N/A Alright I'm hooked, send it on a higher end rifle?

[MongooseV8]

There are several very great options for quality pcps that will have a high degree of accuracy and reliability. As many have already noted the top of that list is probably the Taipan Vet Gen 1, but not far are the other usual choices. One thing I would warn you, is to not fall victim of the advanced marketing and accuracy claims found on youtube. They have generated a lot of regret in the pcp community over the years. That being said you can expect good accuracy (in reality any pcp 1moa or less) in manufacturers like BRK, RAW, AA, FX, AGT, Etc.

I dont think FX is necessarily at the very top when it comes to design, but they do have the best aftermarket support by a long shot. That really means something when you will need to do repairs years in the future. The Taipan Vet is a great example. By most accounts a spectacular build and a great performer, but now little if any parts are out there. For my money I would chose from BRK, RAW, AA, or FX; as these companies will be around a while and can provide support later. Decide if you want a traditional pcp with a nice wood stock, or a bullpup; and go from there.

I do a lot of hunting/pesting with my pcps so my needs are different than others. I prefer the short bullpups that dont weigh a lot for walk and stalk style days. The heavy bullpups I prefer for positional days where I dont need to worry about bushes and tree branches (pretty rare these days). I think for FX the Maverick is probably the one I would pick if I could only have 1. I have 2 Impacts that I absolutely love, but they are complicated little devils. The Maverick or Wildcat is a more simple design with a few less features not needed for a good hunting platform imo. I have never owned any of the other high-end brands so I cant give you any first hand experience, but many here can and will.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

There are several very great options for quality pcps that will have a high degree of accuracy and reliability. As many have already noted the top of that list is probably the Taipan Vet Gen 1, but not far are the other usual choices. One thing I would warn you, is to not fall victim of the advanced marketing and accuracy claims found on youtube. They have generated a lot of regret in the pcp community over the years. That being said you can expect good accuracy (in reality any pcp 1moa or less) in manufacturers like BRK, RAW, AA, FX, AGT, Etc.

I dont think FX is necessarily at the very top when it comes to design, but they do have the best aftermarket support by a long shot. That really means something when you will need to do repairs years in the future. The Taipan Vet is a great example. By most accounts a spectacular build and a great performer, but now little if any parts are out there. For my money I would chose from BRK, RAW, AA, or FX; as these companies will be around a while and can provide support later. Decide if you want a traditional pcp with a nice wood stock, or a bullpup; and go from there.

I do a lot of hunting/pesting with my pcps so my needs are different than others. I prefer the short bullpups that dont weigh a lot for walk and stalk style days. The heavy bullpups I prefer for positional days where I dont need to worry about bushes and tree branches (pretty rare these days). I think for FX the Maverick is probably the one I would pick if I could only have 1. I have 2 Impacts that I absolutely love, but they are complicated little devils. The Maverick or Wildcat is a more simple design with a few less features not needed for a good hunting platform imo. I have never owned any of the other high-end brands so I cant give you any first hand experience, but many here can and will.

I really appreciate this advice! In the past I’ve bit hard on accuracy and Customization claims in different shooting disciplines. I’ve often been left with disappointment and frustration. Because at the end of the day even if apiece of equipment is able to squeeze 5% more performance, consistency, accuracy etc out of a platform. I’m still good enough to shoot the difference lol. And if I can play with a setting, I will, because I’m just that person.

ive narrowed it down to FX, BRK, RAW, or RTI. They all make rifles I find pleasant to look at, are accurate as heck, and have parts galore available!

 

[MikeAllen]

RAW HM1000X Chassis rifle or RAW HM1000X Mini Hunter. Made in the USA. Solid as a rock. Great customer support and parts availability.
Watch the Steve Scialli video:

 

[cavedweller]

Having watched quite a few videos on RAW rifles they seem insanely good, I'm just not sure dragging an HM1000 around the woods with me seems like a good time. I've never held or seen one in person though, they may be much lighter than they look.

Microhunter

 

[Headshots]

Airgun manufacturers change and update models all the time . That doesn't mean an older model is no longer supported. What parts do you plan on breaking or failing ? I've heard of FX side levers breaking but little else from the top manufacturers . They do repair factory flaws as well . But really besides Orings or reg parts what breaks on a quality PCP . There's plenty of older quality PCPs still working like new if cared for. One of the reasons I have 2 Taipans vet 1s . Having parts fail or break is the least of my concerns.

If your after a Lego gun then I get it . But even my Maverick has only seen one factory part , a heavier hammer , in 3 years . I purchased the model I wanted and tuned it well and just shoot it .I leave it alone .

 

[JimD]

Since you enjoy your first Snowpeak (SPA) made gun (your Notos) you could also stay with their guns. Your Notos is functionally somewhat similar to my Prod which was my first PCP and I've taken 17 squirrels with it so far. It's a short range tool in my estimation but with a well placed shot it works fine. But I like my P35s. The 22 has over 30 fpe and is very accurate, I shot a 200 on the 30 yard challenge with it last year. The worst any of my P35s on that target shooting game is my P35-25 and it's taken 18 squirrels so far but it's best score is "only" a 194. My P35-177 has shot a 197. So they are all plenty accurate for squirrels. I like them because they are short, light, and powerful with center cocking. If you prefer the "black gun" look there is now a Zellos or SPA M60B. They have longer barrels, are a bit heavier, and can be tuned to a higher fpe. There is also now a P35X (or Remington Spirit X if you prefer) with a much bigger plenum and longer barrel and wooden stock. These SPA made guns are all in the $400-600 range.

I consider my Caiman a "high end" gun but at $1400 it was not as expensive as many you are considering. It might be very slightly more accurate on average than my P35-22 but if it is the difference is small. But the machining is noticably better and it has the potential to be more powerful. It is at about the same fpe as the P35 but it's regulator is at only 100 bar where the P35 is at about 135 bar. But it doesn't love heavier pellets than 18 grain so I shoot those (at about 915 fps). Air Maks also offers a Krait and another gun whose name escapes me at the moment. I see them as an up-and-commer whose prices are a bit better than the more established brands.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

Airgun manufacturers change and update models all the time . That doesn't mean an older model is no longer supported. What parts do you plan on breaking or failing ? I've heard of FX side levers breaking but little else from the top manufacturers . They do repair factory flaws as well . But really besides Orings or reg parts what breaks on a quality PCP . There's plenty of older quality PCPs still working like new if cared for. One of the reasons I have 2 Taipans vet 1s . Having parts fail or break is the least of my concerns.

If your after a Lego gun then I get it . But even my Maverick has only seen one factory part , a heavier HS , in 3 years . I purchased the model I wanted and tuned it well and just shoot it .I leave it alone .

The parts comment was a dig at my experience with the Notos (SPA) not having a factory seal kit you can purchase. You’d think barrel tenon seals would be easy to come by, as it turns out not so much. I’m sure there are examples in the higher end world of cases like this, and it’s not something I want to have to worry about if the worst does happen. I consider myself a quick study but in the shooting sports world it’s usually just better to ask to people who have hundreds of hours behind guns I don’t own yet.

That said, I have no issues buying used! I have several posts saved for when I’m allowed to DM people.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

Since you enjoy your first Snowpeak (SPA) made gun (your Notos) you could also stay with their guns. Your Notos is functionally somewhat similar to my Prod which was my first PCP and I've taken 17 squirrels with it so far. It's a short range tool in my estimation but with a well placed shot it works fine. But I like my P35s. The 22 has over 30 fpe and is very accurate, I shot a 200 on the 30 yard challenge with it last year. The worst any of my P35s on that target shooting game is my P35-25 and it's taken 18 squirrels so far but it's best score is "only" a 194. My P35-177 has shot a 197. So they are all plenty accurate for squirrels. I like them because they are short, light, and powerful with center cocking. If you prefer the "black gun" look there is now a Zellos or SPA M60B. They have longer barrels, are a bit heavier, and can be tuned to a higher fpe. There is also now a P35X (or Remington Spirit X if you prefer) with a much bigger plenum and longer barrel and wooden stock. These SPA made guns are all in the $400-600 range.

I consider my Caiman a "high end" gun but at $1400 it was not as expensive as many you are considering. It might be very slightly more accurate on average than my P35-22 but if it is the difference is small. But the machining is noticably better and it has the potential to be more powerful. It is at about the same fpe as the P35 but it's regulator is at only 100 bar where the P35 is at about 135 bar. But it doesn't love heavier pellets than 18 grain so I shoot those (at about 915 fps). Air Maks also offers a Krait and another gun whose name escapes me at the moment. I see them as an up-and-commer whose prices are a bit better than the more established brands.

The run around with the barrel tenon seals on the Notos really irked me (considering they came from the factory that way). Otherwise the Zelos was on my list, I was just hoping they’d have a bottle version in the US which I doesn’t look like they do, or at least haven’t come out with yet. I emailed Wes at Archeryairgunfun about an M60B with an adapted and bottle. he just hasn’t gotten back to me yet!

 

[Headshots]

The parts comment was a dig at my experience with the Notos (SPA) not having a factory seal kit you can purchase. You’d think barrel tenon seals would be easy to come by, as it turns out not so much. I’m sure there are examples in the higher end world of cases like this, and it’s not something I want to have to worry about if the worst does happen. I consider myself a quick study but in the shooting sports world it’s usually just better to ask to people who have hundreds of hours behind guns I don’t own yet.

That said, I have no issues buying used! I have several posts saved for when I’m allowed to DM people.

No dig intend. Others mentioned that parts are available for x models. Just my own opinion on quality PCP's and why I myself don't worry about parts . I do see alot of people asking for help with O-rings and with a the combined brain power here they almost always get it . Even with older PCP parts, because stuff does happen .

Take your time to pick your new airgun. Learn as much as you can before purchasing. I always enjoyed the research. A Daystate Huntsman is on my someday list . Seldom hear of issues .

 

[mdcherry416]

All of those are good options but if you re wanting to keep it affordable get an Avenger x in 25cal. Maybe not as accurate shooting targets but close. It is plenty accurate for hunting and its only around 550. You can adjust the reg. and hammer spring you can also can change calibers for under 100.00. I have a FX Crown and an Avenger and the Avenger is very close to the Crown in accuracy up to 50 yds. My reg. is set at 2200 psi and its shooting 25.4 grain pellet at 900 FPS. Just my two cents.

 

[Gerry52]

DON'T buy any original manufacturer o-rings! Go to The O-ring Store, O-rings & More or Mcmaster-Carr. All you need to know is the o-ring thickness (cross section) & the inner diameter. Dealers I mentioned have mm sizes & prices are very inexpensive vs oem. A caliper is a must for airgunners.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

Called around to a few places today after a couple nights of perusing used tabs of a few websites. I ended up landing a decent deal (I think) on an HM1000X in .25 with a Donny FL and optic on it. Not quite the route I was intending to take but after mulling over .25 Im not going to say no to knock down power and long range potential. Should be here early next week if the FedEx man does his thing! Squirrel hunting pics to follow

 

[JimD]

I posted my seal kit for my P35s. I took several years accumulating things as I had a need and decided to get them more organized and fill in the gaps. It only takes a few minutes to measure an old O-ring and get a replacement on it's way to you. Unfortunately you normally have to buy 100 to get 1 but each size is only a few dollars. It does add up if you decide you want one of each.

SPA gives you what they say is a complete set of O-rings and tools with the gun. It isn't really complete but it's a start. They are not the best quality but they generally work for at least a little while.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

I posted my seal kit for my P35s. I took several years accumulating things as I had a need and decided to get them more organized and fill in the gaps. It only takes a few minutes to measure an old O-ring and get a replacement on it's way to you. Unfortunately you normally have to buy 100 to get 1 but each size is only a few dollars. It does add up if you decide you want one of each.

SPA gives you what they say is a complete set of O-rings and tools with the gun. It isn't really complete but it's a start. They are not the best quality but they generally work for at least a little while.

I did track down the SPA parts list that was posted here in 1 or 2 threads. Unfortunately the o-rings aren’t standard size. 10.2x.8cs for the barrel tenon seals. A few people have ordered batches from AliExpress, a few people have ordered 10x1s from the o-ring store and abraided them or just tapped the barrel in gently. I could go either route, i guess. The seals are damaged but holding. Next time I pull the barrel I’ll need to find a way to debur that little retention screw hole.

 

[Jaxjax]

Called around to a few places today after a couple nights of perusing used tabs of a few websites. I ended up landing a decent deal (I think) on an HM1000X in .25 with a Donny FL and optic on it. Not quite the route I was intending to take but after mulling over .25 Im not going to say no to knock down power and long range potential. Should be here early next week if the FedEx man does his thing! Squirrel hunting pics to follow

IMO super smart purchase !!! & .25 is very versatile. I have RAW in .177 .22 .25 & .30calibers with nothing but praise for the platform. Martin has Oring kits ready to go at all times & any other part you made need which is doubtful that will be anything except maybe an oring. The simple no damn oring IN the barrel gig with RAW make me happy every time I clean or change barrels. Airforce is actually very pleasant to deal with on RAW but Airguns USA aka Martin knows them in & out blindfolded as he should.

 

[Nwvtargnr]

IMO super smart purchase !!! & .25 is very versatile. I have RAW in .177 .22 .25 & .30calibers with nothing but praise for the platform. Martin has Oring kits ready to go at all times & any other part you made need which is doubtful that will be anything except maybe an oring. The simple no damn oring IN the barrel gig with RAW make me happy every time I clean or change barrels. Airforce is actually very pleasant to deal with on RAW but Airguns USA aka Martin knows them in & out blindfolded as he should.

I’m looking forward to it! Since you’ve got some experience with em I have a few question If you don’t mind!

what are you using for grease? I noticed the manual online said no Silicone grease, I’m assuming this means for the action?

also I bought pellets and slugs at random. Got any suggestions for what’s worked for you?

thank you!

 

[SpindleB]

Or you can go over to the Pellet Shop and buy a Niksan Ozark for under $500.
My .22 Ozark shoots as well as any air rifle I've ever fired.
Took a squirrel 35 yards and 30-40 feet up a tree across the creek.
Loves heavy 25g JTS pellets too

-- Matt

 

[Airgun-hobbyist]

I’m looking forward to it! Since you’ve got some experience with em I have a few question If you don’t mind!

what are you using for grease? I noticed the manual online said no Silicone grease, I’m assuming this means for the action?

also I bought pellets and slugs at random. Got any suggestions for what’s worked for you?

thank you!

Silicon grease is only used on certain o-rings, and never used as a lubricant on metal on metal parts or threads. It will wear and damage them. Always follow your gun manufacturer's recommendations first and foremost, especially when it comes to high pressure pneumatic airguns.

 

[Firewalker]

Silicon grease is only used on certain o-rings, ....

Only certain o-rings?

Pray tell, why?

 

[Nwvtargnr]

Silicon grease is only used on certain o-rings, and never used as a lubricant on metal on metal parts or threads. It will wear and damage them. Always follow your gun manufacturer's recommendations first and foremost, especially when it comes to high pressure pneumatic airguns.

Oh absolutely! RAW recommends Molybdenum Sulfide based grease, so Moly of some sort. There’s about 100 different moly greases, didn’t know if there was one that was better in particular.