I swear this is the most in dept and straight up philosophical air gun channel, it's amazing how long you can listen to a person when they're experienced in a subject and have the passion to teach others.
Great video and explanation. Used a springer bsa in the early 80s that took out Rabbits and Pheasants up to 40m,that was 20yrs old when I got it. Recoil,,the day I fitted a scope to it for the first time. BLACK EYE.😊
A bit like my old lady well made a bit worn out but she can still put a smile on ye face but she will not do the🐕 and no toy's i e 🐇 and I was a bit Bram's and list I was on the job gave my old lady a good🐑🐑🐑🐂🌋 just make sure you get her name right or you are in the🚾 and 🔨ye🔩👊😖😭😵😰😷😱
I just like the 'pure and simple' mechanical nature of a spring gun. Pallets and a gun, that is all that is needed. No need for anything else. Lets go!
TjDolHaus86 For some that is the selling point, if it’s not accurate it’s a waste of money , pay extra for quality , after all you are trying to hit the bulls eye repeatedly !
The best gun is the one in your hand. I have a high end PCP and and a high end fixie springer. The one I've had the most rabbits with is a 40 year old sub 12fpe break barrel because 1/ you can Grab&Go. Unloaded on the bench to aimed shot in 10 seconds. 2/ if you want the same grouping as the others you just have to get a bit closer to your target.
I have always been a springer guy, It's what I grew up with. It's ready when you need it to be and there isn't any need for an external fill source. I am sure if I ever get into PCP I will have the best of both worlds. It all comes down to preference and budget really.
InJ Airgun i couldn’t agree more, i have both pcp and springer and there is something about picking up my 1986 bsa supersport already 33 years old and still feeling like new, the pcp hardly comes out from her case, i just hardly get any joy out of it
@@gazgaz6749 Weihrauch never made a springer or the HW77 to have a 30FPE output. Sounds like someone was tinkering! The most powerful springer Weihrauch made or make is the HW80 and it is only approaching the 20FPE mark.
I agree with you, since my young age (born in the '60-s) I have been shooting springers and even now I am holding up with my V-Mach modified HW97K .22 cal. Having a lot of fun, even on 50 meters with FTT. If I would add a PCP, it would be the HW110K, but I am still not in doubt, because a springer is easy to maintain and my shooting sessions (at the back off my garden) never crosses the limit of 50 shots.
I've had my hw80 for over 30 years now and she has never had anything go wrong , not even the slightest glitch. The gun is still more accurate than I ever will be and to be honest I don't think I'll ever need any thing else. Very good video and I think you gave a fair assessment. Well done and thank you .
@@KernowAirSniper God I know the feeling you knew you had been out after a night with this beauty, my brother totally underestimated the the recoil when he first fired it and got a nice black and cut eye for his ignorance lol me and my dad was howling laughing but I suppose we all learn those lessons.
Although my son and myself haven’t been shooting for very long, I’m glad that we started with springers. It definitely gave us a grounding in the mechanics of how to shoot. We made the switch to pcp simply because as an arthritis sufferer it meant that I could shoot more often. I still enjoy a few rounds with my springer, but can now spend a day at the range without paying the penalty of massive shoulder, elbow and wrist pain afterwards. Having said that, there comes a lot of satisfaction from hitting a tight group at 35m with my springer, and although I love my R10se I wouldn’t expect anything less from it. So yes, I do enjoy both types of gun and from seeing the number of people at my range that shoot both, a lot of other people do too.
I own both a springer and a PCP. I enjoy the challenge the springer presents (trigger squeeze, breath control, etc are more important) but also love the pure simplicity of my PCP and how it effortlessly reaches out to hit the target each time. Both represent everything I love about shooting and both are most satisfying to shoot. An excellent review, Andy! Well balanced, fact filled and honest as always!
I have an HW97 which although it is heavy, single shot with the recoil to boot, the feeling of practising good shooting skills with it are immense and I love it .
Agree. My son and I I have 5 pcp's and 3 springers between us. Love them all. Spent a fortune on pcp's but if I was only allowed one air rifle till my dying day, then it would be my HW97.
I’m one of those crazy prepper guys who own both.Let me tell you when I have to head to the woods it’s the springer going with me. I do not need all that extra gear just to be able to shoot my rifle.
Hi Andy, I inherited my .177 BSA springer 50 years ago from my grandfather. I took it into my local gun shop for a minor repair, I lost a screw. They looked it up and found out it was made in Birmingham between 1914 and 1916. They made me a screw to replace the missing one. Trouble was they did not want to give it back. Lol. They wanted to keep it. It still got a hell of a kick to it. Also spot on accurate. Stay safe. John
Down here in Oz, anything that shoots is regarded as a firearm and air rifles are not limited to any power output. As a keen ,recently initiated airgun shooter, I find that the activity is bye-passed by shooters who prefer using firearms instead of air arms simply because ,as they are licenced to use firearms as are airgun shooters. Consequently, the need to worry about tanks and pumps etc. is not considered .when I go out on the range, I’m usually the only airgunner present ,but I might add that the other shooters show a keen interest when they see the accuracy and lack of recoil when having a shot. The only disadvantage is that the trade shows very little interest in the sport, and the sparseness of our country is so great that if I wished to visit the agent that supplied my rifle to have a meaningful conversation, I would need to drive about 2000 miles for the privilege.Similarly , any repair work or,even the purchase of good quality pellets demands substantial freight charges . In spite of all of the percieved disadvantages, the wonderful websites that yourself and Giles,etc. put up has encouraged me to carry on and enjoy the sport immensely. Cheers from Downunder ( Sunny Queensland)😷👍
I have loved airguns from my very first Daisy airgun. Here in America lots of people think of airguns as toys though it seems like more people are coming around. I have many firearms but I still love my springer I can shoot it in my backyard when I can't get to the range and take care of pests.
I've seen Aussies say that about gardening supplies. I admit to being surprised that a country with your population and wealth has to import so much of what people need. If you were a micronesian island, okay, but Australia is not small nor poor. I guess I don't understand much about Australia yet.
I did a lot of time consuming research when looking for my first air riffle and eventually settled for a very well looked after, second hand, professionally tuned HW97KT. I have never looked back since and continue to love and enjoy the ever ready poise, looks, power and accuracy of my German Springer. A good video highlighting the benifits and drawbacks of both types of air gun.
I'm the same mate. I had an HW80, but sold it to my mate when I went off to uni. I'm 57 now and overwhelmed tbh about what to go for. Is 'upgrading' the springs still a thing these days?
Very balanced presentation Andy. I bet an awful lot of Airgunners who were 'raised' on springers have an affinity for them, even if they now shoot PCP's. Today's high-end springers are superb quality and very consistent. My old faithful BSA Airsporter, whilst much loved, doesn't even come close to the Air Arms TX200 or Pro-Sport! New shooters have a fantastic choice between springer or PCP.
I hand pumped a Condor for nine years. Used a older Dianawerks M-34. I enjoy both disciplines. Now, I have a compressor, tank, hand pump. That expense was a pain, but worth it. I shoot seven spring-piston rifles, and seven different PCP rifles. .177-50cal/511 bore. It's more adictive than my real firearms, and keeps miles off them too. I remember my first springer, a HW35E. I probably love my spring-piston rifles more for leisurely/ gentlemanly shooting and PCP for carnage and varmint ventilation. I have very old Webley pistols that all shoot still. Some days, I bring out the oldies for nostalgia. Good video for people who are making up their minds. I still can't chose one over the other. I like that old springer in the video, alot.
The price difference is a very valid argument, when I can one day afford a descent entry level regulated pcp and hand pump I'd love to get one. I have a couple springers and shoot a 2L bottle out to 70m and it's plenty fun, but I wouldn't shoot a pigeon past 40 meters with it as I don't want to injure any. That being said though a springer is perfect for picking birds out of trees or possibly even out of barns.
Good video.I am a Springer guy. Bought a QB Chief and was fun for a month and then went back to springers. QB Chief just sits in the gun rack. After 50 hand pumps I am to tired to shoot it. LOL CHEERS!
Great debate Andy..... I believe age has to be factored in to this also. When I first started shooting air guns, prepared were in their infancy and springers were the norm. My first proper gun was a hw77 which I loved and ended up shooting field target with (in .22 at that!) Many of my friends had pcp's but the challenge was to match their scores with my springer. This taught me good gun control along with an understanding of trajectory and recoil. Skip forward 30 years.... I have several pcp's in my cabinet and love them, but I also always keep a spinger or two besides them. I prefer a gas ram to spring for the solid feel it gives, lack of maintainance and fact I can leave it cocked in the field whilst mooching around. The pcp's are easy to use and clinical in operation but take away the handling characteristics i learned years ago. So to me, the norm is still a spinger all the way but the pcp can make life easier when I want it. One last thought.....during lockdown my local dive shop is closed and my dive cylinder needed filling. Its currently stood with 80psi in it waiting to be filled when the shop reopens. The hw90 has been out and about on a regular basis keeping the bunnies down in my horse padock without a thought to filling again....just another consideration to make.... Cheers and keep safe.
This is the reason why you invest in a filling method as well, I invested in an Omega Turbo charger, and no longer have to rely on any dive shop to top off my tanks! But I do agree, they each have their pros and cons. It all depends on what your needs are!
@@bugs2much Electric pumps are fine Until the power fails ! for true independence a hand pump as back up must be the way to go , or better still get a Springer / Gas ram or better still if you have the wedge have all 3 + a pump + electric compressor , You've got all bases are covered then , Stay Safe Stay Well .
@@richarddixon7276 I take it a step further. For my PCP's I have a SCBA (carbon fiber tank, 100 cubic feet at 4500 psi) tank that I try to keep MOSTLY full all the time, I think the lowest I've allowed it to get has been like 3500 psi. I have the compressor to fill up when ever I please. So, if the power goes out, I fill from my SCBA, and then I also do have a stirrup pump for those just in case moments. I just prefer the less hassle method. And on the original statement, he was complaining about refilling his tank at the dive shop, you wouldn't want to (eventhough it is possible) fill a SCUBA/SCBA tank off of a stirrup pump. Before I bought my compressor, I filled my 90/4500 tank with the stirrup. My choice (which now just collects dust in my closet) is the FX 4 stage pump. You can switch it from a 3 stage (low pressure, high volume) to a 4 stage (high pressure, low volume) when you get to the higher pressures. Switching from 3 stage to 4 stage makes it SO much easier to pump. I don't know if you've filled higher than 3k psi on a stirrup... it gets TOUGH! I am about 220lbs, and it takes most of that weight to reach the 4500 psi on that stirrup
@@bugs2much Nice ! You have almost all the bases covered , I'd never be without a springer though , I miss the recoil it's what I grew up with . Be Safe Stay Well & Keep on Shooting .
Still have not bought my first PCP.. But will someday. Own just one springer (Crosman Phantom, .177cal) that is more than enough for my break barrel shooting. Mostly shoot co2 airguns at shorter ranges myself. That Crosman springer do have proven itself to be quite of a badass springer rifle - even though only cost me €135. The cheap scooe that came along even has been better than I thought it would be.
A very balanced and fair review which clearly drew attention to 'the options' available. Not wishing to appear sycophantic Andy, but your reviews are becoming more entertaining each time. Keep up the good work and whatever you do, don't apply for a job at the beeb, you are too unbiased.
Lockdown with my Diana 350 n-tec magnum and plenty of .22 pellets it's been a bad month for Rosellas and Magpies around my place lol, I love Hi end break barrels but pcp are top of the tree... 20mins ago put a shot on Rosella 40M no scope, dead... Great show btw
I wish i still had a springer, This lockdown thing is expensive on pellets and i only have 1 12ltr dive bottle left . Although last night i did manage to shoot lunch for the next day. Well anyhoo i have to go pluck a pigeon, Thanks for your once again entertaining and informative videos they would make a great tv series.
I would recommend investing in a fill method for situations like this (dive shop getting closed) I invested in the Omega turbo charger, now I don't have to rely on anyone since I basically have air on tap!
@@bugs2much I was looking into that before this lockdown thing blew up, Perhaps after it all ends i can re save and get a decent pump. Anyways thanks for the reply and i wish you and yours all the best stay safe. And as Troy Landry says, Choot em.
@@MerlinVI I keep hearing A LOT about (even though I completely disagree about it) the Yong Heng compressor. It is supper cheap and will have you refilling your own equipment. I personally bought an Omega Turbo Charger and a Diablo filter... ($300 vs $2500) To me investing thousands into the air rifles, would justify equal value for an air source, not something subpar. But hey, if you ask me, the Yong heng would be great for any starter trying to get into the sport as a temporary compressor. You would then have to continue saving up for a better, more reliable compressor.
Own both springer and PCP , well my Benjamin Marauder is about a decade old since I picked it up , just fixed it up and started shooting , very nice !! Own a springer as well , it has its own charm n convenience ... Still inclined towards springers !!
I brought a cheap set up from a friend last year just because it was cheap, and I can't tell you how happy I am that I did, the reason being it came with a brand new webley three stage pump and its such a blessing during the lock down, if I had to choose between a pcp and a springer I would choose my tuned tx 200hc a fantastic rifle in. 177 and. 22.
I like springers, I have an old Webley Hurricane.22 pistol that my father gave me for my 14th birthday, and when he passed I found a Gamo .177 in his closet. The Gamo is pretty low end but, it’s a lot of fun.
Agreed. I've said for years if you can shoot a spring powered air rifle on a windy day and consistently hit your target (safely), you can shoot anything.
I have both PCPs and Springers, and enjoy shooting both. The one comment I would like to make, which has become very apparent over the past few weeks and current lockdown situation, is the number of PCP owners asking how fellow shooters are filling their rifles. If you don't have a hand pump, or like myself have problems with your back and so can't use a pump, then once your bottle has run out you won't be shooting any more - at this point most would wish they had a Springer. Keep safe everyone.
@@Boz1211111 the rm8 is a great gun and very accurate but its a bit heavy to be carrying around all day, ive had a few minor problems with seals/leaks ect and always keeping a eye on pressure and needing to take a tank with you on a long day out is a pain. The HW95 well....is a HW95 ;) cracking little gun dont need much reason to want one!
Myself going from break-action to PCP to unlock the potential for "follow up" shots, I began to watch your videos among many others. I find your pace more relaxed and entertaining while remaining concise and rich in information. Nuances no matter how small or pale can sometimes make all the difference between A and B and C and you don't let them slip by. What's even greater is your genuine personal experience and perspective. which helps defnes nuances with clarity all the while allowing us to learn the discernment. This is the richness that others lack while speaking in general terms for all. And considering the fact that you answered a question I asked you in an other video, 2 thumbs up!! Thank you Andy. Oh and since I just subscribed (May 2023).. I may be a little James to catch up. 😂 So expect more comments but mostly more "thank you's" .
Buy a nice mid range Springer / Gas ram first and learn to shoot it properly before you splash out & buy a PCP , watch as many different air gun shows as You can (Airgun 101 is a great place to start looking) , Check out Giles's revue on the Remington Express , also I recommend Big Dan's Airguns for more cracking revues . Be Safe Stay Well , Get a Springer !
I started on springers 35 yrs ago , and had what I could afford at the time , of course my finances were stretched between booze, records , driving lessons, etc , oh and my other hobbies , motorbikes , girls,,, so didn’t have high end stuff,, you could more or less walk down canals over the fields , anywhere out the way , and you didn’t shoot loads of pellets and missed half ur shots , but had fun, however I go to the gun range , with my pcp , hit most of what I shoot at and use loads of pellets and take it seriously, or is that cos I’m getting old? ,, they both offer a different experience of shooting a pellet projectile, at a given target , in the process of buying a German high end springer as I write this , and in the future getting it tuned then having the best of both worlds cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧
Hi Andy. I shoot both, I began with a springer then started a pest control jobs. Pcp came into its own. The BSA sporter didnt quite cut it. But i still have it! Stay safe
I'm a springer man. Main reason is a springer is all inclusive, doesn't rely on any extra gear to make it work and it's simple to maintain and repair. Firm believer in what can go wrong will. Secondly, the price difference, I like shooting but not enough to throw the amount of cash in that a decent PCP and all the bits costs. I have a Walther Terrus, stupid name but shoots well and a Diana 34 that's not too shabby either.
Well done. Excellent presentation. The older I get, the more I appreciate the simplicity of the spring gun. A good springer with a pocketful of pellets, and you're all set.
Been shooting springers for 25 years. I just got my first pcp a couple years ago and i am addicted all over again. 80 shots at over 50fpe along with added accuracy of pcp floats my boat. Springers have a special place in my heart but i will probably never buy one again. I have a handful of very nice springers already though.
From my childhood I remember just a handful of rifle brands ie Webley, BSA and Weihrauch and who could forget the Gatt Gun? Recently got back into air gunning and learning all the time from this channel. Keep up the good work Andy, unbiased as always. Got a Hatsan 900x to get me started, now awaiting delivery of my first PCP (Walther RM8), will be interested to see how it compares with the Hatsan, which in all honesty is not that great or consistent. So we shall see.
I got into "shooting" via FAC handguns. When that pleasure was taken away, I moved to FAC rifles but...was attracted by the engineering of old air pistols. That lead to springer rifles (old and new) with an ongoing admiration for quality engineering. Then came a farm and the need for vermin control. Enter the PCPs to my life. So, I love the freedom of springers and the practicality of PCPs. They all have my admiration. PS I think Andy did not mention the mechanical "danger" of dry firing a springer and the damage that may do to the rifle.
Absolutely right. As a perfect tool on the range or very high power, pcp all the way. Enjoyment in use and still perfectly capable as a hunting tool that will last a lifetime? A decent springer for me. My hw77 is 20 years old and still going strong.
I have conversations with my tx all the time she's a beautiful lady! ahha I couldn't agree more they have so much character and I also feel you are more involved with the rifle shot for shot and get to know her better, how they like to be held, how the trigger is squeezed best etc. You really get to know your springer over time. 4000 pellets through my tx 200 in the last month more pellets arriving tomorrow!!!
Inane arguments. Compare single-shots: A well-made pumper such as my Racine Blue Streak has far more of a soul than any springer. And my Leshiy has easily as much soul as any springer I've owned (including a San Rafael R-1), and far more power and much easier to shoot.
Peter Bachman Inane? You somehow have the qualitative ability to make the determination for me as to what has soul? Although I personally believe that the Racine may have a modicum of soul, the Leshiy appears to be the offspring of nail gun and a Swedish love pump. Thus eternally negating any chance of it ever developing any soul...
Great comparison of the 2 ideologies. One thought is how many wish they had a springer in the cabinet now with the lockdown and no open dive shop for refills. Am a great believer in having a springer for the days when its all just not happening and you still want some fun. ( 1976 HW35e)
I’ve got a Webley Hawk interchangeable barrels, a BSA Superstar mk1, Theoben Sirocco .20 & a Daystate Wolverine 303. I have had the springers for 30-40 years and still shoot them and am able to enjoy them, the pcp on my toes all the time.
Please look up "Artillery Hold" on You Tube or Google or ask an old Springer Shooter to show you before you try to shoot your rifle, you will need to master this hold before you can expect accurate results from your particular rifle and pellet combination.
Don't get Me wrong I love springer's , I don't own one PCP , but You Can buy a Semi Automatic PCP in the UK , problem is it's over 2 Grand ! it's called the Steyr Hunting 5 and looks glorious revues are all positive & I'd love to own one (When I win the lottery ) , Iv'e used PCP's but find them a bit Soulless , I missed the recoil ! , Andy has it just about bang on - apart from the Steyr bit , Oh and the bit about breaking the barrel @13:51 (ALWAYS ! keep hold of the barrel when it's broken whilst loading , accidents have & do happen, This Is aimed at New users So it is imperative that they are told early & don't develop bad habit's , to be honest it surprised Me when he didn't elaborate on it ) ,Other than My little rant I think it was a very fair & unbiased opinion with some really good points , Thanks Andy , Stay Safe Stay Well , Keep on Shooting .
Springers...check; pumpers... check; single-stroke pneumatics... check; pre-charged pneumatics... check. 6 fpe to 60 fpe yup. .177; .22; .25 yup... need to get a .30. Bench shooting; 10m; casual target; plinking; pesting; field-target and hunting - all fun stuff. Sorry couldn't decide which I like best so I have several of each and shoot them all regularly :-) Thanks Andy - enjoyed the vid! ATB!
I can just about afford a decent PCP gun but as you said, the cost of the equipment needed to pressurise a PCP,is for me,a deal breaker. I have decided to go with a high end springer,namely an Air Arms .22 TX 200,with a decent scope.At 70 years of age,my decision is nothing to do with testosterone but is everything to do with money.If I could afford to,I would buy both but it is what it is. Love the channel by the way.
A stationary bicycle pump could be a reasonable answer in the hopes that A practicle principals.I still here the rumor of a great machine invented at a time when and wear purpose needed addressing practicality one type offers this in. The field.I can't pack around a pair of scuba tanks to control squirel populations.
I have both Andy , cos my introduction to air rifles was springers back in 1977 when I was a young lad, now 56 ,, so I have a hw99 to scratch the itch, of recoil, and twang, but also have a pcp. Modern generation, and intend buying a 97 under lever as well cheers shane uk 🇬🇧
I’ve owned, shot and loved both. There’s no denying the efficacy of a pcp however I can’t get away from springers. There’s something about them that just makes me smile. I am now a one rifle man.
I'm a casual shooter, so prefer a springer, but I also own a QB78 (with a custom stock I completed recently, and a manual 10 round magazine)) and I'm thinking about adding a PCP to the stable, just 'cos. Buying a PCP is a more considered purchase though, because of all the factors you mention, so I'm still musing on that. I'll defo want a pump for it though, I guess that's a springer mindset, that I want to have everything I need to keep it working, it's an independence thing : -)
Andy I have been shooting for forty years and watch every review and could agree with you more on every subject as I have been there great keep it coming cpv Pest control my hobby
Your vids are informative and a good time time to watch. Although pcp can even manage a Minie 50 cal lead I still prefer the .177 and .22 from a break barrel . Across the pond break barrels are not limited to 12ftlb. And YES, keeping the scope, iron or rds is a b... bit of maintenance. Any break barrel will shoot a bit different after a 1,000 pellet clean up. Keep it safe, keep it clean, stay wise.
I've had alsorts. Both PCP and springers. Springers just have such an organic feel to them. Always get fuzzy when I handle/ shoot a good springer. Currently have an HW95 an HW99s and my old (first ever airgun) BSA Meteor carbine.
When you can drive a modern car with clutchless auto/paddle gearchange, power steering, ABS, parking sensors and internet connectivity .... why would you want to drive an old MGB or TR4 or even E Type Jag? Lots of us do. Perhaps we're springer types? Going to work .... in the rush hour , the modern rules. On a sunny day, on a country road the classic is king. Same with air rifles.
As a boy my introduction to shooting was with an old BSA Meteor my Dad had got from a friend. I loved that little Springer and it got hooked on the shooting bug. As I grew up and could afford my own guns I moved to PCP's the difference to shooting them was effortless. Just recently I bought a BSA Lightening SE to get back to basics. It was like learning to shoot again. What would I choose between a Springer or PCP? Any, any day of the week! I love my Airguns 😁👍👍👍. Great vid Andy. Thank you
Commenting at 0:57 here. Whether a springer or PCP is better depends on what you're looking for. If you want absolute precision or power, go PCP. If you don't absolutely need a lot of power, want something convenient, or just want to have relatively cheap fun, a springer is always a good choice.
My pcp is more accurate for me but soon go through 70 shots at the range so need to lug the bottle along love my hassle free 97KT 22 still very accurate can shoot all day though a bit heavy
@@grahamharding1037 ABSOULTY!!! So many people do not understand that a Springer (shooting pellets) is just as accurate as a PCP (shooting pellets) but very strictly requires an "Artillery Hold" to make it so, there are many great You Tube videos that will show you exactly how do this, please folks do not allow yourselves to believe that a good quality "Springer" is not pin point accurate!!! I have consistently hit match heads at 20m with my simple .177 set up.
I have both use pcp for pest control and for hunting food but springers if plinking targets both fun am a better shot with pcp without a doubt 👍👍👍😜🦄🏴🎣😁🤞✌️ Great programe as always
I enjoy shooting both my springer and my PCP that's the key thing to me the fun of it .You can spend a few quid or thousands and be simple or complicated but main thing is they they give you that feeling of enjoyment of the sport of shooting
I just couldn’t justify spending 1K on a PCP coz I want that nice laminated wood, I want that nice scope with high end pellets and also I want spare money !
Thanks Andy. Another big difference is achieving accuracy. I have a Crosman gas-piston rifle, a Diana 34P spring rifle, and a Gamo Urban PCP. I use my rifles for pesting mainly and only shoot paper to verify my scope zero. The spring rifles take a lot of technique to shoot accurately and I was never able to get them to group well at 25 yards. The Urban on the other hand is very easy to shoot, requires no special hold, and is extremely accurate. The Urban is my go to pesting rifle and I shoot the break-barrels only on occasion, and not to pest. I fill my Urban with a cheap hand pump to 3000 psi and get 25 good shots. I am 73, weigh 185 lbs , and have no issues with using a hand pump.
Feels like it too same hole at 10 yards is lot harder with a springer, PCP is so easy. it's almost not fun to hunt with. My opinion tho and I love all airguns
Spot on! I'm a recent subscriber to you channel and only wish I had found your content sooner :) My collection includes a break-barrel, an under-lever and a side lever. Both in nitro and spring. I also have PCPs. I find that when I want to remember how I got into airgunning, I always go for the springer. There's something about them that makes me feel like a kid again, it also helps me stay sharp and accurate. Having said that, I do love my PCPs and how easy it is to be accurate with them. Plus it's a lot kinder to my scopes. I know I will buy more of both in future. Springer as well as PCP. :D
Springers are more accurate. Not because the gun is more accurate, but because when you've only got one shot it makes you put more concentration into each shot. Although price for price you get more springer for your money.
Had a Springer that destroyed the scope it came with and another one designed for spring guns, I’m 70 and open sights doesn’t work well anymore. Decided to try PCP 😃. The difference is like comparing a scooter to a Rolls Royce . Always look forward to seeing new videos thanks.
Good information. I'm looking to get into air rifles and a little overwhelmed by the choice but also limited by health. I've been a competitive archer for over 35 years (4 x World/Euro champ) but Stage 4 cancer I just don't have the strength to draw a bow anymore but still want to shoot something before I go stir crazy. I'm probably okay with a springer but 8-10 months down the line that may even become too much so I think PCP is going to be my best option. Something like the Walther 1250 Dominator is in my price range, or is there something better in that budget? I just want to shoot targets out to 70m
Hi Andy .I have been an avid air gun fan for 40 years. In the early days there were no affordable PCP rifles, it was all spring. I started with a BSA, them working through HWs, then various Air Arms. The first PCP I owned was a Titan Bearcat. ( Showing my age, Mc020 ?}. I get a lot more sense of satisfaction shooting a springer well, because there is more skill involved. I also did archery to a fairly high standard in the East Midlands. That for me was the same, as regards recurve or compound. A springer like a recurve bow takes practice to perfect technique, and is therefore more rewarding in the end. Where is the skill in strapping a camera onto a PCP, fixed firmly in a gun rest, standing back, pulling the trigger then waxing lyrically about how well you are shooting. In archery we had a saying, "Them that can do, those that cant shoot compound." Ps with Drapers being local its a good job we are in lockdown, I have an urge to relive by gone days with an Air Arms Pro Sport, that I cant really afford, have no use for, and nowhere to hide it from the missus.
Totally agree, I own a paintball gun and it is a very expensive toy as such I am in no way tempted to ever trade in my Dianna AR8 set up for a PCP air rifle.
Ha ha ha, the old argument !! .... I'm ex Army / ex Police. I love the feel of a springer, but I love the clinical accuracy of a PCP. However , when ever plinking , and shooting with my children, its always a springer . Competitions, its mostly always a PCP for me .
Spring is simple. Even if you break something you can fix it with basic tools. Even with a knackered main seal you can just plop a bit of moly in to keep you going, or chop up a bit of leather to make a seal. If an O Ring goes on your PCP you have a dead gun. On OK PCP will out shoot the best springer every single time though in every respect.
springers are durable and if no then there really easy to fix, plus in the long run way cheaper. Its like, comparing a really slow but reliable rifle, to a faster but more complicated under the hood.
Love pcp’s and I’m barely dipping my feet into that, but, I love springers too. I like looking at the high end break barrels like the German ones. Beautiful guns.
I have 2 springers, a C02 rifle and a C02 pistol. The springers are without a doubt more reliable and cost effective. Im currently looking at PCP once the lock down is over. May as well complete the family!
You aren’t kidding, you can get a really good Gamo with scope and silencer for 200-350 for a great one. But a basic pcp start around 400 and that’s without a scope 😅 that being said, first time buyer any recommendations?
SickDuck96 Gamo air rifles are very good even though they get a bad wrap. But I do think that if you go to your local air rifle store the workers should help you make your selection
I was brought up around springer rifles, my Dad always had them around. I prefer them to PCPs although I have a few of each. Springers are no fuss, there’s no tank or pump to lug around, they’re robust with no fancy gimmicks so there’s less that can go wrong with them. Die hard springer Man here.
When the world comes to an end and the power stops generating fake air. Bend click thunk... Will always work at generating dinner for skilled proponents. I think that small springer you pulled up reminded me of my first Baikal bought from the back of the shooting times for 40 quid. Same scope I fitted to it too. Gamo Falcon on the table? My childhood came at the cost of rabbits, crows, greys, and walnuts at 100 yards. It didn't need batteries pumps, compressors. And I never will. Watch me compete with an HW97K... Love the channel mind.
Andy, excellent subject, well covered, as always. I have sent you an email via your aar-OnAir Contact page. Please look out for it, you may find it useful.
Surrey Shooter Hi, thank you for your comment, and thank you for pointing this out, it is very much appreciated. Hopefully this issue has been corrected now, it is you guys who give this positive feedback that help us a lot. Please let me know if you still have any issue. Many thanks Andy.
Each have pro’s and cons. As long as it shoots well for you and you have confidence in it, it fits and feels good in your hands...I don’t think it matters. Doesn’t matter what the trigger is attached to as long as it continues to put a smile on your face is all that matters to me anyway. They are both awesome. Great review. Thanks.
I swear this is the most in dept and straight up philosophical air gun channel, it's amazing how long you can listen to a person when they're experienced in a subject and have the passion to teach others.
his accent amplifies it all
Great video and explanation.
Used a springer bsa in the early 80s that took out Rabbits and Pheasants up to 40m,that was 20yrs old when I got it.
Recoil,,the day I fitted a scope to it for the first time. BLACK EYE.😊
Springer and PCPs are like steam engines vs. modern locomotives. We know modern trains are better, but a steam train puts a smile on one's face...
Great comment 👍
right!!!
Well said that man!
A bit like my old lady well made a bit worn out but she can still put a smile on ye face but she will not do the🐕 and no toy's i e 🐇 and I was a bit Bram's and list I was on the job gave my old lady a good🐑🐑🐑🐂🌋 just make sure you get her name right or you are in the🚾 and 🔨ye🔩👊😖😭😵😰😷😱
pcp doesn`t use a piston though, and if springers and pcp are steam locomotives, just what are the modern trains?
Railguns?
I just like the 'pure and simple' mechanical nature of a spring gun. Pallets and a gun, that is all that is needed. No need for anything else. Lets go!
Yup, and so easy to tune /mess with
Life is too short to be pure and simple. Once you try pcp, there's no turning back to springy.
@@thennekcdcdthennek6417 forget PCP, i'll just go straight to meth!
Spring for ever
The best air gun is the one you can afford
TjDolHaus86 For some that is the selling point, if it’s not accurate it’s a waste of money , pay extra for quality , after all you are trying to hit the bulls eye repeatedly !
@@hotchihuahua1546 Eh?
The best gun is the one in your hand.
I have a high end PCP and and a high end fixie springer.
The one I've had the most rabbits with is a 40 year old sub 12fpe break barrel because
1/ you can Grab&Go. Unloaded on the bench to aimed shot in 10 seconds.
2/ if you want the same grouping as the others you just have to get a bit closer to your target.
For some things, it's also worth waiting. Delaying gratification leads to a lot of good things in life, if you do it right.
Springers = HW97, HW95, HW98, Pro Sport and TX200.
I have always been a springer guy, It's what I grew up with. It's ready when you need it to be and there isn't any need for an external fill source. I am sure if I ever get into PCP I will have the best of both worlds. It all comes down to preference and budget really.
InJ Airgun i couldn’t agree more, i have both pcp and springer and there is something about picking up my 1986 bsa supersport already 33 years old and still feeling like new, the pcp hardly comes out from her case, i just hardly get any joy out of it
Agree with you I love my airarms tx200hc in 177 cal /airarms pro sport in 22cal and my hatsan mod 125 sniper in 177 cal
My super sport was my favourite gun as a kid so light and accurate until I got a hw 77 at 30 ft lbs wow
@@gazgaz6749 Weihrauch never made a springer or the HW77 to have a 30FPE output. Sounds like someone was tinkering! The most powerful springer Weihrauch made or make is the HW80 and it is only approaching the 20FPE mark.
I agree with you, since my young age (born in the '60-s) I have been shooting springers and even now I am holding up with my V-Mach modified HW97K .22 cal. Having a lot of fun, even on 50 meters with FTT. If I would add a PCP, it would be the HW110K, but I am still not in doubt, because a springer is easy to maintain and my shooting sessions (at the back off my garden) never crosses the limit of 50 shots.
We love your knowledge over here in the USA Thank you for doing what you do.
Another great video, being old school I've never shot PCP I will stick to my faithful HW77 served me well for nearly 30 yrs.
I have owned several PCP's and replaced them with firearms. The only air rifle I have kept is the HW77K. It's 34 years old, now and smooth as silk
@@TriggerPullTV
Is that a PCP?
@@DinnerForkTongue springer
Nice. I was thinking the same thing. PCP might be nice, but will it be more satisfying to shoot than my hw50😂
@@TriggerPullTV”HW”?? What brand is this? Thanks.
Had my springer since 1975, still going strong 💪
I own both as many do but there's something satisfying loading and shooting a springer rifle
I've had my hw80 for over 30 years now and she has never had anything go wrong , not even the slightest glitch. The gun is still more accurate than I ever will be and to be honest I don't think I'll ever need any thing else. Very good video and I think you gave a fair assessment. Well done and thank you .
Very true
Spending a lot of time in this lock down with my 25 year old TX 200 and absolutely loving it and as Andy said, springers are ever ready.
I had a tx200 for my second air rifle, lived it. Was a lump carrying it around the fields after rabbits though!
Any idea how many shots she's taken?
My dad had a TX 200 it was a beautiful gun well made and heavy
@@KernowAirSniper God I know the feeling you knew you had been out after a night with this beauty, my brother totally underestimated the the recoil when he first fired it and got a nice black and cut eye for his ignorance lol me and my dad was howling laughing but I suppose we all learn those lessons.
@@KernowAirSniper😊
Although my son and myself haven’t been shooting for very long, I’m glad that we started with springers. It definitely gave us a grounding in the mechanics of how to shoot. We made the switch to pcp simply because as an arthritis sufferer it meant that I could shoot more often. I still enjoy a few rounds with my springer, but can now spend a day at the range without paying the penalty of massive shoulder, elbow and wrist pain afterwards. Having said that, there comes a lot of satisfaction from hitting a tight group at 35m with my springer, and although I love my R10se I wouldn’t expect anything less from it. So yes, I do enjoy both types of gun and from seeing the number of people at my range that shoot both, a lot of other people do too.
So true . and you will be a better shot knowing you only have one shot at the moment
I own both a springer and a PCP. I enjoy the challenge the springer presents (trigger squeeze, breath control, etc are more important) but also love the pure simplicity of my PCP and how it effortlessly reaches out to hit the target each time. Both represent everything I love about shooting and both are most satisfying to shoot. An excellent review, Andy! Well balanced, fact filled and honest as always!
I have an HW97 which although it is heavy, single shot with the recoil to boot, the feeling of practising good shooting skills with it are immense and I love it .
Own both, love both.... but if I could only shoot one ever again it would be the Springer.
Agree. My son and I I have 5 pcp's and 3 springers between us. Love them all. Spent a fortune on pcp's but if I was only allowed one air rifle till my dying day, then it would be my HW97.
100% agree you are true old school like me
I’m one of those crazy prepper guys who own both.Let me tell you when I have to head to the woods it’s the springer going with me. I do not need all that extra gear just to be able to shoot my rifle.
@@ronmeredith8144 this is my point exactly.
Hi Andy, I inherited my .177 BSA springer 50 years ago from my grandfather. I took it into my local gun shop for a minor repair, I lost a screw. They looked it up and found out it was made in Birmingham between 1914 and 1916. They made me a screw to replace the missing one. Trouble was they did not want to give it back. Lol. They wanted to keep it. It still got a hell of a kick to it. Also spot on accurate. Stay safe. John
At this point that a beautiful piece of history no wonder they didn’t wanted to give it back
Down here in Oz, anything that shoots is regarded as a firearm and air rifles are not limited to any power output. As a keen ,recently initiated airgun shooter, I find that the activity is bye-passed by shooters who prefer using firearms instead of air arms simply because ,as they are licenced to use firearms as are airgun shooters. Consequently, the need to worry about tanks and pumps etc. is not considered .when I go out on the range, I’m usually the only airgunner present ,but I might add that the other shooters show a keen interest when they see the accuracy and lack of recoil when having a shot. The only disadvantage is that the trade shows very little interest in the sport, and the sparseness of our country is so great that if I wished to visit the agent that supplied my rifle to have a meaningful conversation, I would need to drive about 2000 miles for the privilege.Similarly , any repair work or,even the purchase of good quality pellets demands substantial freight charges . In spite of all of the percieved disadvantages, the wonderful websites that yourself and Giles,etc. put up has encouraged me to carry on and enjoy the sport immensely. Cheers from Downunder ( Sunny Queensland)😷👍
miksal26......Right on man! Represent and keep up the genuine love of airgunning!! Props!
I have loved airguns from my very first Daisy airgun. Here in America lots of people think of airguns as toys though it seems like more people are coming around. I have many firearms but I still love my springer I can shoot it in my backyard when I can't get to the range and take care of pests.
Ditto to that brother.
Adelaide Airgunner here!
I've seen Aussies say that about gardening supplies. I admit to being surprised that a country with your population and wealth has to import so much of what people need. If you were a micronesian island, okay, but Australia is not small nor poor. I guess I don't understand much about Australia yet.
I did a lot of time consuming research when looking for my first air riffle and eventually settled for a very well looked after, second hand, professionally tuned HW97KT. I have never looked back since and continue to love and enjoy the ever ready poise, looks, power and accuracy of my German Springer. A good video highlighting the benifits and drawbacks of both types of air gun.
My springer has never let me down. PCP is to much money for the privilege of continuous firing. To each their own I guess. Good luck.
Not having an air rifle since the late eighties. I can say I'm. Mesmerized by the amount of different rifles and power mechanisms.
I'm the same mate. I had an HW80, but sold it to my mate when I went off to uni. I'm 57 now and overwhelmed tbh about what to go for. Is 'upgrading' the springs still a thing these days?
Very balanced presentation Andy.
I bet an awful lot of Airgunners who were 'raised' on springers have an affinity for them, even if they now shoot PCP's.
Today's high-end springers are superb quality and very consistent. My old faithful BSA Airsporter, whilst much loved, doesn't even come close to the Air Arms TX200 or Pro-Sport!
New shooters have a fantastic choice between springer or PCP.
I hand pumped a Condor for nine years. Used a older Dianawerks M-34. I enjoy both disciplines. Now, I have a compressor, tank, hand pump. That expense was a pain, but worth it. I shoot seven spring-piston rifles, and seven different PCP rifles. .177-50cal/511 bore. It's more adictive than my real firearms, and keeps miles off them too. I remember my first springer, a HW35E. I probably love my spring-piston rifles more for leisurely/ gentlemanly shooting
and PCP for carnage and varmint ventilation. I have very
old Webley pistols that all shoot still. Some days, I bring out the oldies for nostalgia. Good video for people who are making up their minds. I still can't chose one over the other. I like that old springer in the video, alot.
The price difference is a very valid argument, when I can one day afford a descent entry level regulated pcp and hand pump I'd love to get one. I have a couple springers and shoot a 2L bottle out to 70m and it's plenty fun, but I wouldn't shoot a pigeon past 40 meters with it as I don't want to injure any. That being said though a springer is perfect for picking birds out of trees or possibly even out of barns.
A decent PCP and pump can run you as little as $500 USD or so these days. The problem is that pumping gets really tedious really fast.
I agree with what you’re saying fully
Good video.I am a Springer guy. Bought a QB Chief and was fun for a month and then went back to springers. QB Chief just sits in the gun rack. After 50 hand pumps I am to tired to shoot it. LOL CHEERS!
Great debate Andy..... I believe age has to be factored in to this also. When I first started shooting air guns, prepared were in their infancy and springers were the norm. My first proper gun was a hw77 which I loved and ended up shooting field target with (in .22 at that!) Many of my friends had pcp's but the challenge was to match their scores with my springer. This taught me good gun control along with an understanding of trajectory and recoil. Skip forward 30 years.... I have several pcp's in my cabinet and love them, but I also always keep a spinger or two besides them. I prefer a gas ram to spring for the solid feel it gives, lack of maintainance and fact I can leave it cocked in the field whilst mooching around. The pcp's are easy to use and clinical in operation but take away the handling characteristics i learned years ago. So to me, the norm is still a spinger all the way but the pcp can make life easier when I want it.
One last thought.....during lockdown my local dive shop is closed and my dive cylinder needed filling. Its currently stood with 80psi in it waiting to be filled when the shop reopens. The hw90 has been out and about on a regular basis keeping the bunnies down in my horse padock without a thought to filling again....just another consideration to make....
Cheers and keep safe.
This is the reason why you invest in a filling method as well, I invested in an Omega Turbo charger, and no longer have to rely on any dive shop to top off my tanks! But I do agree, they each have their pros and cons. It all depends on what your needs are!
Spot on!
@@bugs2much Electric pumps are fine Until the power fails ! for true independence a hand pump as back up must be the way to go , or better still get a Springer / Gas ram or better still if you have the wedge have all 3 + a pump + electric compressor , You've got all bases are covered then , Stay Safe Stay Well .
@@richarddixon7276 I take it a step further. For my PCP's I have a SCBA (carbon fiber tank, 100 cubic feet at 4500 psi) tank that I try to keep MOSTLY full all the time, I think the lowest I've allowed it to get has been like 3500 psi. I have the compressor to fill up when ever I please. So, if the power goes out, I fill from my SCBA, and then I also do have a stirrup pump for those just in case moments. I just prefer the less hassle method. And on the original statement, he was complaining about refilling his tank at the dive shop, you wouldn't want to (eventhough it is possible) fill a SCUBA/SCBA tank off of a stirrup pump. Before I bought my compressor, I filled my 90/4500 tank with the stirrup. My choice (which now just collects dust in my closet) is the FX 4 stage pump. You can switch it from a 3 stage (low pressure, high volume) to a 4 stage (high pressure, low volume) when you get to the higher pressures. Switching from 3 stage to 4 stage makes it SO much easier to pump. I don't know if you've filled higher than 3k psi on a stirrup... it gets TOUGH! I am about 220lbs, and it takes most of that weight to reach the 4500 psi on that stirrup
@@bugs2much Nice ! You have almost all the bases covered , I'd never be without a springer though , I miss the recoil it's what I grew up with . Be Safe Stay Well & Keep on Shooting .
I never thought I’d be getting so much good tips on airguns and being entertained with witty comedic touch.
Hi Andy,
I shoot both for fun only, but I use the springer more because it is always stand by ready
Still have not bought my first PCP.. But will someday. Own just one springer (Crosman Phantom, .177cal) that is more than enough for my break barrel shooting. Mostly shoot co2 airguns at shorter ranges myself. That Crosman springer do have proven itself to be quite of a badass springer rifle - even though only cost me €135. The cheap scooe that came along even has been better than I thought it would be.
A very balanced and fair review which clearly drew attention to 'the options' available. Not wishing to appear sycophantic Andy, but your reviews are becoming more entertaining each time. Keep up the good work and whatever you do, don't apply for a job at the beeb, you are too unbiased.
Lockdown with my Diana 350 n-tec magnum and plenty of .22 pellets it's been a bad month for Rosellas and Magpies around my place lol, I love Hi end break barrels but pcp are top of the tree... 20mins ago put a shot on Rosella 40M no scope, dead... Great show btw
Ciao dall'Italia amico , la mia 350 classic a molla in.177 sviluppa 30 joule la 350 magnum n-tec cal.0.22 quanti joule sviluppa ? Grazie
I wish i still had a springer, This lockdown thing is expensive on pellets and i only have 1 12ltr dive bottle left .
Although last night i did manage to shoot lunch for the next day.
Well anyhoo i have to go pluck a pigeon, Thanks for your once again entertaining and informative videos they would make a great tv series.
I would recommend investing in a fill method for situations like this (dive shop getting closed) I invested in the Omega turbo charger, now I don't have to rely on anyone since I basically have air on tap!
@@bugs2much I was looking into that before this lockdown thing blew up, Perhaps after it all ends i can re save and get a decent pump.
Anyways thanks for the reply and i wish you and yours all the best stay safe.
And as Troy Landry says, Choot em.
@@MerlinVI I keep hearing A LOT about (even though I completely disagree about it) the Yong Heng compressor. It is supper cheap and will have you refilling your own equipment. I personally bought an Omega Turbo Charger and a Diablo filter... ($300 vs $2500) To me investing thousands into the air rifles, would justify equal value for an air source, not something subpar.
But hey, if you ask me, the Yong heng would be great for any starter trying to get into the sport as a temporary compressor. You would then have to continue saving up for a better, more reliable compressor.
Own both springer and PCP , well my Benjamin Marauder is about a decade old since I picked it up , just fixed it up and started shooting , very nice !! Own a springer as well , it has its own charm n convenience ... Still inclined towards springers !!
I think people like spring guns as they remind them of their youth.Good show by the way.
I brought a cheap set up from a friend last year just because it was cheap, and I can't tell you how happy I am that I did, the reason being it came with a brand new webley three stage pump and its such a blessing during the lock down, if I had to choose between a pcp and a springer I would choose my tuned tx 200hc a fantastic rifle in. 177 and. 22.
Nice to watch, to bring it with all the humor so funny!! Greatings from a springer shooter from the Netherlands!!
I like springers, I have an old Webley Hurricane.22 pistol that my father gave me for my 14th birthday, and when he passed I found a Gamo .177 in his closet. The Gamo is pretty low end but, it’s a lot of fun.
Learn to shoot a spring gun well , and every thing else is easy.
Agreed. I've said for years if you can shoot a spring powered air rifle on a windy day and consistently hit your target (safely), you can shoot anything.
@@typhoon-7 ive shot all sorts of things , all over the world , and i would totally agree ,
@@tomthompson7400 Couldn't agree more
right!!
thats the way i learned
I have both PCPs and Springers, and enjoy shooting both. The one comment I would like to make, which has become very apparent over the past few weeks and current lockdown situation, is the number of PCP owners asking how fellow shooters are filling their rifles. If you don't have a hand pump, or like myself have problems with your back and so can't use a pump, then once your bottle has run out you won't be shooting any more - at this point most would wish they had a Springer. Keep safe everyone.
Got my hw 95 haven't touched a PCP in a few years gotta love the hw springers
Wow, why?
@@Boz1211111 i have the walther rm8 with 3 spare 8 round mags and 6.8ltr tank and im thinking of getting rid of the lot and getting a hw95
@@valleybandit3390 why, seems like pcp is superior if you can afford it, it would be interesting to hear your reasons, maybe i am missing something
@@Boz1211111 the rm8 is a great gun and very accurate but its a bit heavy to be carrying around all day, ive had a few minor problems with seals/leaks ect and always keeping a eye on pressure and needing to take a tank with you on a long day out is a pain. The HW95 well....is a HW95 ;) cracking little gun dont need much reason to want one!
Myself going from break-action to PCP to unlock the potential for "follow up" shots, I began to watch your videos among many others. I find your pace more relaxed and entertaining while remaining concise and rich in information. Nuances no matter how small or pale can sometimes make all the difference between A and B and C and you don't let them slip by. What's even greater is your genuine personal experience and perspective. which helps defnes nuances with clarity all the while allowing us to learn the discernment. This is the richness that others lack while speaking in general terms for all. And considering the fact that you answered a question I asked you in an other video, 2 thumbs up!! Thank you Andy. Oh and since I just subscribed (May 2023).. I may be a little James to catch up. 😂 So expect more comments but mostly more "thank you's" .
andy, love to watch your entertaining reviews. if i watch more of them, i probably end up sooner or later with an airgun
Buy a nice mid range Springer / Gas ram first and learn to shoot it properly before you splash out & buy a PCP , watch as many different air gun shows as You can (Airgun 101 is a great place to start looking) , Check out Giles's revue on the Remington Express , also I recommend Big Dan's Airguns for more cracking revues . Be Safe Stay Well , Get a Springer !
@@richarddixon7276 great advice mate!!! Ditto to all of it.
Even this type of topic can be delivered in so awesome and humorous way!!! Wow.
I started on springers 35 yrs ago , and had what I could afford at the time , of course my finances were stretched between booze, records , driving lessons, etc , oh and my other hobbies , motorbikes , girls,,, so didn’t have high end stuff,, you could more or less walk down canals over the fields , anywhere out the way , and you didn’t shoot loads of pellets and missed half ur shots , but had fun, however I go to the gun range , with my pcp , hit most of what I shoot at and use loads of pellets and take it seriously, or is that cos I’m getting old? ,, they both offer a different experience of shooting a pellet projectile, at a given target , in the process of buying a German high end springer as I write this , and in the future getting it tuned then having the best of both worlds cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧
I own both! I find my Springer's are my go to rifles for evening shooting in my yard. I love both! Thank you for your input sir!
Same here 🎯
Hi Andy. I shoot both, I began with a springer then started a pest control jobs. Pcp came into its own. The BSA sporter didnt quite cut it. But i still have it! Stay safe
I'm a springer man. Main reason is a springer is all inclusive, doesn't rely on any extra gear to make it work and it's simple to maintain and repair. Firm believer in what can go wrong will. Secondly, the price difference, I like shooting but not enough to throw the amount of cash in that a decent PCP and all the bits costs. I have a Walther Terrus, stupid name but shoots well and a Diana 34 that's not too shabby either.
Well done. Excellent presentation. The older I get, the more I appreciate the simplicity of the spring gun. A good springer with a pocketful of pellets, and you're all set.
Been shooting springers for 25 years. I just got my first pcp a couple years ago and i am addicted all over again. 80 shots at over 50fpe along with added accuracy of pcp floats my boat. Springers have a special place in my heart but i will probably never buy one again. I have a handful of very nice springers already though.
From my childhood I remember just a handful of rifle brands ie Webley, BSA and Weihrauch and who could forget the Gatt Gun? Recently got back into air gunning and learning all the time from this channel. Keep up the good work Andy, unbiased as always. Got a Hatsan 900x to get me started, now awaiting delivery of my first PCP (Walther RM8), will be interested to see how it compares with the Hatsan, which in all honesty is not that great or consistent. So we shall see.
LOL i remember gat guns, more damage from the barrel shooting out than from pellet, good memories.
I got into "shooting" via FAC handguns. When that pleasure was taken away, I moved to FAC rifles but...was attracted by the engineering of old air pistols. That lead to springer rifles (old and new) with an ongoing admiration for quality engineering. Then came a farm and the need for vermin control. Enter the PCPs to my life. So, I love the freedom of springers and the practicality of PCPs. They all have my admiration. PS I think Andy did not mention the mechanical "danger" of dry firing a springer and the damage that may do to the rifle.
A well made springer has soul. A high end pcp may be more accurate, convenient, and powerful. But it has all the soul of a nail gun.
Absolutely right. As a perfect tool on the range or very high power, pcp all the way. Enjoyment in use and still perfectly capable as a hunting tool that will last a lifetime? A decent springer for me. My hw77 is 20 years old and still going strong.
@Repeat After Me: I could not agree more mate, "Go The Springers"!!!
I have conversations with my tx all the time she's a beautiful lady! ahha I couldn't agree more they have so much character and I also feel you are more involved with the rifle shot for shot and get to know her better, how they like to be held, how the trigger is squeezed best etc. You really get to know your springer over time. 4000 pellets through my tx 200 in the last month more pellets arriving tomorrow!!!
Inane arguments. Compare single-shots: A well-made pumper such as my Racine Blue Streak has far more of a soul than any springer. And my Leshiy has easily as much soul as any springer I've owned (including a San Rafael R-1), and far more power and much easier to shoot.
Peter Bachman Inane? You somehow have the qualitative ability to make the determination for me as to what has soul? Although I personally believe that the Racine may have a modicum of soul, the Leshiy appears to be the offspring of nail gun and a Swedish love pump. Thus eternally negating any chance of it ever developing any soul...
Great comparison of the 2 ideologies. One thought is how many wish they had a springer in the cabinet now with the lockdown and no open dive shop for refills. Am a great believer in having a springer for the days when its all just not happening and you still want some fun. ( 1976 HW35e)
Don't have to watch to know it's gonna be a great episode, keep it up!
I’ve got a Webley Hawk interchangeable barrels, a BSA Superstar mk1, Theoben Sirocco .20 & a Daystate Wolverine 303. I have had the springers for 30-40 years and still shoot them and am able to enjoy them, the pcp on my toes all the time.
🍿 looking forward to this, simply because we’ve never owned a springer before 👍🏼
Please look up "Artillery Hold" on You Tube or Google or ask an old Springer Shooter to show you before you try to shoot your rifle, you will need to master this hold before you can expect accurate results from your particular rifle and pellet combination.
@@craignapoli
Thanks for the valuable information, it will help me greatly when I try my first springer rifle!
Don't get Me wrong I love springer's , I don't own one PCP , but You Can buy a Semi Automatic PCP in the UK , problem is it's over 2 Grand ! it's called the Steyr Hunting 5 and looks glorious revues are all positive & I'd love to own one (When I win the lottery ) , Iv'e used PCP's but find them a bit Soulless , I missed the recoil ! , Andy has it just about bang on - apart from the Steyr bit , Oh and the bit about breaking the barrel @13:51 (ALWAYS ! keep hold of the barrel when it's broken whilst loading , accidents have & do happen, This Is aimed at New users So it is imperative that they are told early & don't develop bad habit's , to be honest it surprised Me when he didn't elaborate on it ) ,Other than My little rant I think it was a very fair & unbiased opinion with some really good points , Thanks Andy , Stay Safe Stay Well , Keep on Shooting .
Even though springers are louder, have more “recoil”, and are one shot etc. I can still clear the pests off the farm.
Springers...check; pumpers... check; single-stroke pneumatics... check; pre-charged pneumatics... check. 6 fpe to 60 fpe yup. .177; .22; .25 yup... need to get a .30. Bench shooting; 10m; casual target; plinking; pesting; field-target and hunting - all fun stuff. Sorry couldn't decide which I like best so I have several of each and shoot them all regularly :-) Thanks Andy - enjoyed the vid! ATB!
I can just about afford a decent PCP gun but as you said, the cost of the equipment needed to pressurise a PCP,is for me,a deal breaker. I have decided to go with a high end springer,namely an Air Arms .22 TX 200,with a decent scope.At 70 years of age,my decision is nothing to do with testosterone but is everything to do with money.If I could afford to,I would buy both but it is what it is. Love the channel by the way.
A stationary bicycle pump could be a reasonable answer in the hopes that A practicle principals.I still here the rumor of a great machine invented at a time when and wear purpose needed addressing practicality one type offers this in. The field.I can't pack around a pair of scuba tanks to control squirel populations.
As practical principles go.
i have yet to fire my tx200 w/ hawke scope $250 & recoil bullseye mount, but i want to shim the mount to keep scope innard's more secure.
I have both Andy , cos my introduction to air rifles was springers back in 1977 when I was a young lad, now 56 ,, so I have a hw99 to scratch the itch, of recoil, and twang, but also have a pcp. Modern generation, and intend buying a 97 under lever as well cheers shane uk 🇬🇧
Oh and have a gas ram
I’ve owned, shot and loved both. There’s no denying the efficacy of a pcp however I can’t get away from springers. There’s something about them that just makes me smile. I am now a one rifle man.
I'm a casual shooter, so prefer a springer, but I also own a QB78 (with a custom stock I completed recently, and a manual 10 round magazine)) and I'm thinking about adding a PCP to the stable, just 'cos. Buying a PCP is a more considered purchase though, because of all the factors you mention, so I'm still musing on that. I'll defo want a pump for it though, I guess that's a springer mindset, that I want to have everything I need to keep it working, it's an independence thing : -)
Andy I have been shooting for forty years and watch every review and could agree with you more on every subject as I have been there great keep it coming cpv
Pest control my hobby
Your vids are informative and a good time time to watch. Although pcp can even manage a Minie 50 cal lead I still prefer the .177 and .22 from a break barrel . Across the pond break barrels are not limited to 12ftlb. And YES, keeping the scope, iron or rds is a b... bit of maintenance. Any break barrel will shoot a bit different after a 1,000 pellet clean up. Keep it safe, keep it clean, stay wise.
I've had alsorts. Both PCP and springers. Springers just have such an organic feel to them. Always get fuzzy when I handle/ shoot a good springer. Currently have an HW95 an HW99s and my old (first ever airgun) BSA Meteor carbine.
When you can drive a modern car with clutchless auto/paddle gearchange, power steering, ABS, parking sensors and internet connectivity .... why would you want to drive an old MGB or TR4 or even E Type Jag? Lots of us do. Perhaps we're springer types?
Going to work .... in the rush hour , the modern rules. On a sunny day, on a country road the classic is king. Same with air rifles.
In the examples you've given.....one reason is they LOOK so much better than modern cars, lol!!
Just in time to watch your show with my kids on a Sunday morning thank so much keep up the good work I really like the impact compact mk2
Thats so awesome that you and your kids can connect through air gunning!
As a boy my introduction to shooting was with an old BSA Meteor my Dad had got from a friend. I loved that little Springer and it got hooked on the shooting bug.
As I grew up and could afford my own guns I moved to PCP's the difference to shooting them was effortless.
Just recently I bought a BSA Lightening SE to get back to basics. It was like learning to shoot again.
What would I choose between a Springer or PCP?
Any, any day of the week! I love my Airguns 😁👍👍👍. Great vid Andy. Thank you
Greo 76 - you left me hanging on ... which one??😅
Commenting at 0:57 here. Whether a springer or PCP is better depends on what you're looking for. If you want absolute precision or power, go PCP. If you don't absolutely need a lot of power, want something convenient, or just want to have relatively cheap fun, a springer is always a good choice.
My pcp is more accurate for me but soon go through 70 shots at the range so need to lug the bottle along love my hassle free 97KT 22 still very accurate can shoot all day though a bit heavy
Get a single shot tray it will slow you down and possibly improve your shooting
@@grahamharding1037 ABSOULTY!!!
So many people do not understand that a Springer (shooting pellets) is just as accurate as a PCP (shooting pellets) but very strictly requires an "Artillery Hold" to make it so, there are many great You Tube videos that will show you exactly how do this, please folks do not allow yourselves to believe that a good quality "Springer" is not pin point accurate!!! I have consistently hit match heads at 20m with my simple .177 set up.
Have a springer and PCP and like both. Air gunning is just plain fun
I have both use pcp for pest control and for hunting food but springers if plinking targets both fun am a better shot with pcp without a doubt
👍👍👍😜🦄🏴🎣😁🤞✌️
Great programe as always
I enjoy shooting both my springer and my PCP that's the key thing to me the fun of it .You can spend a few quid or thousands and be simple or complicated but main thing is they they give you that feeling of enjoyment of the sport of shooting
I was hoping you would include gasram rifles in the equation, particularly, are they as noisey as a springer?
A very good point, the Theoben gas ram imho is best of both to a degree, faster lock time, less noisy internals very accurate, wellmy old HW90k is. ,
A good well rounded argument for both. Yer pays yer money and yer takes yer choice!
I just couldn’t justify spending 1K on a PCP coz I want that nice laminated wood, I want that nice scope with high end pellets and also I want spare money !
Thanks Andy. Another big difference is achieving accuracy. I have a Crosman gas-piston rifle, a Diana 34P spring rifle, and a Gamo Urban PCP. I use my rifles for pesting mainly and only shoot paper to verify my scope zero. The spring rifles take a lot of technique to shoot accurately and I was never able to get them to group well at 25 yards. The Urban on the other hand is very easy to shoot, requires no special hold, and is extremely accurate. The Urban is my go to pesting rifle and I shoot the break-barrels only on occasion, and not to pest. I fill my Urban with a cheap hand pump to 3000 psi and get 25 good shots. I am 73, weigh 185 lbs , and have no issues with using a hand pump.
Springer vs PCP reminds me of..
Manual vs Automatic cars
Feels like it too same hole at 10 yards is lot harder with a springer, PCP is so easy. it's almost not fun to hunt with. My opinion tho and I love all airguns
I still have my 1960s Winchester Dianna sprinlger .177 that I hunted with thousands of times 50 years ago. It still shoots fine.🔫
Spot on! I'm a recent subscriber to you channel and only wish I had found your content sooner :) My collection includes a break-barrel, an under-lever and a side lever. Both in nitro and spring. I also have PCPs. I find that when I want to remember how I got into airgunning, I always go for the springer. There's something about them that makes me feel like a kid again, it also helps me stay sharp and accurate. Having said that, I do love my PCPs and how easy it is to be accurate with them. Plus it's a lot kinder to my scopes. I know I will buy more of both in future. Springer as well as PCP. :D
Jus bought my first springer yesterday best purchase I’ve ever made
Springers are more accurate.
Not because the gun is more accurate, but because when you've only got one shot it makes you put more concentration into each shot.
Although price for price you get more springer for your money.
Had a Springer that destroyed the scope it came with and another one designed for spring guns, I’m 70 and open sights doesn’t work well anymore. Decided to try PCP 😃. The difference is like comparing a scooter to a Rolls Royce . Always look forward to seeing new videos thanks.
Good information. I'm looking to get into air rifles and a little overwhelmed by the choice but also limited by health. I've been a competitive archer for over 35 years (4 x World/Euro champ) but Stage 4 cancer I just don't have the strength to draw a bow anymore but still want to shoot something before I go stir crazy. I'm probably okay with a springer but 8-10 months down the line that may even become too much so I think PCP is going to be my best option. Something like the Walther 1250 Dominator is in my price range, or is there something better in that budget? I just want to shoot targets out to 70m
Did you get one?
Hi Andy .I have been an avid air gun fan for 40 years. In the early days there were no affordable PCP rifles, it was all spring. I started with a BSA, them working through HWs, then various
Air Arms. The first PCP I owned was a Titan Bearcat. ( Showing my age, Mc020 ?}. I get a lot more sense of satisfaction shooting a springer well, because there is more skill involved. I also did archery to a fairly high standard in the East Midlands. That for me was the same, as regards recurve or compound. A springer like a recurve bow takes practice to perfect technique, and is therefore more rewarding in the end. Where is the skill in strapping a camera onto a PCP, fixed firmly in a gun rest, standing back, pulling the trigger then waxing lyrically about how well you are shooting. In archery we had a saying, "Them that can do, those that cant shoot compound." Ps with Drapers being local its a good job we are in lockdown, I have an urge to relive by gone days with an Air Arms Pro Sport, that I cant really afford, have no use for, and nowhere to hide it from the missus.
For me its about how a Gun looks ...and the PCP Bottle .....or tube or whatever, ruins it....its like using a Paintball gun. :)
I agree, but u do have some pcp's where the tube is hidden inside the wood but are damn costly, i prefer springers aswel for their model and ease
Im with you on that one 👍
Totally agree, I own a paintball gun and it is a very expensive toy as such I am in no way tempted to ever trade in my Dianna AR8 set up for a PCP air rifle.
The gas bottles look like grenade launchers. Yikes!
my thoughts exactly, they really dont look good..
Ha ha ha, the old argument !! .... I'm ex Army / ex Police. I love the feel of a springer, but I love the clinical accuracy of a PCP. However , when ever plinking , and shooting with my children, its always a springer . Competitions, its mostly always a PCP for me .
What's more likely to break spring or pcp
Spring is simple. Even if you break something you can fix it with basic tools.
Even with a knackered main seal you can just plop a bit of moly in to keep you going, or chop up a bit of leather to make a seal.
If an O Ring goes on your PCP you have a dead gun.
On OK PCP will out shoot the best springer every single time though in every respect.
springers are durable and if no then there really easy to fix, plus in the long run way cheaper. Its like, comparing a really slow but reliable rifle, to a faster but more complicated under the hood.
Love pcp’s and I’m barely dipping my feet into that, but, I love springers too. I like looking at the high end break barrels like the German ones. Beautiful guns.
Iam a fan of springer. Price is an issue for a PCP tho.
Thank you dear. You helped me buy my 1st Air gun, ofcourse PCP.
This debate of PCP vs Springer is as healthy as the age-old soda debate of "Coke vs. Being Eaten Alive by Wild Dogs".
⁰qpķ1
I'll opt for the latter on both counts :-P
Of course _you_ would say that.
@@DinnerForkTongue hey, My grandfather and his before him were eaten alive by wild dogs and it never did them any har, oh wait...
:-D
@@OldNavajoTricks
lolle XD Though I was referring to Ted in the first reply.
I have 2 springers, a C02 rifle and a C02 pistol. The springers are without a doubt more reliable and cost effective. Im currently looking at PCP once the lock down is over. May as well complete the family!
springer or pcp. do you want to spend some money or all your money?
You aren’t kidding, you can get a really good Gamo with scope and silencer for 200-350 for a great one. But a basic pcp start around 400 and that’s without a scope 😅 that being said, first time buyer any recommendations?
SickDuck96 Gamo air rifles are very good even though they get a bad wrap. But I do think that if you go to your local air rifle store the workers should help you make your selection
I was brought up around springer rifles, my Dad always had them around. I prefer them to PCPs although I have a few of each. Springers are no fuss, there’s no tank or pump to lug around, they’re robust with no fancy gimmicks so there’s less that can go wrong with them. Die hard springer Man here.
Springer, simply for the reason of cost.
When the world comes to an end and the power stops generating fake air. Bend click thunk... Will always work at generating dinner for skilled proponents. I think that small springer you pulled up reminded me of my first Baikal bought from the back of the shooting times for 40 quid. Same scope I fitted to it too. Gamo Falcon on the table? My childhood came at the cost of rabbits, crows, greys, and walnuts at 100 yards. It didn't need batteries pumps, compressors. And I never will. Watch me compete with an HW97K... Love the channel mind.
It’s been my experience that springers will eventually destroy a scope.
What a great and informative video. Thanks for the fair and unbiased reviews. For me a its a PCP for hunting and springer for fun!
Visit www.vector-air.co.uk
That thumbnail is the reason I prefer springers. I dont want all that extra crap
Andy, excellent subject, well covered, as always. I have sent you an email via your aar-OnAir Contact page. Please look out for it, you may find it useful.
The Facebook link does not work for me, anyone else?
@@surreyshooter Not for me either
Surrey Shooter Hi, thank you for your comment, and thank you for pointing this out, it is very much appreciated. Hopefully this issue has been corrected now, it is you guys who give this positive feedback that help us a lot. Please let me know if you still have any issue. Many thanks Andy.
Each have pro’s and cons. As long as it shoots well for you and you have confidence in it, it fits and feels good in your hands...I don’t think it matters. Doesn’t matter what the trigger is attached to as long as it continues to put a smile on your face is all that matters to me anyway. They are both awesome. Great review. Thanks.