If you have ever shot a Taipan, you already know what a high‑quality and accurate rifle it is. However, technology and trends in the world of airguns are moving forward relentlessly, and despite the overwhelming wave of positive feedback, the manufacturer did not want to rest on their laurels. This brings us to the brand‑new model Taipan Veteran II.
This is not just a slightly improved second generation of the popular PCP rifle with a Roman numeral added. It is a completely new rifle which is structurally based on its predecessor, but takes almost all of its aspects to a completely different level.
Probably the most notable new feature is the completely redesigned loading mechanism, which is now located directly above the trigger. You can therefore easily cycle the rifle biathlon‑style with a single finger. This eliminates a common issue that plagues most bullpups, where shooters feel like a Tyrannosaurus rex because of the charging handle positioned at the rear. Also worth mentioning is the very smooth operation of the whole mechanism and the option to switch the side of the charging handle.
Another major improvement is the free‑floating barrel. Unlike the original Veteran, the barrel is no longer held in place by any barrel bands, but by the rifle’s own structure. Thanks to this, the barrel will always maintain its point of impact regardless of ambient temperature, mechanical wear of barrel bands, or cylinder expansion.
The barrel is also fully shrouded and its bore has been specially designed for use with slugs. At the muzzle you will find an external sound moderator, which is significantly longer than on the standard version.
Kevlar cylinder has a capacity of 480cc. Maximum fill pressure is 300 bar. The pressure regulator has also been modified to achieve the most optimal performance possible.
The top Picatinny rail with a 20 MOA incline is perfectly aligned with the barrel, offering unrivalled accuracy. Another mounting rail can be found on the underside of the frame, which is the ideal place for attaching a bipod.
The ergonomically shaped pistol grip follows the AR-15 standard and can be replaced, if needed, with any commercially available grip for this rifle platform. Overall comfort is further enhanced by the rubber buttpad.
The trigger mechanism is probably the only thing that remains from the original version. They say you cannot improve perfection, and after trying the trigger pull we can only agree. The manual safety is still located inside the trigger guard, just in front of the trigger.
On request, we can switch the charging handle of the air rifle from the right to the left side.
MODERNISATION
This modified version of the Taipan Veteran II air rifle is now equipped with the popular ADF system (Anti Double Feed) – protection against double‑loading a pellet into the barrel when one is already chambered.
Further changes have been made to the charging handle knob, which now offers a tactical‑style look with a grooved surface. However, if you prefer the original knob, you will also find it included in the package.
The last updates concern the kevlar cylinder (only on Tactical versions), which can now be removed while still pressurised without the need to vent it. This will be especially appreciated by anyone who wants to carry spare cylinders.