Yes sir, I have a .22 Defiant.
I don't know about where the design came from, but overall, the gun is nice.
The stock seems to have been designed by two people. The front half is done really well. Nice flowing curves, each flowing smoothly.into the next. While, from the grip back, seems more like a bridge builder designed the back half. I've got the Black Pepper laminate. Very nicely finished, smooth, semi-gloss, with no blemishes anywhere.
The gun itself, while a bit heavier than most, is overall nicely done. The trigger is usable, but I got one that's a little tight. That is the machined block that it's mounted in has plastic washers on each side of the trigger. The fit is a bit tight. The trigger moves smoothly, but snugly in the block. So far I've not taken it apart to try to fix because I don't have any similar washers that may be a VERY much thinner. I think it only needs .002" or .003" thinner to be good. I've thought of sanding one that's in there. I've got some very fine paper (6000, 8000 grit) that I can remove a small amount and polish it at the same time, just haven't done it. Other than that, the trigger, like I said, is smooth, the first stage is smooth, light. The second stage wall is fairly solid, not as solid as many others, but plenty for a good feel. The let-off is, like the wall, a little soft. Not super crisp as more expensive guns, but unless you are bench shooting at 100 yards, it works fine.
That said, I like the gun. The magazine is very well done, it fits well into the action, so as not to be in the way while shooting. The rear part of the action is smooth, and clean plastic. A well done, smooth area for your cheek. The cocking lever is smooth and works well. On the right side of the gun and not able to be swapped to the other side.
Airguns of Arizona has by far the best price for them. I would not have bought mine for the full price that most are asking, Even after buying mine, I don't think they are worth the full asking price that most shops are asking. But the cost from the noted shop is mostly fair, considering the cost of a lot of other guns. The only better option for just a LITTLE more money is the FX Wildcat Mk III. For what that gun is, it's amazingly inexpensive. And yea, It's a MUCH...better option to buy if you just have the money for one.
I shoot off-hand so my accuracy comments are subjective. In general, it's as accurate as the rest of my guns (all bullpups), at my shorter shooting distance.
Would I buy the Defiant again, probably yes, but only after I bought the Wildcat Mk III !
Hope that helps.
Mike
