Understanding the different types of air guns that are available to you empowers you to make an informed decision, especially if you’re shopping for your first one. We want to help you learn how to choose an air rifle or air pistol so you can be confident that you made the right choice when you decide to pull the trigger.
Whether you’re looking for something basic for casual plinking and pest control or a high-caliber hunting tool for taking down big game, we have a distinctive air gun you can make your own. Let’s take a look at your options.
Firing Mechanism Types
As you explore the various types of air guns available on the market, you’ll run into five main firing methods: pneumatic variable pump, CO2, spring piston, gas piston, and—our preferred option—pre-charged pneumatic (PCP).
Pneumatic Variable Pump
Pneumatic variable pump airguns are recoilless, compact, and lightweight, but they must be pumped up before every shot.
CO2
CO2 air rifles are highly-accurate, allowing for repeat shooting with no recoil. However, they lack the same power as other types of airguns, require CO2 cartridges, and changes in the weather can affect their consistency.
Spring Piston
Spring piston air guns do not require CO2 cartridges or pumping but they do have significant recoil. They are easy guns to modify and service, but they cannot be left cocked without damaging the spring.
Gas Piston
Gas piston air rifles are long-lasting with less recoil. Unlike spring piston airguns, they can stay cocked for a while and you don’t have to worry about the springs losing any resilience.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP)
Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles have great power and accuracy with little recoil — and they also allow for repeated shooting without pumping or cocking.
While every type of air gun has its own pluses and minuses, it’s tough to argue with the clear benefits of PCP air guns.
The Benefits of a PCP Air Gun
High Power with Very Little Recoil
A PCP air rifle with a full reservoir delivers incredible power and precision with very little recoil. Many PCP air rifles are fully capable of taking big game like deer and boar. In contrast, the other types of air guns aren’t nearly as powerful or accurate, and the recoil can be substantial, especially for people new to airgunning. In short, as you research how to choose an air rifle, we highly recommend starting (and ending) with a PCP air rifle.
What’s the difference? Pneumatic variable pump and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles both utilize the same firing mechanisms, but PCP air rifles have a significantly larger, high-pressure reservoir.
So, if you just need something for target shooting and dispatching pests, a standard pneumatic air rifle would probably fit your needs. However, if you want to use your air rifle for hunting, or if you’d like to have that option in the future, a PCP would be the superior choice.
Less Refilling and Pumping
Beyond performance, don’t overlook convenience when considering different types of air guns. PCP air rifles are a great choice because you can shoot dozens of pellets before you need to refill the air reservoir. The pressure gauge shows exactly when it’s time for a refill.
Nitro Piston Break Barrels
While the vast majority of Benjamin air guns are PCP-powered, we also offer nitro piston-powered break barrels for those who prefer something with more of a traditional look and feel. These air rifles are an outstanding choice for plinking, pest control, and hunting small game. They do need to be cocked before every shot. And, compared to spring piston air rifles, nitro piston air rifles are much quieter and produce significantly less recoil and vibration.
Air Rifles vs. Air Pistols
When considering the types of air guns, you’ll also want to determine if an air rifle or air pistol is better suited for your needs. As a general rule, when determining how to choose an air rifle or air pistol, hunters widely prefer PCP air rifles because of their tremendous takedown power. Air pistols are great for target practice and pest control.
If your goal is to plink cans, fruit, water bottles, and other various backyard targets, both air pistols and air rifles would be fine choices. Similarly, both styles would be capable of dispatching rodents and varmints.
Synthetic vs. Wood Stocks
Many Benjamin enthusiasts absolutely love our Turkish walnut stocks because they have a classic look associated with the Marauders of yesteryear. Others prefer the sleek, modern look of synthetic stocks. Both styles are extremely durable and are crafted to last a lifetime. That said, if you live in a rainy or snowy area and spend a lot of time in the field, you may want to opt for an all-weather synthetic stock.
Get in Touch for Expert Guidance
We hope this guide to the various types of air guns can help you make the right choice. For more information on how to choose an air rifle, check our Getting Started Guide, our FAQ, and our videos. You’re also welcome to contact us so we can assist you in selecting a Benjamin that fits your needs and preferences.
Benjamins are known for being extremely customizable, personalizable, and modifiable. Whichever model you choose, rest assured that you’re getting a legacy tool. Own a piece of history. Get a Benjamin, and make it your own.