Before I launched into part 2 of the review, I decided to take my own advice and mount a Hawke 2-7×32 AO Sport HD IR scope to this rifle. I used the mounts that came with the Fuel which seem to be adequate so far. The reasons I opted to replace the scope are as follows; 1. I had a 2-7×32 AO sitting on the shelf, 2. Having used the bundled scope throughout the break in, I knew it was a limiting factor when trying to get the best and most consistent accuracy, 3. I just had a gut feeling about it.
Umarex Fuel with Hawke 2-7×32 AO Sport HD IRLet me take a moment and talk about why I like the Hawke Sport HD IR series scopes so much. They are a step above budget scopes in price, but several steps up in quality. I specifically love them on springers and gas ram guns because they utilize an illuminated etched glass reticle. This makes them more resilient to the reverse recoil that can kill other scopes, even when they are “airgun” rated. Gas rams airguns, contrary to most marketing, actually have a sharper recoil than traditional spring guns and can be much harder on scopes. I’ve had so many “wire” reticle scopes snap right at the crosshairs that I’ve lost count. I’ve not had an issue with an etched glass scope, not saying it’s not possible to break one, I just have had it happen so far.
The optics on this line of Hawke Scopes are upgraded from their standard Sport HD line of scopes and that’s especially noticeable as you utilize the adjustable objective and shoot at longer ranges. The illuminated recitlce is a great feature when you are shooting against a dark background. The fine mil-dot reticle really lights up and allows you to make an accurate shot. Great line of scopes at very reasonable prices.
Back to the Fuel Part 2
With the scope all swapped out it was time to get to some shooting. I’ve shot several pellets during testing and I’ve settled on the H&N Field Target trophy (8.64 grain) and the H&N Baracuda Match (10.65 grain). At 10 yards both pellets hit about the same spot on the target which is pretty amazing to see. Usually the weight difference causes a pretty significant change in the point of impact. But, I’m getting ahead of myself here. Let’s talk numbers before we get into the accuracy.
The Fuel is rated for 1200 FPS with lead free ammo. That puts in the 1000 FPS power plant category. Upon first arrival, it was posting well over 1000 FPS with the 7.0 Grain RWS Hobby Pellets. Now that I’m through the break in period, that has settled down to a very respectable 979 FPS. The H&N Field Target Trophy pellets average right around 850 FPS and the Baracuda Match pellets are averaging 790 FPS. The Baracua Match are posting the most power at 14.76 FPE where the Field Target Trophy pellets averaged 13.86 FPE. So you can call the Fuel basically at 14 FPE airgun, more than suitable for target practice, pest control, and small game hunting. That is, if it has the accuracy for it…
Umarex Fuel 10 Yard AccuracyOn to the range!
Unfortunately I’m confined to my indoor range at the moment as the temps have dropped and the wind had picked up. But, isn’t that’s sort of the point of airguns anyway. Being able to spend some quality trigger time in the comfort of my garage is pretty awesome. The big question is will the Fuel live up to its promises. I’ll put a quick end to the guessing and say that it most certainly does. I’ve got a few shot cards to show you. The first group was shot with the H&N Field Target Trophy pellets while using the bi-pod of a bench. The second group was shot with the H&N Baracuda Match pellets, also using the bi-pod and off the bench. For the last group I’m shooting the Baracuda Match pellets while using the artillery hold. The point of impact rose slightly from shooting off the built in bi-pod, but that could probably be overcome simply by adjusting where I’m resting my off hand. The point, and it is a pretty amazing one, is that all these groups, were exceptional from an airgun that has a street price of well under $200.
Umarex Fuel – 10 yards with H&N Field Target Trophy – Shooting from the Bi-Pod Umarex Fuel – 10 yards with H&N Baracuda Match – Shooting from the Bi-Pod Umarex Fuel – 10 yards with H&N Baracuda Match – Shooting with the Artillery HoldWrapping things up…
So the Umarex Fuel promises a “firearms” shooting experience without the need to learn special technique. It COMPLETELY delivers on that promise. This gun is addictive to shoot. Granted I upgraded the optic for my accuracy tests, but I wanted to know what the gun could do past the limitations of the bundled optic. Regardless of what I tried or how many groups I shot, the Field Target Trophy pellets, while more than adequate, seemed always throw one shot slightly off. I did not have that issue with the Baracuda Match pellets. Knowing that it shoots the heavier pellets with good accuracy and energy, makes it a great option for back yard pest control.
Umarex Fuel – Sweet Airgun.. Sweet ResultsWill there be a part 3?
I would love to get some longer range shot cards up for you all, but I’m out of time and backed up with some other projects. BUT, this gun is part of my personal collection so while I may not get to it immediately, you can be that I will eventually. I’m most eager to see how it does with the Gamo Knock Down targets as they would simulate kill shots on small game, and I think the Fuel would perform that role very well. Do you have questions or comments? Make sure to hope in to the comments section and let us know. We love to hear from our readers!
