Second Hand Focus: SKAN Speedstar

Skan are best known for their range of electronic chronographs (or chronoscopes for the pedants among us), but their highly innovative air rifle designs have also generated plenty of interest in their time. Highlighted here, is one of their typically unorthodox creations; in the shape of the Speedstar Mini R32 MKII, and it really is a mini marvel; if a little ‘Heath Robinson’!

MILITARISTIC

Designed by Mike Childs, and first introduced in 1998, the Speedstar R32 is a multi-shot pre-charged pneumatic, offering a fast-fire action; and whilst styling doesn’t follow any model in particular, there are distinctive militaristic overtones. Features are admittedly a little fiddly and eccentric, but that’s all part of the undoubted appeal of these guns.

The R32’s stock comes in three separate sections, made from walnut, whilst an M32 variation was also available, fitted with black rubber in place of the wood; for an altogether more ‘tactical’ look. Skan offered this model in either stainless steel anodised or blacked as per the example here.

This particular example (showing no visible serial number incidentally) comes in its own case, which apparently was offered as an optional extra at the time. Lothar Walther barrels were used, and an accessory rail just under the muzzle means a bipod, laser or lamping device can also be utilized.

ACTION STATIONS

Power is derived from a buddy bottle, which can be either charged in situ, or removed before charging to the prescribed 200bar. A large 32-shot magazine is all part of the attraction with this model, and this takes the form of a double layered circular drum (2x 16-shots) which looks quite impressive in itself. Removing the magazine to fill the chambers, is a wonderfully awkward process, ‘requiring the pistol grip to be pulled fully rearwards, then back slightly, whilst placing the white end of the pellet loading tool between the front of the slide plate and its recess. The pawl then needs to be pulled gently clear of the magazine, and the mag removed. Phew! In practise, it’s a lot easier than it sounds, and it does all function rather well.

With the mag fully primed, and locked back into the action, the fun can start. Subsequent cycling of the action is achieved by pulling back the pistol grip, then pushing it forwards again, and it really is great fun!

Production of the R32 in its various guises, ran until 2010, and if you wish to invest in a much sought after piece of airgun design, this one’s currently on offer for £750, including a spare magazine, compact Simmons scope, and the case as seen.