I've restored a couple old 50's - 60's Benjamins before, but it had been years since I had, and so after confidently tearing one down for a friend, waiting on parts.... them arriving, then me scratching my head as I looked at the OLD exploded view papers I had and finding nothing better online, YOUR VIDEO was a lifesaver. Thank You...
After finding your videos, watching the whole series, some of them 10 or 12 times I was confident enough to overhaul my 312. ( I’m a retired master diesel mechanic, not an ‘air gun smith’ ) . 2 pumps and it’s perfect for our backyard shooting gallery. Just wanted to say Thank You.
I just began restoring a Benjamin 342 that was my pride and joy when I was a kid. This video has helped me understand the design and function of the gun much more than I did before. I just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to put it together.
I just wanted to thank you for this and the other vids you posted on the 312 pumper. This information on the soldered valve system was invaluable to me. It helped me to restore my .20 Cal.Sheridan Silver Streak. I got the tool and ten other parts I needed from B & A and I refinished the stock. It came out so nice I can put hard hits on tin cans at 60+ yards. At first it looked like crape and wouldn't shoot at all. Because most of my shoots will be much closer I put on a red dot sight, man Am I loving it. can't wait for the first hunt. Thanks again.
I found a model 317 last week, and it arrived two days ago...It's the first old Benjamin air rifle that I've ever shot, and it did not disappoint :) Thanks for sharing these super videos!
These videos helped me. My landlord has one of these guns and we were working on it today. We didn't have the tool to get the valve out. But I am sure it needs cleaning. The symptoms is that the gun has very low power and it retains some of the preasure in the chamber even after it's fired. So you can cock it again and continue discharging air until the chamber is empty usually 2 times without pumping to repreasurize it. I know it was really cruddy inside and we used some liquid wrench and rust breaker to try and clean it out but it still doesn't work very well. It will shoot, But it has low power much lower than it should. You can shoot the ground from about 10 feet and dig the pellet out with your finger. With only about an inch of penetration. I know it is supposed to have more power than that. His cousin actually commited suicide with this gun. He shot himself under the chin. Though it took him a while to die, It did have the power sufficient to inflict a deadly wound. So the lack of power it has now has to be because all of the air preasure in the chamber is not being evacuated during firing. The gun is actually in good condition, but it hasn't been shot in probably 20 years until today. So right now I'm trying to figure out what could be the cause of the problems.I'm sure it needs new seals, but I do think a major issue is somewhere relating to the valve. The hammer and hammer spring are both in good condition. In fact the entire gun is in surprisingly good condition considering how old it is. Anyone who has any information I would appreciate it. I think it would be awsome to get this anteaque air rifle working back up to it's normal performance.
Man, what a great demonstartion vehicle! I collect and have fixed many airguns, but it is really, really cool to be able to see how they work in hard model form. Very nice sir and much appreciated! Alan from Connecticut
Cool video, thanks for the cutting open. I was messing with the trigger pull on a springer, where the safety is on the trigger, was to light a pull and the sear didn't engage the piston properly, so i kind of like this idea of a safety but you have valid points. They could have made the gap between the hammer less far to travel?
Very nice. Even though I have wanted a "tootsie roll" 312 for 40 years, I guess seeing one cut in half really is very interesting. Having older rocker Sheridans, I get a far better understanding on the simplicity and intricity that went in to making these great airguns. I'm very impressed on the relatively small size of an area that actually held the air! Any idea on the PSI it was holding at 8 pumps? Thanks for the very informative info.
TFL; You can get rebuild kits for these, at Mac1 airgun store, AB Airguns, Precision Pellet, Bryan & Associates or even on ebay (I think). I'll see if I can put up a blog and video on the 'TOOL', the one you need to get at the valve.
The 347 and 342 are my favorite Benjamin pumpers. Some even have pretty nice triggers!!! Well worth the effort to rebuild, even if you have to send it in to a pro to do it. The basic set up of the pump assembly and valve is the same as the 312/317 rifles, so the same kit and tool should work in either.
I also have the same model. But at the moment it is not in order. Have to repair. If I can get the spare parts I am in a position to repair it. I can spend money on this. Thank you.
Your videos are a big help in repairing my 342. Quick question as I’m having difficulty reinstalling trigger mechanism. How does this happen, do I install bolt first and cock?
I enjoyed your information I would like to know on pump rod when adjusting it does it bottom out against the end of end the pump tube to air chambervalve. When pumping it would seem that it would hit end of air valve with end of pump rod. I adjusted so that pump handle wouldn't fall down. Is this wrong ? Your suggestion on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
wow what great videos I've had a 312 I got from my uncle when I was 7 almost 40 yrs. I have always heard you don't want to send these in for repair because of recall on them. My seals have not worked for about 10 yrs. now. Do you have a good link on where you can get seals and the tool? found a kit for newer gun that the tool looks the same as this but can't buy separate, and I need the seals also.
I bought a reseal kit for my 312 and it only has one lead gasket. The other one is some kind of nylon looking material. Which one goes where? Is the lead one at the front of the valve or at the back of the valve. By front I mean towards the barrel of the gun. Thanks.
I have a 310 that the barrel was separated from the pump tube. I soldered the front sight back down and it seems strong (waiting for reseal kit) but I'm wondering if the entire length of the barrel should be soldered?
Some were spot soldered, but usually they are soldered continuously the entire length. If it’s just an inch or 2 you might be ok, but I wouldn’t expect it to hold if the separation is longer. Shoot it and see if it holds. If it breaks, then resolder it the whole length.
Help ! I have a 397PA that's had little use that won't make pressure. The gun was bought in the late 1990's, I am trying to flush it, but no luck so far. What kit would I need to rebuild it ?
Try any of these guys; northwestairguns.com/where-can-i-get-my-vintage-airgun-repaired/ Correspond or call if you are uncertain, any of them will set you up with the right stuff.
Hey love the video the black sponges things behind the pump cup on mine is rotted away I believe that's why it's not getting any compression what are those called and where can I get them?
Hmmm, I think you are talking about the felts. They have nothing to do with compression, just collect dirt and debris and keep it from getting to the valve. Try Rick Willnecker at Precision Pellet; airgunshop.net. If you find another source, let me know.
Aire Comprimido; you need a special tool to remove the valve parts, a square tool with a hole to take out the valve retainer nut, and then a tool with an internal thread of 9/32" x 32. There are rebuild kits for these airguns on ebay, I believe. Pedro; I know, it ruined the gun for sure. But, it was already pretty well ruined, so I was ok doing it. These airguns are pretty common around here, and this one was about the worst I had. I hope it was worth it so people can see how they operate.
NorthWestAirgun do you have a complete rebuild kit and re-seal kit for a 108 or 109 crosman town & country in .177 or can you repair it ,I have had this gun for about 15 years first gun I purchased of eBay sold as working.kind of made me not to buy anything else but I have.i have 3 crosman 130,2 crosman 140,2 crosman 1377 vintage,two 2240 changed to pcp and a silver streak Sheridan vintage,rebuilt all.can you rebuild it and how much after I give it a try first.
I have this kind of gun originally from my grandfather but i doesnt work it cant compress air anymore i think d valves were d problem but the thing is find it difficult to find alternatives rubber to replace the old one
I think they started production in about 1940, but only made a few because of WWII material shortages. Ramped up production after war was over. These were made into the mid-1960's when they were replaced by the Model 340/342/347.
@@NorthWestAirgun okay thankyou for telling me that its plumbus thats why im wondering why i find roof lead here in the philippines for water proofing the parts where you shove in a nail
The lead needs to properly sized to seat on the bottom of the exhaust valve and at the top under the valve retaining nut. If you have to make one, use the bottom of the exhaust valve, the step above the valve face, to size it both outside diameter and inside diameter
Hi Ryan, the bolt assembly is not commonly available, and the design changed a bit over the years. But a few guys still have them. Best bet would be Baker Airguns or Precision Pellet (Google them). Both carry an inventory of obsolete parts. Let me know how it turns out for you.
I've owned one of those since 1970, Iv'e probably launched a hundred pounds of lead out of mine with no maintenance other than oiling and it still shoots good to this day. I find your video informative but I really hate to see your gun cut up. I hope it was at least failing when you decided to make a demonstration rig out of it.
I was thinking much the same thing !! The detailed explanation was much to my benefit but at the same time I was thinking " Dang ! I hate that he had to ruin an air rifle in order to do this'.
I just bought the same gun from a customer, I thought the gun was worth my time re doing the badly glued stock. I am a little disappointed to see the gun in your video cut. In a way i can appreciate the info I got out of your video. But at the same time it ruined the gun. Oh well, I think I will restore the one I got. Thanks for the info.
I received your message but wasn't able to get back to you until now. Not sure if you remember my "Benjamin project" video. It has been very crazy for me and my family after the tornado came through. But I do need your assistance with rebuilding my gun.
I enjoyed your information I would like to know on pump rod when adjusting it does it bottom out against the end of end the pump tube to air chambervalve. When pumping it would seem that it would hit end of air valve with end of pump rod. I adjusted so that pump handle wouldn't fall down. Is this wrong ? Your suggestion on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
I've restored a couple old 50's - 60's Benjamins before, but it had been years since I had, and so after confidently tearing one down for a friend, waiting on parts.... them arriving, then me scratching my head as I looked at the OLD exploded view papers I had and finding nothing better online, YOUR VIDEO was a lifesaver.
Thank You...
After finding your videos, watching the whole series, some of them 10 or 12 times I was confident enough to overhaul my 312. ( I’m a retired master diesel mechanic, not an ‘air gun smith’ ) . 2 pumps and it’s perfect for our backyard shooting gallery. Just wanted to say Thank You.
I just began restoring a Benjamin 342 that was my pride and joy when I was a kid. This video has helped me understand the design and function of the gun much more than I did before. I just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to put it together.
How did it go? I have my dad's 312 and it stopped holding pressure today. I'm thinking of fixing it.
I just wanted to thank you for this and the other vids you posted on the 312 pumper. This information on the soldered valve system was invaluable to me. It helped me to restore my .20 Cal.Sheridan Silver Streak. I got the tool and ten other parts I needed from B & A and I refinished the stock. It came out so nice I can put hard hits on tin cans at 60+ yards. At first it looked like crape and wouldn't shoot at all. Because most of my shoots will be much closer I put on a red dot sight, man Am I loving it. can't wait for the first hunt. Thanks again.
I found a model 317 last week, and it arrived two days ago...It's the first old Benjamin air rifle that I've ever shot, and it did not disappoint :)
Thanks for sharing these super videos!
These videos helped me. My landlord has one of these guns and we were working on it today. We didn't have the tool to get the valve out. But I am sure it needs cleaning. The symptoms is that the gun has very low power and it retains some of the preasure in the chamber even after it's fired. So you can cock it again and continue discharging air until the chamber is empty usually 2 times without pumping to repreasurize it. I know it was really cruddy inside and we used some liquid wrench and rust breaker to try and clean it out but it still doesn't work very well. It will shoot, But it has low power much lower than it should. You can shoot the ground from about 10 feet and dig the pellet out with your finger. With only about an inch of penetration. I know it is supposed to have more power than that. His cousin actually commited suicide with this gun. He shot himself under the chin. Though it took him a while to die, It did have the power sufficient to inflict a deadly wound. So the lack of power it has now has to be because all of the air preasure in the chamber is not being evacuated during firing. The gun is actually in good condition, but it hasn't been shot in probably 20 years until today. So right now I'm trying to figure out what could be the cause of the problems.I'm sure it needs new seals, but I do think a major issue is somewhere relating to the valve. The hammer and hammer spring are both in good condition. In fact the entire gun is in surprisingly good condition considering how old it is. Anyone who has any information I would appreciate it. I think it would be awsome to get this anteaque air rifle working back up to it's normal performance.
THANKYOU FOR SHARING I LEARNED ALOT BOUGHT A USED GUN BENJAMIN FRANKLIN 312 WILL BE REBUILDING IT THANKS ALOT
Excellent description! Thanks for making the video!
Man, what a great demonstartion vehicle! I collect and have fixed many airguns, but it is really, really cool to be able to see how they work in hard model form. Very nice sir and much appreciated!
Alan from Connecticut
Thanks Alan, I'm very lucky to be able to combine hobbies and passions; airguns, machine work, and videography. Glad you enjoyed the video
Thank you for taking the time to cut out the gun and make video. Very interesting and informative.
Thanks for taking time to make these videos. Very informative and helpful.
Excellent video John
I enjoyed this very much so much that I subscribed without a second thought, I would like to see more thank you.
Cool video, thanks for the cutting open. I was messing with the trigger pull on a springer, where the safety is on the trigger, was to light a pull and the sear didn't engage the piston properly, so i kind of like this idea of a safety but you have valid points. They could have made the gap between the hammer less far to travel?
Works great, love it!
Just got ahold of one and im really greatfull for this information. Im not sure what year mine is but i do plan on restoring it.
I am verry found of shooting benjamin pumping air gun, but air does,nt working prrperly, howto repair
check out the videos on the Sheridan Streak from Hell, and the Benjamin single port valve, that should give you some ideas
Very nice. Even though I have wanted a "tootsie roll" 312 for 40 years, I guess seeing one cut in half really is very interesting. Having older rocker Sheridans, I get a far better understanding on the simplicity and intricity that went in to making these great airguns. I'm very impressed on the relatively small size of an area that actually held the air! Any idea on the PSI it was holding at 8 pumps? Thanks for the very informative info.
TFL; You can get rebuild kits for these, at Mac1 airgun store, AB Airguns, Precision Pellet, Bryan & Associates or even on ebay (I think). I'll see if I can put up a blog and video on the 'TOOL', the one you need to get at the valve.
Thanks, great video, I have a model 347 that's not holding pressure, I'll try the links to try to find a rebuild kit.
The 347 and 342 are my favorite Benjamin pumpers. Some even have pretty nice triggers!!! Well worth the effort to rebuild, even if you have to send it in to a pro to do it. The basic set up of the pump assembly and valve is the same as the 312/317 rifles, so the same kit and tool should work in either.
I also have the same model. But at the moment it is not in order. Have to repair. If I can get the spare parts I am in a position to repair it. I can spend money on this. Thank you.
Your videos are a big help in repairing my 342. Quick question as I’m having difficulty reinstalling trigger mechanism. How does this happen, do I install bolt first and cock?
I enjoyed your information I would like to know on pump rod when adjusting it does it bottom out against the end of end the pump tube to air chambervalve. When pumping it would seem that it would hit end of air valve with end of pump rod. I adjusted so that pump handle wouldn't fall down. Is this wrong ? Your suggestion on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
wow what great videos I've had a 312 I got from my uncle when I was 7 almost 40 yrs. I have always heard you don't want to send these in for repair because of recall on them. My seals have not worked for about 10 yrs. now. Do you have a good link on where you can get seals and the tool? found a kit for newer gun that the tool looks the same as this but can't buy separate, and I need the seals also.
Wonderful video. Thanks !!
I bought a reseal kit for my 312 and it only has one lead gasket. The other one is some kind of nylon looking material. Which one goes where? Is the lead one at the front of the valve or at the back of the valve. By front I mean towards the barrel of the gun. Thanks.
Doce, I'm out of town right now, but will get some stuff up for you as soon as I get home. Tough luck on the tornado, hope you and yours came thru ok.
Thank you! Greetings from Venezuela my friend, good job!
How to order lead seal or (oring) for firing pin..
EXCELLENT videos and descriptions !
Thank you for the very informative video. As you said, "it was a basket case" (hopefully it's sacrifice, will allow many to more live...)
I have a 310 that the barrel was separated from the pump tube. I soldered the front sight back down and it seems strong (waiting for reseal kit) but I'm wondering if the entire length of the barrel should be soldered?
Some were spot soldered, but usually they are soldered continuously the entire length. If it’s just an inch or 2 you might be ok, but I wouldn’t expect it to hold if the separation is longer. Shoot it and see if it holds. If it breaks, then resolder it the whole length.
Help ! I have a 397PA that's had little use that won't make pressure. The gun was bought in the late 1990's, I am trying to flush it, but no luck so far. What kit would I need to rebuild it ?
Try any of these guys;
northwestairguns.com/where-can-i-get-my-vintage-airgun-repaired/
Correspond or call if you are uncertain, any of them will set you up with the right stuff.
Sir is that available here in philippines?
Very very good information with all the datails about, was very helpfull for me
Hi I'm looking for a bolt lock cam and screws for my model 312 . Thanks for any help , Reid
email me ; nwa@northwestairguns.com
Hey love the video the black sponges things behind the pump cup on mine is rotted away I believe that's why it's not getting any compression what are those called and where can I get them?
Hmmm, I think you are talking about the felts. They have nothing to do with compression, just collect dirt and debris and keep it from getting to the valve. Try Rick Willnecker at Precision Pellet; airgunshop.net. If you find another source, let me know.
NorthWestAirgun perfect thanks!
Aire Comprimido; you need a special tool to remove the valve parts, a square tool with a hole to take out the valve retainer nut, and then a tool with an internal thread of 9/32" x 32. There are rebuild kits for these airguns on ebay, I believe.
Pedro; I know, it ruined the gun for sure. But, it was already pretty well ruined, so I was ok doing it. These airguns are pretty common around here, and this one was about the worst I had. I hope it was worth it so people can see how they operate.
+NorthWestAirgun Brilliant video thanks.Robert
NorthWestAirgun do you have a complete rebuild kit and re-seal kit for a 108 or 109 crosman town & country in .177 or can you repair it ,I have had this gun for about 15 years first gun I purchased of eBay sold as working.kind of made me not to buy anything else but I have.i have 3 crosman 130,2 crosman 140,2 crosman 1377 vintage,two 2240 changed to pcp and a silver streak Sheridan vintage,rebuilt all.can you rebuild it and how much after I give it a try first.
Very informative thank you Sir.👍
I have this kind of gun originally from my grandfather but i doesnt work it cant compress air anymore i think d valves were d problem but the thing is find it difficult to find alternatives rubber to replace the old one
Try Rick Wilnecker at Precision Pellet; aigunshop.net
این تفنگ احتیاج به اصلاحات اساسی داره .
where can I buy the 312 model?
What year did they start making them.
I think they started production in about 1940, but only made a few because of WWII material shortages. Ramped up production after war was over. These were made into the mid-1960's when they were replaced by the Model 340/342/347.
How much it's cost
Same setup as my model 317. 🙂
Very cool video and explanation - THANK YOU!!! This is really helpful.
Thanks for sharing
WILL THE 312 REPAIR PARTS WORK IN A 112 PISTOL
A few of the valve parts may work, but the pumping parts are altogether different.
did i hear you right did you say lead as in plumbus as seals?
not quite sure what 'plumbus', but lead as in lead
@@NorthWestAirgun okay thankyou for telling me that its plumbus thats why im wondering why i find roof lead here in the philippines for water proofing the parts where you shove in a nail
The lead needs to properly sized to seat on the bottom of the exhaust valve and at the top under the valve retaining nut. If you have to make one, use the bottom of the exhaust valve, the step above the valve face, to size it both outside diameter and inside diameter
Thanks, great info!!!
I have a 310 that needs the barrel braised do you know anyone that does that? Right under front sight.
Thats a common problem on the old Benjamins. Try Tim McMurray at mac1airgunshop.com or Rick Willnecker at airgunshop.net.
where can i find the bolt assembly?
Hi Ryan, the bolt assembly is not commonly available, and the design changed a bit over the years. But a few guys still have them. Best bet would be Baker Airguns or Precision Pellet (Google them). Both carry an inventory of obsolete parts. Let me know how it turns out for you.
where can I find some parts for my Benjamín franklin airgun?
Try Baker Airguns, Precision Pellet, or JGAirguns. There are others that also have OEM or aftermarket parts, but those would be your best bets.
Gracias muy buen maestro... felicidades...
Hi Guys, Can anyone tell me the FPS for a 1952 benjamin 310 air rifle??????????????
Good action..👍
Tried to watch it. Don't know why. But the volume was way low and the subtitles covered the pumper.
I've owned one of those since 1970, Iv'e probably launched a hundred pounds of lead out of mine with no maintenance other than oiling and it still shoots good to this day. I find your video informative but I really hate to see your gun cut up. I hope it was at least failing when you decided to make a demonstration rig out of it.
I was thinking much the same thing !! The detailed explanation was much to my benefit but at the same time I was thinking " Dang ! I hate that he had to ruin an air rifle in order to do this'.
THANK YOU!!!!!
UPDATE : Two years ago I found the required tool and a rebuild kit for a near perfect but leaky 312
Mantap mas bos👍
Hello, im from Argentina, i hay a 312 air gun like your. How i can remove de valve? Sorry my inglish. Bye You can see my videos
The sound was to low.with my volume on high,I could barely hear
I just bought the same gun from a customer, I thought the gun was worth my time re doing the badly glued stock. I am a little disappointed to see the gun in your video cut. In a way i can appreciate the info I got out of your video. But at the same time it ruined the gun. Oh well, I think I will restore the one I got. Thanks for the info.
Give me airgun idol
B g
I have banjamin franklin made in indonesia..i from indonesia
Гара козлум
LOL, Good one!!
in hindi
I received your message but wasn't able to get back to you until now. Not sure if you remember my "Benjamin project" video.
It has been very crazy for me and my family after the tornado came through. But I do need your assistance with rebuilding my gun.
I enjoyed your information I would like to know on pump rod when adjusting it does it bottom out against the end of end the pump tube to air chambervalve. When pumping it would seem that it would hit end of air valve with end of pump rod. I adjusted so that pump handle wouldn't fall down. Is this wrong ? Your suggestion on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you