Diana 34 EMS Black Polymer – Pretty Poly

Hear the name Diana, and we are right to expect a level of build quality and finish that’s synonymous with this famous old German brand. On test here is one of their revamped, traditional spring-piston break-barrel models, the Diana 34 EMS in Black Polymer guise, and that means a stylish, composite thumbhole sporter stock, and some interesting features that elevate this model above the norm.

Modular

First, let’s confirm part of the nomenclature, as the EMS in the name denotes Easy Modular System. The idea from Diana’s designers is that the user can convert the spring-piston power plant further down the line, over to Diana’s N-TEC gas-ram system. Being able to easily swap out the internals and drastically change the firing cycle in the process, is a novel and radical approach for sure, but just how many shooters will be bothered to go down this route, is, of course, open to conjecture.

Tradition meets modernity

Tipping the scales at around 7.7 lbs means the 34 EMS isn’t exactly a lightweight, yet a combination of a solid build and fine balance come together nicely for an undeniable air of quality. What plastic components there are, the rear sight, cylinder end plug, and foresight/muzzle assembly, are sufficiently precise to carry off their remit without fuss. All the metalwork gets a high-quality chemical blue process and final polish. Again, to an appreciably high standard.

Look to the breech and that satisfyingly chunky cross-bolt is there to allow for adjustment, both in terms of barrel alignment and solidity of the lock-up. Apparently, the lock has been improved on this latest version, and add in the two-part articulated cocking linkage, complete with plastic guide, and it’s no surprise the resultant cocking action is suitably smooth. At the muzzle, there’s now a ridged screw cap, which once removed, reveals a standard ½” UNF thread for a compatible silencer. Add one, and this model may well become irritatingly long, but just having the option is nice.

Pretty ‘Poly’

And so, to the black polymer stock that differentiates this model from its wooden-stocked stable mate. I love the textured ‘grippy’ feel overall, but just feel Diana has missed a trick by playing it a little safe with the configuration. The drop-down pistol grip thumbhole area is excellent, with good feel and control as a result. The forend tip is well-shaped and comfortable in the aim, yet the forend overall seems just a little too thinned out. A deeper section in front of the trigger would elevate handling somewhat, and as for the cheekpiece, all I can say is it is irritatingly misleading, given that it looks as though it should be adjustable on the vertical plane. The aluminium inserts look the part, but hey.

Sighting up

Tru-Glo fibre optic open sights are a big bonus on this style of airgun, and youngsters and novices should take the time to familiarize themselves and learn the process. The sprung leaf rear sight is a neat little unit, however, does require a screwdriver to adjust for windage and elevation, rather than offering finger wheels. No big deal, and the sight picture afforded with the red foresight and green dots at the rear, works really well.

Pre-drilled arrestor holes are a big help with a spring gun, and the dovetail rails here feature three, so there are plenty of easy mounting options. The renowned 2-stage T06 trigger unit is here, and that has to be a cause for celebration. A metal blade, super-light first stage, then a crisp, predictable, and adjustable release point, sets this Diana way above several rivals since the trigger is an area where it’s so easy to cut costs by keeping things simple.

Firing cycle

Breaking open the breech proved a little stubborn on test, so I resorted to jolting it open over the knee first. Cocking effort thereafter is fairly easy, although interestingly, the process was a bit ‘graunchy’ with my test rifle. Pellets are also a fairly loose fit in the breech, due to the chamfer applied at the production stage, so it pays to ensure the barrel is pointing down as the breech is closed, to prevent the pellet dropping out prematurely. As for the subsequent firing cycle, this felt very quick on test, with a super-slick snap. Yes, there is still recoil to speak of, but the shot cycle is more of a bounce than anything harsh, so clear evidence of recoil-calming measures, such as a spring guide inside the cylinder. There’s also an automatic safety catch at the rear of the cylinder, in the usual style that Diana has utilized of late, and on test, this proved just a little stiff to press. However, this is something that will probably ease over time.

Velocity & consistency

So, what about performance? Well, the 34 EMS, supplied in .22 calibre on test, did produce energy just a little too near the limit for my liking. However, with super-consistency of just 13fps over ten shots, using the favoured Weihrauch FT Exact Jumbo pellets, it was hard not to be impressed overall. Similar figures and performance with two other quality pellet brands proved to me that the 34 EMS, or my test sample at any rate, is anything but pellet fussy. Groups of around 0.5” over 25 yards were also pretty easy to come by, so overall, textbook performance that makes a point.

Verdict

Diana has clearly still got it, and with the famous God of Hunting image proudly etched on the cylinder, the brand hasn’t lost the ability to instil confidence and pride of ownership. The 34 EMS is an interesting prospect, and this black polymer variant is a worthy addition to the line-up.

Thanks to Range & Country Shooting Supplies in Sleaford, Lincs., for the kind loan of this rifle.