GTA

All Springer/NP/PCP Air Gun Discussion General => American/U.S. Air Gun Gates => Topic started by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 03:15:12 PM

Title: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 03:15:12 PM
Hey guys new to air rifles here and looking into getting my first rifle. I've looked at all calibers and makes. So far these have caught my eye.

Benjamin trail np2 .22
mrod. 22
Condor SS. 25

Of course I'll want to eventually get a .357 or .45 caliber air rifle. My question is which would be good for a new air rifle user?
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 03:25:22 PM
Yep. Get all three!
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 03:28:19 PM
If I could only pick one, I'd go for the Condor SS.
Compact. Lightweight. Powerful. And should be accurate with the Lothar Walther barrel.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Wildcatter on May 17, 2017, 03:48:50 PM
I'll second the vote for the Condor for no other reason then I know the others and I just got an Airforce Talon in .25 and it's a great little gun.  Lightweight, accurate and high shot count - the squirrels I've come across with this gun have not lived to talk about the experience  ;)
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 04:46:47 PM
Ok cool thanks for the advice. What's the noise like with the Condor SS? Backyard friendly? I've been reading about the mods available for this air rifle as well.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Wildcatter on May 17, 2017, 06:32:26 PM
Unless you get an LDC, I'm going to say no.  At least the Talon has quite a pop to it when shot.  Not so sure about the Condor.  I'm not even sure the Condor SS is quiet enough for backyard use, but I'm sure some members will chime in soon.

In fact, I have my Talon out right now to have an LDC made.  I'm sure I'll be posting when I've tried it out.  I really want to shoot it in my backyard so I can get to work on figuring out which slugs it will like...

Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 06:46:14 PM
You can turn the power down on a Condor, and it is a shrouded barrel.

But if quiet is a big concern, and it's biggest use will be in the backyard, I'd get a .177 Marauder for precision and quiet. And I would say get the NP2 Trail also, because you could get both for the price of a Condor SS, but I'd choose something smaller and lighter than the NP2 for a second rifle because the Marauder is a load itself.

Maybe a smaller, lighter, springer or gas piston rifle....or a P-rod?
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 06:53:17 PM
Ok I was thinking the Condor would be pretty loud. Ok right now I'm trying to get used to firing a rifle and using a scope. Y'all think a .22 would meet those needs as well as be a backyard shooter? I like the Benjamin trail np and np2. I also like the Benjamin 392. When I'm able I want something that will work for bigger game such as hogs.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Wildcatter on May 17, 2017, 06:57:25 PM
Gonna suggest the Benjamin 392; I have a gas ram pellet gun and I have a Benji.  One I'll hand down to my kid's kid's and the other will probably quit shooting in a few years.  I think it's more accurate then the NP2, too.  Others will chime in shortly and give you their opinions, too...wait for it...wait for it...
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 07:57:32 PM
I was looking at the list on Mac1 tunes at the Benjamin maximus and discovery.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 08:01:58 PM
A 392 is definitely louder than the NP2.

I don't think I'd go wadin around in the cane with a bunch of hogs with either though.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 08:03:37 PM
Lol I wouldn't take one of those for a spot and stalk for sure, my bow is better for that. Once I get a big bore air rifle I'll get and .357 or .45
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 08:07:55 PM
I've seen a guy on youtube shoot a little one in the head from about 20 feet with a fast .177 springer.
He was in a blind and the hog was eating some corn he put out as bait.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 08:09:56 PM
Yes I have seen those as well. That's why I was looking into a .22 for small pigs and coons.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 08:36:30 PM
Welp...that NP2 is going to be a lot more powerful than a 392. And quieter.

Just takes a lot more practice to master it. And is much longer and heavier.

If you have good eyes, the 392 can be a lot of fun and is easy to carry around all day.

That Condor SS in .25 can do it all. Except be a good backyard plinker.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 08:47:21 PM
Ok cool thanks for the advice man. I'm looking into which can be modded to improve the rifle as well. I'm getting excited, can't wait to figure out what I want to order.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 08:52:55 PM
The suspense is killing me
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 08:59:29 PM
Also I'm seeking out any air gun shops in the DFW area any advice?
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 09:25:42 PM
I'm sure there's some guys on here that might know.

The only well known place that I've heard of is an airgun and archery shop in San Antonio.

I know they have Field Target competition at that gun range off of Luna Rd in NW Dallas near I-35 and 635. They might have some stuff there.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: 39M on May 17, 2017, 09:30:44 PM
AirForce is in Ft Worth. But I don't know if they have a showroom.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 17, 2017, 10:12:23 PM
Ok cool thanks for the help. I'll see what I can figure out. Thanks all for the help.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Nvreloader on May 23, 2017, 12:37:59 AM
FYI

Any Airforce model that has "SS" in the name has quite shroud as standard OEM equipped,
per the 2017 catalog that is in my hot little grubbies, and per a ph call to Airforce, to answer what "SS" meant.

"SS" = silent shroud, LOL.

Tia,
Don
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Gertrude on May 23, 2017, 01:51:02 AM
Matt,
Your enthusiasm is great, and airgunning is a fantastic sport to get into.
 But what I'm seeing in this thread so far is all over the map.

 Of all the guns you've mentioned (and others have suggested), you've basically touched on every thing from a $169 pumper, to a $250 break barrel, (that requires a considerable amount of "massaging"/tuning, I.E. Knowledge, and more money and effort to shoot well),...
 and then on to a higher end $700+ PCP (which is going to need a scope and fill rig) , (easily add another $600 to $1000 to that).
Not withstanding, also the expensive big bore PCP's you also mention.

next we go from Backyard Friendly to Hog hunting.

We are certainly here to help, and give you some experienced and knowledgeable suggestions,... BUT you've got to narrow down the parameters a bit, to get real and useable feedback to your questions.

so I guess the best way to start and try to answer your questions is to ask a few myself.
 You say this will be your FIRST airgun. No problem there.

 So the first question is, What is your intended purpose with the first airgun ?
 Is it backyard plinking ? or is it hunting pigs ?
 These are not one in the same type of gun. They are vastly different, and they come and opposite ends of the price tags.

which brings us to the second set of questions.

What is your REALISTIC Budget you are ready to or willing to spend ?
Iin the world of airguns, it all comes down to WHAT you are shooting at, How far, and the amount of cash you can ACTUALLY Spend.

A .22 does NOT make for a good pig gun, no matter what anyone else tells you,...
 and a big bore PCP will NOT be Backyard Friendly.

if you can narrow down your parameters, to what you will be using this first gun for,... then we can better help and suggest brands and models for that purpose.

Hope this helps
Cheers
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Wildcatter on May 23, 2017, 01:58:11 PM
+1  You're gonna hear everyone else's wish list or guns they're familiar with and maybe not what may suit your needs.  You narrow down exactly what you're going to do with the air rifle and how much (REALLY) you're willing to spend and then watch the info roll in ;D

Good luck and welcome!
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Robert Skelton on May 23, 2017, 07:48:29 PM
That guy shooting hogs with a Gamo is nothing more than a paid shill.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Janteau1 on May 23, 2017, 07:50:13 PM
Condor SS in 25 is an awesome shooter. I have one. 1/2" @ 50 yds easy.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: archellas on May 24, 2017, 03:01:17 PM
Here's my .02c

For a starter airgun (of those you listed) the NP2 is a fairly good choice, break barrel, accurate, quiet (backyard friendly) and as mentioned elsewhere, needs to be mastered for an artillery hold to get maximum out of it. Nice thing, break barrel, load, aim, shoot! Repeat (all day).

Once you get on the dark side, and get a PCP, you get addicted - it IS PCP after all! You'll need a pump (at least) or a scuba tank, etc. to charge up, and although accurate and quiet, can be daunting ($$$) for a starter airgun. An Mrod or even maybe a Prod would make for an excellent backyard/small game/pesting gun.

It's all uphill from here .....

Keep shooting!
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: DOKF on May 24, 2017, 04:26:18 PM
That guy shooting hogs with a Gamo is nothing more than a paid shill.

Look at "Manny's Corner" for the reality of hog hunting.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: DOKF on May 24, 2017, 04:27:18 PM
Here's my .02c

For a starter airgun (of those you listed) the NP2 is a fairly good choice, break barrel, accurate, quiet (backyard friendly) and as mentioned elsewhere, needs to be mastered for an artillery hold to get maximum out of it. Nice thing, break barrel, load, aim, shoot! Repeat (all day).

Once you get on the dark side, and get a PCP, you get addicted - it IS PCP after all! You'll need a pump (at least) or a scuba tank, etc. to charge up, and although accurate and quiet, can be daunting ($$$) for a starter airgun. An Mrod or even maybe a Prod would make for an excellent backyard/small game/pesting gun.

It's all uphill from here .....

Keep shooting!

+1

Good starter advice.


.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Janteau1 on May 24, 2017, 05:05:26 PM
I have the Condor SS in 25...WOULDN'T TRADE IT FOR ANYTHING
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Nvreloader on May 24, 2017, 07:37:19 PM
Define your meanings of Hogs......

Are you talking Ground Hogs/Whistle pigs,

Feral Wild Hogs, pork chop type,

A Big difference between them...LOL

Tia,
Don
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 26, 2017, 05:01:52 PM
First I wouldn't waste lead on any other hog besides a hog, as in what Texas is known for feral hogs..

Of course I would like to have something to shoot at cans and practice. For the big bore I want something that can shoot the range I desire and have the killing capabilities as well. As for amount I will spend what needs to be spent for the gun that will meet my needs.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: avator on May 26, 2017, 06:47:20 PM
Matt,
Your enthusiasm is great, and airgunning is a fantastic sport to get into.
 But what I'm seeing in this thread so far is all over the map.

 Of all the guns you've mentioned (and others have suggested), you've basically touched on every thing from a $169 pumper, to a $250 break barrel, (that requires a considerable amount of "massaging"/tuning, I.E. Knowledge, and more money and effort to shoot well),...
 and then on to a higher end $700+ PCP (which is going to need a scope and fill rig) , (easily add another $600 to $1000 to that).
Not withstanding, also the expensive big bore PCP's you also mention.

next we go from Backyard Friendly to Hog hunting.

We are certainly here to help, and give you some experienced and knowledgeable suggestions,... BUT you've got to narrow down the parameters a bit, to get real and useable feedback to your questions.

so I guess the best way to start and try to answer your questions is to ask a few myself.
 You say this will be your FIRST airgun. No problem there.

 So the first question is, What is your intended purpose with the first airgun ?
 Is it backyard plinking ? or is it hunting pigs ?
 These are not one in the same type of gun. They are vastly different, and they come and opposite ends of the price tags.

which brings us to the second set of questions.

What is your REALISTIC Budget you are ready to or willing to spend ?
Iin the world of airguns, it all comes down to WHAT you are shooting at, How far, and the amount of cash you can ACTUALLY Spend.

A .22 does NOT make for a good pig gun, no matter what anyone else tells you,...
 and a big bore PCP will NOT be Backyard Friendly.

if you can narrow down your parameters, to what you will be using this first gun for,... then we can better help and suggest brands and models for that purpose.

Hope this helps
Cheers
I was reading this thread and forming my reply then I read Ron's reply and figured I didn't need to.. he said it all.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Txhunter89 on May 26, 2017, 08:03:22 PM
Matt,
Your enthusiasm is great, and airgunning is a fantastic sport to get into.
 But what I'm seeing in this thread so far is all over the map.

 Of all the guns you've mentioned (and others have suggested), you've basically touched on every thing from a $169 pumper, to a $250 break barrel, (that requires a considerable amount of "massaging"/tuning, I.E. Knowledge, and more money and effort to shoot well),...
 and then on to a higher end $700+ PCP (which is going to need a scope and fill rig) , (easily add another $600 to $1000 to that).
Not withstanding, also the expensive big bore PCP's you also mention.

next we go from Backyard Friendly to Hog hunting.

We are certainly here to help, and give you some experienced and knowledgeable suggestions,... BUT you've got to narrow down the parameters a bit, to get real and useable feedback to your questions.

so I guess the best way to start and try to answer your questions is to ask a few myself.
 You say this will be your FIRST airgun. No problem there.

 So the first question is, What is your intended purpose with the first airgun ?
 Is it backyard plinking ? or is it hunting pigs ?
 These are not one in the same type of gun. They are vastly different, and they come and opposite ends of the price tags.

which brings us to the second set of questions.

What is your REALISTIC Budget you are ready to or willing to spend ?
Iin the world of airguns, it all comes down to WHAT you are shooting at, How far, and the amount of cash you can ACTUALLY Spend.

A .22 does NOT make for a good pig gun, no matter what anyone else tells you,...
 and a big bore PCP will NOT be Backyard Friendly.

if you can narrow down your parameters, to what you will be using this first gun for,... then we can better help and suggest brands and models for that purpose.

Hope this helps
Cheers
I was reading this thread and forming my reply then I read Ron's reply and figured I didn't need to.. he said it all.

I agree it was helpful information. I'll post more when I'm able to purchase a rifle, and which I have in mind. Thanks y'all
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: avator on May 27, 2017, 09:28:25 AM
If you are like the rest of us you won't be buying just one.
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: A.K.A. Tommy Boy on May 27, 2017, 09:45:05 AM
Well Gee ..Bill.   I only Bought Just One !   ::) ::) ::) ::)
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: avator on May 27, 2017, 10:02:42 AM
Well you're a lucky man if someone gave you the rest of those Tom.
Just a thought for the OP....
You might as well go ahead and start looking for your classic Sheridan now...
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: A.K.A. Tommy Boy on May 27, 2017, 10:52:38 AM
Well you're a lucky man if someone gave you the rest of those Tom.
Just a thought for the OP....
You might as well go ahead and start looking for your classic Sheridan now...
Bill:   You may be Right About the Sheridan !    ;)

OK...Let's see now...  ;D
 The B-3 was given to me by a friend, that I helped move, so that doesn't count.    ::) ::) ::)
 The Daisy Red Ryner, Crosman 2100 and Umerex NXG APX all can shoot BB's so they are kid guns and don't count.   ::) ::) ::)
 The 25 cal Hatsans are out in the shop.  Just tools out there so, they don't count.    ::) ::) ::)
 The Benjamin Trail 1100 I got on a Trade for a spotting scope, so that doesn't count.    ::) ::) ::)
 The Benjamin Genesis & the Crosman Vantage are on loan to relatives, so they don't count.    ::) ::) ::)
  SO...
 The Hatsan Stryker must be the only Gun that I bought..Right ?   :D :D :D
 
  See Bill :       I Knew that I Had This Air Gun Thing All Under Control !!!   :)
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: Airguns- VA on May 29, 2017, 08:52:02 PM
I would recommend the Benjamin Marauder .177, .22,.25 any of these are good shooters for the money, but yes they are heavy. They are good PCP entry level airguns. There are a lot of good springers out there also, but one need too spend more time learning the Artillery hold to shoot them effectively. I have a Walther LGV .22 and its a break barrel it's pretty accurate and pretty quiet .
I myself am new to the airgun world, I mainly shoot the Big bores like .357, .457 hunting larger game is my my reason.
Reid
Title: Re: Needing some ideas
Post by: lizzie on May 31, 2017, 08:46:26 AM
Also I'm seeking out any air gun shops in the DFW area any advice?

I dont know of any,  and I have lived in the area for decades.
your best bet for anything nice is going to be ordering online, but Cabelas has a few to choose from.
I would check the classifieds here and Craigslist too.