Hatsan 95 Vortex in .25. Update with pic.

While I don't have a .25 springer, I too wonder at the usefulness of it. If anyone is going to build a springer with enough power for a .25, it's Hatsan...but even they use the same power plant for each model in different calibers. Comparing three "magnum" Nitro Piston rifles from the stats provided from Pyramyd Air: Benjamin Trail XL, Hatsan 95, and Hatsan 125 respectively. Benji claims "900FPS" in .25, but I think we all know you can usually subtract AT LEAST 200FPS from Crosman velocity claims, so let's say 700 (or less most likely). The 95 claims 650FPS, which in my (limited) Hatsan experience is probably pretty accurate, give or take 50FPS or so. Lastly, the huge-ish 125 claims 750FPS IN .25, which is also likely pretty accurate. If it HAS TO BE a .25 springer, I go with the 125 first (I prefer synthetic stocks though I fear the recoil mitigation system -SAS- more mechanical stuff to fail). Second, my nod goes to the Benjamin, but ONLY because I am confident in my ability to dramatically improve the trigger, and I can get parts for it very easily from Crosman (and potentially convert it to a .22 cheaply and easily if I'm not satisfied with it's .25 performance). With that rifle, I would likely search for lighter weight .25 pellets to shoot (as it will likely have the lowest velocity of the three). Getting parts from Hatsan can be a hassle. 

So it all boils down to how you're going to use it? I'm going to assume you're looking at a .25 to hunt, not plink? As mentioned above, depending on what you hunt, you may be better served by a .22 from any of the three. Flatter trajectory at longer range, and likely similar energy from a heavier .22 pellet. Something else to note: these are all "long stroke" springers, meaning more power AND more recoil.
 
I own all three of the Hatsan 95 Vortex guns, and hunt with the .25 because of how flat and consistent it shoots. I group 1/2" 5-shot groups consistently using the 31.02 gr H&N Baracuda pellet. The H&N Field Target Trophy 19.91 gr pellet groups 3/4"-1". This is on my 10m basement range.

Here is the crony data from 8-28-15 and again on 11-2-15 for your viewing pleasure.

Hatsan202520cal20Crony20data20082815.jpg


Joe
 
I have a question for the Hatsan .25 owners - - I wish to purchase a .25 break barrel, but am in a bind. I seen on U-tube, the springer has more speed & punch, but vortex is easier to cock & to be longer lasting. Well my springer, a RWS Diana .177 is 30 years old & still shoots like it did then. So my question is; Why should I buy the vortex model ? Thanks for any guidance .
 
I went to the Hatsan web site today after watching a video review by Rick Eutsler(sp?) . Eutsler claimed in his review of this Vortex rifle in .25 cal. that his crony results were in line with the factory claim. On the Hatsan website they actually state that they do their velocity tests with heavier lead pellets rather than with the lighter ones that produce artificially high velocity claims. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOQZ8a1poX4 http://www.hatsan.com.tr/en_hatsan_difference.html
 
papritz: generally speaking the only real advantage to a gas spring is the ability to leave it cocked for extended periods of time (hours plus) and not ruining/fatiguing a steel spring. I hunt and so love my NPs because I can keep them cocked and at the ready as long as necessary, and never need worry about damaging them. Another slight advantage is the lack of rotational torque that is typically experienced on a steel spring powered gun (especially powerful ones). However you may find you pay for that lack of rotational torque with slightly harsher recoil and (usually) more cocking resistance. If the Hatsan Vortek (oops, meant VorteX...thinking Chevy or something) is somehow lighter cocking than the spring powered version, I would be very impressed.