I have a few airguns... rifles and pistols, in both pump and CO2.
I'm thinking about getting my first PCP (pre charged pneumatic). Probably a .177 rifle. Intended purpose is quiet (neighbor friendly), accurate target shooting in the backyard.
I would be filling from a bottle, and I'd probably prefer something with a magazine, although single shot loading wouldn't be a deal breaker.
I'm leaning toward a Gamo or Diana, but I'd consider anything with a trusted positive review.
Any suggestions?
We're low key here - Red Ryder BB Gun.
I built a BB gun shooting gallery in my crawlspace - 23 year old nephew texted me to tell me to make sure it's ready to go on Thanksgiving.
In reply to Datsun240ZGuy :
I actually had a 38 foot .22 range in my basement for a few years (I used pennies for targets), but the dog has pretty much ended that. The ping of pellets into the trap set her off now, so I need to move outdoors. But even Super Colibri .22s (primer only, no powder) are a little too loud in the backyard for the neighbors.
I just recently got a Gamo Swarm break barrel .22, with the 10 shot mag. My purpose is a bit different than yours though. I use it for pests and want to be able to shoot as quickly as possible (there is already a clearly VERY disappointed local raccoon). This one self loads when you break it, so it's ready to go within a few seconds of picking it up, and a second shot is only a pump away (breaking the barrel is a bit of effort, but not bad).
The 10 shot mag works great and is very convenient. Those traditional pellet loading systems are horrible. It comes with a scope (apparently not great, but it works) and has a built in silencer, so it is pretty damn quiet. I would say about the same sound as a hammer tap on wood. Not something the neighbors would even notice unless it is super quiet or they are super close.
I know it's not what you are looking at, but it would make a good target shooting gun. I would guess the big downside would be it would be harder to use prone since pumping it would likely require rolling on your side.
Probably obvious, but make sure to keep it sub-sonic (around 1100 fps), otherwise they get a LOT louder. The below gun will go SS with lighter (alloy) pellets, but it also makes it less accurate apparently, so heavier pellets are better.
It's also pretty vicious looking also. You can see the mag just in front of and below the scope:
I have a break barrel Gamo Swarm in .177 that has been my go to for chipmunks for the last 3 years. It's ok, the stock scope was awful and would not adjust at all and the accuracy past 10 yards is a guess at best. It's very picky about ammo if I want it to be a consistent and effective tool.
I just picked up an Air Venturi Avenger in .25 cal to manage some raccoons and I absolutely love it. 8 shot magazine with the side lever is awesome for staying on target and it's laser accurate to the 30 yards I've tested it to. I'm filling it with a chinesey compressor I got off of Amazon.
In your case I'd look at some PCPs in .22 cal. You'll have the best ammo choices and have more power than a .177 if you need to use it for varmint control. Check out Pyramid Air they shipped super fast and packaged my pellets and rifle super well so they wouldn't get dented or damaged at all in transit.
I ordered a Diana Bandit to get started and to see if I like PCP air guns.
Diana Bandit
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