Second Hand Focus: Daystate Huntsman

Founded in 1978 by Don Lowndes, Ken Gibbon, Mike Seddon, and Jim Phillips, Daystate has gone on to carve out its place in the airgun history books. From humble beginnings manufacturing tranquillizer and paintball guns, from their relatively basic workshop in Stone, Staffordshire, the company went on to produce what is widely regarded as the first modern pneumatic air rifle:- the original Huntsman. It’s this landmark model that laid the groundwork for the world of pre-charged pneumatics that we take for granted today.

CUSTOM SPECIAL

The Huntsman was manufactured from the early 1990’s through to around 1996. This particular example is serial number HS1579, and what makes it so special is a few unusual fittings, along with that rather spectacular custom target stock. Considering the overtly target-orientated custom woodwork, this example is also fairly unusual in that it’s in .22 calibre.

Whilst the Huntsman is an understandably simple design, that is in fact, part of the attraction, for devotees of this style of airgun. A simple knock-open valve means the shot count isn’t anything spectacular, as air is drawn, unregulated, from the main air chamber. As the pressure drops in the main cylinder, over the course of the charge, the valve will open that bit easier, with a ‘power curve’ of sorts. Careful charging and monitoring of the number of shots taken, was the order of the day of course, and with this golden rule adhered to, performance can just be enjoyed. Early Huntsman’s were doing well to give 45 consistent shots, but the MKII should be good for somewhere between 50 -70.

A brass valve end, and swan neck bolt handle, give this MKII variant a more luxurious look, whilst stopping short of the garish gold cylinder of the Midas specification. The Huntsman’s 2-stage trigger, originally designed by top FT shooter, Barry McGraw, was ahead of its time, and with a straight brass match blade added to this example, performance and looks are hugely improved.

MYSTERY TIMBER?

In fact, whilst some mystery exists as to the origins of the customized woodwork, it is thought to be perhaps the work of John Welham, who made several special stocks in the mid-80’s into the 90’s, firstly as part of the Airmasters operation, then under his own banner. Other theories surrounding this model are that the stock is in fact, one of several made by the factory as test-beds for future projects. We’ve been unable to clarify this, so would welcome any pointers in this department.

One thing’s for sure- this is a stunning rifle, and a fine example of early modern PCP manufacture. £450 secures this rather tasty old classic, and given the detail and quality of the woodwork alone, I reckon it has to be viewed.