Coming attractions
The Editor selects the best of the latest releases and highlights the product launches that are set to make headlines in the new year.
Beretta 688 Performance
The new 688 Performance is designed for competition. It sports a heavier receiver for improved stability, reduced recoil, and smoother shooting. The charcoal black laminated stock gives a sleek modern look and enhances balance and control. The palm swell, inspired by the iconic 698, reduces recoil and provides perfect ergonomic handling. The B-Fast adjustable technology allows for easy customization of the cheekpiece and the option to add additional weights.
Goodnature Mousetrap
The Goodnature mousetrap offers an innovative solution for rodent control. With its automatic, self-resetting design, it provides a humane and non-toxic approach to catching mice. Its electric mechanism allows for 100 consecutive strikes, delivering effective and efficient results. The trap retails at £109 and is now available for pre-orders.
The Flies that Trout Prefer
Peter Hayes and Don Stazicker filmed crucial trout behaviors with clear implications for fly design. This updated and revised book describes simple, constructive designs to imitate the flies that trout prefer: how to tie them, vulnerable food items and where to find them, how to find the trout that are feeding on them, and how to present the fly most effectively. Beautifully illustrated, this hardback will be available from February 2025.
Arxus Primo Jodhpur Boots
Perfect for wet conditions when a full boot is not required, the new Arxus Primo Jodhpur is fully waterproof and made from 100% natural rubber. A heavy-duty polycotton 2mm Air Cell lining provides superior breathability, while the adjustable side gusset ensures a comfortable fit. Featuring Arxus’s X-Grip sole, integrated foot support, and a removable anatomic EVA insole, these boots will be available in sizes 3.5 to 12 in brown from March 2025.
Swarovski tM35+
The tM35+ is a front-mounted thermal that is remarkably simple to use. The unit can be handheld or mounted to a scope via an adapter. Alternatively, you can replace the adapter with the supplied eyepiece to transform it into a spotter. Importantly, the transition from daytime to thermal doesn’t require any re-zeroing or adjustments — just swap the eyepiece for the adapter. The on-board 640 sensor produces a detailed, well-defined image, and there are only four buttons to operate.
NocPix ACE H50R
The new NocPix ACE H50R thermal scope features a next-generation sensor that delivers outstanding image quality, especially at long ranges, with a super-smooth 60Hz frame rate. Its integrated 1,200m ballistic laser rangefinder and advanced Reality+ and Vision+ systems, combined with a 50mm F0.9 lens, provide 3x to 24x magnification and a detection range of up to 2,600m — ideal for foxing and vermin control.
Zeiss HDX Binoculars
The Conquest HDX offers solid improvements over the original Conquest HD, including an 80g reduction in weight and a 347ft field of view at 1,000m. Improved field curvature is achieved through the field-flattened eyepieces. Weighing just 25.2oz, these binoculars are perfect for stalking, offering fast focus, a generous depth of field, and a wide field of view — making them equally suited to woodland and open-country glassing.
Browning 825
The brand-new Browning B825 is a top-tier sporting gun, made to celebrate the centenary of the legendary B25. Building on the success of the B725, the B825 boasts improved components throughout. Weighing 7lb 6oz, it features a wonderfully ergonomic semi-pistol grip and palm swell. The adjustable comb and pull allow for bespoke customisation, and the gun strikes a balance between feeling solid and maintaining excellent manoeuvrability.
