Nice Jim, I love my 30 cal. With the Fx Maverick, you have the power wheel so you can use different settings for small game and medium game. slugs or pellets on the fly. I wish all air guns came with a power wheel. I can go in a barn shooting low power for varmints and go outside crank it up and drop a pig. It's awesome. You should do more technical videos like this.
Thanks, appreciate your continued support. I agree with you. For years I've been writing that adjustable power is the equivalent to handloading for centerfires.
I found very helpful. I’m just exploring the air gun universe since childhood and I don’t want to spend $200 or more several times before resting on a caliber and platform that with some homework, I can make a reasonable choice for my needs. This info was worthwhile. Thanks
Thanks so much for your sage wisdom. I've been focussed on .25 cal with my FX Crown over the last few years and find it's met my needs. However, more recently I've purchased a FX Impact in .25 cal, but after your video I've invested a .30 cal change kit for it. I'm hoping for similar results across pellets and slugs with .30 as the .25, especially with the Impact's larger plenum, high flow transfer ports, slug pin probes and heavier hammers that are now available. Anyway, thanks for the inspiration Jim. Best regards, Chris
Great video for your choice of small game caliber. I like to go with a 22. Today's modern PCPs can swing a very heavy 30-40 gr projectile at 900-1000 fps. I get a larger selection of ammo types in 22, and of course cost of ammo (pellets or slugs). I just get more bang for the buck in 22
I think if you go with a very heavy .22 pellet you do get better long-range performance and depending on the range, better penetration. And the price difference is true. But I still feel that the knockdown power of the .25 is better, especially on larger animals. However, your point is valid even if for my hunting applications, a .25 holds the edge.
Thanks for a very informative video! While I would love to have a 25 or even a 30, for my conditions I think my .22s are a superior choice, and a .177 might be even better. And that condition is: back yard pest control. Even with a fairly big yard of 3/4 acre, I still have to be very careful regarding my neighbors, and jump thru various hoops to insure their safety. Like shooting down towards the ground rather than up into the trees, along with a back stop. I could still take these precautions with a 25 or 30, but it is just that much more power to be stopped. I would be more nervous about shooting a neighbor or damaging their property than I already am. And my 22 PCP has proven to be plenty for taking out about 20 of the rascals so far, no more have been seen for a while. So it might be all I need.
25cal is the perfect balance the perverbal sweet spot. Best balance between power, cost, wind and retain more power down range punch. With game up to 35lbs for most shooters. Cost is about 20% more than 22 and less choices in pellets and slugs more so. I do some times fear a through and through and hitting something I don't own. And ammo is not avaliable everywhere. In all other categories the 25cal shine out over all others. He was spot on in this video. HATSAN has 25cal around $100 in a springer vortex piston (600fps) and springer 30cal for under $200. Not worth spending any more for springer as pcp can be had for that price. But don't count out the break barrel ease of use with the least amount of exssive equipment required to operate the gun (tanks,pumps,cartridges,) the airadvenge has a on-board pump so on less thing to have to purchase or carry for PCP. So if backpacking very doable. Next it would be a 25cal vortex piston break barrel. Real simple when traveling (pellets, gun, service/cleaning kit. ).
I ditched the .177 because my scoped .22 Stoeger S-4000-E works so well. I later bought a Hatsan Model 95,Vortex .25 air rifle. In my opinion, it doesn’t outperform the Stoeger .22,, far from it, but I keep the .25 around with iron sights just for blasting armadillos.
I'm a .25 man myself. I just like the extra surface area and larger avg pellet/slug mass. I enjoy my springer .22s for springer hunting, but the .25 out of a PCP is kind of my go to out past 35-40yds. A lot more forgiving and I think ethical hunting reuqires you to give yourself room for error with shots since you can't always bank on hitting hole-on-holke in the field, which the .25 is very forgiving for.
@@simonsays5979 Ya it is a lot easier and cheaper to buy .22 pellets, walmart, basspro etc will have them, never see .25 cal pellets at places like that
@@bexxISM depends on the gun/barrel but pellets I would say .25 jsb Diablo Hades, accurate and great for hunting. Great all purpose rifle Hatsan Airtact .25 as a break barrel, PCP either the Edgun Leshiy or an FX but those are $$$$
I have the Hatsan Bullboss and Bully, both in .25 cal. So far, I am extremely happy with both. Bullboss with JSB Hades for up to 50 yds. Bully with JSB Exact King Heavies MK2 or NSA slugs for over 50 yds.
I’m a physics guy myself. The best reason for that hollow end of the slug is probably for 2 reasons. 1. It may create a better seal as it’s fired. Kind of like the minet ball. And to put more of the weight on the front end of the bullet, so that it will always fly front first. Same as a badminton shuttle.
Well put jim iam in the uk were most not all air gunners use sub 12ft pound, hunting is different than in the states, because of reduced power we realy on greater feild craft, most my shooting involves bringing the game to were i want them ie at close range, takes great skill to get a woodpigeon to land in static decoys and stay still long enough to take the shot, i dont use 177 it still overpenitrates even at sub 12 foot pound, i have shot hundreds of rabbits useing 22 sub 12 foot, i dont use shot guns or rimfires any more buy choice iam 60 years old and been hunting since i was 7, grandad let me use is four ten spread shot, he taught me almost everything, thanks for your great videos and god bless, Stuart from sunny Lancashire,
Been wanting a Daystate revere for a long while and was thinking along your lines. I think I'll go on up to .25 just in case I run into a little bigger game. The only drawback(if you call it that) is I'd have to order pellets instead of buying them anywhere.
It's worth it though , I have a cpl 22s great guns for squirrels, birds , chipmunk, but if you're going up to something bigger like a woodchuck the 25 is the way to go especially if you got 60 ,70, ft lb to go with it
Good vid. I don't agree with everything you said; but most. All of my PCP's are .25 and they are perfect for "me" and what I do. I have an M3 so I was thinking of going to get a .30 barrel kit. After shooting it, there is no need. A dead squirrel is a dead squirrel. For the most part accuracy is more important than cal size to me. Again, good vid man.
I'm generally using 44gr slugs in my FX Maverick .25. The greater energy at higher fps is hugely forgiving and very ethical. This is effective at 50 yards and beyond.
Those plastic tip pellets costs more but are effective on game. They penetrate about a half an inch then they start to turn and go backward. That tumbling effect makes a larger permanent would channel that makes them effective killers.
Here in my country .25 pellets are scarce. We use 177 and 22. For small game. We don't hunt coyotes they are restricted. I guess ranchers deal with them with firearms when Authorities are not looking. Today I tried to help a friend controlling the central American aoguti (cotuza) in his property with a .22 (polymags) with no luck. they are eating the coconut trees sprouts that he planted and leaving holes every were. Great day in the field though, I have a new apreciación of the content that you share, hours waiting to hear and see the game.
Love it. Nothing like a good caliber debate when the weather sucks outside. We simply don't have as much fun in that regard as powder burners. For my $.02 , I will go with the 22 cal in the modern PCP. Nothing it can't kill quite dead in the small game realm and with the advent of slugs, you can reach out plenty far those prairie dogs if you are fortunate enough to live where they dwell. What is small game? Fox and down would be my definition. What say ye?
Hi Mark, it is true that slugs give the .22 a bit more reach, penetration, and knock down power and closes the margin with the .30. But then you can use the slugs in the .30 and it opens right back up. I have used the .22, .25, and .30 slugs on long range prairie dogs, but still think the larger the caliber the more firmly it anchors them, but the difference is a matter of degrees and not an order of magnitude. I'd agree with your definition of small game, but under the right conditions and picking my shots carefully, I'll also shoot coyote, bobcat, and small hogs with my .25 or .30 gun. Again, the larger calibers work better for me in this scenario. I do think that if the discipline is lacking to walk away in suboptimal shooting situations, the latter quarry should be given a pass altogether.
And to think I have a sheridan air rifle.. I pump like crazy a bit and walla, were in business.. I didn't even know they made these fancy things.. lol.. It's called a model A made along time ago..Has alot of power and is accurate enough.. Happy shooting..
Amen! The .25 brings airgun hunting to the right level. It stands in place of 22lr for small game. It will knock them stiff! A woodchuck, or rockchuck if you will, is a pretty strong small game animal comparatively. A poorly placed 22 lr won’t do well. The 25 will take them down with one properly placed shot beyond 50 yards.
.22 is the king for small game. Its more economical than .20 .25 .30. In a pinch you can go into walmart and buy 500 .22 cphp for $7 and be in business. Supply chain issues will fubar availability of. 25 and .20 and .30 sooner or later. Cphp is awesome for vermin and hunting small game. And there is no reason not to have 20 tins of this washed and lubed laying around. Good to see your still around Echochap...
Just finished an article in Air Gunner magazine where I mentioned the effect of barrel length. On a couple of my big bore rifles, I cut the barrel down in steps and chrony'd along the way. I also did a step-by-step cut down on a springer a few years back, the effect on accuracy and power was the polar opposite. It would be interesting to do a formal test and could be an interesting video. Thanks for the view and comment!
Yes. .25 is one of my favorites. I have no experience with the 30. With the 30 you can't get nearly as many pellets for the same cost as .25. I'm looking though. Jim Be Well.
No, if you compare on price the .30 will lose to the .25 which will lose to the 22, which will lose to the .177. And while I prefer the .30 in certain applications, I still think if I was going to only have one caliber it would be .25.
Thank you for the presentation. I'm new to the air gunning program. With rifles getting so expensive I'm looking at other methods of hunting. My state is starting to relax the laws for air gunning just a bit. So, if this works for hunting in the future of my state then I'm in. It's a lot cheaper than the ammo we are buying now. I'm in Pennsylvania. If anyone has updates to our regulations on hunting with air rifles I'd like to hear them
As the .30cals. become more previlent in the marketplace, the more I have to say I prefer it for all the small, to medium game I am able to take with it, and the energy levels are continuing to get better and better as well ! Would I say the same thing if we were talking about a powder burner, of course not ! But as far as airgun application is concerned, I'm totally convinced that the .30cal. is the most effective pellet for the quickest possible dispatch of my prey, that includes anything from a squirrel, or rabbit, up to a pig, or coyote ! Straight up, the most effective pellet caliber for the job ! Had it been a few years ago, when .30cal. availability wasn't quite as previlent, then I'd have said the .25cal. But in my opinion, the bigger, and the harder hitting the better !
.25 for me. And my hatsan 125 chucks the .25 pellets out to 60-70yards very well, and I can accurately shoot 34.9gr slugs out to 25 yards. My origin pcp on the other hand is good out to 100yards easy.
Hi Roy, the PCP is easier to shoot accurately at a distance. I just received an Origin and looking forward to working my way through it! Appreciate your view and comment!
You mentioned that you get asked, "Isn't that too much gun for x?" The one caveat I'd mention regarding caliber is pass-through. My favorite YT videos are the pesting ones. Too many times I see a round go right through (usually not straight) and hit a wall, or a tin roof, or go skipping across asphalt or water on its way to who knows where! Rule #4: Be sure of your target and what's behind it. I only hope they have insurance!
I wouldn’t be using a .25 in an area where collateral damage is possible. I think a .22 with power dialed to 12 to 14 fpe is best tool for dairy farms for instance. It was people using too powerful guns and not taking care of backdrop that got all the dairy farms we used to pest at shut down.
Very Informstive video. I bought the .25 but eishnimhad bought the .30 instead. My seneca eagle claw has a pr e tty impressive 70 fpe but even that doesn't seem enough to drop even Grey squirrels sometimes despite using barracuda hunter extreme hollowpoints if the shot isn't perfect. You would think the massive fpe and energy dump of the hollowpoint would,even if shot isnt perfect, but I've had a number drop, then get up,and run for cover. Red squirrels no problem, but the grays seem a lot tougher. Don't wanna get too graphic, but I domed one, (won't describe the damage) and it got up and ran up a tree. I think we have iron man squirrels around d us.
35" barreled .32, a ball weighs 53gr which throttled back with a 800 psi regulator still yields over 100 ft.lbs.... and you can sling 250gr+ bullets with 4500 psi for over 544 ft/lbs (it's a timed valve) lol Second would be a 30" (.22 barrels over 30" get surprisingly expensive lol) .22 barrel on the same gun, which with a 17gr ball and 800psi yields 38 ft/lbs, or you can sling 55gr with 4500 psi for 200 ft.lbs. Otherwise, a .177 Crossman "Airmaster 77", which I've used since I was 7 to take up to Groundhog with 10.5gr dome pellets (it's my go-to for up near the house, since it's not as likely to go through a bunch of stuff). Pellets for calibers over .177 get expensive quick, and I don't see the point. For pigeons and rabbits, I use 8.5 gr balls I cast myself. I think it's like 14 and 11 ft/lbs. I might make a new air gun with a shorter valve time in .22, and retire my Crossman from hunting duty around the house (.223 balls are easier to deal with than .180) Air guns are not toys, don't do things with them you wouldn't do with a firearm of similar power.
Excellent video, Jim! I would appreciate more like it. The only thing I'd add is the smaller calibers are quieter. My brother's .22 Impact, sending 15.89 Hades at 1000 fps is mouse fart quiet compared to mine sending 44.75 Hades at 700 fps
That's interesting, and to be honest I've never really thought about it, but it makes sense. All thing being equal with the guns, the larger caliber is expelling a larger volume of air. I'll have to check this out. Thanks for the comment!
That’s also my experience hunting small game, which I’ve done with all five calibers (.177, .20, .22, .25, and .30). .25 and .30 were instant kills every time, although I found the .30 did feel like an overkill to me so the .25 is my caliber of choice.
Between the .25 and .30 it usually comes down to the gun more than the caliber for me, except when I'm specifically going to shoot predators or pigs, then I like the .30 (slightly) better.
@@tlotlosenai7304 I have one as well and it shoots moa at 30yrs and for a little over $120 not bad bang for the buck and a decent backyard shooter. I live near a creek and have night visits to the hen house. So mine is fitted with night vision just for greeting those unwanted guests. I also have the hatsan pcp in lever action(vitus) and pump(AT44PA10 Pump LONG QES). The later I am still seasoning the barrel planning on modifying this gun for slugs and adding a regulator and tank/jug. I will be making a stock to balance the additional mods
@@tlotlosenai7304 just so you know most biathlon air rifles shoot under 680fps most around 560fps. And you want It below 1100fps(subsonic) the plus side not effected as much by wind and even out to 100yrds still punch hard(anything above 10fp at impact). Dumps energy quickly apon impact. I am trying to get a friend to 3d print slugs that accepts a .177 bb in the tip(slugs need above 800fps to stabilize). I have found mine likes the JSB the best. Any reading this that has not held a Hatsan product will be very surprised by the build quality vs the price point. You always feel like you ripped them off for $100. I have owned over 15 Hatsan products and loose them to my friends after they shoot them. They pay me more than I paid for them to order a new one to replace the one they just took home. So they get it tuned with the pellets it like to shoot and the gun seasoned/lubed/polished and moderator updated with accessories installed tuned. Then I order a new one and start the process all over. And it always starts like this. "So how much you got into this gun?" , "you want to sell it?", "how much you sell it to me for?" Now I usually have about $150 in extras plus about 15 to 20 hours of my time. On the first one. After that about 2hrs to tune/polish/update. And with pcp even more variables to tune. I have to clean up the plastic stocks( wood stock only the bed and some times having to modify for barrel harmonics[rubber bands on barrel]. ) and polish the trigger assembly. Sometimes I have to crown the exit of the barrel.
.22 is great I have a couple of them , but once I went to 25 for small game hunting I would never buy another 22, about the only reason I don't get a 30 cal is just the price of the pellets is a lot higher and sometimes availability is tough
@@allenbournes4697 both are NOE. I use the 27 grain hunter and the 22 grain wadcutter. I have a Diana Bandit that's converted to .25 that loves the wadcutters and my Hatsan Flashpup shoots the 27 grain hunters well.
Great video!! Appreciate your explanation on calibers, do you have a link so I can read more of your articles you’ve written over the years? Only seen them flash on the screen? No link ? Keep the videos coming and I always give them a thumbs up 👍🏻
Hi Robert, my page at Outdoor Life is www.outdoorlife.com/authors/jim-chapman/ At Predator Xtreme it's : www.grandviewoutdoors.com/tag/jim-chapman My UK home is: www.magzter.com/GB/Seymour-Distribution-Ltd/Air-Gunner/Men%27s-Interest/ But that is only accessable with subscription My website is: www.americanairgunhunter.com/ Thanks for the comment, it's appreciated!
HI Jim I am from over the pond and shoot 177 to great affect ,but have 22 in fac. I have just got a variation for the 25, for my maverick. I have shot all three ay sub twelve and all do the job but there is no such thing as to much gun,. Especially with an airgun and completely agree with you would of tried 30 but ammo choice is a bit limited and you also get a better shoots per fill with 25 but great article, forward to your next article in the Airgunner over here atb.
Thanks, I appreciate that. Your shooting kit makes a lot of sense to me. In a legal limit gun, the .177 is a solid choice. bet your going to like the maverick in .25, an excellent hunting set up. between .25 and .30, unless there is a need to take something quite a bit larger than the average small game quarry, not a lot of sense going to .30. Glad to hear from a reader of Air Gunner! I lived in the Netherlands for many years and picking up my Air Gunner or Airgun World at the news agent was a monthly high point! And writing for them and getting to know Terry Doe and Dave Barham over the last several years has been another great experience!
I've used the FX Hybrid and NSA slugs in a number of calibers. You need to find the one that works best in your gun, and when you do it will give you better long-range accuracy and better terminal performance. Could be a good option for out in the wide-open spaces. One caveat, I have not tried them with the Blitz and not sure how they cycle. I will look into this and post a follow up when I have more info.
Thank you for the video.I would like to see you do a video on the AEA terminator 357 and your thoughts on the new AEA 45 cal automatic.I have bin watching your videos for a long time and they are always enjoyable.
I have the terminator in 357 works flawless but one down fall is it only shoot pellets not slugs it will jam wish I could sell the gun I only shot two mags it's like new the gun is realy heavy the texan is a better choice I don't need automatic or ten shot mag
@americanairgunhunter --- I'm wondering how the .20 performs. I am aware that this caliber is apparently hardly offered and used. On the other hand, the caliber is one that still makes sense even in countries with significant restrictions. In addition, .20 (5mm metric) seems to me to be a size for which even very good experimental projectiles should be able to be produced reasonably well. Unfortunately, there is hardly any publication or documentation available for this caliber used in AirGuns. Could you please do a video about your .20 cal AirGuns and their performance?
I think that in 12 fpe type guns, especially springers, the .20 makes a lot of sense. The caliber is flatter shooting than a .22 and has better terminal performance than a .177. One of my main hunting buddies down in Texas (Chacho G.) swears by this and has been collecting .20 springers for a long time. We often hunt these springers, and they do a great job on small game and varmints. In the past ammo availability could be a problem, but now with everything offered online, not so much, you just need to plan ahead.
I like my gladius 25.. I like it for the longer shooting out to 50yrds.. But for squirrel,i really adopted the British way.. Found a great accurate gamo swarm .22 (the Walmart one.. But)... Set up a feeder sit.. Lol.. Turns out better for an aging body
The places I hunt the feeders don't make so much sense, but I've seen some of the action, like what #Corvid Hunter does, and it looks like a very effective method.
The only time it's to much gun with air rifles is when for instance. You are hunting or pesting in a barn or structure and you have to worry about pass threw. So you do not damage the structure or unintended animals.
That's my preferable caliber even to me... I love 25 and 30... 177 and 22 I take it that they are good for pegions, birds.. rabbits... But when comes to jackal, caracals and steenboks , 25 and 30 cals are great
@@americanairgunhunter I take it like have seen the video if not mistaken it another one else... Yeah 25 cal and 30 are great for powerful PCP.. they aren't good with spilringers ..
i mostly have hunted with 177 and i like to shoot dove off of a powerline in a field so maybe about 50 to 30 yards and i want a caliber that can take dove at 50 to 25 and what is more accurate my other problem is i do shoot dove at like 30 yards and i hate to see an animal suffer so i want a quick clean kill what will do it for me? i use a bullpup pcp and it holds 3000 psi
Hi Jim thanks for the great video. I just want to know if a .177 fac rated airarms s410 will take black backed jackals at 70 to 90 meters? I struggle to get info on that and will appreciate your view on this!
Hello Emiliano, you have a good eye! It's the .22 factor and I am enjoying this gun. I'll do a video on it within the next few weeks. I want to do extensive range work with this one and it's just too cold for outdoor shooting up here in the frozen North.
@@americanairgunhunter are you ging too perfrme any mds to it? im expecting my .25 factor rc this monday, but i didnt reaize it was so underpowered, 33fpe at 870 fps, im assuming with a .25 grain jsb.
I like 22 cal it's all the power I need I use air guns because ammo cost I don't like shooting past 50 yards I would prefer to have over power than not have enough the hades pellet is just awesome there are others that are just as good
Hi Zane, you hit on a good point which is that it's important for each person to consider their own needs and select the gear that's right for it. It sounds like you've done that, and I agree about the Hades, one of the best hunting pellets ever!
1st off good commentary. I like the 25 cals also. Now here's where I have a conflict. . I actually buy my guns in 22 and 25 cal. The problem that arises is in 22 cal you can get pretty much any pellet/slug. In 25 cal and 30 cal you are limited. For instance H&N terminators don't come in 25 or 30 cal which is a good go to pellet for me. No H&N terms, hunters/hunter extremes or crow mags in 30 cal. Actually H&N doesn't even make 30 cals pellets any more. (maybe you and some of the other leading commentators could influence the H&N company). I think that's one reason 30 cals haven't became that popular, Not enough pellet/slug choice. Also depending on the gun in 25 cal, you can basically take down the same game as a 30 cal. A 30 cal does have more knock down power, but I have taken deer in 25 cal out to 55 yrds. I only own one 30 cal and it's the hercules bully, but I would probably buy a couple more 30 cals or buy converter kits for my crown and impact but right now just don't see the need since I rarely shoot my bully because I'm basically a (HP) man and they just don't have enough variety in 30 cal. Might just for the hell of it buy the converter kit for my Impact and switch it out to a 30 cal, but just wished they had more variety. Then again the fx hybyrds, poly mags, and hades should be sufficient, but a H&N term, hunter/hunter extreme and crow mag would really make me convert over to the 30 calibers.
Hi Anthony, you make a valid point about availability of .30 caliber pellets, and it is always a case of chicken and egg as a newer caliber gains popularity. Until there is a demand fewer gun manufacturers produce guns in the new caliber, and until there are more guns and people shooting them, there is less initiative for pellet manufacturers to expand their product portfolio. However, with time if enough shooters stick with a caliber the ammo will follow. I will say that while I have most of the .30 pellets available, I could be happy using the JSB 50.15 Exacts for most game. I like and agree with the sentiment of your last statement, along with FX hybrids, Polymags, and Hades I have a great selection.
I believe H&N still manufacturers .30 cal pellets, but rebrands them as "vortex" pellets. They are carried by MidwayUSA, Hatsan and many other online vendors.
@@randycupp5925 Thxs for the info. I have some vortex in 25 and 30 cal. They shoot pretty well. I just wish they would make more (HPs) varieties in 30 cal because that's is the pellets/slugs I use when I go hunting. Maybe I'm selfish (lol) but when I have a good shooting pellet I would think that they would expand it to other calibers also. JSB did. They started with the 22 cal hades, then the 177, then the 25 and now the 30 cal. So did the predator line of pellets with the poly mags All seem to shoot well out of my guns. Just hoping H&N will follow JSB/Predator blue print and market the terminators in 25 and 30 cal.
Hi I am new to airguns and well hunting in general, however I bought the .25 cal benjamin armada and I need to know which pellets/slugs I should use to kill coyotes and pigs? Any feedback you could give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Hey jim... I value your words and opinions... to me your the true guru... in the avenger.. 25 cal.. which I'm interested in... they have the polymer version... the wood version ... and the bullpup version... I'm kinda leaning towards the wood version... I hear the plastic versions can be a lil flimsy and your point of impact can shift on you.. is this a myth? Have you had any trouble with the synthetic versions? Thank you in advance
Thanks Jason, I appreciate that. Between the bullpup and rifle, I think it just depends on what appeals to you, they are both fine shooters and hunting guns. I've struggled with this question because I like shooting them both, with maybe a slight lean toward the rifle. I have described the synthetic rifle stock as plasticky, though I haven't noted a flimsiness that negatively impacts performance. I will say this is my least favorite aspect of the Avenger rifle, which is mitigated by going to the wood stock. On the other hand, the stock is about 8 oz lighter and over $100. less, so it all depends how those factors weigh in on your decision making. For me, it would be the rifle wearing a wood stock..... but no matter which version, absolutely the .25. Let's hear what you decide on and how it works for you.
My 25 caliber Zada (UA-cam censor demons won`t allow mention of brand) breakbarrel hits hard and accurate but the 22 cal Airtact has better penetration and a bit less dependable accuracy. Both are great for rabbits and I`ve stopped four armadillo pests uprooting my garden food and fruit trees. Mulch draws these monsters like crazy and they ruin it. So now I use driveway alarms to alert me. I can`t afford a PCP.
I was just wondering, do people eat squirrels? We eat the rabbits, hogs, and deer. Never shot a squirrel because I just can't see eating one. Are they just pests that people put down like groundhogs and prairie dogs and coyotes?
In the USA most people eat them, though they are also taken as pest. As a matter of fact, in many states it is illegal to no use game that you've harvested, it's called wanton waste of game. I think squirrel is better than rabbit.
AMAZING. A channel where the speaker is not accompanied by "music" (really what we used to call "Muzak" or "elevator music"). This fellow has music at the very beginning of the show then stops it when he starts really talking about the subject. Bravo! I can't tell you how many channels I've THUMBED DOWN and not SUBSCRIBED to b/c of that bloody, stupid "music". And now back to you show.
I am new to PCP airguns and am buying one good one. I am thinking an FX MK3 would you recommend that, and if so would you go for the 25 or the 30? For mostly small game hunting and target shooting. Thank you for your advice.
@@jaybubb5500 Ithi k the FX MK3 is a great choice, and either caliber is a solid choice. If you skew more towards target I’d go.25, if you will go after predators as well as small game the .30, and if its pretty balanced between small game and target it doesn’t matter as much but I’d probably stick with .25.I think both will also work well if you’ll be shooting longer range, but I still like the .25 as the more flexible option. Good luck and enjoy your gun!
I don’t really know anything about air rifles I’m just starting to look at them I will go into the woods for days I worry about the gun running out of air any suggestions
I personally use my .177 for birds and squirrels. Any small game bigger than this i use my .25 cals .I have no need for a .22 ....saves me money and ammo.
Hi Mike, check out some of the other videos on my channel, been hunting in the States and South Africa for many years with .457 and .50. Also have some recent videos with the Zeus .72 cal.
Very informative, great vidz! I'm new to pcp airguns, what do you recommend for small game hunting dove, squerls and Jack rabbits etc... in .25? I'm looking for a good quiet hunting rifle shooting within 100 yrds.. any help appreciated!
Nice Jim, I love my 30 cal. With the Fx Maverick, you have the power wheel so you can use different settings for small game and medium game. slugs or pellets on the fly. I wish all air guns came with a power wheel. I can go in a barn shooting low power for varmints and go outside crank it up and drop a pig. It's awesome. You should do more technical videos like this.
Thanks, appreciate your continued support. I agree with you. For years I've been writing that adjustable power is the equivalent to handloading for centerfires.
I found very helpful. I’m just exploring the air gun universe since childhood and I don’t want to spend $200 or more several times before resting on a caliber and platform that with some homework, I can make a reasonable choice for my needs. This info was worthwhile. Thanks
For a first gun that I kind of recommend to everybody look at the aventuri Avenger it's a lot of gun for the price
Thanks so much for your sage wisdom. I've been focussed on .25 cal with my FX Crown over the last few years and find it's met my needs. However, more recently I've purchased a FX Impact in .25 cal, but after your video I've invested a .30 cal change kit for it. I'm hoping for similar results across pellets and slugs with .30 as the .25, especially with the Impact's larger plenum, high flow transfer ports, slug pin probes and heavier hammers that are now available. Anyway, thanks for the inspiration Jim. Best regards, Chris
Great video for your choice of small game caliber. I like to go with a 22. Today's modern PCPs can swing a very heavy 30-40 gr projectile at 900-1000 fps. I get a larger selection of ammo types in 22, and of course cost of ammo (pellets or slugs). I just get more bang for the buck in 22
I think if you go with a very heavy .22 pellet you do get better long-range performance and depending on the range, better penetration. And the price difference is true. But I still feel that the knockdown power of the .25 is better, especially on larger animals. However, your point is valid even if for my hunting applications, a .25 holds the edge.
I agree..being able to find the right pellet for your gun is a lot easier and cheaper with a .177 and .22
Thanks for a very informative video! While I would love to have a 25 or even a 30, for my conditions I think my .22s are a superior choice, and a .177 might be even better. And that condition is: back yard pest control. Even with a fairly big yard of 3/4 acre, I still have to be very careful regarding my neighbors, and jump thru various hoops to insure their safety. Like shooting down towards the ground rather than up into the trees, along with a back stop. I could still take these precautions with a 25 or 30, but it is just that much more power to be stopped. I would be more nervous about shooting a neighbor or damaging their property than I already am. And my 22 PCP has proven to be plenty for taking out about 20 of the rascals so far, no more have been seen for a while. So it might be all I need.
25cal is the perfect balance the perverbal sweet spot. Best balance between power, cost, wind and retain more power down range punch. With game up to 35lbs for most shooters. Cost is about 20% more than 22 and less choices in pellets and slugs more so. I do some times fear a through and through and hitting something I don't own. And ammo is not avaliable everywhere. In all other categories the 25cal shine out over all others. He was spot on in this video. HATSAN has 25cal around $100 in a springer vortex piston (600fps) and springer 30cal for under $200. Not worth spending any more for springer as pcp can be had for that price. But don't count out the break barrel ease of use with the least amount of exssive equipment required to operate the gun (tanks,pumps,cartridges,) the airadvenge has a on-board pump so on less thing to have to purchase or carry for PCP. So if backpacking very doable. Next it would be a 25cal vortex piston break barrel. Real simple when traveling (pellets, gun, service/cleaning kit. ).
I ditched the .177 because my scoped .22 Stoeger S-4000-E works so well. I later bought a Hatsan Model 95,Vortex .25 air rifle. In my opinion, it doesn’t outperform the Stoeger .22,, far from it, but I keep the .25 around with iron sights just for blasting armadillos.
I'm a .25 man myself. I just like the extra surface area and larger avg pellet/slug mass. I enjoy my springer .22s for springer hunting, but the .25 out of a PCP is kind of my go to out past 35-40yds. A lot more forgiving and I think ethical hunting reuqires you to give yourself room for error with shots since you can't always bank on hitting hole-on-holke in the field, which the .25 is very forgiving for.
I think you're spot on!
I like the 22 because all of my guns shoot the Crosman premier 14.3 hollow point pretty accurately and consistently and I don't have to order them
@@simonsays5979 Ya it is a lot easier and cheaper to buy .22 pellets, walmart, basspro etc will have them, never see .25 cal pellets at places like that
Best all purpose 25 pellet and durable gun?
@@bexxISM depends on the gun/barrel but pellets I would say .25 jsb Diablo Hades, accurate and great for hunting. Great all purpose rifle Hatsan Airtact .25 as a break barrel, PCP either the Edgun Leshiy or an FX but those are $$$$
I have the Hatsan Bullboss and Bully, both in .25 cal. So far, I am extremely happy with both. Bullboss with JSB Hades for up to 50 yds. Bully with JSB Exact King Heavies MK2 or NSA slugs for over 50 yds.
That's a nice set up. I've used that Bullboss for pigs and it did an excellent job for me.
I’m a physics guy myself. The best reason for that hollow end of the slug is probably for 2 reasons. 1. It may create a better seal as it’s fired. Kind of like the minet ball. And to put more of the weight on the front end of the bullet, so that it will always fly front first. Same as a badminton shuttle.
Me&my wife really due like this educational pellets video thank you god bless.
Well put jim iam in the uk were most not all air gunners use sub 12ft pound, hunting is different than in the states, because of reduced power we realy on greater feild craft, most my shooting involves bringing the game to were i want them ie at close range, takes great skill to get a woodpigeon to land in static decoys and stay still long enough to take the shot, i dont use 177 it still overpenitrates even at sub 12 foot pound, i have shot hundreds of rabbits useing 22 sub 12 foot, i dont use shot guns or rimfires any more buy choice iam 60 years old and been hunting since i was 7, grandad let me use is four ten spread shot, he taught me almost everything, thanks for your great videos and god bless, Stuart from sunny Lancashire,
Hi Stuart. Thanks for the comment. It's all about the right tool for the job. Thanks for the comment, keep dropping by!
Very knowledgeable thank you for the info I appreciate it
Been wanting a Daystate revere for a long while and was thinking along your lines. I think I'll go on up to .25 just in case I run into a little bigger game. The only drawback(if you call it that) is I'd have to order pellets instead of buying them anywhere.
It's worth it though , I have a cpl 22s great guns for squirrels, birds , chipmunk, but if you're going up to something bigger like a woodchuck the 25 is the way to go especially if you got 60 ,70, ft lb to go with it
Good vid. I don't agree with everything you said; but most. All of my PCP's are .25 and they are perfect for "me" and what I do. I have an M3 so I was thinking of going to get a .30 barrel kit. After shooting it, there is no need. A dead squirrel is a dead squirrel. For the most part accuracy is more important than cal size to me. Again, good vid man.
Great video, very informative, especially since I’m just getting started with air guns. Thanks, keep up the great work!!!!!!
I'm generally using 44gr slugs in my FX Maverick .25. The greater energy at higher fps is hugely forgiving and very ethical. This is effective at 50 yards and beyond.
May have convinced me to keep my .25 Huben K1. Thanks for your insights!
Those plastic tip pellets costs more but are effective on game.
They penetrate about a half an inch then they start to turn and go backward. That tumbling effect makes a larger permanent would channel that makes them effective killers.
Here in my country .25 pellets are scarce. We use 177 and 22. For small game. We don't hunt coyotes they are restricted. I guess ranchers deal with them with firearms when Authorities are not looking. Today I tried to help a friend controlling the central American aoguti (cotuza) in his property with a .22 (polymags) with no luck. they are eating the coconut trees sprouts that he planted and leaving holes every were. Great day in the field though, I have a new apreciación of the content that you share, hours waiting to hear and see the game.
Agouti is one of the airgun quarry I want to hunt one of these days. Good luck in your hunts!
the more I watch this channel, the more I learn.
Thanks, appreciate that.
Boss, I appreciate your detailed explanation. Thank you.
Love it. Nothing like a good caliber debate when the weather sucks outside. We simply don't have as much fun in that regard as powder burners. For my $.02 , I will go with the 22 cal in the modern PCP. Nothing it can't kill quite dead in the small game realm and with the advent of slugs, you can reach out plenty far those prairie dogs if you are fortunate enough to live where they dwell. What is small game? Fox and down would be my definition. What say ye?
Hi Mark, it is true that slugs give the .22 a bit more reach, penetration, and knock down power and closes the margin with the .30. But then you can use the slugs in the .30 and it opens right back up. I have used the .22, .25, and .30 slugs on long range prairie dogs, but still think the larger the caliber the more firmly it anchors them, but the difference is a matter of degrees and not an order of magnitude.
I'd agree with your definition of small game, but under the right conditions and picking my shots carefully, I'll also shoot coyote, bobcat, and small hogs with my .25 or .30 gun. Again, the larger calibers work better for me in this scenario. I do think that if the discipline is lacking to walk away in suboptimal shooting situations, the latter quarry should be given a pass altogether.
And to think I have a sheridan air rifle.. I pump like crazy a bit and walla, were in business.. I didn't even know they made these fancy
things.. lol.. It's called a model A made along time ago..Has alot of power and is accurate enough.. Happy shooting..
Love your videos Jim, years of experience & wisdom imparted to others.
Thank you kindly
I watched it all. Great talk. 💪
Thanks, appreciate it!
Amen! The .25 brings airgun hunting to the right level. It stands in place of 22lr for small game. It will knock them stiff!
A woodchuck, or rockchuck if you will, is a pretty strong small game animal comparatively. A poorly placed 22 lr won’t do well. The 25 will take them down with one properly placed shot beyond 50 yards.
Good job, Jim. Your theory is spot on.
Thanks James!
Lot of food for thought here.. thanks
Outstanding presentation.......... As usual.
.22 is the king for small game. Its more economical than .20 .25 .30. In a pinch you can go into walmart and buy 500 .22 cphp for $7 and be in business. Supply chain issues will fubar availability of. 25 and .20 and .30 sooner or later. Cphp is awesome for vermin and hunting small game. And there is no reason not to have 20 tins of this washed and lubed laying around. Good to see your still around Echochap...
Great video great information. Just wish you had talked about barrel length.
Just finished an article in Air Gunner magazine where I mentioned the effect of barrel length. On a couple of my big bore rifles, I cut the barrel down in steps and chrony'd along the way. I also did a step-by-step cut down on a springer a few years back, the effect on accuracy and power was the polar opposite. It would be interesting to do a formal test and could be an interesting video. Thanks for the view and comment!
Yes. .25 is one of my favorites. I have no experience with the 30. With the 30 you can't get nearly as many pellets for the same cost as .25. I'm looking though. Jim Be Well.
No, if you compare on price the .30 will lose to the .25 which will lose to the 22, which will lose to the .177. And while I prefer the .30 in certain applications, I still think if I was going to only have one caliber it would be .25.
@@americanairgunhunter I don't want smaller than .25 or I would be shooting the .177. Just comparing the 25 and 30.
Thank you for the presentation. I'm new to the air gunning program. With rifles getting so expensive I'm looking at other methods of hunting. My state is starting to relax the laws for air gunning just a bit. So, if this works for hunting in the future of my state then I'm in. It's a lot cheaper than the ammo we are buying now.
I'm in Pennsylvania. If anyone has updates to our regulations on hunting with air rifles I'd like to hear them
As the .30cals. become more previlent in the marketplace, the more I have to say I prefer it for all the small, to medium game I am able to take with it, and the energy levels are continuing to get better and better as well !
Would I say the same thing if we were talking about a powder burner, of course not !
But as far as airgun application is concerned, I'm totally convinced that the .30cal. is the most effective pellet for the quickest possible dispatch of my prey, that includes anything from a squirrel, or rabbit, up to a pig, or coyote !
Straight up, the most effective pellet caliber for the job !
Had it been a few years ago, when .30cal. availability wasn't quite as previlent, then I'd have said the .25cal.
But in my opinion, the bigger, and the harder hitting the better !
Aea HS .30 semi auto 🤙🏼
Very nice video excellent information I think I learned a lot about calibers and projectory
And you made a new word.
Yes i did thats voice texting
You're the man!!
Thanks for sharing my friend. 👍🇺🇲🤙🇺🇲✌
Hey Richard, thanks!
Great info from a guy with loads of experience
Thanks Marc, glad you found it interesting!
I've no preference,I really enjoy all of the caliber's, they all have a time and place. I will take any size, as long as I get to shoot.
I'm lucky and get to pick the gun for the job, but if I only had one would go for the .25.....but agree with you, they all have a time and place.
.25 for me. And my hatsan 125 chucks the .25 pellets out to 60-70yards very well, and I can accurately shoot 34.9gr slugs out to 25 yards. My origin pcp on the other hand is good out to 100yards easy.
Hi Roy, the PCP is easier to shoot accurately at a distance. I just received an Origin and looking forward to working my way through it! Appreciate your view and comment!
You mentioned that you get asked, "Isn't that too much gun for x?" The one caveat I'd mention regarding caliber is pass-through. My favorite YT videos are the pesting ones. Too many times I see a round go right through (usually not straight) and hit a wall, or a tin roof, or go skipping across asphalt or water on its way to who knows where! Rule #4: Be sure of your target and what's behind it. I only hope they have insurance!
I wouldn’t be using a .25 in an area where collateral damage is possible. I think a .22 with power dialed to 12 to 14 fpe is best tool for dairy farms for instance. It was people using too powerful guns and not taking care of backdrop that got all the dairy farms we used to pest at shut down.
Thank you for that information was berry helpful for me to buy my next rifle God bless
Was thinking that .22 pcp with slugs might be a choice to challenge the .25 with pellets? Better shot count but decent foot pounds and range?
Very Informstive video. I bought the .25 but eishnimhad bought the .30 instead. My seneca eagle claw has a pr e tty impressive 70 fpe but even that doesn't seem enough to drop even Grey squirrels sometimes despite using barracuda hunter extreme hollowpoints if the shot isn't perfect. You would think the massive fpe and energy dump of the hollowpoint would,even if shot isnt perfect, but I've had a number drop, then get up,and run for cover. Red squirrels no problem, but the grays seem a lot tougher. Don't wanna get too graphic, but I domed one, (won't describe the damage) and it got up and ran up a tree. I think we have iron man squirrels around d us.
In the uk fac stands for fire arm certificate which you need for air guns OVER 12 ft lb.
35" barreled .32, a ball weighs 53gr which throttled back with a 800 psi regulator still yields over 100 ft.lbs.... and you can sling 250gr+ bullets with 4500 psi for over 544 ft/lbs (it's a timed valve) lol
Second would be a 30" (.22 barrels over 30" get surprisingly expensive lol) .22 barrel on the same gun, which with a 17gr ball and 800psi yields 38 ft/lbs, or you can sling 55gr with 4500 psi for 200 ft.lbs.
Otherwise, a .177 Crossman "Airmaster 77", which I've used since I was 7 to take up to Groundhog with 10.5gr dome pellets (it's my go-to for up near the house, since it's not as likely to go through a bunch of stuff). Pellets for calibers over .177 get expensive quick, and I don't see the point. For pigeons and rabbits, I use 8.5 gr balls I cast myself. I think it's like 14 and 11 ft/lbs.
I might make a new air gun with a shorter valve time in .22, and retire my Crossman from hunting duty around the house (.223 balls are easier to deal with than .180)
Air guns are not toys, don't do things with them you wouldn't do with a firearm of similar power.
Excellent video, Jim! I would appreciate more like it. The only thing I'd add is the smaller calibers are quieter. My brother's .22 Impact, sending 15.89 Hades at 1000 fps is mouse fart quiet compared to mine sending 44.75 Hades at 700 fps
That's interesting, and to be honest I've never really thought about it, but it makes sense. All thing being equal with the guns, the larger caliber is expelling a larger volume of air. I'll have to check this out. Thanks for the comment!
I never think there is too much gun 🔫...I think it is a more human kill....always enjoy your videos...keep up the good work 💪
That's my way of thinking. But just about every video where I use a .25 there will be a couple negative comments, and I just don't get the argument.
That’s also my experience hunting small game, which I’ve done with all five calibers (.177, .20, .22, .25, and .30). .25 and .30 were instant kills every time, although I found the .30 did feel like an overkill to me so the .25 is my caliber of choice.
Between the .25 and .30 it usually comes down to the gun more than the caliber for me, except when I'm specifically going to shoot predators or pigs, then I like the .30 (slightly) better.
I only have a break barrel Hatsan Striker 1000S. 25 shooting at a lousy 650 fps 😭
@@tlotlosenai7304 Have you tried the Predator GTO .25 pellets? They would give you some nice extra velocity.
@@tlotlosenai7304 I have one as well and it shoots moa at 30yrs and for a little over $120 not bad bang for the buck and a decent backyard shooter. I live near a creek and have night visits to the hen house. So mine is fitted with night vision just for greeting those unwanted guests. I also have the hatsan pcp in lever action(vitus) and pump(AT44PA10 Pump LONG QES). The later I am still seasoning the barrel planning on modifying this gun for slugs and adding a regulator and tank/jug. I will be making a stock to balance the additional mods
@@tlotlosenai7304 just so you know most biathlon air rifles shoot under 680fps most around 560fps. And you want It below 1100fps(subsonic) the plus side not effected as much by wind and even out to 100yrds still punch hard(anything above 10fp at impact). Dumps energy quickly apon impact. I am trying to get a friend to 3d print slugs that accepts a .177 bb in the tip(slugs need above 800fps to stabilize). I have found mine likes the JSB the best. Any reading this that has not held a Hatsan product will be very surprised by the build quality vs the price point. You always feel like you ripped them off for $100. I have owned over 15 Hatsan products and loose them to my friends after they shoot them. They pay me more than I paid for them to order a new one to replace the one they just took home. So they get it tuned with the pellets it like to shoot and the gun seasoned/lubed/polished and moderator updated with accessories installed tuned. Then I order a new one and start the process all over. And it always starts like this. "So how much you got into this gun?" , "you want to sell it?", "how much you sell it to me for?" Now I usually have about $150 in extras plus about 15 to 20 hours of my time. On the first one. After that about 2hrs to tune/polish/update. And with pcp even more variables to tune. I have to clean up the plastic stocks( wood stock only the bed and some times having to modify for barrel harmonics[rubber bands on barrel]. ) and polish the trigger assembly. Sometimes I have to crown the exit of the barrel.
.22 is great I have a couple of them , but once I went to 25 for small game hunting I would never buy another 22, about the only reason I don't get a 30 cal is just the price of the pellets is a lot higher and sometimes availability is tough
As much as I like the .30, I still think the .25 wins out for most small game applications.
You can get a 25 grain pellet in 22 cal
.25 for me. I cast 2 different pellets and a slug, so ammo cost and availability isn't an issue.
Eddie - what molds do you use with your 25? Are your cast pellets accurate?
@@allenbournes4697 both are NOE. I use the 27 grain hunter and the 22 grain wadcutter. I have a Diana Bandit that's converted to .25 that loves the wadcutters and my Hatsan Flashpup shoots the 27 grain hunters well.
25cal fits my needs for hunting iguanas. Just bought an AEA HP Plus in 25cal.
That is a nice combo. A .25 for iguanas is one of the applications I want to maximize velocity to kick up the power and improve penetration
I live in Puerto Rico and we have an abundance of iguanas.
I installed a Piney Lazer system on mine as well
Great video!! Appreciate your explanation on calibers, do you have a link so I can read more of your articles you’ve written over the years? Only seen them flash on the screen?
No link ? Keep the videos coming and I always give them a thumbs up 👍🏻
Hi Robert, my page at Outdoor Life is www.outdoorlife.com/authors/jim-chapman/
At Predator Xtreme it's : www.grandviewoutdoors.com/tag/jim-chapman
My UK home is: www.magzter.com/GB/Seymour-Distribution-Ltd/Air-Gunner/Men%27s-Interest/ But that is only accessable with subscription
My website is: www.americanairgunhunter.com/
Thanks for the comment, it's appreciated!
Thanks so much appreciate it !!
HI Jim I am from over the pond and shoot 177 to great affect ,but have 22 in fac. I have just got a variation for the 25, for my maverick. I have shot all three ay sub twelve and all do the job but there is no such thing as to much gun,. Especially with an airgun and completely agree with you would of tried 30 but ammo choice is a bit limited and you also get a better shoots per fill with 25 but great article, forward to your next article in the Airgunner over here atb.
Thanks, I appreciate that. Your shooting kit makes a lot of sense to me. In a legal limit gun, the .177 is a solid choice. bet your going to like the maverick in .25, an excellent hunting set up. between .25 and .30, unless there is a need to take something quite a bit larger than the average small game quarry, not a lot of sense going to .30.
Glad to hear from a reader of Air Gunner! I lived in the Netherlands for many years and picking up my Air Gunner or Airgun World at the news agent was a monthly high point! And writing for them and getting to know Terry Doe and Dave Barham over the last several years has been another great experience!
Just a quick review! SF!
Thank you Sir, very good information
Thanks for the comment
Well done 👍
Thanks!
What do you think of the slugs
I've used the FX Hybrid and NSA slugs in a number of calibers. You need to find the one that works best in your gun, and when you do it will give you better long-range accuracy and better terminal performance. Could be a good option for out in the wide-open spaces. One caveat, I have not tried them with the Blitz and not sure how they cycle. I will look into this and post a follow up when I have more info.
Only up to .22 legal in Pennsylvania so I use heavy pellets or Slugs
Thank you for the video.I would like to see you do a video on the AEA terminator 357 and your thoughts on the new AEA 45 cal automatic.I have bin watching your videos for a long time and they are always enjoyable.
Thanks John, appreciate your support! I have a couple AEA guns on the way and will do some reviews within the next couple of months.
I have the terminator in 357 works flawless but one down fall is it only shoot pellets not slugs it will jam wish I could sell the gun I only shot two mags it's like new the gun is realy heavy the texan is a better choice I don't need automatic or ten shot mag
@americanairgunhunter --- I'm wondering how the .20 performs. I am aware that this caliber is apparently hardly offered and used. On the other hand, the caliber is one that still makes sense even in countries with significant restrictions. In addition, .20 (5mm metric) seems to me to be a size for which even very good experimental projectiles should be able to be produced reasonably well. Unfortunately, there is hardly any publication or documentation available for this caliber used in AirGuns.
Could you please do a video about your .20 cal AirGuns and their performance?
I think that in 12 fpe type guns, especially springers, the .20 makes a lot of sense. The caliber is flatter shooting than a .22 and has better terminal performance than a .177. One of my main hunting buddies down in Texas (Chacho G.) swears by this and has been collecting .20 springers for a long time. We often hunt these springers, and they do a great job on small game and varmints. In the past ammo availability could be a problem, but now with everything offered online, not so much, you just need to plan ahead.
Killed grouse and squirrels with Crossman and gamo both derated Canadian guns and in .177 cal but am upgrading to a .22 gamo
I like my gladius 25.. I like it for the longer shooting out to 50yrds..
But for squirrel,i really adopted the British way.. Found a great accurate gamo swarm .22 (the Walmart one.. But)... Set up a feeder sit.. Lol.. Turns out better for an aging body
The places I hunt the feeders don't make so much sense, but I've seen some of the action, like what #Corvid Hunter does, and it looks like a very effective method.
The only time it's to much gun with air rifles is when for instance. You are hunting or pesting in a barn or structure and you have to worry about pass threw. So you do not damage the structure or unintended animals.
That is absolutely true. For that application my preference is a 12-14 fpe .22.
That's my preferable caliber even to me... I love 25 and 30... 177 and 22 I take it that they are good for pegions, birds.. rabbits... But when comes to jackal, caracals and steenboks , 25 and 30 cals are great
On a trip to SA a few years ago I used my .30 and .35 with JSB pellets to take springbok and duiker..... worked a treat!
@@americanairgunhunter I take it like have seen the video if not mistaken it another one else... Yeah 25 cal and 30 are great for powerful PCP.. they aren't good with spilringers ..
What are your feelings on the AEA GUNS ?
I use .177 in the uk cuz a head shot is a kill and I can be more accurate due to the faster velocity
i mostly have hunted with 177 and i like to shoot dove off of a powerline in a field so maybe about 50 to 30 yards and i want a caliber that can take dove at 50 to 25 and what is more accurate my other problem is i do shoot dove at like 30 yards and i hate to see an animal suffer so i want a quick clean kill what will do it for me? i use a bullpup pcp and it holds 3000 psi
Agreed Jim.
Shared
Awesome mr chapmen
Thanks!
Thank you.
No worries!
Hi Jim thanks for the great video. I just want to know if a .177 fac rated airarms s410 will take black backed jackals at 70 to 90 meters? I struggle to get info on that and will appreciate your view on this!
So does this change on brake barrel, or bump barrel or is it all around
Great stuff sr, when are you going to do a video of that Hatsan factor in the background? What caliber is it?
Hello Emiliano, you have a good eye! It's the .22 factor and I am enjoying this gun. I'll do a video on it within the next few weeks. I want to do extensive range work with this one and it's just too cold for outdoor shooting up here in the frozen North.
@@americanairgunhunter are you ging too perfrme any mds to it? im expecting my .25 factor rc this monday, but i didnt reaize it was so underpowered, 33fpe at 870 fps, im assuming with a .25 grain jsb.
I like 22 cal it's all the power I need I use air guns because ammo cost I don't like shooting past 50 yards I would prefer to have over power than not have enough the hades pellet is just awesome there are others that are just as good
Hi Zane, you hit on a good point which is that it's important for each person to consider their own needs and select the gear that's right for it. It sounds like you've done that, and I agree about the Hades, one of the best hunting pellets ever!
1st off good commentary. I like the 25 cals also. Now here's where I have a conflict. . I actually buy my guns in 22 and 25 cal. The problem that arises is in 22 cal you can get pretty much any pellet/slug. In 25 cal and 30 cal you are limited. For instance H&N terminators don't come in 25 or 30 cal which is a good go to pellet for me. No H&N terms, hunters/hunter extremes or crow mags in 30 cal. Actually H&N doesn't even make 30 cals pellets any more. (maybe you and some of the other leading commentators could influence the H&N company). I think that's one reason 30 cals haven't became that popular, Not enough pellet/slug choice. Also depending on the gun in 25 cal, you can basically take down the same game as a 30 cal. A 30 cal does have more knock down power, but I have taken deer in 25 cal out to 55 yrds. I only own one 30 cal and it's the hercules bully, but I would probably buy a couple more 30 cals or buy converter kits for my crown and impact but right now just don't see the need since I rarely shoot my bully because I'm basically a (HP) man and they just don't have enough variety in 30 cal. Might just for the hell of it buy the converter kit for my Impact and switch it out to a 30 cal, but just wished they had more variety. Then again the fx hybyrds, poly mags, and hades should be sufficient, but a H&N term, hunter/hunter extreme and crow mag would really make me convert over to the 30 calibers.
Hi Anthony, you make a valid point about availability of .30 caliber pellets, and it is always a case of chicken and egg as a newer caliber gains popularity. Until there is a demand fewer gun manufacturers produce guns in the new caliber, and until there are more guns and people shooting them, there is less initiative for pellet manufacturers to expand their product portfolio. However, with time if enough shooters stick with a caliber the ammo will follow. I will say that while I have most of the .30 pellets available, I could be happy using the JSB 50.15 Exacts for most game. I like and agree with the sentiment of your last statement, along with FX hybrids, Polymags, and Hades I have a great selection.
I believe H&N still manufacturers .30 cal pellets, but rebrands them as "vortex" pellets. They are carried by MidwayUSA, Hatsan and many other online vendors.
@@randycupp5925 Thxs for the info. I have some vortex in 25 and 30 cal. They shoot pretty well. I just wish they would make more (HPs) varieties in 30 cal because that's is the pellets/slugs I use when I go hunting. Maybe I'm selfish (lol) but when I have a good shooting pellet I would think that they would expand it to other calibers also. JSB did. They started with the 22 cal hades, then the 177, then the 25 and now the 30 cal. So did the predator line of pellets with the poly mags All seem to shoot well out of my guns. Just hoping H&N will follow JSB/Predator blue print and market the terminators in 25 and 30 cal.
Hi I am new to airguns and well hunting in general, however I bought the .25 cal benjamin armada and I need to know which pellets/slugs I should use to kill coyotes and pigs? Any feedback you could give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Can I use field target pellets for small game hunting?
I like my .22 because I can find ammo anywhere ..
Hey jim... I value your words and opinions... to me your the true guru... in the avenger.. 25 cal.. which I'm interested in... they have the polymer version... the wood version ... and the bullpup version... I'm kinda leaning towards the wood version... I hear the plastic versions can be a lil flimsy and your point of impact can shift on you.. is this a myth? Have you had any trouble with the synthetic versions? Thank you in advance
Thanks Jason, I appreciate that. Between the bullpup and rifle, I think it just depends on what appeals to you, they are both fine shooters and hunting guns. I've struggled with this question because I like shooting them both, with maybe a slight lean toward the rifle. I have described the synthetic rifle stock as plasticky, though I haven't noted a flimsiness that negatively impacts performance. I will say this is my least favorite aspect of the Avenger rifle, which is mitigated by going to the wood stock. On the other hand, the stock is about 8 oz lighter and over $100. less, so it all depends how those factors weigh in on your decision making. For me, it would be the rifle wearing a wood stock..... but no matter which version, absolutely the .25. Let's hear what you decide on and how it works for you.
Hey Jim what setup would you recommend for someone wanting to get into a PCP all in for under $1000 with optic and a tank? Looking to hunt Iguanas.
What type of gun appeals to you, bullpup, carbine, or rifle?
@@americanairgunhunter I kinda like the carbine to be honest. Im a competitive rifle and pistol shooter and typically shoot an AR platform.
Have both 22 + 25 use the 22 more in the back yard.
My 25 caliber Zada (UA-cam censor demons won`t allow mention of brand) breakbarrel hits hard and accurate but the 22 cal Airtact has better penetration and a bit less dependable accuracy. Both are great for rabbits and I`ve stopped four armadillo pests uprooting my garden food and fruit trees. Mulch draws these monsters like crazy and they ruin it. So now I use driveway alarms to alert me. I can`t afford a PCP.
Not one AEA brand air gun. I got the AEA hp 25 caliber carbine. Find well-made gun a tack driver at 50-75 yards.
What caliber and gun would you recommend for starlings at 100 yards I live in a high wind area😊
Nice video 👍😉
I was just wondering, do people eat squirrels? We eat the rabbits, hogs, and deer. Never shot a squirrel because I just can't see eating one. Are they just pests that people put down like groundhogs and prairie dogs and coyotes?
In the USA most people eat them, though they are also taken as pest. As a matter of fact, in many states it is illegal to no use game that you've harvested, it's called wanton waste of game. I think squirrel is better than rabbit.
AMAZING. A channel where the speaker is not accompanied by "music" (really what we used to call "Muzak" or "elevator music"). This fellow has music at the very beginning of the show then stops it when he starts really talking about the subject. Bravo! I can't tell you how many channels I've THUMBED DOWN and not SUBSCRIBED to b/c of that bloody, stupid "music". And now back to you show.
I am new to PCP airguns and am buying one good one. I am thinking an FX MK3 would you recommend that, and if so would you go for the 25 or the 30? For mostly small game hunting and target shooting. Thank you for your advice.
@@jaybubb5500 Ithi k the FX MK3 is a great choice, and either caliber is a solid choice. If you skew more towards target I’d go.25, if you will go after predators as well as small game the .30, and if its pretty balanced between small game and target it doesn’t matter as much but I’d probably stick with .25.I think both will also work well if you’ll be shooting longer range, but I still like the .25 as the more flexible option. Good luck and enjoy your gun!
great thank you for your reply. That really helps
Tell me some budie saids what we can hunt an white Tail Deer with one Daisy Powerline 880 177 calibre BB or red fire pellets that Is true
I don’t really know anything about air rifles I’m just starting to look at them I will go into the woods for days I worry about the gun running out of air any suggestions
OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! First look I thought this guy was Jeremy Corbyn !!!!!
I personally use my .177 for birds and squirrels. Any small game bigger than this i use my .25 cals .I have no need for a .22 ....saves me money and ammo.
Nothing wrong with that choice, especially if you have more than one gun.
Love my .25s
There is much to recommend the caliber, I agree with you!
Even 50 big bore as well as 45 caliber are coming out
Hi Mike, check out some of the other videos on my channel, been hunting in the States and South Africa for many years with .457 and .50. Also have some recent videos with the Zeus .72 cal.
Very informative, great vidz! I'm new to pcp airguns, what do you recommend for small game hunting dove, squerls and Jack rabbits etc... in .25? I'm looking for a good quiet hunting rifle shooting within 100 yrds.. any help appreciated!
What type of price point are you thinking about?
Where did you get the stock with the fore grip shown on your avenger?