If you have ever shot a Taipan, you certainly 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 rifle with a Roman numeral tacked on. It is a completely new rifle which, while based on the construction of its predecessor, takes almost all of its aspects to a completely different level.
Probably the most prominent new feature is the completely redesigned loading mechanism, which is now located directly above the trigger. You can therefore easily cycle the rifle in a biathlon style with a single finger. This eliminates a common issue that plagues most bullpups, where shooters feel like a Tyrannosaurus rex due to the rearward position of the cocking lever. Also worth mentioning is the very smooth operation of the whole 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 own construction. Thanks to this, the barrel will always hold zero regardless of ambient temperature, mechanical wear on the bands, or cylinder expansion.
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 substantially extended compared to the standard version.
Kevlar air cylinder has a capacity of 480cc and together with the Power Plenum the total air capacity reaches 675cc. The maximum filling 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, providing unrivalled accuracy. Another mounting rail is located on the underside of the frame, which is an 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 a rubber buttpad.
The trigger mechanism is probably the only thing that has remained unchanged 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 swap the cocking lever from the right to the left side of the air rifle.
UPGRADES
This upgraded 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 cocking lever handle, which now offers a tactically styled look with a grooved surface. However, if you prefer the original handle, you will also find it included in the package.
The last modifications concern the kevlar air cylinder (Tactical versions only), which can now be removed while pressurised without the need to bleed it. This will be especially appreciated by anyone who wants to carry spare cylinders.