Top 10 HFT Guns

Hunter Field Target (HFT) competition has proved extremely popular with those of all ages, since its introduction, but to do well in this increasingly competitive branch of outdoor airgun sport, the gun has to be super accurate. Half inch kill zones demand tight groups, so it’s hardly surprising that, (human nature being what it is), many of today’s competitors are using full blown FT models.

‘Not in the spirit of the game’, goes up the cry, yet it’s a perfectly understandable move. However, since the majority of these technological masterpieces feature in their own forthcoming ‘FT rifles’ feature, I’ve put together here a collection of other top performers- all highly popular on the competition circuit.

‘Not in the spirit of the game’, goes up the cry, yet it’s a perfectly understandable move. However, since the majority of these technological masterpieces feature in their own forthcoming ‘FT rifles’ feature, I’ve put together here a collection of other top performers- all highly popular on the competition circuit.

Admittedly with so many rifles on the market, other makes could well do the job, but I would feel happy competing with any of the models featured here. All prices are ball park.

DAYSTATE MK4 IS SPORTS £1162
Contact: Daystate Ltd, 01782 791755

Whilst Daystate take a more relaxed approach these days, their early flirtation with HFT proved most fruitful, with the MK3 dominating the scene for some time. Their latest MK4 action includes fully upgraded electronics, which actually regulate the power and informs the shooter with all manor of technical wizardry. An electronic trigger is also part of the cutting edge package, with an incredibly fast lock time one of the advantages in theory! In practise, it can be all too much for traditionalists, and there’s no electronic revolution anytime soon; but it’s all undeniably clever, and well executed. As for the beautifully contoured Gary Cane designed walnut sporter stock, it handles like a dream.

STEYR LG110 HUNTER £POA
Contact: Harry Preston (Agent) 01904 705401

Steyr- Mannlicher, have really become a force these days, with much silverware falling to this top Austrian manufacturer. The Hunter version of their LG110 features a simplified stock and chassis, housing much the same match-standard action. A full match trigger, capable of ultra light settings, comes as standard, whilst side-lever cocking and direct feed into the barrel, maximises performance still further. The regulated action is based around the indoor target version, and features a stabilizer and anti vibration system.  At 7.5lbs; the Hunter comes in significantly lighter than the majority of top target guns, making it popular with ladies and juniors alike. All in all, a top performer in the right hands, with a host of wins to its name.

AIR ARMS S400 CLASSIC WALNUT £494
AIR ARMS TX200 MKIII £396
AIR ARMS PRO-SPORT £490
Contact: Air Arms Ltd, 01323 845853

Granted, the S400 is a predictable inclusion in any list that I’ve signed off; yet on justifiable grounds! One of my favourite airguns of all time admittedly, but also one of the most successful. From an era when Air Arms cleverly drew on the experience of top engineers and shooters, the 400 series was co-designed by three times World FT Champion, Nick Jenkinson. This no nonsense, British-made classic has regularly seen off more expensive rivals, due to a combination of simple efficiency, and blistering accuracy. Unregulated in standard form, the knock-open valve system can still return impressive consistency with careful charging. Delightfully pretty walnut stocks are simply the icing on the cake with this pedigree Classic.

With a hatful of top tournament wins to its name, this gun needs little introduction. The TX200 was basically the response from top British manufacturer Air Arms, to the HW77, and mirrors much of the blueprint of its rival. Top designer Ken Turner, was responsible for much of the project, and the TX range is now a mainstay for the company; being another top class rifle, with an army of fans. An in-line concentric breech, and a piston running on nylon bearings, sets it apart from the ’77, but a superb level of engineering and high class bluing also accounts for much of its popularity. The main criticism is they are a little front-heavy, yet to some, that’s a bonus. A great trigger and excellent accuracy helps maintain its position as one of the very best springers available. 

Many, myself included, consider the PRO-SPORT to be the best looking airgun on the market, and I would liken it to an Airsporter; made properly! Based loosely around the TX200 action, it’s another under-lever, but this time, the lever stylishly left un-blued, or in the ‘white’ is totally concealed up inside the forend. ‘Over centre’ engineering keeps it in place, and the slickness of the design is just mouth watering. One final point to note here; unlike the TX, the configuration results in more weight towards the rear. Either way, these masterpieces are every bit as accurate as their TX stable mates, so the final choice comes down to personal taste…

BROCOCK CONCEPT £325
Contact: Brocock, 01527 527800

When I first shot this rifle, I was struck with just how compact and manageable it was, and also the superb down range groups! This is another no-nonsense design from the ‘keep-it-simple stable’, and for many, that’s a huge plus point. The manufacturers manage to keep the weight down by utilizing an ultra slim main air reservoir, coupled with a super slim walnut sporter stock. The unique push button loading slide has sadly been replaced with a more conventional bolt, but the slick engineering remains. Fine chequering means they handle well, yet Brocock have just recently announced upgrades to their entire range, with some ‘Elite’ versions waiting in the wings, so expect more features, greater shot count and further refinement. As it stands, for those that want a straight forward, fairly light, super accurate PCP, this is a contender for sure!