Weihrauch HW98

The Weihrauch HW 98 is a premium spring-piston air rifle designed for accuracy, comfort, and reliability. Built in Germany by Weihrauch, a brand known worldwide for precision engineering, the HW 98 is a favorite choice among target shooters and hunters. With its adjustable stock and famous Rekord trigger, this rifle gives you full control and consistent performance with every shot.

The HW 98 is a premium spring-piston air rifle designed for shooters who demand accuracy and consistency. Built by Weihrauch, a trusted name in German engineering, the HW 98 combines a powerful shot with exceptional handling, making it a top choice for target shooting, plinking, and pest control.

Key Features of the Weihrauch HW 98

1. Adjustable, Ergonomic Stock

• Beechwood ambidextrous stock designed for comfort and precision

• Height-adjustable cheekpiece and buttplate, allowing customization of cheek weld and shoulder fit for better accuracy

• The buttpad can tilt and move up/down, while the cheekpiece moves vertically to suit the shooter’s posture

2. Heavy Barrel with Shroud/Bull Barrel Design

• The rifle uses the action from the HW 95 but adds a heavy, sleeved “bull barrel” that improves balance and stabilit

• This sleeved barrel reduces muzzle flip and smooths recoil, helping maintain steady aim during firing

• Some versions feature a muzzle weight that can be replaced with a silencer, threaded with ½” UNF for attachment

3. Rekord Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger

• Famous Rekord 2-stage match trigger—widely regarded as one of the finest spring-gun triggers available

• Fully adjustable to suit individual preferences in pull weight and trigger release

4. Scope-Focused Design

• The HW 98 omits open sights, instead featuring a long 11 mm dovetail rail for mounting scopes—perfect for precision shooting setups

• Designed from the ground up to pair well with telescopic sights rather than iron sights

5. Reliable Spring-Piston, Break-Barrel Mechanism

• Uses a spring-piston powerplant with a break-barrel loading system, renowned for dependability and smooth cocking

• Incorporates Weihrauch’s signature automatic safety that engages upon cocking

6. Solid Build & Performance

• Weight: Approximately 3.8 kg (8.4 lb)—a substantial heft that enhances stability

• Overall length: Around 1,100 mm (43 in); barrel length: about 410 mm (16 in)

• Available in multiple calibres: .177, .20 (special order), .22, and even .25 (special order)

• Excellent accuracy and consistency are hallmarks, with reviewers reporting tight shot groups and low velocity spread

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7. Built for Longevity & Precision

• Based on the well-known HW 95 action, the HW 98 is constructed to maintain performance even under extensive use

• Recent updates include a sectional barrel design for improved future serviceability

  Performance & Accuracy of the Weihrauch HW 98

  Consistent Velocity & Energy Output

  • Exceptional velocity stability: Sporting-Gun measured just a 6 fps spread over 30 shots, using Weihrauch FT-Exact pellets—quite rare for a brand-new springer. Accuracy: ½-inch groups at 30 yards with a soft hold .

  • Gun Mart tests across .177 pellets:

    • AccuPel: avg ~810 fps (range 15 fps)

    • JSB Exact: avg ~790 fps (16 fps)

    • Logun Penetrator: ~735 fps (12 fps)

    • Result: 0.5-inch groups at 35 yards, consistent across pellet brands .

  • Another Gun Mart review highlighted even tighter chrony consistency:

    • BSA pellets: 11 fps spread over 10 shots

    • JSB Diabolo Fields: only 8 fps spread, and groups just over ¼-inch at 30 yards . 

  • Meanwhile, yet another test clocked 16 fps velocity spread, 11–14 ft∙lbs energy, and sub-½-inch groups at 30 yards Precision & Tuning Highlights

  • A review of the Grey Laminate version revealed deceptively smooth shot cycles and very modest recoil. On the bench using a gentle artillery hold, the shooter produced ragged one-hole groups at 30 meters—performance comparable to PCP rifles .

  • Gun forums note further tuning boosts performance. One user, after deburring and tuning their HW 98, achieved 11.7 ft∙lbs and just 4.2 fps standard deviation at ~819 fps with JSB pellets .

  Engineering for Accuracy

  • The heavy bull-barrel and shroud lend front-weight and stability that help dampen recoil and barrel flip, helping the rifle “just sit on the target”

  • The fully adjustable stock—with an adaptable buttpad and cheekpiece—enhances fit and encourages a consistent, repeatable hold, further improving precision.

  • The famed Rekord two-stage trigger provides a crisp, predictable release; one detailed test recorded first stage at 11 oz and second stage at ~3.55 lbs with zero creep

  • Smooth action and tight lock-up are common praise, promoting excellent repeatability

    Why Choose the HW 98?

    The HW 98 is more than just an air rifle—it’s a premium precision tool built for serious shooters. Designed and manufactured by Weihrauch, a world-renowned German airgun maker, it combines performance, reliability, and craftsmanship in one package. Here’s why the HW 98 stands out:

    1. Precision German Engineering

    Every HW 98 is crafted with meticulous attention to detail in Germany. Its precision-rifled barrel, barrel sleeve, and weight system ensure minimal vibration, smooth cocking, and unmatched shot consistency. This makes the rifle ideal for both competitive target shooting and practical field use.

    2. Customizable Fit for Maximum Comfort

    The HW 98 features a fully adjustable stock with a movable cheekpiece and buttplate, allowing shooters to tailor the rifle to their body size and shooting style. This reduces fatigue, improves control, and enhances accuracy during long shooting sessions.

    3. Powerful, Versatile Performance

    With calibers .177 and .22, the HW 98 delivers the perfect balance of velocity, power, and control. The .177 caliber is ideal for precision target shooting, while the .22 caliber offers extra stopping power for small-game hunting and pest control. No matter the use, the rifle maintains consistent performance shot after shot.

    4. Legendary Rekord Trigger

    Weihrauch’s two-stage Rekord trigger is renowned worldwide for its crisp, predictable release. Fully adjustable, it allows shooters to fine-tune the pull weight and travel, giving you ultimate control over every shot. This is a key factor in achieving tight groups and superior accuracy.

    5. Durable, Long-Lasting Build

    Built from high-quality wood and steel, the HW 98 is designed to withstand years of use. The combination of a solid stock, sturdy action, and durable components ensures reliability under various conditions, making it a lifetime investment for airgun enthusiasts.

    6. Balanced and Smooth Handling

    Thanks to its barrel weight system and ergonomic stock design, the HW 98 feels perfectly balanced in your hands. This reduces recoil and makes handling more stable, giving both novice and experienced shooters confidence with each shot.

    7. Trusted Reputation

    The HW series has been a trusted choice worldwide for decades. The HW 98 continues this legacy, offering precision, power, and reliability that competitors often struggle to match. Choosing this rifle means joining a community of shooters who value quality, consistency, and performance.

    8. Perfect for All Skill Levels

    Whether you are a beginner looking for a reliable first rifle or an experienced marksman seeking a high-performance airgun, the HW 98 adapts to your needs. Its adjustability, smooth operation, and accuracy make it accessible and enjoyable for every shooter.

    Care & Maintenance of the HW 98

    The Weihrauch HW 98 is a precision-engineered air rifle, and proper care ensures it continues to deliver accuracy, reliability, and long life. Here’s a detailed guide to maintaining your HW 98:

    1. Regular Cleaning

    • Barrel Cleaning: Use a high-quality airgun cleaning rod and soft cleaning patches. Avoid metal brushes, which can damage the rifling. For best results, clean the barrel every 500–1000 shots, depending on usage.

    • Stock Care: If your HW 98 has a wooden stock, wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after each use. Occasionally, use a wood-safe oil or wax to maintain the finish and prevent drying or cracking.

    2. Lubrication

    • Piston and Spring: The HW 98’s spring-piston system requires very minimal lubrication. Use only specialized airgun piston grease sparingly—too much oil can damage the seals and reduce performance.

    • External Metal Parts: Apply a thin coat of light gun oil to exposed metal surfaces to prevent corrosion. Avoid excessive oil on the barrel interior or trigger mechanism.

    3. Storage

    • Dry Environment: Always store the HW 98 in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and warping of wooden components.

    • Protective Case: Use a padded airgun case for long-term storage or transport. Ensure the rifle is not cocked while in storage to relieve tension on the spring.

    • Humidity Control: If you live in a humid area, consider a desiccant pack or climate-controlled storage to protect wood and metal parts.

    4. Scope and Sights

    • If you mount a scope, regularly check the mounting screws to ensure they are tight. Loose mounts can affect accuracy.

    • Clean lenses with a microfiber cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.

    5. Safety Checks

    • Safety Mechanism: Regularly test the automatic safety to ensure it engages properly.

    • Trigger Function: Check the Rekord trigger for smooth operation and listen for any unusual clicks or resistance, which may indicate maintenance is required.

    6. Handling Tips

    • Avoid dropping or striking the rifle, as even minor impacts can affect the barrel alignment and accuracy.

    • Always cock the rifle carefully, using a smooth, controlled motion to prevent spring fatigue or damage to the cocking mechanism.

    7. Professional Servicing

    • Every few years, consider having your HW 98 professionally serviced by a qualified airgun technician. They can check internal components, replace worn seals, and ensure optimal performance.

      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – HW 98

      1. What is the HW 98?

      The HW 98 is a high-quality German spring-piston air rifle made by Weihrauch. It’s known for accuracy, reliability, and adjustable comfort, making it ideal for target shooting, plinking, and small-game hunting.

      2. What calibers does it come in?

      The HW 98 is available in .177 (4.5 mm) and .22 (5.5 mm). The .177 is best for target shooting, while the .22 is better for hunting and pest control.

      3. How powerful is the HW 98?

      • .177 caliber: Up to about 935 fps (285 m/s)

      • .22 caliber: Up to about 738 fps (225 m/s)
        It delivers strong power while remaining smooth and accurate.

      4. Is the HW 98 suitable for beginners?

      Yes! The HW 98 is easy to handle, and its adjustable stock makes it comfortable for shooters of all sizes. Beginners will enjoy its smooth cocking action and reliable trigger.

      5. How accurate is it?

      The HW 98 is very accurate thanks to its precision-rifled barrel, barrel sleeve system, and the two-stage Rekord trigger. With practice, you can achieve tight groups at medium to long ranges.

      6. How do I clean and maintain it?

      • Clean the barrel occasionally with a soft patch and cleaning rod.

      • Wipe the stock with a dry cloth and use wood-safe oil if needed.

      • Lubricate the piston sparingly with airgun grease.

      • Store in a dry, safe place when not in use.

      7. Can I mount a scope on the HW 98?

      Yes! The HW 98 has an 11 mm dovetail rail for mounting scopes. Make sure to check that screws are tight for consistent accuracy.

      8. How loud is the HW 98?

      As a spring-piston air rifle, it is moderately loud, especially in .22 caliber. Using a silencer or moderator (if legal in your area) can help reduce noise.

      9. How long will it last?

      With proper care and maintenance, the HW 98 can last many years, thanks to its durable German craftsmanship. Professional servicing every few years is recommended for peak performance.

      10. Is it good for hunting?

      Yes, especially in .22 caliber. It has enough power and accuracy to humanely take small-game and control pests. The .177 version is better suited for target practice.

HW 98

HW 98 . The HW98 is a gun destine for backyard greatness in target shooting and small game hunting. This air rifle builds on Weihrauch’s long experience by keeping the ambidextrous stocks while adding an adjustable buttplate which cants left to right as well as moves up and downlong with an adjustable cheekpiece set into its unique beech wood frame, accented by black stippling along the forend and grip.

Like other airguns by Weihrauch, the HW98 contains the fame Rekord trigger, a crisp, clean, 2-stage adjustable that’s been called on of the best spring gun triggers in the world. While there are no open sights, the 98 includes an 11mm dovetail which begs for a high powered scope.

Weihrauch air rifles are engineered and manufacture in Germany in accordance with the latest sporting arms technology. With decades of experience and a strive for perfection and innovation . Weihrauch is able to deliver top quality, for maximum performance and a long service life.

HW 98

The Weihrauch HW98 is a very well-balance . Easy and smooth cocking air rifle. It is equip with the proven and world famous “Rekord” trigger. This break barrel air rifle comes with a heavy barrel sleeve and a special wooden universal stock with a long forearm and checkering on the pistolgrip and forearm. The buttplate and the cheekpiece are individually adjustable. The HW98 doesn’t have sight and is especially designed for rifle scope shooting.

It’s a cold hard fact that modern air rifles are much more accurate than the wobbly human who holds them, so it seems logical to me that to extract more of the performance on offer, we need to get our thinking caps on. Perhaps, if the rifle fitted us better and aided more consistent mounting and hold . We might improve our first-shot hit rate. Many people thinking this way have turned to adjustable stocks and I’m a big fan. All my serious rifles have adjustable cheek pieces and I’m convinced that they’ll become standard on all high-performance rifles in time.

HW 98

Many years ago, when I was a spring-gun hunter.  I reshaped the stock of my Weihrauch HW80 to improve the fit and handling, whilst losing a little weight from that hefty rifle. However, I lacked the wood-working/metal-working skills to install an adjustable height cheek piece, so added a fabric/foam accessory one that wrapped around the butt section to give the height I needed. Although my efforts were rudimentary at best, the rifle certainly fitted me better and I believe that I shot better with it for that. What I would really have liked, though, was the stunning HW98. It had the stock of my dreams, finding the optimum balance between a traditional sporter and a full target stock.

As you can see from the pictures, it wears an adjustable height cheek piece . A vertically adjustable butt pad, has a more upright pistol grip and stippling at the contact points. Weihrauch got this right 20 years ago and only now is the world beginning to catch up! To add to the technical superiority, Weihrauch added some styling in the form of fake cooling vents, painted black inside, and these match the black finish on the stippling. Very cool!