Top 5 PCP Air Rifles in the UK: Best Buyer’s Guide

Last Edited: Tuesday 7th January 2025 15:32 Time to read: 6 minutes In the UK, PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifles have surged in popularity among enthusiasts and hunters alike, thanks to their precision, power, and ease of use. This comprehensive guide aims to introduce the top 5 PCP air rifles available in the UK market. We will explore their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the sport. The Top 5 PCP Air Rifles in the UK are:

1. Air Arms S510 Tactical Regulated .177
2. Crosman Trailhawk .177 Multi-Shot
3. Air Arms TX200 Rifle Ultimate Springer .177
4. Kral Nish PCP .177 Walnut Package
5. Stinger PCP Neptuno Air Gun 5.5mm (.22)

Before diving into our top picks, let’s briefly understand what PCP stands for and discuss its pros and cons.

What Does PCP Stand For?

PCP stands for Pre-Charged Pneumatic. These air rifles are charged from an external high-pressure source, like a hand pump, scuba tank, or compressor, and can hold several shots worth of compressed air before needing a refill.

Understanding PCP Air Rifles

PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifles are a type of airgun that uses compressed air as their power source. Unlike traditional spring-powered or CO2 air rifles, PCP rifles are charged from an external air tank, providing a smoother shooting experience with less recoil. This technology allows for higher accuracy and consistency and the ability to shoot multiple shots at a stable velocity without reloading after each shot. PCP rifles are favoured for their versatility, suitable for various activities, from target shooting to pest control and hunting. Their design also incorporates features like adjustable triggers and regulators, enhancing their performance and appeal to shooters of all levels.

Pros and Cons of PCP Air Rifles

Pros:

• High Accuracy: Minimal recoil and consistent power delivery enhance shot accuracy.
• Multiple Shots: Most models offer multi-shot capabilities without reloading after each shot.
• Quiet Operation: Less noise compared to spring-powered rifles, making them neighbor-friendly.
• Versatility: Suitable for various activities, from target shooting to pest control.

Cons:

• Initial Cost: Generally more expensive than other air rifle types.
• Maintenance: Requires a source of high-pressure air for charging.
• Complexity: It might be slightly more complex for beginners to use and maintain.

Top 5 PCP Air Rifles in the UK

Now, let’s explore the top 5 PCP air rifles available in the UK, perfect for enthusiasts looking to enhance their shooting experience.

1. Air Arms S510 Tactical Regulated .177 (BEST QUALITY)

The Air Arms S510 Tactical Regulated .177 is priced at £1,479.99. This air rifle is a testament to precision, performance, and craftsmanship in the airgun world. Featuring advanced regulation technology, it ensures consistent power and accuracy across shots. Its .177 calibre balances velocity and precision perfectly. The rifle’s ergonomic design, including an adjustable cheekpiece and butt pad, adds a tactical edge for enhanced comfort and stability. Key features include a calibre of .177, a shot count of 90 to 120, muzzle energy of less than 12, 900–985 mm, a barrel length of 395 mm, and a weight of 2.8 kg. Note that the scope is not included. The Air Arms S510 Tactical combines precision engineering with versatility. Its regulated system offers consistent shot power and accuracy. Its fully adjustable stock and smooth side-lever action make it a top choice for shooters of all levels.

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2. Crosman Trailhawk .177 Multi-Shot Air Rifle (BEST VALUE FOR MONEY)

The Crosman Trailhawk .177 Multi-Shot Air Rifle is available for £249.99. This air rifle stands out for its precision and performance. It is designed with a sleek, ergonomic build that ensures a comfortable grip and durability. Its multi-shot capability allows rapid-fire efficiency without sacrificing accuracy, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned shooters. The Trailhawk has Quietfire sound suppression technology, a Walnut sporter style stock, a dovetail rail, and a 3-9×40 AO scope, ensuring superior velocity, power, and optics performance. Its NitroPiston Elite propulsion system replaces the traditional spring, offering easier cocking and reduced noise, vibration, and shock upon firing. This rifle combines versatility, reliability, and durability for an exceptional shooting experience. Ideal for beginners and seasoned shooters alike, the Crosman Trailhawk offers reliability at an affordable price. Its multi-shot capability and lightweight design ensure a comfortable shooting experience.

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3. Air Arms TX200 Rifle Ultimate Springer .177

The Air Arms TX200 Rifle Ultimate Springer .177 is available for £959.99. This masterpiece combines the acclaimed TX 200 and Hunter Carbine actions, offering a spring-powered mechanism in a .177 caliber for consistent and accurate shots. It features a fully adjustable, ambidextrous stock with a black-stained finish, ensuring ergonomic comfort for shooters of all preferences. The TX200 is known for its superior craftsmanship, advanced accuracy mechanisms, and a perfect balance of power and performance, making it a top choice for competitive shooters and hobbyists. Key features include a calibre of .177, muzzle energy of less than 12 ft-lb, an overall length of 1055 mm, a barrel unit length of 395 mm, and a weight of 4.3 kg. Please note that the scope is not included. Though not a PCP, the Air Arms TX200 deserves mention for its exceptional quality and performance. This springer rivals PCP rifles in accuracy and consistency, making it a favourite among traditionalists.

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4. Kral Nish PCP .177 Walnut Package

The Kral Nish PCP .177 Walnut Package is priced at £489.99. This comprehensive package includes the Kral Nish .177 PCP rifle with a beautiful walnut stock, an airgun pump, a Konus 3-12 x 40 scope, a padded green gun slip, and a Kral 1/2″ UNF silencer in black. It’s designed to offer great value and provide everything needed to start shooting right away. The package’s combination of precise engineering and premium materials ensures a high-quality shooting experience, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced shooters looking for a complete setup. The Kral Nish PCP package offers great value, including everything needed to start shooting: the rifle, an airgun pump, a scope, and more. Its beautiful walnut stock and precise engineering provide a premium shooting experience.

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5. Stinger PCP Neptuno Air Gun 5.5mm (.22)

The Stinger PCP Neptuno Air Gun 5.5mm (.22) is priced at £499.99. This bolt-action air rifle combines precision, power, and advanced design, making it an excellent choice for both novices and experienced marksmen. It features a full wooden stock and metal barrel, ensuring durability and a premium feel. Including a pressure gauge and pressure regulator guarantees consistent accuracy and higher velocity, enhancing the shooting experience. Additionally, it comes equipped with a rail for mounting scopes and a threaded barrel for an optional suppressor, offering flexibility in customization. The Stinger PCP Neptuno stands out for its innovative design and powerful performance. It is suitable for target shooting and small game hunting and offers versatility and reliability in a compact package.

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Special Mention: Umarex 850 M2 Empire Black

The Umarex 850 M2 Empire Kit is a CO2 powered air rifle that comes with a scope, bipod, and pellets.

It is a good option for plinking and target shooting.

Here are some key features of the Umarex 850 M2 Empire Kit:

• CO2 powered
• Weighs just under 9 pounds
• Overall length with silencer fitted is just under 47 inches
• 23 and 1/2 inch barrel
• UMX K3 Neo silencer
• Metal thread protector
• Adjustable iron sights
• Removable cheek piece
• 3-to-9 by 40 scope and mounts
• 1-inch thick butt pad
• 8-shot magazine
• Shoots .177 caliber pellets

Overall, we were very happy with the performance of the Umarex 850 M2 Empire Kit. We found it to be a very usable and fun air gun to shoot. However, we will point out that the air gun is far more capable than the pellets that come with the kit, so it is worth investing in some premium pellets

FAQs

What is the best PCP air rifle? The best PCP air rifle often depends on the shooter’s needs and preferences. However, the Air Arms S510 Tactical Regulated .177 is highly regarded for its precision, versatility, and user-friendly features, making it a top choice for both competitive shooters and hobbyists seeking quality and performance. What is the most accurate PCP air rifle in the world? The FX Airguns Crown is renowned for its exceptional accuracy, thanks to its adjustable settings, superior barrel technology, and consistent performance. It’s a favorite among precision shooters and competitors worldwide, setting a high standard for accuracy in PCP air rifles. What is the most powerful production PCP air rifle? The AirForce Airguns Texan holds the title for the most powerful production PCP air rifle, capable of delivering shots with significant muzzle energy. It’s designed for big game hunting, offering unparalleled power in a PCP platform, making it a top choice for hunters seeking maximum impact. What is the best .22 PCP air rifle? The Benjamin Marauder .22 stands out as one of the best .22 PCP air rifles, offering a great balance of power, accuracy, and quiet operation. Its adjustable features and reliable performance make it a favorite among enthusiasts for both target shooting and small-game hunting. Which airgun caliber is best? The best airgun caliber depends on the intended use. .177 is ideal for target shooting and competitive use due to its flat trajectory and high accuracy. .22 offers more knockdown power, making it better for hunting and pest control. Ultimately, the choice should be based on specific shooting goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UK market offers a diverse range of PCP air rifles, catering to the needs of both beginners and seasoned shooters. From the precision and versatility of the Air Arms S510 Tactical Regulated .177 to the comprehensive package offered by the Kral Nish PCP .177 Walnut, there’s something for everyone. The Crosman Trailhawk .177 Multi-Shot stands out for its affordability and reliability, while the traditional spring-powered Air Arms TX200 showcases exceptional quality and performance that rivals PCP rifles. The Stinger PCP Neptuno Air Gun 5.5mm (.22) rounds out the top picks with its cutting-edge design and powerful performance. Each of these rifles brings unique features to the table, ensuring that you’ll find a rifle that suits your needs regardless of your preferences or requirements. Whether you’re into competitive shooting, hunting, or recreational target practice, these top 5 PCP air rifles in the UK represent the pinnacle of airgun technology and craftsmanship, promising accuracy, power, and satisfaction with every shot.

Top Air Pistol FAQs

1. What air pistols are used in the Olympics? Olympic shooting events (10m Air Pistol) use highly specialised, precision air pistols. These are typically single-shot, .177 caliber (4.5mm) pistols designed for extreme accuracy, not power, and are often powered by compressed air or CO2. Examples include models from manufacturers like Morini, Pardini, Feinwerkbau, and Walther.
2. Are air pistols dangerous? Yes, air pistols can be dangerous. While often less powerful than firearms, they can cause serious injury, especially to eyes, and should always be handled with the same safety precautions as a traditional firearm.
3. Can air pistols kill rats? Yes, certain air pistols, particularly those with sufficient power and accuracy, can kill rats. However, humane dispatch should always be the priority, and shot placement is crucial.
4. Can air pistols kill? Yes, air pistols can kill, especially if misused or if certain powerful models are fired at vulnerable parts of the body. They are not toys and should always be treated with extreme caution and respect.

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