Looking to practice precision targeting in the back yard. Looking to buy a rifle that isn’t $1k or more but still somewhat precise.
Backyards vary. What is the max range you'll be shooting? Are neighbors close enough that noise will bother them? Are you just going to be shooting paper, or will you also be shooting pests?
Just shooting paper. Neighbors are at least 100ft apart so noise shouldn’t be a concern and I have a sandbag backstop. Max range I was looking at was 20 yds.
Out to 20 yards, the rifles that fall in the "sporter" category of the 3P Airgun program will do well with light pellets (7.9's and such) You can choose from the Daisy 599 (in essence a rebranded BSA with excellent reputation for accuracy), the Crosman Challenger, the Air Force Edge, and other "beginner"10 m guns. If you are looking for a PCP I would start there.
Again, at 20 yards you do not need more than 6 ft-lbs to shoot paper.
If you want a springer, a used FWB 300 would be the cat's meow, or a used and detuned Diana 54 would also be most fun.
There are also some break barrels that will do well at that distance. From the HW50 to the more sophisticated offerings by BSA (Super sport, Lightning), the HW 95, and others.
IN the fixed barrel recoiling springer category, you would do well to look into the HW97, the TX-200, and the DIANA 48, if you want more power than you need "just in case".
For some, the 22 cal pellet is easier to handle than the small 0.177" so, think about what YOU need.
There is a bunch of possibilities and your budget is more than generous. Try to find an airgunclub near you and go talk to the people there, I am sure they will give you a lot more to think about.
HTH, keep well and keep us posted!
HM
I have far more PCP guns than springers. I do really like the R7 and HW 30 for their ease of use and accuracy.
Here are a few test sheets on what they can do in your intended range. The third test is with .22 guns.
Note how the cheap CZ shot right in there with them.
For a lower end price range and shocking accuracy the onboard pump Seneca Aspen is worth a look for PCP
performance but no baggage. You can tether them for extended shooting sessions.
I was able to purchase a CZ 200T from @rick_vaeth. It certainly was what I was looking for and my 11 year old son is getting dime size grouping at 33ft with it.
@ganthony101 . That's great. Bet the kid loves it. That gun will make him a better shot with any rifle, powder burners included. Nice choice
@pluric . I've read of the Aspen having QC issues. None seem to make to past 1,000 rounds before failing and I've seen they aren't serviceable. Same with the Nova. Has this been your experience?
@pluric . I've read of the Aspen having QC issues. None seem to make to past 1,000 rounds before failing and I've seen they aren't serviceable. Same with the Nova. Has this been your experience?
My original Nova was sent to Nate with the Airgun Channel for a test. While he had it it started to leak air. He sent it to the distributor and they were great about fixing and returning it. I bought the gun as a novelty just to try it out so I never had a high shot count with it. I don't even remember what I did with it.
I was at Utah Airguns and they had the Seneca Aspen on sale for $250. I couldn't pass that up. I really have no use for it I just thought it might make a good loaner or something. I really only shot it the first day to try it out and put it in the gun rack. So I can't give a personal long term opinion. I do believe they can be serviced.
