Gamo Hunter 220

[LOKEY]

I normally post over on the vintage gate but I picked this up today at an estate sale. It's my first springer rifle. I don't know how old it is but it seams to be made of mostly steel and a nice wood stock. It has some lite surface rust, over all it's a pretty nice rifle. I have only just fired one pellet through it just to make sure it shoots and it seams to shoot strong. I will test it better later. What are you guys opinions on it and the BSA scope? Like I said I am pretty new to springers so any info on this would be great. The only thing I see wrong with it is it's missing the little neon plastic piece in the front sight but I should have no problem installing a new one. Thanks

[LOKEY]

Is CharlieDaTuna still selling the GTX-III trigger? I only ask because his web site looks old. Thanks

[Roadworthy]

I believe what you seek is the GRT III trigger at charliedatuna.com.  The website has not been updated recently but I believe it is still in business.  If you can't get through contact ezman604 aka dez on this website.  He's still active and knows how to contact Cathy who runs charliedatuna.com.

[Airjason]

The Gamo Hunter 220 was a popular air rifle that sold at about $120 or so at the local Sports Authority about 12 years ago. I had one given to me, and I fired a few shots through it. I wasn't too impressed with it though, the front sight plastic glow thing was missing too. I put a Weaver scope on it and found it shot very nice groups, just before passing it on to another friend a few months ago. 

[Toxylon]

The older, wood-stocked, steel-barreled (yep) Gamos aren't too bad, especially with the GRT trigger. I had plenty of use for a Hunter 440 .22 cal, which is basically your 220 with a nicer stock. They can be much improved by replacing the innards, too, if so inclined.

It all depends on how much time, effort, thought and money one wants to put in springers. For some, a 220 in OEM guise might be all they need.

The 440 is still made. Parts should be interchangeable.

[LOKEY]

Thanks for the input guys. I will check all that out. I will have to shoot it a bit and see if I want to do any upgrades after.

[longislandhunter]

Good solid older GAMO rifle that will respond well to some TLC, especially the CDT trigger if they are still selling them. 

Jeff

[PelletSport]

Thanks for the input guys. I will check all that out. I will have to shoot it a bit and see if I want to do any upgrades after.

Don, you could not have chosen a better first Springer, IMO.
The 220 really responds to a tune and it becomes a dang accurate joy to shoot.
The 220 was chosen by BAM of China as the basis for their million selling b19 .
So, the b19 piston seal is a match, the roller bearing trigger mod works, and you can get a new front sight insert from Gamo USA.
Welcome to Springer World, excellent first choice!

[LOKEY]

Thanks for the input guys. I will check all that out. I will have to shoot it a bit and see if I want to do any upgrades after.

Don, you could not have chosen a better first Springer, IMO.
The 220 really responds to a tune and it becomes a dang accurate joy to shoot.
The 220 was chosen by BAM of China as the basis for their million selling b19 .
So, the b19 piston seal is a match, the roller bearing trigger mod works, and you can get a new front sight insert from Gamo USA.
Welcome to Springer World, excellent first choice!

Thanks for the info. I still have not shot it at a target yet. I am dealing with some family problems that came up but I think I will get a chance this weekend.

[19Sheridan57]

   A very decent little rifle. The scope probably won't last very long if shot a lot, but just replace it one it fails.

[LOKEY]

Well I shot it this morning. The scope will need replaced because I would hit the target and then it would miss all together and I know I am not that bad of a shot.
I Chronographed it'

I used Crossman 7.4 G pointed pellets

FPE 15

1) 884
2) 899
3) 894
4) 893
5) 896

[PelletSport]

Well I shot it this morning. The scope will need replaced because I would hit the target and then it would miss all together and I know I am not that bad of a shot.
I Chronographed it'

I used Crossman 7.4 G pointed pellets

FPE 15

1) 884
2) 899
3) 894
4) 893
5) 896

Excellent consistency! The 884 was probably undersized or oversized, so toss that one. 6fps extreme spread is fantastic for any priced springer and it means the piston seal and breech seals are both good. IMO, 13ftlbs is about right for maximum power without sacrificing accuracy with the 220 platform.
If you like, look up Crosman b19 trigger mod here or on YouTube. The process is the same for the 220.  With a lighter homemade trigger return spring to replace  the heavy OEM spring (2 leg torsion spring.  I made one by straightening a ballpoint pen spring and then rebending it) and a longer sear adjustment screw from Ace hardware, the 220 trigger becomes light and you can adjust out most of the creep. Just be careful  with the longer adjustment screw because each turn on moves the sear closer to the edge and you can turn it so far in that the sear will not engage. If that happens, just back the adjustment screw back out until you have enough creep for safety, but not so much that the break is unpredictable. Most important: the 1st rule of springer shooting is never let go of the barrel when loading or anytime the barrel is not closed.

[LOKEY]

Well I shot it this morning. The scope will need replaced because I would hit the target and then it would miss all together and I know I am not that bad of a shot.
I Chronographed it'

I used Crossman 7.4 G pointed pellets

FPE 15

1) 884
2) 899
3) 894
4) 893
5) 896

Excellent consistency! The 884 was probably undersized or oversized, so toss that one. 6fps extreme spread is fantastic for any priced springer and it means the piston seal and breech seals are both good. IMO, 13ftlbs is about right for maximum power without sacrificing accuracy with the 220 platform.
If you like, look up Crosman b19 trigger mod here or on YouTube. The process is the same for the 220.  With a lighter homemade trigger return spring to replace  the heavy OEM spring (2 leg torsion spring.  I made one by straightening a ballpoint pen spring and then rebending it) and a longer sear adjustment screw from Ace hardware, the 220 trigger becomes light and you can adjust out most of the creep. Just be careful  with the longer adjustment screw because each turn on moves the sear closer to the edge and you can turn it so far in that the sear will not engage. If that happens, just back the adjustment screw back out until you have enough creep for safety, but not so much that the break is unpredictable. Most important: the 1st rule of springer shooting is never let go of the barrel when loading or anytime the barrel is not closed.

I tried to find the Crosman b19 trigger mod but can't. Can you post a link? Also why never let go of the barrel when loading or anytime the barrel is not closed? Thanks

[PelletSport]

Well I shot it this morning. The scope will need replaced because I would hit the target and then it would miss all together and I know I am not that bad of a shot.
I Chronographed it'

I used Crossman 7.4 G pointed pellets

FPE 15

1) 884
2) 899
3) 894
4) 893
5) 896

Excellent consistency! The 884 was probably undersized or oversized, so toss that one. 6fps extreme spread is fantastic for any priced springer and it means the piston seal and breech seals are both good. IMO, 13ftlbs is about right for maximum power without sacrificing accuracy with the 220 platform.
If you like, look up Crosman b19 trigger mod here or on YouTube. The process is the same for the 220.  With a lighter homemade trigger return spring to replace  the heavy OEM spring (2 leg torsion spring.  I made one by straightening a ballpoint pen spring and then rebending it) and a longer sear adjustment screw from Ace hardware, the 220 trigger becomes light and you can adjust out most of the creep. Just be careful  with the longer adjustment screw because each turn on moves the sear closer to the edge and you can turn it so far in that the sear will not engage. If that happens, just back the adjustment screw back out until you have enough creep for safety, but not so much that the break is unpredictable. Most important: the 1st rule of springer shooting is never let go of the barrel when loading or anytime the barrel is not closed.

I tried to find the Crosman b19 trigger mod but can't. Can you post a link? Also why never let go of the barrel when loading or anytime the barrel is not closed? Thanks

I stink at computers, so I go to Google and put in 'Crosman trigger mod gateway to airguns' and it pops right up.
Although rare, springer sears can fail and snap the barrel shut with devastating force.
There are legitimate accounts of fingers/thumbs getting smashed off as the breech snaps shut, head/face injures from the barrel flying back, and worst of all, favorite springers being ruined, ha ha.
This is the reason most budget springers have heavy trigger return springs and lots of trigger creep (overlap in the sears), to prevent accidental release of the spring.
I have had it happen numerous times because I like to experiment with making budget springer triggers way too light, but since I always have a a firm grip on the barrel and the stock secured safely against my body, me and my springers are injury free.

[PelletSport]

One more thing: try looking up on Google "crosman b19 roller bearing mod gateway to airguns'.
With this method, you remove the trigger return spring and adjustment screw altogether.
You then place a 5×2.5x8mm rc bearing over the pin that moves the bottom sear.
It makes the trigger lighter, smoother and crisper with none of the worry of adjusting the trigger screw too far for safety.
The only downside is you lose the first stage feel, but it makes the trigger so much nicer.

[LOKEY]

Although rare, springer sears can fail and snap the barrel shut with devastating force.
There are legitimate accounts of fingers/thumbs getting smashed off as the breech snaps shut, head/face injures from the barrel flying back, and worst of all, favorite springers being ruined, ha ha.
This is the reason most budget springers have heavy trigger return springs and lots of trigger creep (overlap in the sears), to prevent accidental release of the spring.
I have had it happen numerous times because I like to experiment with making budget springer triggers way too light, but since I always have a a firm grip on the barrel and the stock secured safely against my body, me and my springers are injury free.
[/quote]

I don't think I have to worry about that with this rifle. There is no way for your finger to get slammed by it.

I still cannot find the "crosman b19 roller bearing mod gateway to airguns'. I find threads talking about the B19 but I am not quite sure about it. Is this it?

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=62099.0

[PelletSport]

Although rare, springer sears can fail and snap the barrel shut with devastating force.
There are legitimate accounts of fingers/thumbs getting smashed off as the breech snaps shut, head/face injures from the barrel flying back, and worst of all, favorite springers being ruined, ha ha.
This is the reason most budget springers have heavy trigger return springs and lots of trigger creep (overlap in the sears), to prevent accidental release of the spring.
I have had it happen numerous times because I like to experiment with making budget springer triggers way too light, but since I always have a a firm grip on the barrel and the stock secured safely against my body, me and my springers are injury free.

I don't think I have to worry about that with this rifle. There is no way for your finger to get slammed by it.

I still cannot find the "crosman b19 roller bearing mod gateway to airguns'. I find threads talking about the B19 but I am not quite sure about it. Is this it?

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=62099.0
[/quote]
I couldn't find it either.
Try YouTube My Airgun Reviews video: 'How to fix a crosman trigger, do's and don'ts'.
It is very good.

[LOKEY]

Although rare, springer sears can fail and snap the barrel shut with devastating force.
There are legitimate accounts of fingers/thumbs getting smashed off as the breech snaps shut, head/face injures from the barrel flying back, and worst of all, favorite springers being ruined, ha ha.
This is the reason most budget springers have heavy trigger return springs and lots of trigger creep (overlap in the sears), to prevent accidental release of the spring.
I have had it happen numerous times because I like to experiment with making budget springer triggers way too light, but since I always have a a firm grip on the barrel and the stock secured safely against my body, me and my springers are injury free.

I don't think I have to worry about that with this rifle. There is no way for your finger to get slammed by it.

I still cannot find the "crosman b19 roller bearing mod gateway to airguns'. I find threads talking about the B19 but I am not quite sure about it. Is this it?

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=62099.0

I couldn't find it either.
Try YouTube My Airgun Reviews video: 'How to fix a crosman trigger, do's and don'ts'.
It is very good.
[/quote]

Thanks, I am watching it now

[Tater]

Here's a couple more links for you:

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=118402.20

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/Parts_Schematics/CROSMAN,_GAMO,CHINESE_TRIGGER.pdf

[mikeyb]

Although rare, springer sears can fail and snap the barrel shut with devastating force.
There are legitimate accounts of fingers/thumbs getting smashed off as the breech snaps shut, head/face injures from the barrel flying back, and worst of all, favorite springers being ruined, ha ha.
This is the reason most budget springers have heavy trigger return springs and lots of trigger creep (overlap in the sears), to prevent accidental release of the spring.
I have had it happen numerous times because I like to experiment with making budget springer triggers way too light, but since I always have a a firm grip on the barrel and the stock secured safely against my body, me and my springers are injury free.

I don't think I have to worry about that with this rifle. There is no way for your finger to get slammed by it.

I still cannot find the "crosman b19 roller bearing mod gateway to airguns'. I find threads talking about the B19 but I am not quite sure about it. Is this it?

https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=62099.0

I couldn't find it either.
Try YouTube My Airgun Reviews video: 'How to fix a crosman trigger, do's and don'ts'.
It is very good.

Bear-trap injuries are rare, but the damage can be significant. When it happens it is lightning fast. Think of a mousetrap than can turn your finger/thumb into mashed potatoes or simply sever a digit before you realize it even happened. ALWAYS hold the barrel with one hand while loading... ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE MAKING TRIGGER ADJUSTMENTS!

WARNING - GRAPHIC IMAGES
https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=197754.msg156305710#msg156305710

The roller bearing mod for Crosman/Gamo and similar triggers works by connecting the trigger blade directly to the sear lever and the bearing PRELOADS the sear lever so that it MAY provide a single stage very short/light trigger snap to fire.

Some folks love this as indicated by the popularity of the mod. I tried it on all my Crosman variants with the old style Gamo trigger and did not like it at all. That's likely due to my trigger preferences and that trigger tolerances VARY so the bearing provided just too much preload for the triggers I own.

Adding the bearing makes the trigger blade spring, its small retaining pin, and the trigger adjustment screw REDUNDANT so those should be removed if the bearing is in use. DON'T throw those parts away! You may need to use them in the future.

MY problem with the bearing mod in all the Crosman variants that I own:

1) The preload on the first sear lever was extreme and sear overlap on my triggers was very SMALL. This created a single stage HAIR TRIGGER which I found way too light & sensitive for a powerful springer primarily used for hunting/pesting.

2) The bearing preload caused the trigger blade to sit more than halfway forward in the trigger guard. I could just fit my bare finger in there to use the trigger but there was not enough space to fit a gloved finger (it gets fairly cold here in Winter).

Even without a glove it was an uncomfortable "stretch" to use that trigger. The combination of uncomfortable finger position AND a single stage HAIR TRIGGER is a hard NOGO for me.

If that sounds like your ideal trigger then you will LOVE the bearing mod!

My solution uses an easily formed lighter trigger blade spring (thinner wire) and a slightly longer adjustment screw. I get a <1lb first-stage-like take-up to a well defined second stage wall where the trigger blade just touches the sear lever.

Trigger blade at that point is almost fully towards the rear of the trigger guard which provides lots of space for a gloved finger and a very comfortable NON-stretched position for my bare finger. When adjusted properly the slightly longer trigger screw allows enough sear lever preload to get a short crisp 2 - 2.5 lb snap to fire.

If the bearing mod doesn't work you should try the lighter spring & longer screw mod (about 25 cents my cost). If that doesn't work for you then maybe a CDT trigger? I'm certain that is an excellent trigger blade upgrade. My only issue is that blade costs almost as much as I spend to acquire my "bargain/refurb" springers.