this prestigious name should choose to celebrate such an event with the introduction of several new models.
Carbine configurations, where spring-piston air rifles are concerned, represent a saving in overall weight, yet the trade off comes with a slight increase in the cocking effort, due to the shorter leverage. Apparently a successor to the 46 Stutzen, the 430 basically represents a carbine (thus lighter version), which is, I have to say a mixed blessing. So just what do we get for our money? Well, with regards to the action, this Stutzen model utilizes the same under-lever mechanics as the standard model 430 – which is itself a compact and lighter version of Diana’s 460 model. Playing to the fans of traditional full-bore hunting tools maybe, yet those sleek lines have plenty of practical benefits not least of which is absorbing unsightly levers and cocking linkages – all neatly tucked up within the elongated fore-stock.Īll this streamlining means that this Diana model 430 in Stutzen guise, is reminiscent of Military Training rifles, and with that pleasantly figured beech stock, and a hatful of features, it looks good on paper at least. Classic Stutzen styling though always seems to lend a Teutonic air, and where I came to regard its use as simply out of place on the BSA, it’s surely natural territory for the likes of Mayor Grammlespacher (the German makers of Diana airguns).Īs one of the leading airgun brands, with something of an illustrious history, it makes perfect sense that this German giant should include a Stutzen in their product line-up, and this fairly new model 430 is a fine example of their craft.
Stutzen air rifles are based on Continental fashioned hunting rifles with long fore-ends, and as such are a matter of personal taste for sure, but whatever your take on this most distinctive of designs, there’s no doubting that full length woodwork helps to disguise the mechanics, resulting in clean lines and an ultra slick profile.Īs someone who purchased one of the special edition Stutzen stocked Centennial BSA Airsporters, back in the ‘80’s, I clearly have mixed feelings on the subject, since that particular model never quite lived up to the hype – somewhat colouring my judgement in the process.