Weihrauch HW44 Air Pistol

In the case of the HW44, we’re looking at a very modern, almost sci-fi design, but one which uses an action based on Weihrauch’s very own HW110 multi-shot PCP. The pistol utilises modern hi-tech materials (ballistic polymer), which are widely used and proven in the manufacture of firearms. So, it will easily cope with the rigours any air-powered gun will be subjected to.

Fill up

The air reservoir includes a forward-facing manometer and fills just like the rifle action it’s based on. A quick-fill probe inserts into the inlet valve hole positioned just to the rear of the gauge. When the fill point isn’t in use, it’s protected by a friction-fit plug. From a recommended fill pressure of 200bar, you can expect approximately 105 shots in .177 (on test) and approximately 125 in .22.

In the frame

The main frame is quite lengthy, which helps with balance, plus it also holds and protects both the barrel and reservoir. However, this is not the frame’s sole duty, as along the top is a generous run of Picatinny rail for sight mounting and a Picatinny accessory rail runs underneath the reservoir.

Gripping

The pistol grip has what can best be described as an ‘upper waist’, where it meets the main frame. Below this, it gives a comfortable grip due to it having full finger ridging at the forward area, plus hand-hugging contouring on all sides and the rear. The main frame above also extends rearwards over the hand, aiding stability in the hold. Weihrauch fans will recognise that it’s the same grip used on the HW100 Bullpup and Bullpup Karbine. Overall, it’s one of the most ergonomic, well-designed and comfortable pistol grips I’ve ever used.

Open wide

Although railed for mounting alternative sighting systems, the HW44 also has a pair of open sights. These consist of a raised foresight blade and a fully adjustable rear sight unit with an open-topped, square-shaped sight notch. The foresight blade is relatively high, which allows the shooter to fit the dedicated HW44 silencer (optional extra) and still be used. It’s well worth purchasing because it’s a superb lightweight unit that considerably reduces muzzle crack. It simply slides over the front extended barrel spigot, where it’s secured by a top-mounted recessed grub screw and three similar screws underneath.

Lock ‘n’ Load

The action uses a side-lever to run the now familiar 10-shot magazine. Cocking and loading the mag is exactly the same as the rifle, but as this is now in pistol format, the side-lever and magazine retaining catch are positioned on the left. However, if you’re a southpaw, a shop-based airgun technician can position them both on the right-hand side. Even the magazine indexing pin located in the magazine housing can be changed to an alternative position, so you can insert magazines from the right.

Leverage

First, you need to draw back the lever until you hear it click and lock in the rearward position. Then, the magazine retaining lever needs to be lifted up so that the magazine can be removed. The lever is under spring tension, so it needs to be manually held upwards for the magazine to be removed. At first, it feels slightly awkward, but you soon get used to the procedure. Once removed, you fill all 10 chambers with the centre boss facing you, and return it back into the housing by once again lifting the retaining lever. Next, return the side-lever to its original position and your first ‘slug’ is pushed into the barrel, meaning you’re good to go. At this point, it’s wise to engage the ambidextrous safety lever by pushing it into the forward position. When you are ready to take a shot, move either safety lever to the rearward position, which puts the pistol into fire mode. This is indicated by a red dot.

Trigger & safety

The 2-stage adjustable matchgrade trigger unit is very precise and demonstrates a crisp and clean break. It has a very comfortable, broad-faced, slightly curved trigger blade that your finger easily falls onto, thanks to that superb pistol grip detailed earlier. Also, the fact you have a safety lever on both sides, just above the trigger, is another trait taken from the HW110, and I’m sure many will agree that it’s good to see the same mech retained on the HW44.

Conclusion

I first used the HW44 open sighted and due to the pistol being longer than most, you have a longer sightline between the blade and rear sight, so you have the ability to create some impressive groups out to 12 yards or so. But that’s for the plinking range, as I’m sure most will fit an alternative sighting system. Hull Cartridge kindly supplied a Weihrauch-branded 2x20 pistol scope, which I zeroed at 20 yards. Shooting from a rested position, the pistol really shows its accuracy potential and soon produced sub ¼” groups at 18 yards. Accuracy was certainly aided by the predictability of the trigger, plus the top-quality, self-regulating valve system ensures a high level of shot-to-shot consistency. The balance and handling of the 44 are spot on, even when scoped up and wearing a silencer. Talking of which, the dedicated pistol silencer Weihrauch can supply is a must for those who like to indulge in long practice sessions.