I just traded a 1710D KL for a Cooper 57M Classic. I have only fired the Cooper twice so far and most of that was off the bench testing ammo. With that being said, I can compare the two somewhat.
My Annie had very heavy wood, and I had a hard time making Hunter class weight. That's one reason for the trade. The other is I've wanted a Cooper for a while. No weight problem with the Cooper. The Annie had a great trigger, as does the Cooper. The Annie trigger was a little more comfy perhaps for my finger.
The Annie did have speratic ejection and oddly enough so does my Cooper.
As far as craftsmanship, both are exceptionable. I am very pleased with the fit and finish on my Cooper. No machining marks at all. Seems like they did very good on the bedding also.
With Wolf ammo both seem to group about the same. I will be doing further testing with the Cooper when more test ammo comes in. I have heard that if your Cooper will not shot or has any problems they will make it right. If needed, I guess I will find out.
Anzshutz has such a reputation that I don't believe anybody will topple them. In my opinion everyone else is racing for 2nd place. With that being said, I think Cooper is very close. With a lower retail, and being made in the USA, it is worth a try to me.
We'll see how it goes. But I would defentally own another Annie, and maybe some day I will (hmm........ a 1712 Silhouette would be nice :wink: ). But so far, I'm pleased with the Cooper.
I do know that there where problems with the Cooper M36 years back. Also, there where QC problems after Dan Cooper left the company. He's back now, and from what I hear and read the new 57M is liked by a lot of people.
good luck, Bill