Parker Hale Dragon that is...
I've had this for a while and know that not many have seen or shot one. It's my second, the first being a Match version in 177. It was not impressive in terms of accuracy and valve durability but I've come to learn there are "Mk1" and "Mk2" versions which the difference seems to be hardened valve parts. I've also repaired a couple for AoA as they are finicky to set up the valve letoff . These others were like this one - sporters in 22. The valves are letoff type where the trigger holds it closed till the sear breaks, then pops open to let the air out. They are incredibly robustly made, as seen in the pics of the pump mechanism. It is a multi-leverage arrangement. The effort isn't all that high for a 12 ft lb single stroke but it's a bit awkward because the stroke is so long. It actually closes itself in the last part of the stroke.
Note the multi-leverage arrangement with roller bearing, lever lock, and manual reset valve.
It's a process to shoot one... unlock lever, swing open fully, set valve, close pump lever, open bolt, insert pellet, close bolt, release auto-safety, THEN you can fire... don't think you're going to burn up a lot of ammo per session.
It is HEAVY from all the thick steel... over 11 lb with no scope...
Still... neat old rifle to shoot.
I've put this one up for sale and have a couple of prospective buyers, so I wanted to share some details while I could...
Bob
Edited to show manufacturer...
I've had this for a while and know that not many have seen or shot one. It's my second, the first being a Match version in 177. It was not impressive in terms of accuracy and valve durability but I've come to learn there are "Mk1" and "Mk2" versions which the difference seems to be hardened valve parts. I've also repaired a couple for AoA as they are finicky to set up the valve letoff . These others were like this one - sporters in 22. The valves are letoff type where the trigger holds it closed till the sear breaks, then pops open to let the air out. They are incredibly robustly made, as seen in the pics of the pump mechanism. It is a multi-leverage arrangement. The effort isn't all that high for a 12 ft lb single stroke but it's a bit awkward because the stroke is so long. It actually closes itself in the last part of the stroke.
Note the multi-leverage arrangement with roller bearing, lever lock, and manual reset valve.
It's a process to shoot one... unlock lever, swing open fully, set valve, close pump lever, open bolt, insert pellet, close bolt, release auto-safety, THEN you can fire... don't think you're going to burn up a lot of ammo per session.
It is HEAVY from all the thick steel... over 11 lb with no scope...
Still... neat old rifle to shoot.
I've put this one up for sale and have a couple of prospective buyers, so I wanted to share some details while I could...
Bob
Edited to show manufacturer...
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