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 air rifles are moving forward relentlessly, and despite the overwhelming wave of positive feedback, the manufacturer did not want to rest on its 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 where someone simply added a Roman numeral II. It is a completely new rifle that is based on its predecessor in terms of design, but takes almost all of its aspects to a completely different level.
Probably the most striking new feature is the completely redesigned loading mechanism, which is now located directly above the trigger. You can therefore easily cock the rifle biathlon‑style with a single finger. This has eliminated the common issue that affects most bullpups, where shooters feel like a Tyrannosaurus Rex due to the charging handle being placed at the rear. Also worth mentioning is the very smooth operation of the entire mechanism and the option to swap the lever to the other side.
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 main structure itself. This ensures the barrel will always hold zero regardless of ambient temperature, mechanical wear of the bands, or expansion of the air cylinder.
The barrel is also fully shrouded and its rifling has been specially designed for use with slugs. At the muzzle you will find an external sound moderator, which has been significantly extended compared to the standard version.
Kevlar air cylinder has a capacity of 480cc and is complemented by a 75cc Power Plenum. The maximum filling pressure is 300 bar. The pressure regulator has also been upgraded 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 is located on the underside of the frame, which is an ideal place for fitting 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 assault rifle. Overall comfort is further enhanced by the height‑adjustable rubber buttpad.
The trigger mechanism is probably the only thing that has been retained 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 move the cocking lever from the right to the left side of the air rifle.
MODERNISATION
This upgraded version of the Taipan Veteran II air rifle is now equipped with the popular ADF system (Anti Double Feed) – protection against loading another pellet into the barrel when there is already one inside.
Further changes have been made to the cocking lever handle, which now offers a tactically styled look with a grooved surface. However, if you prefer the original handle, you will find it included in the package with the air rifle as well.
The final changes concern the kevlar air cylinder (Tactical versions only), which can now be removed while under pressure without the need to depressurise it. This will be especially appreciated by anyone who wants to carry spare cylinders.