The Diana Chaser represents an intriguing entry in the modern air rifle market, offering a unique combination of versatility, performance, and value. This comprehensive review explores every aspect of this versatile air rifle, from its multiple configurations to its real-world performance characteristics. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first air rifle or an experienced shooter seeking a versatile addition to your collection, this detailed analysis will help you understand what the Diana Chaser has to offer.
Value Proposition and Package Contents
At a street price of $142.99, the Diana Chaser kit delivers exceptional value for money. The comprehensive package includes:
- The basic CO2-powered action
- Two interchangeable barrels (long and short)
- A rifle/carbine stock
- A soft carrying case
- A single-shot pellet loading tray
- Two sets of sights (for rifle and pistol configurations)
- A barrel band
- Spare O-rings
- 12-month warranty coverage
This extensive kit provides everything needed to configure the weapon in three distinct ways: as a pistol, a micro-carbine, or a full rifle. The inclusion of both barrels and multiple sight options makes this package particularly attractive for those who value versatility in their shooting platform. Currently, the Diana Chaser is one of the best air rifles for pest control.
Construction and Build Quality
Materials and Finish
The Diana Chaser features robust construction with metal components where it matters most. The receiver, CO2 chamber, barrel, and trigger mechanism are all metal, while the grip utilizes a textured composite material for weight reduction and comfort. The external metal parts showcase good machining quality and surface finishing, with satisfactory blacking on the barrels and CO2 tube, and nice powder coating on the breech.
The synthetic stock, while showing a visible mold seam, is well-finished with a practical textured surface. The overall fit between components is good, reflecting careful assembly and quality control. While the design might appear somewhat “spindly” due to its light construction, this contributes to its versatility and ease of use.
Performance
Velocity and Power
Chrony tests:
| Calibers | Pellets | FPS | FPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| .22 | Predator Polymag 15.89 gr | 525 | 9.73 |
| .22 | RWS Hobby 11.9 gr | 545 | 7.85 |
| .177 | Crosman Premier 7.9 gr | 650 | 7.41 |
| .22 | Crosman Premier 14.3 gr | 532 | 8.99 |
| .22 | RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr | 530 | 8.73 |
| .22 | H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr | 511 | 8.5 |
| .22 | H&N Terminator 16.36 Gr | 501 | 9.12 |
| .177 | JSB Simply Pellets 8.02 Gr | 652 | 7.57 |
| .177 | H&N Sniper Light 7.4gr | 550 | 4.97 |
| .22 | H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.52gr | 409 | 6.88 |
| .177 | Predator GTO 5.0 Grain | 676 | 5.59 |
| 1.177 | H&N Field Target Trophy Green 5.56 Grain | 664 | 5.45 |
| 2.177 | RWS Hobby 7.0 Grain | 605 | 5.58 |
| 3.177 | Crosman Premier HP 7.9 Grain | 598 | 6.27 |
| 4.177 | JSB Exact Diabalo 8.44 Grain | 593 | 6.59 |
| 5.177 | H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Grain | 571 | 6.25 |
| 6.177 | H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 Grain | 549 | 7.13 |
The Diana Chaser demonstrates impressive performance metrics that vary significantly between configurations and environmental conditions. In rifle configuration, our testing revealed:
- Maximum velocity of 676 FPS with 5.0 Grain Predator GTO alloy pellets
- 605 FPS with 7.0 Grain RWS Hobby lead pellets
- Consistent performance for approximately 50 shots per CO2 cartridge
- Velocity drops to 307 FPS at shot 50 before rapid decline
Temperature plays a crucial role in performance, with approximately 2 FPS change per degree Fahrenheit. At 90°F, the rifle can achieve up to 812 FPS with lead pellets, nearly doubling the muzzle energy compared to cooler conditions.
Accuracy and Consistency
Accuracy tests:
| Calibers | Pellets | Distances | Groups |
|---|---|---|---|
| .177 | Crosman Premier Domed 10.5gr | 10 yards | 1/4" |
| .177 | Crosman Pellets Hollow 7.9gr | 15 meters | nickel size |
| .22 | JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr | 15 yards | 1" |
| .22 | RWS Hobby 11.9 gr | 15 yards | one hole |
| .177 | H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr | 10 yards | one hole |
| .22 | Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr | 10 meters | dime size |
The Diana Chaser demonstrates commendable accuracy, particularly with the right ammunition choice. Best results were achieved with 8.44 Grain JSB Exact pellets, producing impressive one-hole groups at appropriate ranges. The rifle maintains a respectable Standard Deviation of 6.56 FPS across different pellet types, indicating good consistency for a CO2-powered platform.
Operating Characteristics
Trigger System
The two-stage trigger system features:
- Average pull weight of 3 Lbs 8 oz
- Light first stage
- Distinct second stage transition
- Single adjustment screw
- Manual safety integrated into trigger blade
- Consistent pull weight variation of ±5 ounces
Loading and Operation
The Diana Chaser utilizes a left-side bolt handle, which, while unusual, proves smooth and efficient in operation. The single-shot loading system employs a magnetic tray, best loaded from the left side to maintain proper alignment. For enhanced convenience, optional magazines are available:
- 9-shot capacity in .177 caliber
- 7-shot capacity in .22 caliber
- Compatible with various Diana models
Sighting Systems and Optics
The Diana Chaser comes with two sets of adjustable notch rear sights, designed for both pistol and rifle configurations. While lacking fiber optic inserts, both sets offer windage and elevation adjustment. The dovetail rails machined into the breech allow for scope mounting, though some considerations apply:
- High rings required for 40mm objective lenses
- Adapter needed for most red dot sights
- Stock designed primarily for open sight use
- Possible need for cheek riser with scope
CO2 System and Performance
CO2 Operation
The Diana Chaser operates on standard 12-gram CO2 cartridges with several notable features:
- Unpressurized tube design
- Special slot for cartridge removal
- Included Tommy Bar tool for installation
- Temperature-dependent performance
- 25-40 consistent shots per cartridge
- Best performance in warmer conditions
Shot Count and Efficiency
CO2 performance varies with temperature and shooting pace:
- Approximately 25 “good” shots at full power
- Up to 50 total shots per cartridge
- Gradual velocity decline after 25 shots
- Rapid decline after 40-50 shots
- Temperature-dependent efficiency
Practical Applications
Intended Use Cases
The Diana Chaser excels in several applications:
- Backyard plinking and target practice
- Family shooting activities
- Training platform for beginners
- Close-range pest control
- Educational tool for shooting fundamentals
Range Performance
Performance varies by configuration and distance:
- Pistol/Carbine: Excellent at 10 yards, less effective beyond 30 yards
- Rifle: Maintained accuracy at 30 yards and beyond
- Best results with matched ammunition
- Consistent grouping at intended ranges
Features:
- CO2
- Bolt-Action
- Includes Single-Shot Tray
- Fixed Front Sight
- Adjustable Rear Sight
- 11mm Dovetail
- 2 Stage Trigger, adjustable take-up
- Spare CO2 capsule can be stored in the grip
- Approximately 50 shots per CO2 cartridge
- Compatible with Diana Stormrider Magazines
- Soft Case included
Recommended uses:
- Target shooting/plinking
- Pest control: starlings, rats, pigeons.
Pros and Cons
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Conclusion
The Diana Chaser represents outstanding value in the air rifle market, offering a versatile platform that can grow with the shooter’s needs and preferences. While it has some minor design compromises, the overall package delivers excellent performance, good accuracy, and remarkable adaptability at its price point.
For anyone seeking a versatile, affordable, and capable air rifle platform, the Diana Chaser deserves serious consideration. Its ability to transform between configurations, combined with solid performance characteristics and upgrade potential, makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters alike.
