.30 Caliber Airguns present a challenge these days. Where other calibers like .177, .22, and .25 have clearly defined power and applications, .30 cal airguns span a much wider range of capabilities. In other words, not all .30 cal airguns are created equal. If you buy just based on caliber, you may have picked an airgun that’s completely unsuitable for the task at hand. Let’s take some time to look at how to pick the right .30 cal for your needs.
Why .30 Caliber?
.30 caliber airguns started to gain in popularity several years ago. If the .25 caliber is the new .22, then the .30 caliber is the new .25. It’s extremely versatile, with lower-powered .30 cal airguns producing around 30 FPE and some of the more powerful .30 cal airguns able to push well past 170 FPE. There’s really no other airgun caliber with that kind of flexibility. Additionally, there are a ton of ammo options, from lightweight pellets to super-heavy slugs. But this also introduces a challenge.
If you are looking to buy an airgun using, for example, a .22 for small game hunting, you’d be safe. But let’s look at Texas where a .30 caliber can be used for hunting large game like deer. If you didn’t do your research properly and just bought, say, the Hatsan .30 cal Carnivore, then you’d be in violation of state law as the .30 cal Carnivore tops out at just over 30 foot-pounds. .30 cal airguns are legal for hunting big game in Texas, provided you can shoot a 150-grain projectile at a minimum of 800 FPS, producing over 213 FPE.
Right .30 cal For the Job
While this can make things tricky and confusing, it shouldn’t scare you off considering a .30 cal airgun for your collection. We’ll list a few .30 cal airguns here shortly and talk about their differences. As you consider a .30 for your next airgun, consider your target use. Will you be target shooting or hunting? If target shootings, how far will you be shooting? If hunting, what game will you be hunting? Having clear answers to these questions will help you pick the best .30 cal for you.
Hatsan .30 cal Carnivore
Let’s take a look at some different .30 cal options and where they may be best suited for your needs. We’ve already mentioned the Hatsan .30 cal Carnivore. It’s actually the only “big bore” break barrel currently in mass production. It uses a gas ram to drive 44.75-grain pellets at over 30 foot-pounds. It may not shoot fast, but if you are small game hunting and you want to put a ton of energy on target, it’s a great option. The fact that you don’t need anything but elbow grease and ammo to make it work sets it apart from all the other .30 cal airguns currently on the market.
FX Impact M4
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the FX Impact M4 .30 cal. You can opt for either the 600mm barrel or the 700mm barrel. The 700mm barrel will produce the most power. The beauty of the FX Impact M3 platform is its ability to be dialed in for a specific use. If you want to hunt small game and keep maximum shot count, you can set up your .30 cal Impact for 45 +/- FPE and get a ton of shots between fill-ups. If you know you’re going to be hunting coyotes or shooting long-range with slugs, you can dial up the dual regulators and hammer spring for maximum power. You’ll get a lot fewer shots, but you’ll be pushing past 120 FPE. The versatility of the FX Impact M4 makes it an ideal platform for maximizing your .30 caliber options.
JTS Airacuda MAX
Something more middle of the road, producing about 70 FPE, is the JTS Airacuda MAX. This affordable, traditional, wood and metal airgun isn’t flexible like the Impact M4, but it’s also less than ¼ the cost. It’s regulated, producing very consistent shot to shot results, accurate and fun to shoot. While it’s not suitable for big game, it’s certainly got the power, range, and accuracy for medium game and some smaller predators.
Umarex Gauntlet SL30
Our last option for .30 cal airguns is the Umarex Gauntlet SL30. The new SL30 drives .30 cal pellets at over 100 FPE and heavy .30 cal slugs over 120 FPE. It’s also very affordable, regulated, and accurate out to 100+ yards. If you know you’re going to be going for bigger game and longer ranges and don’t see a need to tweak your power up and down, then the SL30 is an ideal option. We’ve spent a good bit of time with this gun, and it’s simply a joy to shoot.
.30 cal, Yes or No?
So what do you think? Will your next airgun be a .30 cal? Do you still have more questions? Not to worry, we are here for you. If you have any questions about what .30 cal airgun would be the perfect airgun for you, give us a call. We are always happy to help.
