The options in shooting platforms are endless! There are most likely many people who ask questions like, “Why do you prefer that platform over another?” Today we’re going to answer the question, “Why a pre-charged pneumatic air rifle?” If you’re one who prefers pcps then you can answer this question before I do. Maybe others aren’t aware of the advantages to this platform and that is why we’re here to expand on the subject.
Reasons Why A PCP
- Consistency
- Higher Power
- Accuracy
- Adjustability
- Multi-shot capability
- Reduced Recoil
- Not temperature dependant
Let’s take a few minutes to expand on these points. You will experience consistency in many facets! A couple examples are velocity and points of impact more than that of a break barrel or Co2 rifle. This will prove to be more so if your airgun is regulated.
Consistency In Many Facets
A higher power output can be accomplished, as PCP’s are powered by a high pressure air cylinder rather than a spring, gas ram, or Co2. Some are adjustable to achieve maximum power for hunting or low power for a higher shot count. Because of the adjustability and consistency, they are also less likely to be pellet picky.
The ability to shoot the AEA CenterPunch 21.9 grain pellets down to the last pellet and switch to the JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 18.13 grain pellets with one platform is a great advantage! Sometimes, even airgunners run out of their favorite pellets.
Less Jolting Exit
The shooter can achieve better accuracy consistently, and at farther distances. One reason is because a pcp doesn’t produce the backwards recoil a break barrel does and it gives a smoother, less jolting, exit for the ammunition when projected from the barrel. The less movement once the trigger is pulled the more accurate your shot will be.
Everyone, whether you’re an airgunner, a race car driver, soccer player, everyone likes to customize or make personal adjustments to their equipment or gear. With a pre-charged pneumatic making them your own in looks and feel are much more possible than other airguns.
This One Is Mine
The Air Venturi Avenge-X is a great platform to use as an example. This one has multiple adjustments as well as accessories. It can go from a classic rifle to a tactical black airgun and then to a bullpup. There are power adjustments and the ability to tune it for a particular type of ammunition. It includes accessory rails to mount accessories suitable for the shooters’ purpose. The possibilities are endless!
There are some multi-shot break barrels like the Gamo Swarm Viper, that you can achieve a follow-up shot much quicker than a single shot break barrel with, but not as quick as with most PCPs. With the side lever cocking handle on a pcp, the only part of the shooter’s body that needs to move is the cocking hand.
Ah That’s Nice
Another pro to most pcp’s, (that is until you get into the larger calibers like the .501 caliber Umarex Hammer Carbiine), the recoil is much less than that of a break barrel and of course a traditional firearm. This feature makes for many shooters a much more pleasant experience.
The very last pro we’ll hit on is in comparison to the Barra 1866 Co2 Pellet Rifle. Co2 is temperature dependent and performs its best when utilized in temperatures between 70-80 degrees fahrenheit. A PCP is not temperature dependent, as long as the shooter can stand it the pcp can too!
There are many reasons why a pcp is a better option for many people. When seeking to purchase one be sure to consult an expert and do your research so you get the one that best suits your needs.
