Repair Program For Hazardous Pellet Pistols Announced

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 2) -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Crosman Arms, a division of the Coleman Company, Inc. announced today that certain single shot, pump-up pellet pistols may discharge accidentally due to inadequately tightened screws.

Approximately 35,000 Model 1377 "American Classic" and Model 1322 "Medalist" pistols are suspect. They were distributed during 1977 and through January, 1978 and may have an improperly installed screw.

These pistols operate normally at first but, repetitive use may cause the grip frame to loosen. If this occurs, there are three possible consequences:

1. The pistol cannot be cocked and is inoperative unless manually held together.
2. It can be cocked, but may discharge with the safety on.
3. It can be cocked and may discharge without the trigger being pulled.

To prevent this from happening, Crosman advises owners of the pistols to take their pistols to any Crosman authorized service center. A list of those service centers was provided with each pistol. The pistols should not be used until examined by a Crosman representative.

All Model 1377 and 1322 pistols should be examined. Models produced after January, 1978 DO NOT contain the defect and are identified by an "R" stamped on the pistols and on the outside of the pistol carton.

The service will be performed at no cost to the customer. For more information or for the name of the nearest service center, contact Crosman Arms, 980 Turk Hill Road, Fairport, New York 14450. Telephone (716) 223-6000.