The Most Powerful 4.5mm Air Rifles - Overview and Selection Tips

First of all, it should be clarified why many are attracted to just such a weapon. The answer is simple - a powerful 4.5 mm air rifle can (under certain conditions) be purchased without a license, ammunition is much cheaper than for firearms, and storage does not imply mandatory placement in a metal box (safe).

But in order to choose the best option from the whole variety of models, you need to know something about their design differences. This is what mainly determines the specificity and ease of use of the so-called "air".

Regarding the last characteristic, non-professionals have many questions, so experts advise focusing on such an indicator of a rifle as the initial speed (m / s) of a bullet - at least 145. This is if powerful pneumatics are meant.

There are no restrictions on increasing the last characteristic. At least, they are not provided for by our legislation. Therefore, if someone is confused by the insufficient power of the air rifle they like, then it is worth consulting with a professional in this field. There are several technical solutions to this problem.

This fully applies to the reduction of power (that is, muzzle energy), if it exceeds the value of 7.5. In fact, many of those who do not have a license for an air rifle do so in order to “legalize” it. But whether there will be questions from law enforcement officers later (since they evaluate weapons according to the manufacturer's data) is a big question. Therefore, without having permits, when choosing a model more powerful than provided by law, you should think carefully, and not focus only on the tips of "experts".

Pneumatic weapons are divided into two main types:

Spring-piston models (PP)

Side-lever rifles

Most of them (caliber up to 4.5) are characterized by reduced power and some inconvenience in use, since after the shot you will have to cock manually (by cocking the spring). Such models are often purchased for training in shooting or entertainment. Although in terms of power in this group of air rifles there are record holders that are great for hunting. But here the question of licensing already arises. Moreover, their caliber exceeds the indicated 4.5.

Breaking rifles

They are known to many from the time when shooting galleries worked in places of mass recreation. The main disadvantage is the reduced rate of fire.

Compression air rifles (PCP)

According to the international classification - PCP . A special compact tank (its capacity depends on the model and series of weapons) provides a certain number of shots without "reloading". It is enough to completely pump the cylinder with the help of a lever. The power of such models is higher, respectively, and the range of the bullet is greater. These air rifles are mainly bought by hunters or those who like to shoot annoying crows, magpies and the like.

Rifles "carbon dioxide"

Such pneumatic models are designed for a certain number of shots. It depends on the capacity of the cylinder, which is pumped in a specialized workshop. They are not in great demand.

Therefore, before you go shopping, you should clarify the priorities and range of tasks for which pneumatics are purchased. Plus - the presence (or lack) of a license. In the latter case, is there a desire (ability) to deal with the execution of permits. By the way, not everyone can get them.

For an overview of the most powerful air pistols you can buy without a license, read here .

A Brief Overview of Powerful 4.5 Caliber Air Rifle Models

The initial cost, as it varies depending on the configuration; in relation to the Moscow region; in Russian rubles. The speed of the bullet is in m/s and its weight is in g.

Gamo Hunter

Spanish air rifle. It is considered one of the best in its subgroup. That is why it is very popular in many countries.

Price - 30 080.

"Umarex Walther" (model 1250)

German, and quite powerful pneumatics. Those who have tried several different types of rifles in this category consider it the best.

Price - from 61 430.

"FX" (Monsoon model)

Swedish air rifle. Even with such a small caliber (4.5) it is universal (both for sports and for hunting).

Price - from 76 990.

" EVANIX GTL 480S series )

Korean pneumatics, characterized by increased power.

Price - from 136 870.

"Hatsan" (model 125 VS)

Another air rifle from Turkey, which attracts many for several reasons. Firstly, an acceptable price combined with excellent quality. Secondly, the feature of delivery. Two springs included in the package allow you to set the power of the shot (J) or 7.5 (which means no license is required), or 30.

Price - from 13 750.

Perhaps these are all 4.5 caliber air rifles that can really be called powerful. From the point of view of the author, the other models available for sale (among the popular ones) do not deserve attention. Some are taken only for fun or shooting crows, while others require a license to purchase. And this is both extra trouble and responsibility. In addition, their caliber is much larger than 4.5.

Although this is a personal opinion, and perhaps someone else has a completely different one. In principle, it is enough to browse the websites of online stores to make the best choice, in accordance with the specifics of the further use of a particular model of air rifle.

Practical Tips for Choosing an Air Rifle

Caliber 4.5 is often referred to in hunter's slang as a child's caliber. With such an air rifle, fishing is usually carried out only on a bird weighing no more than 1.5 kg (for example, a duck). If at close range (which is quite rare), then you can take a black grouse and even a hare. Although in most cases the result is predictable - a wounded animal. However, much depends on the power of the rifle. If it is large, then such pneumatics becomes a serious weapon.

Often there are recommendations that if you have knowledge, experience (and the ability to “make a hand”) in mechanics, then in order to save money, it is advisable to buy a cheaper 4.5 air rifle. And then improve to increase its power. Of course, there are engineering solutions to this problem. Only here, how much money will have to be invested additionally (or paid to a familiar master), is somehow silent. For those who do not plan, in principle, to engage in any “innovations” and alteration of an air rifle, the advice is unequivocal - to purchase only branded models.

There is another option. Individual manufacturers, taking into account the requirements of the law, make an air rifle with acceptable power, but with some margin in terms of increasing it. Or deliberately reduce it, leaving the owner the opportunity to increase the numerical value of this characteristic. That is, it is enough to carry out a simple improvement (or, as they say, an upgrade), and everything will be as originally intended by the designer.

In conclusion, it should be noted that air rifle fishing is prohibited in a number of countries. If it is purchased specifically for hunting, then in order not to be disappointed later, especially not to conflict with law enforcement officers, it is worth clarifying this nuance in the corresponding territorial unit.

Good luck with your pneumatic choice!