WH 97 or try a PCP?

Hi all, long time GTA member been out of the game for a few years. Just found this forum and really digging the topics and interactions so thought I would post over here.
I've had an RWS Meisterschutze Model 34 Pro Compact in .177 for some time and is my nicest air gun. I have a few other Crossman/Gamo referbs I picked up cheap for plinking and letting friends use. Been some time since I got anything new and have always wanted an underlever either a Air Arms TX200 or HW 97. I was then thinking about maybe trying a PCP as something a little quieter would be nice for backyard. I'm not looking for a super power PCP, just looking for something with good consistency (I'm guessing regulated) that I can use off-bench or off-hand.
I understand there is a greater cost of getting into PCP, but if the benefits outweigh the added initial investment, I'm good with that. Not like there are any cheap hobbies anyway.
But man, those underlevers sure look good and they are pretty much grab-n-go. I imagine the PCP always has some setup before you can use.

If I go PCP do any of ya'll use a hand pump? Or are you getting tanks filled at a local shop?
The HW97 when ordered from Krale is still the best value in airgunning. A UK spec 12 ft lb model is quieter than you think. The noise you here as a shooter is coming from the stock through your cheekbone. Bystanders don't hear that.
 
Went the pcp route first. Marauder with hand pump, then a couple Daystate a. The hand pump was ok, but I like shooting more than pumping. As someone else said 40 shots on the marauder, then a lot of pumping. I found I could only pump about 50 strokes, then had to wait for pump to cool for 15 to 30 minutes to finish topping off marauder. Otherwise I was rebuilding the hand pump, again because the o rings melted.
Got a yong heng with good success. The day states made pcp in back yard almost boring, only have about 50 yds. Got the 97k and it is my typical grab and plink gun now. The day states are my FT, and hunting guns.
Got the 97 for hunting, but it is too heavy to lug around the woods half the day. But a lot of fun for back yard shooting.

Either choice will be good for you, each has its pros and cons.
 
  • Like
Reactions: hawk45