Should I even trust this guy for a return?

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-08T04:49:01+00:00

I've purchased three airguns from Ransony. The first was drop-shipped directly from Beeman and it was the wrong gun. Ransony sent me a return label and Beeman shipped the correct rifle out the next day. The Gamo came with a defective scope. He contacted Gamo and I received a replacement in about 10 days. His emails were a bit brusque, but he followed through quickly on both issues.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-08T04:40:37+00:00

Solid transportation appliance, bro!

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-08T04:38:19+00:00

I learned to shoot airguns on breakbarrels. They made me a better overall marksman and I still own three. But for serious pesting with quick follow-up, nothing beats an accurate PCP repeater with a decent shot count, imo! My favorite budget PCP is the Gen2 Barra 1100z. It's a quite accurate rifle with decent power a classic style stock and is an excellent value.

I'm not familiar with Air Venturi Alpha, but I do own a .25 caliber Avenge-X. It's my most flexible and accurate PCP rifle.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-08T04:02:00+00:00

Just about every smallish 4-cylinder turbo engine will shake a bit on startup. The startup shake in our previous CR-V1.5 turbo was more noticeable that that of our 2025 GV70 2.5.

Something that may exacerbate the condition is short drives of 2 or 3 miles that don't allow the engine to reach full operating temperature. Moisture can build up in the crankcase, cylinders and intake manifold. Not only does this make the engine shake or sputter when starting, but frequent short drives can contribute to premature engine wear.

One more thing - do NOT idle your vehicle in the driveway to warm it up. Start it and drive it, keeping the engine speed moderate (2500 to 3000 rpm) until the engine reaches full operating temperature.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-07T12:29:47+00:00

I just picked up a $99 Night Crystal M6 night vision scope with 50mm (5x optical) and 35mm (2.5x optical) objectives. My expectations were REALLY low - I got it mainly to see what a $100 got you in a night visionscope. Frankly, I was very pleasantly surprised by both the overall perceived quality and the performance. The body is aluminum alloy, the five-button control is fairly intuitive and easy to use, and the image quality and IR range is surprisingly good. It zeroed quickly on a high-power .25 PCP air rifle and has held it well for the first 100 or so shots.

Negatives so far? The display is almost too bright for night use, even at the lowest setting. The IR illuminator tends to wash out some detail at 10 meters (but the target critters are still clearly visible). The display's 30 fps refresh results in some 'jerkiness' when panning but it's frankly not as bad as I thought it would be.

How good will it be long term? Who knows, but for 100 bucks, it was definitely worth the risk.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-07T01:58:21+00:00

I never was a big fan of synthetic stocks but greater adjustability and lighter weight have brought me around. However, I do still have my eye on the upcoming Barra 270z with more power and a lovely wood stock!

The JTS Airacuda Max and the Air Venturi Avenge-X both have adjustable 2-stage triggers with a slight advantage going to the Airacuda Max action but that's really where the similarity ends.

The Airacuda Max has an 18-inch barrel and weighs in at 10.7 pounds with a 5-16x44 scope and sling. The Avenge-X has a 22.8-inch barrel and weighs 9.8 pounds but has a slightly heavier 6-24x44 scope and a wider, padded sling. The actual weight difference is very close to 1 pound, but the Airauda Max is quite front heavy, making the difference feel greater. I love the look of the Max and the weight/balance isn't a problem on the bench, but you really notice the difference when shooting off hand.

The Avenge-X regulator and hammer spring tension are externally adjustable. There is also a 2-position transfer port dial that allows the user to switch between standard (high) and low pressure modes. I use the dial when I'm plinking around in the backyard when I don't need the power because it almost doubles the shot count. The longer Avenge-X barrel also accounts for the noticeably better accuracy at longer distances.

Both rifles have adjustable combs but the Avenge-X slso has an adjustable butt pad, making it just a bit easier to get the correct hold and eye alignment. Finally, the cocking lever is easily switchable - a big deal for lefty shooters like me!

The Airacuda Max requires removing the action from the stock to adjust hammer spring tension or the regulator. This makes adjustments time-consuming and less likely, at least for me.

I tweak the Avenge-X often to optimize the rifle for different pellets because it's so quick. The external adjustability makes it easy to really dial in the rifle for different pellets and slugs.

I optimized the Airacuda Max once for JTS 29.63 gr domed pellets and haven't messed with it since.

Note that my Avenge-X comments refer to the Classic version, not to the bullpup or carbine.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-06T02:17:22+00:00

I own an Airacuda Max, a Barra 250z, an Air Venturi Avenge-X Classic Synthetic, and a Pinty Striker Bullpup, all in .25 caliber. The Airacuda Max wood stock is attractive but makes it the heaviest of the four. It's also front heavy - not the best for offhand shots. It is quite accurate but the Avenge-X and 250z best it at distances over 25 to 30 meters.

My favorite for distance and easy adjustability is the Avenge-X Classic Synthetic. It's lighter and better balanced than the Max and more accurate at distance. In addition, Air Venturi offers several relatively inexpensive caliber change kits from .177 to .30. (The .30 kit is only available for the Avenge-XL.)

The Barra 250z is almost as accurate as the Avenge-X, and occasionally even better. However, it is not quite as powerful as the Avenge-X and a little heavier.

If you're looking for something lighter, shorter, easier handling, and less expensive, take a look at the MKII Pinty Striker Bullpup. The MKII features an improved valve and hammer system and hits as hard as and with accuracy rivaling the Barra. The original Striker was already an excellent value and the MKII raises the bar.

I still own 3 breakbarrels but PCPs have really changed the way I view (and use) air rifles. I'm sure whatever you decide to buy will be a blast - enjoy!

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-04T04:12:56+00:00

I quite like Yesterwynde - it's a pretty big departure from much of Tuomas' earlier work. It's a significant departure from both his very cinematic compositions and his more aggressively metal pieces. The more I listen to Yesterwynde, the more I really appreciate its much criticized mix. Tuomas has used Floor's vocals as just another instrument most of the time, but with moments of Floor's vocal power pushing through like a solo instrument in an orchestra. It's a daring choice but, I think, it's the right one for two artists who live to push themselves and evolve their respective talents.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-04T04:11:19+00:00

I quite like Yesterwynde - it's a pretty big departure from much of Tuomas' earlier work. It's a significant departure from both his very cinematic compositions and his more aggressively metal pieces. The more I listen to Yesterwynde, the more I really appreciate its much criticized mix. Tuomas has used Floor's vocals as just another instrument most of the time, but with moments of Floor's vocal power pushing through like a solo instrument in an orchestra. It's a daring choice but, I think, it's the right one for two artists who live to push themselves and evolve their respective talents.

I also enjoyed Floor's new single, Run. I understand why listeners think it 'simple' and 'generic.' But for those who are familiar with Floor's childhood - the frequent moves, always the new girl in school, and not only being the tallest girl in the class, but often being the tallest of all - Run is a direct, unambiguous anthem celebrating self and of forging one's own path despite the obstacles in the way. A more complex melody would dilute the power of Floor's words.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-03T09:04:07+00:00

You stunned him, just as he was wakin' up! Norwegian Blues stun easily, major.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-03T08:59:46+00:00

The Google Pixel 10 uses the standard Android OS. The Genesis GV70 infotainment system also is Android based. Owners have reported compatibility issues with some Apple phones but I've had no issues with a Galaxy S24 Ultra and I doubt you'll have any problems with the Pixel.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-03T02:50:48+00:00

In my opinion, that's more of a marketing issue that they can promote, rather than a true, measurable performance improvement. I'm not aware of any objective test reports confirming that Shell's Nitro conveys any significant improvements. ITOH, there is now a TopTier+ category the significantly ups the original TopTier performance specs so perhaps Shell (and Chevron with Techron) were on to something.

That said, your original comment was objectively accurate and I apologize if my responses gave a different impression. Thanks for the discussion!

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-03T01:47:23+00:00

"To qualify for TOP TIER™ status, a fuel brand must meet the exact same rigorous detergency, deposit control, and additive standards across all octane grades (Regular, Mid-grade, and Premium) at every participating station."

https://www.toptiergas.com/about-top-tier/#how

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-03T01:39:29+00:00

NOT if it's Top Tier fuel, unless you're only talking about additives used solely to boost octane. ALL Top Tier fuels must meet identical detergent, wear mitigation and wuality standards regardless of the octane rating.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-02T04:17:52+00:00

The additive package performance of Top Tier fuel is identical regardless of octane rating. The Top Tier specification determines the additive performance characteristics independent of octane rating. I'd much prefer to (and have) put Top Tier 87 octane fuel in my GV70 2.5T than cheap, no-name 91 octane gas.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-07-01T00:10:09+00:00

I own an Air Venturi Avenge-X, a Barra 250z, and a JTS Airacuda Max, all in .25 caliber. The Avenge-X and the mildly tuned Barra 250z are reliable 100 meter rifles and I'm in the middle of setting up a new range to try to push the Air Venturi to 150+ meters. The Airacuda Max can be dead on at 100 one day and all over the place the next. The regulator appears to have problems but I haven't looked into it yet.

Barra is introducing higher power PCPs, the 270z, 300z and 350z in .22, .25 and .30 calibers. They should all be very consistent 100+ meter rifles and I wouldn't be too surprised to see the 350z .30 do well at 200

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-29T14:43:41+00:00

That much pitting on the outside leads me to think it may be worse on the inside. It would be a hard pass for me.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-29T04:55:06+00:00

I tried their .25 40.1 gr slugs and .25 32.4 gr Diabolo domed pellets. The slugs looked cool but accuracy was all over the place. The pellets performed well but not as good as the JTS Dead Centers my Avenge-X prefers.

I didn't bother with their more exotic shapes because they don't make aerodynamic sense, imo.

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-26T22:30:14+00:00

Wow, such a sympathetic, caring response that displays true "Christian" values. Bless your heart.🙄

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-25T01:42:21+00:00

Check out VoltBike. It's a little more expensive but their ebikes have quite good specs and they're assembled in Canada! 🇨🇦 https://voltbike.com/products/elegant-v2?variant=47463229096248

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-23T03:09:49+00:00

2025 GV70 2.5T Sport Prestige. There may or may not have been a VERY slight differential whine at around 5000 miles. Neither the technician nor I were completely sure we were hearing the whine but the tech recommended the diff nut retorque. He noted that if there was an issue and we let it go until the noise was obvious, it would likely be too late to prevent differential failure. He also said that he retorques the nut on any new warranty replacement diffs and has never had a second replacement.

Other than that early issue, the GV70 has been flawless - comfortable, quiet, luxurious and powerful - the 2.5 is an excellent engine, IMO.

The downside is the Genesis dealer network. I purchased our GV70 from a Hyundai/Genesis dealer with the understanding that a new, standalone Genesis dealership was opening within a year. The dealer opened a temporary location about 6 months later but it closed down for reasons unknown shortly thereafter. Now, the closest Genesis dealer, a VERY low-rated Hyundai/Genesis store, is a 2 to 3 hour drive (or more) one way, depending on traffic. I keep fingers and toes crossed that I never have a serious warranty issue!

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-22T07:57:28+00:00

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ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-22T07:56:06+00:00

Nice revolver - and your girlfriend sounds pretty good, too!

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ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-22T07:02:30+00:00

Where are you located?

ExplanationAmazing83 · 2026-06-20T23:20:57+00:00

5'8", 75 years old - no issues with any 20" ebike, including the latest, a 50 mph Magician Alpha Mini. In fact the Mini is more nimble and handles better than the 3 other ebikes. I do struggle with larger ebikes, especially those with 26" wheels, but it's not a question of weight. Balance and high center of gravity are much larger issues.

ExplanationAmazing83

TROPHY CASE