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 relentlessly forward, 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 upgraded second generation of the popular PCP air rifle with a Roman numeral tacked on. It is a completely new rifle which is based on its predecessor in terms of construction, but takes almost all of its aspects to a completely different level.
Probably the most distinctive new feature is the completely redesigned cocking mechanism, which is now located directly above the trigger. You can therefore easily cycle the rifle biathlon‑style with one finger. This neutralises the common drawback that plagues most bullpups, where shooters feel like a Tyrannosaurus rex because of the rear 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 very construction of the rifle itself. Thanks to this, 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 specifically 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 cylinder has a capacity of 480cc and is complemented by a 75cc Power Plenum. The 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 is located on the underside of the frame, which is the ideal place to attach a bipod.
The ergonomically shaped pistol grip corresponds to 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 perhaps the only component that has remained 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 in the trigger guard, just in front of the trigger.
On request, we can switch 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 double‑loading a pellet into the barrel when there is already one inside.
Further changes were 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 cylinder (Tactical versions only), which can now be removed while under pressure without the need to empty it first. This will be especially appreciated by everyone who wants to carry spare cylinders.