My first fraulein! HW98/R11/Marksman 56FTS

[ptpalpha]

Always wanted an HW98/R11, but my love of the "vintage" airguns won out.  Just got done tuning this 1989 Marksman Model 56-FTS (Field Target Special) in .177. Made by Weihrauch, with both the West Germany and Huntington Beach stampings.  1989 was the first year they were produced (to the best of my knowledge); it was  introduced at the 1989 Shot Show.
Had some condition issues, but most of them have been sorted.  The stock needs refinishing, and I'm considering replacing the barrel with a sleeved HW98 barrel.  Needs a delrin spring guide and tophat, too, which my buddy Mike Ellingsworth has graciously agreed to turn for me.  Mike knew I was hunting for an HW98 or R11, and when he saw this come up on the boards he snapped it up and told me it was mine if I wanted it.  Had to move some things to make it happen, but finally got a money order to Mike and he sent it to me.  Great guy, great friend!  I owe him big-time.
Currently running a JM Hornet spring and seal, and JM breech seal.  Pulled out the metal piston sleeve and replaced it with an HDPE sleeve which really tamed the twang. 
Waiting for the wind to stop gusting to see which pellets she likes.

[grumpy]

What a stunner. I have lusted for a 56FTS for decades. You lucky dog. Gorgeous gun !

Dave

[Motorhead]

Well done .... most excellent choice !!!
Beautiful rifle 

[Brazos]

I saw that rifle a few minutes after it sold.  I think it sold in 30 minutes with a line of people wanting it.  Had it not sold so quick I would be posting the pictures right now.  Congratulations.  I would leave the barrel as is.  You don't see many of those.

[ptpalpha]

Thanks, guys.  I'm really happy with it.
Brazos, I think you're right on leaving the barrel as-is. 
I saw the ad on the yellow after it sold...lots of interest in this one.  Mike really came through for me, and didn't make a dime on it selling it to me.
I consider myself very fortunate to have such a good friend who shares my passion for these springers.  I shot him an email last night at 2am when I finished the tune, and he had just come out of his shop after working on one of his.  We shared a laugh at our mutual addiction!

[palonej]

That is one sweet looking lady Paul!!
If she shoots as good as she looks I'd leave that barrel on her!
Enjoy and be sure to let us know how she behaves!

[Not The Brightest Bulb]

That is one sweet looking lady Paul!!

Say it again Joe, she sure is pretty.

[tjk]

Very Nice I wouldn't change a thing. A nice patina adds a lot to older guns IMO. My old R1 had a 'used' stock and I considered refinishing it. But instead, I just sprayed it down with rem oil and over time it has  become a really nice looking gun. Character marks and all. Hope you enjoy your new addition.