The designers at K2 have never shot from the hip when it comes to making great skis and the new Marksman had a lot to live up to. Fortunately it appears they have once again hit the target as we found a ski that performed well at the highest levels when really pushed hard, but was also forgiving in nature when things mellowed out. But it's definitely more of a high-powered rifle than a child's air gun.
At 106mm under the boot, it's wide enough to be considered as an all-mountain ski capable of respect on a well-groomed run. But it's better than that and certainly capable of providing a smooth ride on-piste, even if you never intend to take it anywhere else. But the Marksman is definitely a bit of a rebel and it really wants to play on terrain that's been left alone by nature, not sculptured by machine.
Firstly, it is super easy to turn, very playful, responsive and so much fun over lumps, bumps and jumps you'll have that powder smile on your face even when there's none to be found.
Advanced and expert skiers who enjoy an element of freestyle skiing on varied terrain will certainly get the most out of the Marksman, especially with the twin tip shape. But even an intermediate skier will feel perfectly comfortable cruising around at their own pace.
The wood core construction is solid without being too rigid and as you'd expect with a ski of this nature, there's a tip and tail rocker that gives it a backcountry, freestyle feel.
