As a huge fan of the Thompson/Center Contender since they first came out, I find a lot to like in the little Gem. That said, I see weaknesses in it that have me handling the Gem somewhat 'judiciously'; especially when opening the action to load a projectile. Specifically, I suspect the small-diameter barrel pivot-pin could be a source of long-term wear, or succumb to ham-fisted hands.
However, I really like the Gem's design for multiple reasons. 1) Obviously incredibly-SIMPLE design. 2) Easy caliber interchangeability. 3) Efficient design as pertains action to overall gun length.
Having wished for a Contender-esque airgun for a half century, on-board (airgun) power-source has been the fly in that ointment. I see the Gem design, Co2 cartridge power, and/or the Brocock Airgun Cartridge System as effective answers to that pesky fly.
BACS system
One of the largest manufacturers and distributors of air-guns, CO2 guns, blank firers and associated ancillary products in the UK.
www.topham.org.uk
There would be a LOT to like in a multi-caliber, single-shot Co2-cartridge or BACS pistol/rifle convertible.
The tip-barrel design not only allowing easy barrel and caliber interchangeability, is also possibly the most efficient gun design as pertains barrel to overall lengths, virtue of not requiring a bolt or side-lever loading action. Tip-up design also allows easy, direct loading and seating of the projectile into the breech, to seating-depth of choice.
It (now) occurs to me that the Gem's interchangeable barrel design sharing similarities to FX's barrel-liner system, and it's tip-up barrel sharing similarities to Thompson/Center's long-tried, true, accurate and powerful Contender, a quality combination of those elements in Co2 and/or BACS power supply would possess not only incredible accuracy and power potentials, but at least equal marketing and profit potentials.
BTW, FWIW, and in no way related
, I am available for discussions of such potentials at my usual consulting rate of only $500/hour. But given my emotional attachment to such a discussion, I am offering initial consultations at a 10% discount.
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