Brass doesn't rust. Living in S. Wi and being around farms most of my life, your 140 would never survive being used to shoot pests that the model C was used heavily doing. The larger pump arm makes it easier to use in my opinion. The model C was/is a workhorse and would definitely outperform and outlive the 140 if really used. Notice how many really trashed model C guns that show up compared to the 140? I've seen C models really beat and abused but still sitting in the barn corner and ready to go at it again.
I have a C9 and I didn’t know (or cared) the barrel was brass and/or soldered til I read it on this forum..It just shoots and always has.
I love my 140, but it's not as efficient, the steel can rust, the trigger pull is nowhere near as good, and pellets like to get hung up on the screw hole in the breech.I love the one piece stock though the wood is a bit softer.I prefer my blue streak with William's peep and probably would regardless of sentimental value, but I say a 140 is a must have.They are more affordable, they are just as fun, and though not as well made in my opinion they can do everything a Sheridan can do.
I understand the quest for power but it’s just not in my equation for a interesting gun. I too have a steroided Mac-1 Streak and after 12 pounds I’m in the 700’s, I did that once not worth the effort to let the neighborhood think I’m shooting a 22? Lol. I’m in the backyard today plinking with the 140 with 2 and 3 pumps. Some of my most interesting Airguns are English Airguns from the 1920’s, power wasn’t really a issue then.
BTW my '65 140 has the awesome fully adjustable trigger unit, if it wasn't a self cocking gun it could easily have the nicest factory trigger of any multi stroke pneumatic air rifle.My 180 makes excellent use of it and man is it a great trigger all things considered, it's just such a darn shame that my 140 can not really take advantage of the trigger it has.You can adjust it but from what I've experienced any adjustment that makes any difference will have the gun fire as I'm pumping, and of course the trigger weight increases with the number of pumps anyways.