Hämmerli X-Esse, first shoots

My first shoots, last August 23rd, 2011, with my just acquired second hand ("as new") Hämmerli X-Esse, .22 LR pistol were very satisfying - with two impressives 48 / 50 scores at ISSF 25 meter precision shooting rules.

Hämmerli X-Esse with Lapua Pistol King - 25 meter ISSF precision

The first training session followed a mixed set of "precision" shooting rules (5 shoots series in 150 seconds) and "first stage velocity" (5 shoots series in 20 seconds). The results, using Lapua Pistol King ammo, .22 LR 40 grains, were:

Precision, 150 seconds, 5 x series / 50 points

43, 48, 48, 42, 41, 43

Average: 8,8 / 10

Velocity, 20 seconds, 5 x series / 50 points
42, 43, 47, 39, 46, 38
Average: 8,5 / 10

Overall score: 520 / 600
Overall average: 8,6

This specfic Hämmerli X-Esse is  the "standard" model, with 4 1/2 inch barrel, made in Switerzland. Trigger was adjusted to approx. 1300 grams pull height (via the internal adjustment screw) - ISSF regulations have a mininum setting of  1000 grams. You can find further details on the trigger adjustment procedure for this X-Esse, with a step-a-step photo guide, here >>  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qnHpiBlGX8

Trigger adjustment down to 1200-1300 grams

This X-Esse is the closest a "sport" pistol can get to "match grade" (without breaking any rule book, and, last but not least, within a very interesting budget). First, the grip is wonderful for the classic single hand ISSF 25 meter shooting stance - ambidextrous, with a pronounced beaver and with a roundish large-enough and well textured grip (partial stippling-like on the front and back). Strong grip adherence texture and great overall hand support. Second, the trigger - when adjusted down from the >2000 grams factory setting, down to some 1200-1300 grams, it's crispy, no creep, a true capable performer. Third, the sights - made by LPA, windage and elevation adjustable and with a match oriented sight contour. All adds up to a true performer.

The down side - there's always one - comes from the use of plastic/polymer on many components - in particular, on the magazines and on the front slide blocker. Personally, I dislike the look and fell and I sure have some questions about long term use.

Wood grip replacement by Nill (Germany)
- lacking the "extended" beavertail of the original
Photo (c) Nill Griffe Shop

There's a third party option grip from Nill Grips, Germany, but, very surprisingly, lacks, by design, the beavertail section - and that's precisly one of the strong points on the original. I will keep the original grip on this - and I'm a "dedicated" wood / Nill grips fan.

Photos and details of the Hämmerli X-Esse

Left side, safety on (red dot shows, top back)

Right side

Detailed perspective on the synthetic grip
- with a strong effective grip-on texture stipple like

Magazine removed and the slide locked in the open position

LPA back adjustable (windage and elevation) match sights

Front sight

Close up on the trigger blade and magazine extraction button