Optima by Hatsan Striker Edge Vortex 4.5 mm is a powerful break-barrel air rifle featuring a thumb-hole stock, fiber optic sights and a Vortex gas spring that noticeably reduces recoil and improves accuracy.
Air rifles produced by the Turkish manufacturer Hatsan have enjoyed strong popularity among shooters for years thanks to the performance they offer within their price range. The Optima by Hatsan brand delivers an excellent price-to-quality ratio resulting from advanced production solutions. All components are manufactured in a single factory, ensuring full quality control at every stage.
The rifle stock is made of durable polymer with a matte finish, resistant to mechanical damage, weather conditions and moisture. Maintenance is limited to keeping it clean and occasionally applying silicone oil. The symmetrical thumb-hole stock features a textured pistol grip with thumb opening, enhancing comfort and control. Recoil is effectively absorbed thanks to a ventilated rubber butt pad, which also provides a stable shoulder support.
The pistol grip and fore-end are finished with fine checkering to improve grip and enhance the rifle’s modern appearance.
The spring is cocked by classic “break-barrel” action, the most common method used in spring-powered air rifles due to its simplicity and ease of use. The rifle fires 4.5 mm diabolo pellets, loaded directly into the barrel. A polymer protective collar, which also houses the front sight, facilitates safe loading. The rifle is equipped with an Anti Bear-Trap safety system that prevents accidental release of the spring during cocking.
The Optima by Hatsan Striker Edge Vortex features a Vortex gas spring, responsible for smooth operation, reduced recoil and improved accuracy. The Vortex Gas Piston system is based on a pneumatic cylinder that replaces the traditional steel spring with compressed gas.
When the trigger is pulled, the compressed gas drives the piston, compressing air and propelling the pellet. The Vortex system ensures stable muzzle velocity and a longer pneumatic system lifespan compared to standard spring-piston mechanisms.
The most noticeable benefits for the shooter include reduced recoil, lower vibration and shot noise, as well as less effort required for cocking. Thanks to these features, the Optima by Hatsan Striker Edge Vortex 4.5 mm stands out for its smooth operation, high precision and excellent shooting comfort.
Accuracy and shot consistency are ensured by a 450 mm rifled barrel, allowing tight grouping after a short training period. The fired pellet reaches a muzzle velocity of approximately 250 m/s (below 17 J), enabling accurate shooting at longer distances.
Safety is a priority in shooting sports, which is why cocking the rifle (“breaking the barrel”) automatically engages the automatic safety, preventing accidental discharge. Before firing, the safety must be disengaged. It is conveniently positioned in front of the trigger, allowing quick and intuitive operation without disturbing the aiming process.
The rifle is equipped with high-quality fiber optic sights, including a hooded front sight and a rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation. The contrasting green and red fiber rods significantly speed up target acquisition and, thanks to excellent light absorption, allow shooting even in low-light conditions. For longer-distance shooting, an optical sight can be mounted on the 11 mm rail.