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!

Exploring the Precision Advantage of Richter Optik Scopes for Your Air Rifle

Are you an avid air rifle enthusiast on the lookout for a top-notch scope to elevate your shooting experience? Look no further than Richter Optik scopes! Engineered to deliver exceptional precision and performance, Richter Optik scopes have been gaining a reputation for their remarkable quality and innovative features. In this blog post, we’ll delve into why Richter Optik scopes should be your go-to choice and how they can transform your shooting game.

Unveiling the Excellence of Richter Optik Scopes

Richter Optik has been at the forefront of producing cutting-edge optics for shooting and hunting applications. Their dedication to crafting scopes that cater to various shooting needs, along with their commitment to quality, sets them apart in the optics market. Here’s why Richter Optik scopes deserve your attention:

  • Crystal Clear Optics: The heart of any great scope lies in its optics. Richter Optik scopes are engineered with precision-ground lenses and advanced coatings that ensure exceptional light transmission, clarity, and colour fidelity. This translates to a sharper and brighter image, enabling you to spot targets with ease and accuracy.
  • Durable Build: Air rifle shooting can sometimes be demanding on equipment due to the recoil and environmental factors. Richter Optik scopes are designed to withstand these challenges. Constructed from rugged materials and featuring shock-resistant designs, these scopes can handle the rigors of air rifle shooting.
  • Accurate Reticles: Richter Optik scopes offer a range of reticle options tailored to different shooting scenarios. Whether you’re targeting moving objects or shooting from various distances, you’ll find reticles that provide the necessary reference points for accurate shots.
  • User-Friendly Features: These scopes are engineered with the shooter in mind. With features like adjustable magnification, parallax adjustment, and illuminated reticles, Richter Optik scopes make it easy to adapt to changing shooting conditions and maintain optimal accuracy.
  • Affordable Excellence: While many premium optics come with a hefty price tag, Richter Optik scopes offer remarkable quality at a reasonable price point. This means you can enjoy high-performance optics without breaking the bank.
  • Lifetime Warranty: So confident are Richter Optik about the quality of their optics that all scopes are backed by their quibble-free life time warranty guarantee!

Choosing the Right Richter Optik Scope

Selecting the perfect scope for your air rifle depends on your shooting preferences and requirements. Consider factors such as the shooting range, intended targets, and shooting environment. Richter Optik offers a diverse range of scopes to cater to various needs, whether you’re into target shooting, hunting, or competitive shooting. We’ve listed some of our favourites below:

Final Thoughts

When it comes to enhancing your air rifle shooting game, a quality scope is an essential investment. Richter Optik scopes combine precision optics, durability, and user-friendly features to provide an exceptional shooting experience without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, Richter Optik has the right scope to take your accuracy and performance to new heights.

Upgrade your air rifle setup today with a Richter Optik scope and experience the difference for yourself. Discover the world of clarity, precision, and reliability that awaits you. Explore our website for a range of Richter Optik scopes that suit your needs and preferences. Your journey to unparalleled shooting performance starts here!

Shop the Whole Range

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!

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!

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].

Pellpax Gift Ideas: Shooting Bundles

With the non-shooter in mind …

Image courtesy of Thais Araujo (Pexels)

For most of the year, most of our customers are shooters. They know what they’re looking for. At Christmas time, however, non-shooters are shopping for shooting-related gifts.

With non-shooters in mind, Pellpax has created a range of accessory bundles designed for the seasoned shooter. Each bundle contains a selection of shooting accessories and gun-care products tailored to vermin control, target shooting, or pistols. Everything in a Pellpax accessory bundle will be useful to the shooter who opens this gift on Christmas day.

Pest bundle

The Pellpax pest bundle includes:

  • Woody’s prairie dog targets
  • Abbey gun grease
  • Proshot gun & rifle oil
  • Proshot MK3 scope cleaner
  • .177 or .22 pellets
  • Pellpax cloth

This specially selected assortment of accessories includes pellets suitable for vermin control and a set of life-size prairie dog targets from Woody’s.

The bundle also includes ProShot Precision gun and rifle oil. This water-repellent, rust-inhibiting, low-viscosity oil will protect metal surfaces and moving parts. The oil comes in a dropper bottle, so it’s easy to apply tiny amounts to small, fiddly parts of the gun.

ProShot Precision’s Optima Mk3 scope cleaner is designed for all optics. Supplied in an easy-to-use spray pump, this product removes dust and stains, leaving no residue or smears. Besides scopes, sights, and night-vision equipment, Optima Mk3 can also be used for cleaning other glass surfaces such as phone, computer, and television screens.

Abbey gun grease is a superb product for maintaining the condition and performance of a rifle or pistol. Providing protection from corrosion, this gun grease lengthens the life of component parts and reduces wear and tear on the gun. Regular use of Abbey gun grease will improve any gun’s performance and reliability.

The Pellpax cleaning cloth is a marvellous all-rounder for any equipment-cleaning task. Made of a strong, absorbent microfibre material, the cloth can be used and washed again and again over many years.

Target bundle

The Pellpax target bundle includes:

  • Pellpax target holder pellet catcher 17cm x 17cm
  • 50 practice targets
  • 50 match targets
  • advanced optics cleaner
  • .177 or .22 pellets
  • Pellpax cloth

The solidly built steel pellet catcher can be free standing or mounted on a wall. It measures 17cm x 17cm, and the back is specially angled to deflect pellets and prevent ricochet. In the front, there’s a slot for holding paper targets.

For use with the pellet catcher, this bundle contains 50 practice targets and 50 match targets, as well as a tin of pellets in a choice of .177 or .22 calibre.

To finish off a fantastic assortment of shooting accessories, this bundle also includes an optics cleaner and a soft, hard-wearing polishing cloth.

CO2 Pistol bundle

The CO2 pistol bundle includes:

  • pellets or BBs
  • 100 pistol targets
  • 5 CO2 capsules
  • ProShot silicone gun oil
  • ProShot moly lube
  • Pellpax cloth

ProShot Precision silicone gun oil is a top-quality, non-toxic oil, specially formulated to protect the exterior of guns and to lubricate plastic washers and seals. This anti-corrosive, water-repellent oil comes in an easy-to-dispense dropper bottle.

Merry Christmas!

If you would like to know more about any of the products on the Pellpax website, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Email [email protected] or give us a call on 01263 731 585.

Top 5 New PCP Air Rifles of 2019

The year 2019 has been a year for new products. At shooting shows all over the world, dozens of exciting new airguns and firearms have been showcased, along with the latest releases of ammunition, optics, and bush-craft tools. So let’s narrow it down a bit, and take a look at five of the best PCP air rifles that were launched in 2019.

AGT Uragan Compact

Uragan is the Romanian word for ‘hurricane’, and this smooth, sprightly rifle certainly lives up to its name. The Uragan Compact is AGT’s shortest rifle to date, with the 36cm barrel economically positioned right back in the stock, in the true bullpup style.

AGT Uragan Compact

Thanks partly to its small, carbon cylinder, which has a capacity of 210 cubic cm, the Uragan Compact weighs just 2.9kg without attachments. However, this rifle’s top-class PCP system has a working pressure of 300 BAR, and you’ll get an impressive 140 shots per fill.

The Uragan’s synthetic stock is easily adapted for both left- and right-handed shooters. Without a need for tools, the side lever can be positioned on either the left or right, making AGT’s nifty newbie a totally ambidextrous rifle.

GAMO GX-40

Since 1985, the BSA brand has been owned by Spanish manufacturer Gamo, a giant in the shooting trade.

Gamo GX-40

The new GX-40 PCP air rifle, available in .177 and .22 calibres, is manufactured in the UK. With its light and responsive two-stage trigger, 10-shot magazine system, and on-board pressure gauge, this rifle is ideal for both target-shooting and hunting. The lightweight, polymer stock is adjustable for top-notch comfort and ergonomics.

The GX-40 has a strengthened steel air cylinder and mechanical opening valve – a combination that delivers high power and precision.

BSA R10TH

BSA R10TH

The new R10 model from BSA was launched in the spring of 2019. It has a customer-configurable shroud with enhanced silencer capabilities, adjustable soft-touch cheek piece, and adjustable butt pad. The rifle comes with a 280cc buddy bottle and two magazines.

The ‘TH’ in the name refers to the thumbhole design of the gorgeous, ambidextrous walnut stock. However, there’s an additional significance to the ‘TH’. The launch of this model coincides with the tenth anniversary of mass production of BSA’s flagship air rifle, the R10.

“We like to think of the new model’s name as R10th,” says Jon Hatton, UK Sales & Marketing Director for BSA.

When it comes to shot count, the R10TH has gone up a gear from its predecessors, with an increased shot count of 340 (.22 calibre) or 280 (.177 calibre).

UMAREX Walther Reign

Umarex Walther Reign

Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen (or simply, Walther) was acquired by Umarex Sportwaffen GmbH & Co. KG (Umarex) in 1993. For the last quarter of a century, Umarex has continued to produce rifles bearing this well-known and trusted brand name.

The new Walther Reign – the first bullpup rifle developed and built by Umarex in Germany – was released in the spring of 2019. With a good grip texture and a cocking lever that’s very easy to operate without losing sight of your target, the Walther Reign is ideal for pest control and small-game hunting. This ambidextrous rifle – 687mm long and weighing 2.5kg – has a magazine capacity of 11 in .177 calibre, or 10 in .22 calibre.

WEIHRAUCH HW100 BP

A new release for Weihrauch, in spring this year, was the HW100 bullpup, available in .22 and .177 calibre. This rifle has so many great features:

HW100 BP
  • soft-touch wood stock
  • adjustable butt pad
  • picatinny rail
  • 14-shot magazine
  • high-efficiency silencer
  • adjustable, two-stage trigger
  • choice of 410mm or 600mm barrel with air-stripper (moderator available as alternative)

Tested by Pellpax’s own airgun experts, the HW100 came up trumps.

HW100BP
HW100 BP

This is what our testers said about the rifle:

“Laser-straight accuracy.”

“Comfortable in the hands.”

“Ideal for competitive target shooting.”

“Ergonomically sound.”

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For more information about PCP rifles, or to talk to a member of our knowledgeable sales team about any of the products on the Pellpax website, give us a call on 01263 731 585.

Best Air Pistols for Under £200

At Pellpax, we offer a wide range of superb air pistols, ranging from £47.99 to £1,599.99. If you’re looking to buy an inexpensive pistol, at the lower end of this price range, there’s actually quite a lot of choice. So we thought we’d pick out some of the very best air pistols available for under £200.

Three great CO2 pistols for under £200

First of all, let’s take a look at three excellent CO2 pistols for under £200.

Walther CP99 Operations Kit .177 Pellet Air Pistol

The Walther CP99 CO2 pistol, launched by Umarex in the year 2000, is based on Walther’s P99. The P99 is an extremely successful semi-automatic pistol that’s been used by numerous law enforcement agencies in Europe and the US since 1996. From 1997 to 2006, the P99 was the chosen side-arm of James Bond, the world’s most famous fictional secret agent.

Originally created as a training gun for the German police, the CP99 replica was unprecedented in its remarkable physical likeness to the firearm it emulates. The CP99 fits most P99 holsters and all of the P99 accessories, making this replica pistol the ideal choice for training. Umarex’s Walther CP99 is still one of the most popular CO2 pistols on the market today.

The CP99 is a double-action CO2 pistol that fires .177-calibre pellets. It has an approximate muzzle energy of 2.3 ft/lb and is powered by one 12g CO2 capsule that’s stored out of sight in the pistol’s stock. From each CO2 capsule, you’ll get up to 80 shots.

The CP99 has an 84mm rifled steel barrel, an overall length of 180mm, and it weighs 726g. This pistol kit comes in a Umarex branded hard case, along with two 8-round rotary magazines and a spare pistol grip. At £159.99 (reduced from £174.99), the Walther CP99 Operations Kit is real value for money.

Norica NAC 1703 – 4.5mm BB Air Pistol

The stylish NAC 1703 from Norica is modelled on the Smith & Wesson M&P (Military & Police) .40 live-fire pistol, which is used by many law-enforcement agencies all over the world.

With ergonomic design, durable build, and comfortable handling, Norica’s NAC 1703 is a fantastic buy at just £69.99. This 4.5mm (.177) BB pistol is powered by one CO2 capsule, which is housed inside the 19-shot magazine. At 195mm long, this lovely replica is just 2mm longer than the original; weighing in at 710g, it’s 78g lighter than the S&W MP40.

Glock 19X – 4.5mm BB Air Pistol

Umarex’s fully licensed replica of the Glock 19X is fantastically realistic in terms of appearance and feel. The pistol’s unique colour and markings are faithfully replicated in this CO2 version, and its dimensions are almost identical. The magazine, which holds 18 4.5mm BBs, also accommodates a 12g CO2 capsule.

The Glock 19X by Umarex delivers muzzle velocity of 344 FPS, and the blowback gives a powerful recoil that feels gratifyingly authentic. This pistol is available from Pellpax for £109.99.

Three fantastic spring pistols for under £200

A simple, reliable spring action is favoured by many experienced shooters, and it’s also a great choice for beginners. Here are three superb spring-action pistols.

Gamo P-900 – .177 Pellet Air Pistol

The Gamo P-900 shoots .177-calibre pellets, which are individually loaded – i.e. there is no magazine. This simple-to-use pistol has a muzzle energy of around 3 ft/lb, and muzzle velocity of 344 FPS. With ambidextrous grip and TruGlo sights, this pistol lends itself to accuracy and reliability, and so it’s not surprising that at £58.99, this little gem is one of our best-selling pistols.

SMK XS32 – .22 Pellet Air Pistol

With a muzzle energy of 5 ft/lb, the SMK XS32 is not far below the legal power limit for pistols in the UK – and it’s therefore ideal for close-range vermin control. It has a break-barrel action, and pellets are loaded one by one. This pistol features a manual safety, bear-trap system, fibre-optic sights, and 9-11mm mounting rail. The cocking aid is slipped over the end of the barrel and removed before each shot.

This SMK XS32 is a superb all-rounder. It’s perfect for the beginner target shooter, the casual plinker, or the serious small-vermin controller. This pistol is available from Pellpax for just £99.99.

Hatsan Mod 25 SuperCharger

Rugged and compact, ergonomic and comfortable, this single-shot break-barrel spring pistol features Hatsan’s XRS Recoil Reduction System, threaded aluminium cocking aid, and a ½ inch UNF thread for attaching a silencer.

The Hatsan Mod 25 SuperCharger features the Hatsan Quattro trigger – a two-stage adjustable trigger with gold-plated trigger blade, which is one of the most sophisticated triggers on the market today. The pistol has a manual safety, a cocking safety bear-trap system, and TruGlo fibre-optic sights.

The Hatsan Mod 25 SuperCharger is available in .177 or .22 calibre.

A super PCP air pistol … not quite under £200!

PCP airguns are, on the whole, more costly than either spring-powered or CO2-powered guns. So let’s stretch the parameters of this blog and take a look at a really nice PCP pistol. 

SMK Artemis PP700SA

The SMK Artemis PP700SA fires at a power of up to 5.5 ft/lb, which is not far below the maximum legal power for a pistol in the UK, making this pistol the perfect choice for both target shooters and vermin controllers. The black synthetic stock is well textured for a firm, comfortable grip. And it’s a lot tougher than a wood stock, making it resistant to knocks and scrapes.

Pellets are loaded one by one into the rear of the barrel, after the hammer has been cocked. An air stripper at the end of the barrel reduces turbulence in the air as it expels the pellet, and the full shroud on the barrel reduces muzzle report. The Artemis, available in .177 and .22 calibres, is a beautifully accurate and consistent pistol – a popular choice at £219.99

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For more information about air pistols or any of the products we sell, just give us a call on 01263 731 585.