Weihrauch HW98

Draw up a list of the finest spring-powered airguns available, and Weihrauch’s HW98 model just has to be on it. The timeless break-barrel configuration still does it for me, and whilst we all appreciate that fixed-barrel designs are in theory superior, the advantage and edge they bring, are largely theoretical, certainly when Weihrauch’s build quality is factored into the equation.

Future-proofed

One look at that adjustable and very chunky cross bolt at the breech, and it’s clear that if there was any play in the setup further down the line, it could be adjusted out in a trice. In other words, the HW98 is future-proofed, and built to last. On test here is the latest model, which was revised a while back, with the main difference being the new sectional barrel.

Features

For those who haven’t encountered the ‘98 before, it has sat in the Weihrauch line-up for some while, primarily as a high-grade sporting rifle that’s aimed at serious shooters that fully intend to exploit the inherent accuracy to the max. What sets it apart from its stable mates are the features that elevate handling to semi-target rifle status. Look to the muzzle, and you’ll notice the beefy ‘bull barrel’, achieved by using a heavy barrel sleeve. This brings several benefits, the first of which is added momentum imparted to the cocking stroke. Secondly, the sheer mass up front helps in itself to deaden felt recoil. Thirdly, all that additional weight up front makes the HW98 muzzle heavy, which pleases shooters like me, as I find it just sits on the target.

The cheek of it

The distinctive and adjustable hardwood stock is a key element of the ‘98, designed to offer the more discerning enthusiast subtle variation and an enhanced shooting position. This is achieved via a well-shaped, height-adjustable rubber butt pad and that smart cheekpiece. The latter can be adjusted by slackening off twin Allen bolts that are recessed inside the large slotted access points on the right-hand side of the butt. Set both butt and cheekpiece in conjunction with each other, and the end result should be a stress-free shooting position and a full, unhindered sight picture.

Arguably, the HW98 is getting a little long in the tooth, and this last upgrade project should have been the perfect opportunity to revamp the stock design. Yes, I know they’ve slimmed the tip, and as it stands, it does its job, but some bold styling up front, with a deeper, more angular forend, could have really caught the eye and elevated this model further. While I’m being negative, it’s notable that the panels of stippling around the pistol grip and under the forend, aren’t quite up to the standard we have come to expect from this esteemed German brand. Stippling should be rough-ish, and it’s raison d’etre after all, yet this latest model sports panels which are just a bit patchy, uneven and raggedy. Just a little unsubtle for Weihrauch, and not quite what we’ve come to expect from their Mellrichstadt HQ. These observations aside, this is still a great handling airgun, but they are worth pointing out. Constructive criticism then, from someone who remains a huge fan, not just of this classic airgun, but Weihrauch’s approach to engineering.

New twist

And so to that new arrangement up front. Weihrauch has now cut down the barrel, yet the machining and finish are so fine, and the mating of the two parts so neat, that the join is barely detectable. The main section from the breech is now 12.2” of Weihrauch’s own rifled barrel, plus the screwed-on non-rifled section which is effectively now a barrel weight. Unscrew and remove the front section to reveal a long thread to take a 1/2” UNF spec silencer, whether Weihrauch’s own or another make. You’ll want the shoulders to be a good match to that beefy barrel to maintain the visuals, but that’s a minor detail.

Mounting a scope is always easy with a Weihrauch, as there’s a good stretch of dovetail rail to play with that runs to the rear of the cylinder. They also machine in a series of arrestor stud holes on the receiver. If this was my gun, I would adopt the belts and braces approach and use a one-piece mount, preventing any movement of the scope and mounts on the rails. Twin-ring mounts can be used, but they will need to feature an arrestor pin or be used in conjunction with a separate arrestor block.

It’s stating the obvious, but one consideration when mounting a scope on a break-barrel airgun is not to foul the moving breech. Given the area to play with, this is only likely to happen where a large FT scope is mounted, or glassware with a long sunshade. Just be aware.

At this juncture, it’s worth reiterating that the process of setting up the scope and getting that cheekpiece and pad set is not something to be rushed, but is best carried out over a few sessions. And get this, I can confirm that the rising cheekpiece can actually be elevated by up to 1.75”, which is a huge aid where it matters.

In action

Of course, any silencer fitted instantly becomes a cocking aid, so that lengthy thread suddenly makes sense for strength and rigidity. Cocking the action is super-smooth, and at the end of the stroke comes that satisfying ‘Weihrauch crunch’, as the trigger sets and the automatic safety catch engages. With the breech open, that classic star configuration around the breech seal is revealed. Press home a pellet directly into the rifling, keeping it flush to avoid deformation, and swing back the barrel. Closing the breech is again a satisfying operation. Nudge off the safety catch and we’re ready to go.

At around 8.3 lbs, the ‘98 is a significant handful, so not one for juniors perhaps, but as a serious adult tool in the field, it simply excels and instils confidence where it matters. Weihrauch’s Rekord trigger design is here, and this unit has the potential for a super-precise, fairly light release. Take your triggers seriously, then it really is well worth employing the services of someone experienced to set the thing up. My old HW77 was set up originally by Airmasters, and a small bit of locktite was added. It then remained impressively light, responsive and wholly predictable for many years after. The ‘Rekord’ is an unusually sophisticated design and was years ahead of the game, giving Weihrauch an edge over serious rivals. Inevitably, some have caught up, but it still stands today as a great piece of design, which speaks volumes for the original specification.

Shot cycle

As for the HW98’s shot cycle, my test gun was undeniably rather twangy on firing and was crying out for a tune and some lubrication, yet felt recoil was minimal, with the sensation best described as a bounce, rather than anything harsh. Over the chronograph, and while using .22 Weihrauch FT Exact Jumbo pellets, I clocked a 10-shot string with a total velocity spread of 16fps, which is pretty good, using ammo taken straight from the tin. Average energy output equated to 11.4 ft/lbs, which is fairly textbook. In terms of accuracy, at 30 yards, groups of sub 1/2” were the norm. Again, Weihrauchs really respond well to some TLC, so judicious lubrication of the internals would almost certainly transform feel, and also improve those performance figures.

Verdict

My shooting friend, Mark H, joined me to evaluate this HW98, and I was surprised that he hadn’t encountered this model before. Despite those less than impressive stippling panels, Mr H was still enthusing, to the point where he was seriously considering putting his hard-earned cash where his mouth was! That says it all about the ‘98 really. Yes, it deserves a more elaborate makeover, but it’s still a cracking rifle and an easy choice for either precision hunting or HFT competition.

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