DHart:
I had a Wildcat
Mk1 .25. (She shipped out today.) I
loved my WC! But, you nailed the issue when you used the word
mechanical. I used to own a Pulsar .25, pre-HP days. I
loved the fully-electronic platform, but at the time, I was obsessed with power. And the standard Pulsar .25 @ 41 ft# was too anemic for me. So, I went to an Impact .30, then to a RAW HMx .357 (130 ft# regulated). But, when doves started to explode, I realized that
less is more! Plus, I couldn't find good hunting rounds (hollow-points) for the larger calibers.
When Daystate came out with the Pulsar HP line, I rejoiced! The Pulsar HP .25 delivers the same energy as the Wildcat .25 (approx. 50 ft#). This is ideal for me for small game and I can shoot my cherished Hunter Extremes. Now I'm obsessed with stealth. I want to get away from the cocking noise and hammer smack of the mechanical actions. My DonnyFL Emperor suppressor takes care of the business end, now I want to care of the action end. Further, solid-state electronics perform better than mechanical systems and are less prone to component degradation and failure. Add much better air management (higher shot count) and lower SD (better accuracy), and there really is no comparison.
To address your
weight and the so-called
cocking (there's no cocking involved with an electronic action)
lever placement issues, the Pulsar is less than two pounds heavier than the WC, and the electronic cycling system can be actuated with your pinky; there's no mechanical resistance. I know from experience that it is not an issue cycling a round in the chamber without losing your sight picture. To me "top-heavy" is a plus. It keeps the muzzle stable and enhances accuracy.
I dispute the premise of your inquiry somewhat in that my experience with the WC was not "so bad." Quite the contrary, I absolutely
loved my Kitty Kat! It's just that now, IMO, an electronic platform is superior to a mechanical one. That's all. Airgun preferences are just that, a
preference. It is a highly-subjective dynamic. Every shooter has his/her own unique set of needs and wants. I appreciate you inquiry; it raises many legitimate issues. Thanks