The old saying is that money doesn’t grow on trees. Yes, the struggle is real and these days more and more people are struggling to pay their bills, let alone pick up some new gear for their hobbies. Inflation and stagnant wages are tag-teaming us average Joe's to cause pain. One of the nice things about many of our airguns is that it does not cost a fortune (large or small) to get into PCP airgunning.
Small Game Hunting Solution
The small game hunting air rifle that first comes to mind is the Origin in .22 caliber. This rifle was an instant hit when it was first introduced since it was packaged with a high-pressure hand pump. This and the Origin’s unique pre-pressurized (Ever-Pressure) tank added up to an extremely convenient, affordable, powerful, accurate air rifle. Not to mention that the Origin is not a heavy or otherwise awkward PCP, many small game hunters jumped on the bandwagon of this air rifle. Even though the Origin is filled with a hand pump, you don’t have to pump forever and a day in order to fill it. From completely empty, the gun can be filled to take a full power shot with only 13 pumps. Now you will no doubt want to fill with a bit more air than that, but know that you don’t have to pump all day to fill it. Top the rifle with your favorite scope, get some quality pellets and hit the woods!
A second rifle bears mention in this category, as well. This would be the Komplete NCR, introduced in mid-2024. Instead of a pump, the Komplete uses a pre-charged nitrogen cartridge (NitroAir). This cartridge allows you to take 45 regulated (50+in application) shots while enjoying all of the benefits of a PCP. You know, power, accuracy, smooth operation, multi-shot performance but also without the need to pump. Not only is the Komplete a solid rifle, but it is very affordable, especially if you are primarily a hunter.
Hunting Larger Game?
The biggest bargain we have going right now is the AirJavelin Pro. This is an arrow gun that is powered by an on-board high pressure tank. In other words, it’s a PCP arrow gun. With a 176 grain arrow, the AirJavelin Pro slings arrows at 370 FPS. With a 75 or 100 grain broadhead, the arrow will slow down a bit but it is still suitable for larger game hunting. Since the tank is only 7.4 cubic inches, it is very easy to fill the tank with a handpump. Unfortunately, we don’t have a stand-alone pump to bundle with the AirJavelin Pro, but you can pick up one from one of the other airgun specialty shops out there for a reasonable price and get into larger game airgun hunting for a small entry fee. The AirJavelin Pro has been used to hunt wild hogs, coyotes, javalina, deer, and even black bears. Don’t let its small size and light weight fool you, the AirJavelin Pro means business.