Airgunners have an unprecedented array of choices for high-powered, precision airguns. While in times past shooters would need to spend well over $1000 to get into the game, today there are more and more entry-level airguns that, on paper, produce similar performance and accuracy as more expensive products. So when does it make sense to spend more, and what are some of the better options to consider? Today’s article is going to tackle this topic head-on.
Paper Performance
When we talk about performance on paper, we are referring to multiple factors. First, there’s power output. Whether spoken in feet per second or foot-pounds of energy, we need to know what kind of performance we get for our money. Airguns like the Air Venturi Avenger produce the same velocity and energy as airguns costing 2 to 4 times as much. The same could be said for the Umarex Gauntlet 2 which, in .30 caliber, produces over 100 foot-pounds with ease while simultaneously delivering a high shot count from its large air cylinder and regulated valve.
Accuracy is probably the most important “paper” factor we consider. It’s easy to make things go fast and hit hard, but it’s a lot more difficult to do so with repeatable accuracy. Fortunately, these affordable airgun options do that too. Some can shoot sub MOA at 50 yards more than 50% of the time. Of course, 100-yard accuracy can vary, but getting sub 2” groups is the norm, not the exception. The bottom line is that if we showed you five 50-yard shot cards from five different airguns spanning low, medium, and high price points, you might find it very difficult to tell the difference.
So if entry-level airguns, many costing under $500, can perform like expensive airguns, why would anyone want to spend more? It comes down to the shooting experience.
Expensive Airguns that Stand Out
If you have a hobby you know that the upper end of that hobby will get really expensive. The higher you go in the hobby, the more intricate and expensive the gear can get,but the experience also becomes more refined and more enjoyable. That’s what expensive airguns deliver, a better and more refined shooting experience.
Air Arms S510
The Air Arms S510 line has been around for many years. It’s a great example of buttery smooth operation, consistent performance, and flawless build quality. The S510XS Tactical is the most recent evolution of the S510 platform, and it’s a dream to shoot. For folks who spend most of their time shooting inside 50 yards, the S510 is hard to beat.
FX Impact MK III
FX Airguns set the bar for high-end precision airguns. The FX Impact M3 is their flagship tactical model, delivering exceptional performance in all calibers, expanded customizability, and the ability to shoot sub MOA at 100+ yards. With dual regulators and a large air cylinder delivering high shot counts and very consistent power output, the Impact M3 really has no equal.
RAW HM1000x
Lastly, we’ll take a look at the RAW HM1000x. This relatively new entry into the high-end airgun arena has a more traditional look. But don’t let that fool you. Under the hood, you’ll find all the newest tech that makes airguns run so well. The precision regulator, carbon fiber barrel shroud, adjustable hammer, match trigger, and match barrel all come together to deliver an exceptional shooting experience.
That’s a Wrap
We’ve barely scratched the surface of high-end, expensive airguns. It’s our experience that when you spend over $1000, you will get a nice airgun. It will come down to what feature set is more important to you as the shooter. With so many options, we know you’ll probably have questions, and if that’s the case, we are always here to help. Just call us, and we’ll be happy to help you pull together the right package for your needs and budget.
