Hammerli 208s - Help with Decision - High End .22 pistols

[upacreekk]

I have a list of 4 pistols that I want: 1) Colt Woodsman Match Target, 2) Colt Diamonback, 3) Beretta 87 Sport or 89 Target, and 4) S&W K-22/17. About a month ago, I held a Hammerli 208 International, which used to be on my list, but I didn't like the way it felt. I tried a Benelli 95 and didn't like it. I have also tried a bunch of Hi Standards and didn't like them. I tried some Rugers and didn't like them either. So, all I have now are my Browning Medalists, S&W Model 41, and S&W 617 (4", 10-shot).

Here's the dilemma: I found a Hammerli 208s in a local shop today -- It's a miracle! It was brought in by a widow and was part of a varied collection. It felt A LOT BETTER than the International. It has been shot (there is a little "stamping" on the breech face from the bolt), but it is in great shape and has ALL of the original parts (2 magazines, case, test target, manual, plastic bags, etc.). The price is $1,850, plus tax. According to the store owner, who I trust, the gun has been on consignment for a week. However, he is not ready to ask the widow if she will dicker on price yet, as he said to wait and see what happens.

I do a little bullseye shooting, but I am not a serious bullseye shooter. This is a chance to get an important, semi-rare gun. I am not sure if I should sell one of my Medalists, or use/sell one of my Smith's in a partial trade, or try to find the money some other way to acquire it. BTW, I previously sold 5 (of my 25) air guns and 2 (of my 15) air pistols in order to generate some money. And, although it would be a little "painful", I could sell a few more.

Questions: I am asking if it's worth it? In other words, how hard should I try to make it work? What would YOU do? Some straight-forward advice would be appreciated.

Thank you,

Kent

 

[Mike OTDP]

I'm gritting my teeth here...

I love the 208S (and own one), but getting parts can be a bit tricky. Larry Carter is making spares (www.larrysguns.com). These days? I'd be looking at a Feinwerkbau AW93. And selling either a Medalist or the M41 to get it.

But remember, the feel of a gun is adjustable. Just get new grips.

 

[Standing Wolf]

You may have trouble finding Woodsman parts.

There are a couple Italian high end match pistols that may be worth considering. The Smith & Wesson model 41 tends to need some gunsmithing out of the box; once properly slicked up, however, it's a pretty durable, accurate shooter.

Personally, I'm happy with my High Standards, but parts are available only through cannibalization. The Texas "High Standard" company bought the name and designs; its products, however, are nowhere near being in the same class as the original Connecticut High Standards.

 

[CraigC]

USFA is 'supposed' to be marketing a new Colt Woodsman Match Target model and they're listed at Davidson's but so far, I've heard of none materializing.

 

[earplug]

Buy it

I don't have a clue on Medalist parts. I'm guessing they are harder to find then Woodsman parts.
As neither were winners in global 22RF match shooting I would be happy with a Hammerli 208 that was a winner.
Many Brownings are bought and sold on their collector value instead of their shooting value.
If the Browning was a decent competitive pistol it would still be built along with the resurrected High Standard and the perennial favorite US built S&W Model 41.
After shooting several cases of 22RF ammo the initial cost of a target pistol is forgotten.
Only your results and happiness matter.

 

[PzGren]

I used to shoot competitions with a Hämmerli 208 back in the late '80s and the gun had seen quite some use. Nothing ever failed and a good friend has shot his 208 for well over 40,000 rounds without parts breakage. I find the price of $ 1,850 plus tax very high and would check different sources, on Target Talk you will once in a while find abetter deal.

Hämmerlis are very well made and I am happy to enjoy a Hämmerli 212 these days that serves as my "plinker". Make sure that you get the gun with the red tool roll, it includes a spare firing pin and spring. Magazines are not cheap but I have successfully modified a $10 Star F mag to work reliably.

 

[340PD]

+ 1 on Larrys Guns. He will give you an honest opinion. I shot a Hammerli SP 20 and a 280 with conversion for years. Parts are available but you should need not much more than a spring kit.