Gamo vs. BSA : Three of the Best

When it comes to choosing an air rifle, there’s a world of options available to suit your shooting preferences. Three standout models in this category are the Gamo Whisper Sting, BSA Lightning, and Gamo Maxxim Elite. Each of these rifles has its unique features and advantages, making them popular choices among airgun enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll compare and contrast these models and provide insights into what potential customers should consider before making a purchase.

Gamo Whisper Sting

Gamo Whisper Sting

Key Features:

  • Whisper Fusion Technology: This rifle boasts reduced noise and vibration thanks to Gamo’s Whisper Fusion technology.
  • Reliable Spring Piston System: The Whisper Sting utilizes a spring piston for easy cocking and firing.
  • Adjustable Trigger: The Custom Action Trigger offers adjustable first and second-stage travel, making it versatile for various shooting styles.
  • Scope Included: Comes with a 3-9×40 variable zoom Scope & Mounts in the box as standard.

What to Consider:

  • Noise Levels: While it’s quieter than many other air rifles, it’s essential to know if it meets your noise regulations.
  • Scope Quality: Consider upgrading the scope for better accuracy.

Specs:

  • Length: 110cm
  • Barrel Length: 46cm
  • Weight: 2.4kg

See the Whisper Sting

BSA Lightning

BSA Lightning XL

Key Features:

  • Break Barrel Design: The Lightning features a classic break barrel for ease of use and reliability.
  • Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: BSA’s high-quality barrel ensures accuracy and consistency.
  • Quality Build: Known for durability, the Lightning is a sturdy option for hunters and plinkers.

What to Consider:

  • Weight: The Lightning can be heavier than some other air rifles, which may affect portability.
  • Cocking Effort: Ensure the cocking effort is manageable for your strength and comfort.

Specs:

  • Length: 95cm
  • Barrel Length: 37cm
  • Weight: 3kg

See the BSA Lightning

Gamo Maxxim Elite

Gamo Maxxim Elite in Beech

Key Features:

  • 10X Quick-Shot Technology: The Maxxim Elite features a 10-round magazine for rapid shooting.
  • Customizable Cheek Pad: It offers adjustable stock features for a comfortable fit.
  • CAT (Custom Action Trigger): The Maxxim Elite provides a customizable trigger for precision shooting.

What to Consider:

  • Ammunition Compatibility: Magazines can be fussy. Ensure that the rifle is compatible with your preferred pellet type.
  • Maintenance: The Maxxim Elite may require a bit more maintenance due to its magazine system.

Specs:

  • Length: 117cm
  • Barrel Length: 46cm
  • Weight: 3.2kg

See the Maxxim Elite

What Potential Customers Should Consider

In conclusion, the choice between the Gamo Whisper Sting, BSA Lightning, and Gamo Maxxim Elite ultimately depends on your shooting style and preferences. Be sure to carefully evaluate these features and considerations before making your purchase to find the air rifle that best suits your needs and provides a satisfying shooting experience. Happy shooting!

Mastering Vermin Control: Essential Preparations for Airgun Hunting

Introduction: Airgun hunting has gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts as an effective and challenging way to control vermin populations. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, proper preparation is crucial to ensure a safe, ethical, and successful experience. In this blog post, we will guide you through essential steps to prepare before heading out for vermin controlling with an airgun. Discover the key factors to consider and equip yourself with the knowledge to make your airgun hunting trip a resounding success.

  • Know the Local Regulations: Before venturing out into the field, it is vital to familiarize yourself with the local regulations and laws concerning airgun hunting. Research the specific vermin species you intend to target, understand the permitted hunting seasons, bag limits, and any licensing requirements. Complying with legal guidelines not only ensures ethical hunting but also prevents potential legal repercussions.
  • Selecting the Right Airgun and Accessories: Choosing the appropriate airgun and accessories is crucial for a successful vermin control outing. Consider the specific vermin species you will be targeting and the environment in which you will be hunting. Opt for an airgun with sufficient power and accuracy to dispatch the vermin cleanly and humanely. Additionally, invest in quality optics, such as scopes or red dot sights, to enhance your aim and precision.
  • Practice Proper Marksmanship: Achieving accuracy with an airgun requires consistent practice. Familiarize yourself with the operation of your airgun and spend ample time practicing marksmanship skills. Set up targets at various distances and practice shooting from different positions, mimicking real-life hunting scenarios. Remember to focus on proper stance, breathing control, trigger discipline, and follow-through. Regular practice will increase your confidence and ensure accurate shots when it counts.
  • Research Vermin Habits and Patterns: Understanding the behavior and habits of the vermin you intend to control is crucial for a successful hunting trip. Study their feeding patterns, preferred habitats, and movement routines. This knowledge allows you to strategize your hunting approach, increasing your chances of encountering the vermin in the right place at the right time. Online resources, books, and local experts can provide valuable insights into vermin behaviour.
  • Plan Your Hunting Location: Identify suitable hunting locations where the vermin populations are known to be abundant. Consult with landowners, farmers, or local wildlife management authorities to gain permission and access to private or public hunting grounds. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the property boundaries and adhere to any specific rules or guidelines provided by the landowner.
  • Safety First: Safety should always be your top priority. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with basic firearm safety practices and protocols. Ensure you have appropriate safety gear, including ear protection, eye protection, and appropriate clothing for the hunting environment. Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially when shooting in areas with potential human activity. Adhere to safe shooting angles and never shoot at targets that may cause a ricochet.

Conclusion: By following these essential steps, you can maximize your chances of success and ensure a safe and responsible airgun hunting experience. Remember to research local regulations, select the right equipment, practice your marksmanship skills, study vermin behaviour, plan your hunting locations, and prioritize safety. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled vermin controller while enjoying the thrill of airgun hunting. Happy hunting!

Choosing Between a Spring-Piston and CO2 Airgun: Making an Informed Decision

Introduction:

Are you torn between a spring-piston airgun and a CO2-powered airgun? We understand the dilemma! To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created this comprehensive guide comparing the two types of airguns. By exploring their differences, benefits, and limitations, we aim to assist you in finding the perfect airgun for your shooting preferences. Let’s dive in!

  1. Understanding Spring-Piston Airguns:

Spring-piston airguns are renowned for their simplicity, reliability, and affordability. They operate by utilizing a coiled spring mechanism to generate power and propel the pellet. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Power and Accuracy: Spring-piston airguns generate considerable power, making them suitable for target shooting, small game hunting, and pest control. While they can be accurate, mastering their shooting technique is crucial for consistent results.
  • Recoil and Noise: Spring-piston airguns have a noticeable recoil due to the spring’s release, which can affect shooting accuracy. Additionally, they tend to produce more noise compared to CO2-powered airguns.
  • Maintenance: Spring-piston airguns require minimal maintenance, usually consisting of periodic lubrication and spring tension checks. They are relatively robust and can withstand rough handling.

See More Spring Powered Airguns

  1. Exploring CO2-Powered Airguns:

CO2-powered airguns use pre-filled CO2 cartridges to propel the pellet. They are known for their ease of use, versatility, and consistent shot-to-shot power. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Power and Accuracy: CO2 airguns offer consistent power levels throughout the shooting session, providing reliable accuracy and predictable trajectories. They are ideal for plinking, target shooting, and recreational use.
  • Recoil and Noise: CO2 airguns generally have less recoil compared to spring-piston counterparts, resulting in improved shot-to-shot consistency. They also produce less noise, making them suitable for backyard shooting and areas with noise restrictions.
  • CO2 Cartridges: CO2-powered airguns rely on disposable CO2 cartridges. While convenient, it’s essential to consider the ongoing costs of purchasing new cartridges as part of your shooting expenses.

See More CO2 Rifles

  1. Factors to Consider When Deciding:

When deciding between a spring-piston and CO2 airgun, several factors can help guide your decision-making process:

  • Shooting Purpose: Determine whether you intend to use the airgun for target shooting, pest control, plinking, or recreational shooting. Each purpose may favor a particular type of airgun.
  • Power and Range: Consider the power and range requirements for your shooting activities. Spring-piston airguns generally offer higher muzzle velocities and energy, while CO2 airguns provide consistent power across multiple shots.
  • Budget: Evaluate your budget, considering both the upfront cost of the airgun and the long-term expenses. Spring-piston airguns tend to be more affordable initially, while CO2 airguns may have ongoing cartridge costs.
  • Shooting Environment: Assess whether noise restrictions or limited shooting areas play a role in your decision. CO2 airguns, with their reduced noise levels, may be more suitable for urban or backyard shooting.

Conclusion:

Choosing between a spring-piston and CO2 airgun ultimately depends on your shooting preferences, purpose, and budget. Spring-piston airguns offer affordability, power, and durability, while CO2-powered airguns provide ease of use, consistency, and reduced recoil. Consider factors such as shooting purpose, power requirements, budget, and shooting environment to make an informed decision.

At Pellpax, we offer a wide range of high-quality airguns to cater to various shooting needs. Visit our website to explore our selection and find the perfect airgun that aligns with your needs.

Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Airgun for Your Needs

Introduction:

Are you searching for the ideal air rifle that perfectly fits your shooting requirements? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision when purchasing an airgun. From understanding the different types of air rifles to considering key factors before buying, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

  1. Exploring the Types of Airguns:

Airguns come in various types, each with its unique characteristics and purposes. Understanding these types will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect fit for your shooting preferences. We’ll cover the three primary types:

  • Spring-Piston Air Rifles: Known for their simplicity and affordability, these rifles use a coiled spring to generate power and propel the pellet. They are great for beginners or those on a budget.
  • PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) Air Rifles: Utilizing compressed air stored in an onboard reservoir, PCP rifles offer consistent power, accuracy, and multiple shots per fill. They are favored by enthusiasts and professional shooters.
  • CO2-Powered Air Rifles: These rifles use pre-filled CO2 cartridges to power the shots. They are easy to use, require minimal effort, and offer semi-automatic or automatic shooting options.
  1. Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Rifle:

Before making your purchase, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you find an air rifle that meets your specific needs. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

  • Purpose: Determine whether you’ll be using the airgun for target shooting, pest control, small game hunting, or competition. Each purpose may require different features and power levels.
  • Calibre: Airguns are available in various calibres, including .177, .22, and .25. Consider the target size, shooting distance, and your personal preferences when selecting the right calibre.
  • Power Source: Decide which power source best suits your shooting requirements—whether it’s a spring-piston, PCP, or CO2-powered air rifle.
  • Budget: Establish a budget range and look for air rifles within that range. Remember to consider the long-term costs, such as accessories, maintenance, and ammunition.
  1. Research and Compare:

Once you have a clear understanding of your shooting preferences and the factors to consider, it’s time to conduct thorough research and compare different air rifle models. Visit reputable websites, read customer reviews, and seek expert opinions to gather valuable insights. Pay attention to factors like accuracy, ergonomics, durability, and overall performance to find the best airgun that suits your needs.

  1. Make Your Purchase:

After conducting thorough research and narrowing down your options, it’s time to make your purchase. Ensure you buy from a trusted retailer or manufacturer to guarantee the authenticity and quality of the air rifle. Take advantage of discounts or special offers to get the best value for your money.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right air rifle is crucial for an enjoyable shooting experience. By understanding the different types of airguns, considering important factors, conducting thorough research, and making an informed purchase, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect airgun for your needs. Remember, investing time and effort in the decision-making process will ultimately lead to enhanced satisfaction and improved shooting performance.

To explore a wide range of high-quality air rifles and accessories, visit our website pellpax.co.uk. Our expert team is ready to assist you in finding the ideal airgun that aligns with your shooting goals. Happy shooting!

In our Scope – AGT Vixen

This month we are setting our crosshairs on the AGT Vixen. Unique, compact, and balanced the Vixen is produced by Czech Manufacturers, AGT, and are imported into the UK by Regael. Released in early 2021 the Vixen soon became one of AGT’s best-selling rifles overtaking the Vulcan & Uragan.

The AGT range has proven very popular here at Pellpax, hence why we thought we would focus on one of their rifles. Airgun Technology was founded in 2013 and is based in the city of Praha (Prague), the capital city of the Czech Republic.

Light, Accurate & Reliable

The AGT Vixen is one of the newest rifles in AGTs’ range. They are available in two variations, the Vixen or the Vixen Long. The Vixen has a barrel length of 250mm, an overall length of 770mm, and a weight of 2.2kg, whilst the Vixen long has a barrel length of 400mm, an overall length of 920mm, and a weight of 2.4kg. These specifications make the AGT Vixen one of the lightest rifles on the market today.

The Vixens’ 250cc carbon bottle

To ensure the high-quality finish is not compromised, the AGT Vixen comes standard with a 250CC carbon fibre bottle which, is fitted with a neoprene sleeve to act as a stock. The butt pad has a height adjustment feature to ensure the rifle fits comfortably in any shooters’ shoulder.

Packed with features

One thing that is worth mentioning is the ability to change the side of which the cocking arm is on. It is as simple as removing two screws, changing the side, and replacing the screws. Taking around 3-5 minutes in total this is a smart move from AGT as it caters for the left-handed market too. The trigger is incredibly smooth and can have the pull weight adjusted. I personally prefer a light pull however, it’s nice to have the option. I must also praise the positioning of the safety switch. Being located just north of the trigger this can easily be engaged and disengaged whilst you are shouldered and looking down the scope. Again, just a small design feature that goes a long way for me. The switch has a red indicator to make it obvious that the safety is either on, or off.

Filling the AGT Vixen

The custom fill gauge

The compact, custom-made pressure gauge is well located. One of my pet hates includes pressure gauges that are located under the end of the barrel, as I feel uncomfortable having a barrel pointed at my face whilst filling the rifle. The block that the pressure gauge is located on houses the regulator, and you can also find both the air discharge port and the filling port here.

AGT Vixen – additional accessories


The magazine holder is sold separately

I really like the AR-Grip on the vixen which, is produced by IMI Defence.  The magazines are easy to load and are 15 shots in .177 or 12 shots in .22. An additional accessory, that many owners choose to buy, is the magazine holder. This polymer housing will hold two magazines and attaches to the rifle via a small weaver rail located in front of the trigger guard.

The features go on…

The Vixen is equipped with a weaver rail measuring 195mm. Traditionally, air rifles use a 9-11mm rail, and Weaver / Picatinny rails are more frequently seen on Rimfire / Centrefire rifles however these are becoming increasingly popular amongst the airgun community.

A few, final thoughts

Simply stunning…

Finally, I would like to mention the shrouded barrel. This again is a feature that is becoming more frequent on airguns these days. The sound moderator is built within this and measures around 90mm. Although there is no option for an additional moderator, I don’t feel the vixen needs one. When I took it out shooting, I was very pleased with the level of noise and wouldn’t feel a moderator would provide much more of an advantage.

The real test

After doing all my research on this gun, I decided to take it out to see what all the fuss was about. I wanted to know whether the Vixen really was worth the £1499.99 price tag and what made this rifle, one of AGT’s most popular. My set-up was kept simple, I used a 3 ltr hydrotec bottle to fill the Vixen, mounted a Hawke Fast mount 6-24×50 AO IR using Hawke Weaver mounts, and set out to see if the Vixen, really lived up to what I had read.

Testing with target shooting pellets

Firstly, I thought I would try a target pellet for those looking to do some casual plinking either at home or down their local gun club. I used the H&N field target trophy .177.  I love H&N as a brand simply because I find their quality is always top-notch and they perform in any rifle I put them through. Weighing 8.64 gr I set my targets up around the 25-yard mark.

The Result

Although I’m not Chris Kyle, I managed to get a 25mm grouping, which for comparison is about the size of a 2p coin. Considering I’m a clay shooter and don’t tend to do much airgun shooting, I was very pleased with this result. I’m confident that a dedicated shooter could get this grouping down to a 20mm grouping, which is around a 1p coin. For those of you, who prefer a larger calibre the H&N field target trophy is also available in .22.

Testing with hunting pellets

Next, I thought I would try a hunting pellet for those of you who carry out pest control. For this, I went for my go-to hunting pellet, the H&N Baracuda Hunter .177. Now as I previously mentioned I’m a clay shooter and only shoot airguns a handful of times outside of work however, even with my lack of practice I still manage to hit rabbits at good distances with these. Weighing slightly heavier than the H&N field target trophy, the Baracuda hunters are advertised at 10.49gr. I like these pellets as the hollow point ensures enough stopping power to counter the higher velocities of the .177 without affecting the flight of the pellet too much.

The Result

Once again, I set my target out at the 25-yard mark, and the results were the same. This time I got a 28mm grouping however, this could be down to the hollow point creating drag or could be down to the absents of my skills with an airgun. Like I mentioned previous I’m confident when I say a more experience airgun shooter could lower this group, but even at 28mm, it’s accurate enough to headshot a rabbit and/or rat. Once again for those of you who prefer the larger calibre, these pellets are available in a .22 calibre here.

My conclusion of the AGT Vixen

Overall, the Vixen is packed with many attractive features that any airgun enthusiast would be looking for when purchasing a rifle. Ok, the price for one is £1499.99 but this is really an investment as the rifle will last you years to come, and the quality of the AGT Vixen easily warrants the price tag.  As standard AGT provides 2 magazines, a filling station, spare O-rings, a user manual, some souvenirs, and a soft case.  If you would like to check out the Vixen and the Vixens’ accessories, please click here.

Best .177 Hunting Pellet 2022

We put some of the best 177 hunting pellets to the test to find the best airgun ammunition.

The smaller 177 calibre has long been neglected by hunters as an ineffective pest pellet. The reasoning behind this is easy to understand, more mass = more power but this not strictly true as power is actually a relationship between mass and speed. Think about it this way, if I were to throw a tennis ball at a window, chances are it bounces straight off but if I were to launch a steel ball bearing at that same window through a sling shot it would punch a hole clean through despite the BB having much less mass than the tennis ball. This is because of the greater speed.

The UK limit for muzzle energy on an air rifle is 12ft/lb no matter what the mass of the pellet is. This equates to ~500fps in a .22 and ~700 – 750fps in a .177, around 50% higher! This added speed means that under the right conditions a 4.5mm pellet can be just as, if not more effective than a .22.

OK, with that out of the way, what criteria are we actually looking for? What makes an effective hunting pellet? When hunting any live animal, the most important factor to keep in mind is respect for the quarry and to minimise suffering. Therefore, the most important thing we are looking to achieve is a reliable one shot dispatch. This is usually achieved via a head shot but can also be possible via a heart and lung shot with the right pellet. Let’s see if we can find it with some of the options below.

All pellets tested with .177 Zbroia Hortitsia running at between 11.5 – 11.7 ft/lb at ranges between 20m – 35m.

H&N Barracuda Hunter Extreme

H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme

Made by H&N, these pellets are some of the most effective one shot pellets that money can buy. Normally in sub 12ft/lb airguns, expansion of hollow points is something that is actually quite hard to achieve as the velocities involved are not high enough to deform the lead, even in the faster .177 calibre. With the H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme all of this is flipped on it’s head thanks to the cross shaped hollow points that these pellets feature. The ingenuity of this design allows the pellet to mushroom out upon impact as contact with the target creates a pocket of air that, instead of pressing against a thick wall of lead surrounding the hollow point, instead is forced against four thinner walls and allows for rapid expansion even in lower velocities. This leads to a much larger wound channel and more of the pellets energy being transferred into the target. This is what we want and what this translates to is, not only will a head shot be enough to reliably kill vermin in our desired one shot, but also a heart and lung shot will be more than capable.

Hunter Extreme Hollow Point

The sacrifice that is made with this shape is long range & potential accuracy. The hollow point of the pellet whilst perfect for dispatch actually works against the pellet in flight and increases the air resistance, reducing range and causing the pellets to drop sooner than some of the more traditionally shaped diabolos. This has to be factored in whilst aiming as your point of impact might be slightly lower than expected, even if zeroed with domed pellets at the same weight. 

Something else to consider is these pellets are not the cheapest on the market and they also only come in tins of 400 as opposed to the usual 500 for other .177s. Still a potential of 400 pigeons in the pot so I’m not really complaining.

QYS Domed

For this test I am using the lighter 8.18 grain QYS Domed pellets as opposed to the 9.56 version. My reasoning for testing these is to try something with a lot higher velocity in an attempt push the effective range as far as possible in a .177. Again, our main priority is the quick and consistent one-shot dispatch but a lighter pellet should carry more velocity out of the barrel and therefore maintain that power further downrange.

Great uniformity in the tin

The uniformity of these pellets surprised me somewhat. The “Made in China ” slur is a brush that QYS are, I think, unfairly tarred with as the consistency in shape, weight and skirt size is absolutely fantastic. The weight deviation in particular was minimal with a maximum deviation of 0.1 grain either side of the advertised 8.18. This consistency is replicated in your shot placement and I found that these QYS pellets were by far the most consistent when zeroing. Now I am not by any means a professional shooter but whilst zeroing these pellets I was able to achieve just over a 25mm (about the size of a 5p) grouping at 30m. Not Bad.

I found the same thing with the pigeons. The trees I camped up in front of were around 35m from me and, when putting the crosshair of the scope on top of the birds head so that the first mill dot lined up with the eye, I was able to reliably one-hit kill birds with a brain shot. Thanks to the lack of expansion and higher speed, there was a degree of over penetration with these pellets though and I could foresee that, unlike the Hunter Extremes pellets listed above, a chest shot would not be enough to kill a pigeon instantly. If you are not confident of hitting heads then I don’t think these are the pellets for you.

H&N Rabbit Magnum II

On the other end of the spectrum are the H&N Rabbit Magnum II pellets that weigh in at a colossal 15.74 grain. Advertised on the tin as being for guns of around 25J these pellets are recommended for FAC power level guns but I know people that shoot the .22 versions of these pellets in 16J guns and swear by them so I thought they’d be worth a shot. Now, my Zbroia Hortitsia is tuned to around 11.7ft/lbs with 10.6 grain Bisley Magnum pellets so just under the 16J limit and way under the recommended level for these pellets and that issue was clearly thrown up by my testing.

H&N Rabbit Magnum II

These pellets are domed but are shaped more like slugs than traditional diabolo pellets and that added lead at the neck of the pellet is the reason for the increased weight. This design does allow more lead to make contact with the rifling and hopefully increase accuracy, but I was finding that the weight of these pellets was just far too high. I was almost running out of elevation to zero the pellets on my scope (a Hawke Airmax AO 2-7×32) and had to reduce my range to 20m just to reliably hit the target.

The variance between each pellet was OK, the build quality of H&N products is always very good but there was quite a large weight difference between pellets with some being almost half a grain lighter than the advertised 15.74. Now this weight change might not make much of a difference in a high powered gun but when I’m already pushing the limits of my rifle to zero, this variation plays into shot placement quite a lot.

15.5 gr instead of the advertised 15.74 – Weigh your pellets!

Owing to the unreliable point of impact, I didn’t use these pellets on any birds and I cant recommend you do the same Unless you are using an FAC rated airgun and might have to have a word with my friends using the .22 versions as whether those guns are 16J or not…

RWS Hypermax

And now for something completely different…

RWS Hypermax

So there has been a growing movement in ballistics towards going lead-free. Lead is quite harmful to the environment, even excluding the animals being shot, and has a tendency to build up particularly in water animals and cause severe damage to the food chain. As of 2022, lead shot is not allowed when hunting ducks and other birds and I imagine it won’t be long before this legislation affects pellets. Nothing concrete or confirmed, but call it a hunch. Anyway, thanks to this many pellet manufacturers offer “lead free” pellets in a variety of shapes and sizes. These RWS Hypermax are made from tin and moulded into a pointed shape.

Note the lighter colour of Tin

Ok so first thing to say about these pellets is, like most lead alternative pellets, they are extremely light. Weighing in at just 5.2 grain, these pellets are almost half the weight of the Hunter Extreme pellets and through the chronograph the speeds were mind boggling. The hunter extremes were getting about 740fps but some of the Hypermax were getting over 1000fps. Not that far off the speed of sound! I also found that, possibly due to the added hardness of tin compared to lead, the pellets in the tin had low variance in weight and almost no skirt or head deformation, something that can happen to softer lead pellets.

Great Uniformity for the RWS as well

In practice, these perform much like the QYS pellets in that, a head shot is consistent, predictable and effective but the incredible speed and high penetrative power of the pellet means body shots are just going to fly straight through the bird and likely not kill straight away. Also, while testing these pellets the air was relatively still, but lighter pellets tend to be far more affected by the wind which is something to bear in mind.

Tin & alloy pellets are also more expensive than their lead counter parts with this tin costing similar to many others but containing just 200 pellets rather than the usual 500. I understand these tin pellets are relatively new but that’s just not enough for me.

Conclusions

Ok the best performing pellet was the Baracuda Hunter Extreme by H&N but I was surprised by a few, particularly the RWS Hypermax. I do wonder if these lead free pellets become the norm then peoples approach to airgun hunting might change. No longer will you be able to blast a bird or small mammal with a huge lump of lead anywhere in the body and be assured a kill. Instead you will be forced to use a lighter but faster moving projectile that requires a more skilful shot and this would encourage more accuracy and patience when hunting which is always a good thing.

To view our whole range of pellets click here.

Rabbit Shooting with the R10TH and London Armoury Scope

Late one Friday evening in June, Jack, from the Pellpax Sales team, set out with an R10TH .22 calibre PCP, hoping to bring back a few rabbits.

BSA’s R10TH, which was released in 2019, has proved to be a popular airgun for pest control. The 280cc buddy bottle will give you up to 340 shots in .22, and the ergonomic thumbhole stock, with adjustable butt stock, is supremely comfortable. The R10TH is also available in .177 calibre.

Jack’s choice of scope was an FFP (first focal plane) riflescope (6-24×50) from London Armoury’s Resurrection range, attached by a Hawke one-piece mount. His ammunition was JSB Exact Jumbo Diablo pellets – wide-skirted roundheads, well known for their knockdown power.

Jack’s Review

Ergonomic PCP and top-quality scope

The best time to shoot rabbits is probably at dawn, after a rainy night. The rabbits have been in their burrows for hours, sheltering from the rain, so by the morning they’re hungry. They’re so intent on feeding, they’re not so quick to bolt!

With rabbit shooting, though, you don’t have to wait for the perfect time. There are usually plenty of them about, especially at morning or evening twilight. If you know what you’re doing, you’re sure to bag a few.

I spent most of the time in a prone position, which can get pretty uncomfortable. But with its smooth thumbhole design and adjustable cheekpiece, the R10TH is a great gun for prone shooting.

The scope gave me a fantastically clear view, and the adjustable objective focused perfectly at ranges of around 23 to 36 metres. I set the magnification to x12 for a good view of the field, and adjusted the AO as I went.

Missed!

I took my first shot at what looked like a young jack rabbit, about 30 to 35 metres away. I was lying close to the hedge, but facing into the sun, so I used the scope’s sunshade. The sun was dazzling, and I missed the rabbit, sending the pellet low and to the left.

My target fled, but the shot didn’t seem to alarm other rabbits, who were grazing further away. The R10TH is fitted with a customer-configurable shroud (CCS), which makes each shot incredibly quiet. I decided to move to a better position before attempting a second shot.

Result!

This time, I made sure my back was to the sun, and ducked down behind a fallen tree, approximately 25 – maybe 30 – metres from the hedge. I re-zeroed for my next shot (the fine adjustments on the turrets were fantastic) and removed the sunshade.

I don’t think the rabbits were aware of me creeping about on the outskirts of the field. I was wearing Huntsbury camo clothes, which are great not only for keeping you out of sight, but also out of hearing! The few rabbits I could see were too far away to take a shot at, so I lay still for a while and waited.

Eventually, rabbits started wandering closer to me. Fortunately, the little bit of breeze was coming my way, so they couldn’t smell me.

My second shot was spot on – bang in the middle of the crosshairs. The sun was getting lower now, and the light levels were dropping, so I turned on the illuminated reticle to a low-level green setting. A rabbit ran from my right and stopped to feed, less than 10 metres from my hiding place. I hit the rabbit clean in the back of the head.

I loved using the R10TH, and, as always, I was more than happy with the JSB pellets. I found the London Armoury scope to be a great piece of kit – a fantastic all-rounder – but its security and steadiness were totally down to Hawke’s top-quality mount.

Oh yes … and I was very pleased with my three rabbits!

Two New Spring Rifles from Black Ops

At Pellpax, we’re welcoming in the new year – and new decade – with some fantastic new products, including two new spring-powered rifles from US manufacturer, Black Ops.

Black Ops Quantico Air Rifle

This .177-calibre rifle gets its name from Quantico, headquarters of the United States Marine Corps. This huge institution is also home to the FBI Academy and is the country’s main DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) training facility. Quantico is in Prince William County, Virginia.

At the legal power limit for a non-FAC gun (12 ft/lb), the Quantico is a powerful and effective break-barrel rifle. The rifled steel barrel is shrouded for noise reduction, and the adjustable fibre-optic sights ensure a perfect aim. An adjustable, modular stock means that this rifle can be adapted for a young shooter, or for circumstances where movement is restricted – for example, hunting in dense forest.

The stock is made from a durable, high-density polymer, which provides a firm grip in all weather conditions. The cheek-pad contributes to a comfortable and successful shooting experience.

Depending on the stock setting, the Quantico is between 1,130mm and 1,150mm long, and it weighs 3,275g. This rifle features a picatinny rail system and a weaver rail, so when it comes to the fitting of accessories, the options are numerous.

At just £104.99, the Quantico is perfect for pest control at ranges of up to 40m. It’s safe, strong, and great value for money

Black Ops Pendleton Air Rifle

This rifle’s name’s-sake is the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California, which was built in 1942 for the purpose of training US marines for service in WWII. The facility was named after Major Joseph Henry Pendleton (1860-1942) of the US Marine Corps.

With a five-position, adjustable M4-style stock, side rails, picatinny rail, and adjustable fibre-optic sights, the Black Ops Pendleton is a supremely customisable gun.

The Pendleton’s overall length is between 1,045mm and 1,129mm, and it weighs 3,120g. The gun comes with a set of six ergonomic grips, so it can be customised for the comfort of any shooter.

Made by Black Ops to an exclusive design, the .177-calibre Pendleton is fantastic for pest control at ranges of up to 40m. And at just £119.99, it really is excellent value.

Contact Us

If you’d like more information about these Black Ops rifles, or about any of the products on the Pellpax website, just give us a call on 01263 731 585 or email [email protected].

Another Step Forward for Reeds Target Shooting Club

Let’s Get Physical

Albert Reed (1846-1920), owner of Aylesford Paper Mills, in Kent, was a man who believed in fostering a happy working environment for his employees. More than a century ago, Mr Reed established an in-house sports and social club for his workers and their families. As his business grew into one of the largest paper-making plants in Europe, the social club thrived – especially on the target-shooting side.

When the Aylesford site closed, in the 1990s, Reeds Target Shooting Club was left without a home.

Winners of Reeds Pairs Competition

The Wanderer

Twenty years after the closure of Aylesford Paper Mills, Reeds Target Shooting Club is still homeless, renting space from other clubs and keeping membership tight through regular competitions and practice sessions, as well as social events and an active website.

“We’re as big and active as we’ve ever been,” says John Lucas, club secretary (and the club’s sole remaining former Reeds employee). “We still shoot at Bisley once a month; in fact, we do as much shooting as we can. But it’s not the same as having your own place.”

Despite the club’s nomadic existence, there’s a healthy membership of around 100 – and a waiting list, too.

Winner of Reeds Gallery Cup

Every shooting club has a legal obligation to place each new member on three months’ probation before full membership is granted. During this time, an assessment of their suitability can be made. Without their own facilities, however, it isn’t so easy for the members of Reeds to make these assessments.

“And we’re old-fashioned,” says John. “We don’t feel that three months is long enough to get to know new members. At Reeds, the probationary period is six months.”

Moving On Up

For many years, now, this tenacious club has been working towards establishing a new home. Well-attended competitions and social events have raised thousands of pounds so far, and the target is at last coming into sight. Planning permission is now underway for a new indoor range and clubhouse.

It’s not plain sailing though.

“A noise assessment has been requested,” explains John. “We’ve engaged a noise consultant to carry out the assessment, but it’s slowed the process down, and is swallowing up more funds.”

Reeds Christmas dinner 2019

As things stand, the foundations to Reeds’ new home are due to be laid in the spring of 2020. Once building is underway, the club will have access to further fund sources associated with its changed status.

“Once the club is built,” John tells me, “we’ll be able to provide more coaching. There’ll be opportunities for shooters to reach high standards and to compete at international level.”

Reeds has an ethos of diversity and accessibility.

“We plan to broaden our membership. At the moment, about 10 percent of our members are children. We’d like to encourage more youngsters into the club. Our new premises will be equipped with facilities for wheelchair users. Disabled shooters will be welcomed and encouraged. Shooting is such an inclusive sport. We want to make the most of the possibilities.”

Fun, Fun, Fun!

The Reeds Target Shooting Club annual Christmas dinner and raffle is one of the mainstay events in the club’s fundraising programme. This year, the Reeds Christmas dinner was on Saturday 7 December, and, as always, the evening was a lot of fun. The raffle raised over £300.

John Lucas (left) and Bob Peacock

Pellpax’s donation to the raffle was a Norica Dream Hunter air rifle in .22 calibre. The Dream Hunter is a powerful spring-powered rifle with under-lever action and ambidextrous stock. This fantastic prize was won by Bob Peacock.

Events like this will continue to be held until the ribbon is cut at the official opening of the new Reeds clubhouse and shooting range. Nobody knows exactly when that will be, but if the foundations are laid in the spring of next year, the long-awaited goal is certainly within sight. As John says, there’s still a lot of hard work ahead.

“We need to raise another £20,000, or even £30,000. There’s a long way to go.”

Images courtesy of Reeds Target Shooting Club

Best Airgun Pellets for 2020

The range of airgun pellets available to us today is larger than ever before. In each calibre, there’s a massive range of head shape, skirt size, length, material, and weight. There’s a lot of difference in price, too, and it’s easy to make the (sometimes misguided) assumption that the more expensive the pellet, the better quality it will be.

Those shooters who have found the ideal pellet for their gun and purpose will often stick with it, perfecting their shooting performance with the benefit of consistency. Some shooters will have a repertoire of favourite pellets. Others, however, are still experimenting – still searching for the pellet that perfectly suits their gun, purpose, and style.

At Pellpax, we’ve been looking at some of the best airgun pellets on the market, and we’ve picked out what we consider to be the cream of the crop.

Target shooting

For target shooting, a wadcutter (flathead) pellet is ideal, as it will punch a clean hole in the target for clear scoring. This shape of pellet, though, has high air resistance, and will lose speed, causing it to drop. A wadcutter pellet is perfect for shooting over a short distance, for example 10m competition target shooting.

Over longer distances, the wadcutter loses efficacy, and this is where the aerodynamic domed (roundhead) pellet comes in handy. Although heavier than the wadcutter, the domed pellet will maintain a straighter trajectory over distance, thanks to its aerodynamic properties. The domed head and added weight also serve to stabilise the pellet in windy weather.

THREE: H&N Baracuda Power (Domed) .177

The hard copper coating of the Baracuda Power pellet means less deformation during firing and on impact, and less lead fouling in the barrel. Weighing in at 10.65gr (0.69g), this is a heavy pellet for .177 calibre. It’s ideal for target shooting at long range.

Available in .177, .22

TWO: Rifle Premium Series (Flathead) .177

Made from supremely high-grade lead, Rifle’s Premium Series Flathead is an accurate and powerful pellet. The purity of lead and the refined manufacturing processes result in uniformity and consistency among pellets. This wadcutter pellet, which weighs 8.18gr (0.53g) is designed especially for the competitive target shooter.    

Available in .177, .22

ONE: QYS Match Grade (Wadcutter) .177

Zhuhai Qiang Yuan Sports Goods Co. Ltd (QYS) was founded in 1994 by Fu Qiang, who is still very much in the company’s driving seat. QYS operates from Zhuhai City, in the south of China, and exports to more than 50 countries. In the last five Olympic Games, QYS pellets have been used by 19 medal winners.

This flathead match-grade pellet, which weighs just 8.18gr (0.53g), is designed specifically for competition target shooting and high-level training. The pellets are carefully and securely packed, separated by layers of padding and well protected from corrosion and impact.

Available in .177

Hunting

For hunting, a hollow-point pellet is generally considered to be the best option. The hollow-point pellet is designed to mushroom on impact, creating a wider wound channel that’s more likely to result in an instant kill. Alternatively, that jack-of-all-trades of the pellet world, the dome-head, is an effective hunting pellet.

There are conflicting views when it comes to the pointed pellet. Some shooters swear by it, and others won’t touch it.

A wider-skirted pellet will add power to the shot, as the skirt creates a tighter seal in the barrel, meaning that more pressure builds up behind it, increasing the velocity of the pellet.

THREE: Weihrauch Magnum (Domed) .22

In compiling this list of top-performing airgun pellets, I talked to the gunsmiths, sales staff, and shooting enthusiasts who make up the Pellpax team.

One of the gunsmiths, whose work involves zeroing guns before they’re sent out, recommended the Weihrauch Magnum .22. He told me that this pellet is an excellent all-rounder, suitable for most .22 rifles. What my colleague particularly likes about this pellet, though, is that it’s the very best choice for his own Weihrauch HW100 KT.

“It’s brilliant for pest control. But I use it most of all for plinking in the garden with the kids. For my HW100, there just isn’t a better pellet.”

The Weihrauch Magnum .22 weighs 21.14gr (1.37g).

Available in .177, .22

TWO: Daystate Rangemaster Sovereign (Domed) .22

Throughout the manufacturing process, Daystate pellets are carefully checked for quality. Only the very best are selected for packing. This means that there’s excellent consistency in form and performance.

Because the Rangemaster Sovereign is on the heavy side 15.9gr (1.03g), it’s better suited to high-power PCP rifles.

Available in .177, .20, .22

ONE: JSB Hades (Hollow Point) .22

JSB Match Diabolo is based in Bohumín, Czech Republic. The company was established by an experienced shooter and coach, Josef Schulz, whose research into airgun ammunition led to his own developments in the field. Teaming up with some equally knowledgeable colleagues, Mr Schulz began to produce a new line of airgun pellets.

The 15.89gr (1.02g) Hades .22 has a hollow point that’s surrounded by a trio of lead flaps. On impact, the air pressure in the hollow pit forces the three lead flaps to spread outward, creating a wider wound channel. This well-engineered pellet is perfect for hunting and pest control.

Available in .22

Pistol

Pistols often present the problem of jammed pellets. One of the causes for jamming is that the pellet is too long for the magazine, which is then prevented from cycling properly. The other main reason for stuck pellets is that the low power (under 6 ft/lb) of a pistol is not enough to propel a wide or heavy pellet.

So, basically, when you’re choosing a pellet for your pistol, make sure that it isn’t too big in any way: length, weight, or width.

THREE: RWS Superdome (Domed) .177

This pellet is an excellent all-round performer. Whether you’re using it in a PCP-, spring-, or CO2-powered gun, and whether that gun is a pistol or a rifle, the RWS Superdome is a reliable pellet. The pellet weighs 8.3gr (0.54g), and behind the smooth, round head is a ribbed skirt that adds aerodynamic stability and a flat trajectory.

Available in .177, .22

TWO: Air Arms Field (Domed) .177 (4.51)

The Air Arms Field dome-head is recommended by Pellpax gunsmiths for use in pistols.

Air Arms pellets are carefully inspected at each stage of the manufacturing process to ensure that each one is of the highest quality. The perfectly shaped domed head maintains a flat trajectory, adding to the consistency of this super little pellet. Each Air Arms Field Dome .177 pellet weighs 8.4gr (0.547g).

Available in .177 (4.51, 4.52), .22 (5.51, 5.52)

ONE: H&N Field Target Trophy (Domed) .177

Haendler & Natermann Sport GMBH (H&N) have been manufacturing airgun pellets since the 1950s. The business, which started out in the production of lead foil, was founded 100 years earlier by Carl Georg August Natermann. H&N is still based in its original location – the town of Hann. Münden, Germany.

Made of a lead alloy that produces one of the lowest rates of lead fouling, the H&N Field Target Trophy dome-head is lightweight and aerodynamic for a flat trajectory and high velocity. Suitable for air rifle and pistol, this pellet is ideal for competitive shooting and high-level target practice.

Available in .177, .20, .22, .25

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There are, of course, many other fantastic pellets available, and this list really is a subjective selection of some of the best. Nevertheless, the pellets featured in this article are all excellent products and have been positively reviewed by shooters all over the world.

For more information about airgun pellets or any of the products on the Pellpax website, just give us a call on 01263 731 585 or email [email protected].