If you have ever shot the 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 to which someone simply added a Roman numeral II. It is a completely new rifle which is based on the construction of its predecessor, but takes almost all of its aspects to a completely different level.
Probably the most striking new feature is the completely redesigned cocking mechanism, which is now located directly above the trigger. You can easily cycle the rifle biathlon‑style with one finger. This neutralises a common issue that plagues most bullpups, where shooters feel like a Tyrannosaurus rex because of the rear‑mounted cocking lever. Also worth mentioning is the very smooth operation of the whole mechanism and the option to switch the cocking lever to the other side.
Another significant 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 of barrel bands, or expansion of the air cylinder.
The barrel is also fully shrouded and its rifling has been specially designed for the use of 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. 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 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 the rubber buttpad.
The trigger mechanism is probably the only thing that has been retained from the original version. It is said that 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 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 a second 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 also find it included in the rifle’s package.
The last modifications concern the kevlar cylinder (Tactical versions only), which can now be removed under pressure without the need to vent it. This will be especially appreciated by anyone who wants to carry spare cylinders.
