The Czech manufacturer AirMaks is entering the market with a hot new product for 2021, named after the Black Sea shark – Katran.
The HP (High Power) version offers a larger Power Plenum volume, and its unchoked barrel is specially optimized for shooting slugs. Of course, you can still shoot standard pellets as well.
AirMaks Katran stands out with its lightweight design and folding duralumin stock. There is simply nothing unnecessary on the rifle, which keeps the weight just above 2.8 kg. The lightweight stock is CNC machined. At the press of a button it can be folded to the left side. Locking the stock against accidental opening is cleverly solved by a magnet, which holds it securely in place. The buttpad and cheekpiece are made of durable ABS plastic.
Loading is fantastic. Hats off – the manufacturer really put thought into this. You can cycle the action quickly, with one finger, without having to take the reticle off the target. The biathlon side lever has a short and almost unbelievably smooth travel. Many bullpups can only dream of that. The cocking lever can be mounted on either side to suit the shooter. The icing on the cake is the protection against loading two pellets into the barrel.
The Czech‑made barrel measures 520 mm and has twelve right-hand grooves. It is finished with an efficient cup-type sound moderator. Those who want the rifle to be as quiet as a summer breeze can additionally add more baffles, or any sound moderator with 1/2 UNFx20 thread.
The air supply is provided by a cylinder with a capacity of 480 cm3 and a maximum working pressure of 300 bar. The cylinder is surrounded by a tactical forend with nine KeyMod slots. This shifts the rifle’s balance point slightly forward. A 22 mm rail is provided for mounting optics.
The magazine holds an impressive 14 shots in 6.35 mm calibre. A fully adjustable trigger is a matter of course.
The pistol grip made of soft-touch plastic follows the AR15 standard and ensures a comfortable hold. The manual safety is located on the left side of the action and can be operated even with the stock folded.
The AirMaks Katran air rifle is supplied in a nice padded case.
Main advantages
- High-quality and lightweight construction
- Excellent loading system
- Folding stock
- Integrated sound moderator
- Protection against loading two pellets