Author Topic: Do the Handi's have some new competition?  (Read 2899 times)

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Offline jjas

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Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« on: January 19, 2010, 08:13:27 AM »
Thought some of you guys might enjoy seeing this......

18 calibers (including rimfire, centerfire, muzzleloader and shotguns).  The barrels are supposed to be interchangeable and the MSRP $336.00

http://www.rossiusa.com/2010newcatalog/?catalog_page=2



Offline TxGun

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #1 on: January 19, 2010, 08:24:05 AM »
I've traded past a few Rossis (always as a "throw in" to persuade me to close a deal). Never been very impressed with them and have never kept one longer than the next gun show. Personally, I consider the H&R/NEF a much better built gun. JMO.

Offline Swampman

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #2 on: January 19, 2010, 08:28:44 AM »
No interest
"Brother, you say there is but one way to worship and serve the Great Spirit. If there is but one religion, why do you white people differ so much about it? Why not all agreed, as you can all read the Book?" Sogoyewapha, "Red Jacket" - Senaca

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Offline redboot612

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #3 on: January 19, 2010, 08:40:40 AM »
Have seen them and handled a few, but am not interested in a Rossi!!!

Red
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Offline MSP Ret

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #4 on: January 19, 2010, 09:10:17 AM »
copy cats but no competition, the quailty is not there in a Rossi....<><....:)
"Giving up your gun to someone else on demand is called surrender. It means that you have given up your ability to protect yourself to a power that is greater than you." - David Yeagley

Offline xhare

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #5 on: January 19, 2010, 09:23:07 AM »
I have seen some of the newer offerings but, including a 44 mag, but I am not sure if it was the new Wizard.  Doubt it.  Anyway, the only problem I had was that it appeared the the fiber sights were not straight.  Rossi is not the only manufacturer to have that problem though.  Or it is just my eyes.  Otherwise I like the look and feel. It opened easy and the trigger seemed fine. 

Success depends on one thing though.  Can I buy a barrel and put it on, like a Contender, or do I have to send it back in?


Offline bilmac

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #6 on: January 19, 2010, 09:28:02 AM »
I just bought a youth combination 22 /20ga to train the grandkids. Interesting how they solved the rimfire / centerfire interchangably problem. They drilled the 22 barrel off center at the breech, but it is centered at the muzzle. I imagine that any caliber that stressed the barrel a bit would give horrible accuracy, but the 22 seems to shoot ok. The stubby little 20 ga barrel is modified and shoots a nice pattern. I hope the kids can handle a short shotgun better than their grandpa.

I'm not thralled with the firesights, lots of plastic makes them look awfully flimsy. I hope the tapped mounting holes are standard enough that I can put on some real sights if the kids ever want to use the gun in the field.

Main complaint, it is ugly as sin. I bet that down deep in their hearts, that's what the guys that are saying no thanks are really talking about.

Offline jjas

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #7 on: January 19, 2010, 09:42:10 AM »
xhare
Quote
Success depends on one thing though.  Can I buy a barrel and put it on, like a Contender, or do I have to send it back in?


FWIW,  these are apparently new to the market and the barrels are supposed to interchange.  I have no idea about their quality nor am I a big Rossi fan. 

I just saw them on another site that was showing what was new @ SHOT this year and thought some of you might find them interesting.

Jim

Offline MSP Ret

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #8 on: January 19, 2010, 10:21:09 AM »
Thanks for the info Jim. And bilmac is right, they are ugly looking....<><....:)
"Giving up your gun to someone else on demand is called surrender. It means that you have given up your ability to protect yourself to a power that is greater than you." - David Yeagley

Offline spikehorn

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #9 on: January 19, 2010, 10:27:31 AM »
I had a rossi 308 it was accurate enough, but it was one of the most brutally recoiling guns I have ever owned. I sold it. I do have a rossi 357 mag single shot nicle plated that I would sell for the world. With the 140gr LE ammo I can consistantly shoot 1.5 " at 100 yards with a 4X simmons pro diamond on it. It's a great little brush gun.
308 win                 45-70                       12ga         
30-30                    223 stainless steel   20ga TDC
44 mag                  Tracker II 20ga        20ga
45-70 Manlicher     20ga USH                28ga
                                                              410ga

Offline Airsporter

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #10 on: January 19, 2010, 10:51:58 AM »
The one thing I like about the Rossi's is the thin, lightweight receiver v. the heavy Handi casting.  Especially in light recoiling calibers.  But they are butt ugly. Why can't somebody build something better at say $350 - with a genuine walnut stock!?

I just ordered a now defunct Remington SPR-18 in 7.62x39 from Buds at $237 shipped.  I'll let you know if I can rehab it.

Offline hunter63

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #11 on: January 19, 2010, 11:42:46 AM »
I was aware that they had a barrle program, like NEF/H&R.
I always thought the were a step down?
Anyway I still have a long way to go till catch up on my Handi's,
so I'll pass also.
If all else fails, I can always shoot supper.

Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #12 on: January 19, 2010, 11:54:29 AM »
Rossi doesn't have an accessory barrel program, the "interchangable" means the combo barrels are all fitted to the frame and can be swapped out just as H&R combos can, they don't sell accessory barrels. They used to have a barrel program page that said it was coming...and coming.....for many years, then it just disappeared when they updated their website a couple years ago.

Tim

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Offline LONGTOM

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #13 on: January 19, 2010, 12:36:02 PM »
I just saw a combo this past weekend at a local gun show.
270 and a shotgun barrel.
Don't recall which gauge.
Butt ugly is correct.
Looked very cheap as far as workmanship.
I am sure recoil would be stiff to say the least and at $449.00 I thought a little steep for no better gun than it was.
I too will pass!



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Offline trotterlg

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #14 on: January 19, 2010, 01:47:26 PM »
Even Quick missed this one!  It is a new frame, it does not need to have barrels fitted, you just buy a barrel for it like you do a Contender.  It does not come as a combo, you pick each barrel and purchase it off the shelf and it fits the receiver you have.  This is the "Wizard" frame rifle and is different from the other Rossi's we have seen.    Larry
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Offline Swampman

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #15 on: January 19, 2010, 01:50:09 PM »
It's still a Rossi.... :P
"Brother, you say there is but one way to worship and serve the Great Spirit. If there is but one religion, why do you white people differ so much about it? Why not all agreed, as you can all read the Book?" Sogoyewapha, "Red Jacket" - Senaca

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Offline xhare

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #16 on: January 19, 2010, 05:16:06 PM »
Upon closer inspection I agree.  These are different frames. It looks different from the side, and the grip is different.  I would love to see one but I will hold my judgement until I see one.  mrbigtexan has talked up the 7.62x39 Rossi on the Rossi page here quite a bit and has had quite good luck with his.  Once I can get one in my hands, and see the street price I will judge. 

Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #17 on: January 19, 2010, 07:11:50 PM »
Even Quick missed this one!  It is a new frame, it does not need to have barrels fitted, you just buy a barrel for it like you do a Contender.  It does not come as a combo, you pick each barrel and purchase it off the shelf and it fits the receiver you have.  This is the "Wizard" frame rifle and is different from the other Rossi's we have seen.    Larry

Yeah, I forgot about the Wizard that you posted about.  :-\

Tim

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Offline SM Bob

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #18 on: January 19, 2010, 08:59:35 PM »
Main complaint, it is ugly as sin. I bet that down deep in their hearts, that's what the guys that are saying no thanks are really talking about.

Exactly the point! That is one ugly firearm. The quality doesn't look that great either. I guess some people like them though.

                                                       Robert

http://www.rossiusa.com/images/imagesMain/R308MBS.jpg

Offline Jacko

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #19 on: January 19, 2010, 11:53:55 PM »
I sence just a bit of "American Made" pride here folks - nothing wrong with that but not bias free ;D ;D From my perspective both are imports and neither has much of a reputation or is particularly well received here. Have been warned off inaccurate Handi's by every Gunshop I've looked BUT YOU FOLKS HAVE ME 100% COMFORTABLE ABOUT BUYING ONE.

I am a Handi nut in waiting, just love the concept/versatility but have bought 3 Lever rifles instead of a Handi this last 12 months. Come tax return time at the end of June, it'll be a 45.70 Handi time, no if's or buts  ::)

Earlier single shot Rossi's received a good write up by a respected Gunscribe whereas I have only seen luke warm reveiws of the H & R, wonder what he'll say if the Wizard hits our shores. This Rossi Wizard appeals to me on a practical level, don't care about form over function. If it's half the rifle my Rossi lever is it'll be worthwhile.

We do not have access to the accessory barrel programme, have to spend $500 on another Handi if I want another calibre so having a choice to buy a 45.70 Rossi Wizard and have an off the shelf option of .223 barrel, 50 cal muzzleloader, whatever at reasonable cost compared to a whole new rifle is an intriguing concept.

regards Jacko





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Offline Default

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #20 on: January 20, 2010, 02:11:51 AM »
Jacko,

 The  Rossi rifles will do the job , Sister-in-law has one in 243win and its plenty accurate for hunting and has claimed a number of hogs ( this was the first rifle she ever bought ) ..

 Her husband , My brother.. For Christmas a few years back , Bought one of these rifles for my our sisters husband .. So that he could join us on a hog hunting trip ( I had bought his oldest boy his first hunting rifle, a 243 Handi ultra lite youth) and not have to borrow a rifle .. And when the time to sight in this little rossi in 30-06 , My brother and brother-in-law came to me...

 So we get out to the range and the 2 boxes of ammo that they had for it were nothing special wal-mart cheapy Federal 180gr -06 .. To the point ... The things recoil with the 180gr -06 ammo kicked like something more a kin to a 300 winchester mag... And at that time I owned a 300wm and a couple -06s and none were so unpleasent to shoot as that little rossi rifle was...

 So needless to say they have not made a good impression on me and I have only bought one and it was in 7.62x39 ( for the afore mentioned nephews younger twin sisters to learn the shooting and hunting sports with) but it recoiled more like a 308 ( even with reduced handloads) and I couldnt bring myself to let my little neices even fire the dang thing , Traded it to a buddy for his 44mag/12 gauge rifle H&R Handi combo... The 44 mag has proven to be much better for them to learn on.

 I think its just the way the little Rossis are laid out that cause them to have more felt recoil than normal , This is something that I havent had any trouble with on the Handis ..

 This is the pre-wizard, I havent seen one yet in my area , but new reciever or not if it isnt at a great price and in a low recoiling caliber I'll stick with my Handis.

 But in your position Jacko , I can see the appeal of this newer rossi and its versitility .. And like you I am more about the function then the form .. Just try and get a chance to shoot one before you lay down your hard earned for one brother.. If they havent lined out the enhanced recoil issue in the rifle design it may not look like such a sweet deal after all


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Offline DaGris

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #21 on: January 20, 2010, 06:00:10 AM »
yep..the Wizard is a different rifle than most of us have seen before...

yes, the single shots they have had in the past are kinda cheap...I have one in .243 Youth that my wife uses...the Wizard is suppose to be a nicer, better built rifle.....I'll check one out the next time I'm looking..but its gonna be hard to beat a NEF Handi Rifle!!!!

Offline Smoke Wagon

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #22 on: January 20, 2010, 07:38:52 AM »
I love my handis, but I'm not above looking and feeling a Rossi. Not that I'll buy one, but you never know. I searched but did not find any one with any in stock. The big black cheek piece has got to go. I think it is and eye sore. The wood stocked ones don't look bad in the picture. But in real life it might be a different story.
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Offline Mike in Virginia

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #23 on: January 20, 2010, 11:14:58 AM »
Jacko said, "I sence just a bit of "American Made" pride here folks - nothing wrong with that but not bias free."  I hope Americans are never bias free.     

Offline briannmilewis

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #24 on: January 20, 2010, 07:08:57 PM »
Well, as I am starting over, maybe I will be the guinea pig and get one in the next 30 days or beyond if they haven't arrived yet. What calibers to start with?

Offline spikehorn

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #25 on: January 21, 2010, 05:53:52 AM »
308 win. just my humble bias
308 win                 45-70                       12ga         
30-30                    223 stainless steel   20ga TDC
44 mag                  Tracker II 20ga        20ga
45-70 Manlicher     20ga USH                28ga
                                                              410ga

Offline vabowhntr

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #26 on: January 22, 2010, 07:28:35 AM »
I saw them at the shot show, and they looked decent.  I was not a fan of the cosmetics, but some will like them.  I really liked the Judge rifle/shotgun that both Rossi and Taurus are selling.  If you hunted in a shotgun only zone and loaded some hot .410 loads with .451 or .452 bullets, these could be really exciting.

Offline poncaguy

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #27 on: January 23, 2010, 01:15:33 PM »
I've owned a Rossi HB 223 for 5 or so years. It usually shoots less than MOA. It's ok, my truck gun. I own a bunch of Handi's though.......... ;D

Offline Uncle Harry

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #28 on: January 23, 2010, 04:15:20 PM »
Airsporter said "I just ordered a now defunct Remington SPR-18 in 7.62x39 from Buds at $237 shipped.  I'll let you know if I can rehab it."

I've had one for 6-8 months now. It has a couple problems.

1. It's tight as hell! Hard to open, very stiff.

2. Scope rail on receiver is way too short. You need .22 type rings because the rail is 3/8" like on a Marlin 60.

3. Installing scope - rail being too short, the rings butt up against turret housings & you can't adjust eye relief.  What you got is what you got. You need to buy a Weaver type rail adapter from Midway.

4. Mine extracts (not ejects) spent rounds but I need to use small pliers to totally remove the casing.  It hangs up on the extractor thingie.  I'm sending it back to Remington on their dime after bitching and complaining for over a month.

Other than that, it's o.k.   ::)

Offline Airsporter

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Re: Do the Handi's have some new competition?
« Reply #29 on: January 23, 2010, 11:48:23 PM »
It arrived Friday.  First impressions of IZH:

Wow, it certainly wins the IZH/Handi beauty contest!  Very nice blue steel and walnut.  I think the spiral (hammer forged) barrel is beautiful. Checkering not fantastic but acceptable.  I love the traditional lever-release forend and all the non-wood parts are steel except the trigger guard.   It is tightly fitted.  I'll see how it wears in.  Trigger was a pleasant surprise after all the bad I heard.

I installed an old 2.5X Beeman/Hakko short scope with it's built-in dovetail base for starters.  Fits perfectly but they have a limited field of view.  So, I ordered a Sun Optics mount off Ebay for $20 - made specifically for IZH rifles.  Other options are to go the scout scope route or take Fred's advice - mill off the dovetail and d&t for a traditional base.

Anyway, I'll try to get out today for function testing.