How much does a .22 air rifle cost?

Are you considering getting a .22 air rifle for pest control, target practice, or general backyard plinking fun? If so, you may wonder, 'How much will it cost?' Luckily, many different types of .22 air rifles are available. They come in various shapes, sizes, and price ranges to suit any budget -and most importantly, they help provide hours of safe entertainment! So, let's explore what's out there by looking at the costs associated with these popular air rifles.

What is a .22 air rifle?

In the shooting world, .22 air rifles have gained immense popularity among enthusiasts for their versatility and accuracy. Chambered rifles for .22 calibre pellets have become a go-to choice for shooting activities, including target practice, small game hunting, and pest control. The .22 calibre offers a good balance of power and precision, making it an attractive option for both beginners and experienced shooters.

While performance and features are essential when buying an air rifle, cost is also a significant factor. The price range of .22 air rifles can vary widely, and understanding the cost implications is crucial for making a well-informed purchasing decision. So, let's delve into these rifles and what to consider when comparing their costs and features.

What Types of .22 Air Rifles Can You Get?

A diverse range of options are available to cater to various shooting preferences and purposes. Some common types of .22 air rifles include:

1. Spring Air Rifle: These rifles use a coiled spring and piston mechanism to compress air and propel the pellet. Spring-piston rifles are known for their simplicity, power, and reliability.

2. Precharged Pneumatic (PCP) Air Rifle: PCP rifles are powered by compressed air stored in a reservoir. They offer consistent shot-to-shot accuracy and high power levels and are popular among serious airgun enthusiasts.

3. CO2 Air Rifles: These rifles use disposable or refillable CO2 cartridges to power the shots. CO2 air rifles are often lightweight, easy to use, and suitable for plinking and target shooting.

4. Gas Ram Air Rifles: Instead of a coiled spring, gas ram rifles utilise a gas strut to propel the pellet. Gas ram rifles are known for reduced recoil, smooth shooting, and longevity compared to traditional spring-piston rifles.

What Can Affect the Cost of a Rifle?

Several factors come into play when considering the price of .22 air rifles. Understanding these factors can help you decide when purchasing the best air rifle. 

Power Type:

The type of power plant utilised in a .22 air rifle can significantly influence its price. Each power has its characteristics and advantages, and the complexity of its design can impact the cost. PCP rifles, for example, tend to be more expensive due to their advanced technology, higher shot count, and more consistent velocity.

Spring air rifles, which typically offer a more budget-friendly option, may be cheaper than PCP air rifles that require additional components like a hand pump or air tank.

Brand Reputation:

The brand's reputation plays a significant role in determining the price of a .22 air rifle. Established and well-known brands often command higher prices due to their quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction track record. These brands invest in research and development, ensuring innovative designs and superior craftsmanship, which can be reflected in the price tag.

Build Quality:

The build quality of an air rifle is another essential factor that affects its price. Factors such as the materials used, precision engineering, and overall attention to detail can impact the cost. Rifles with superior build quality, utilising premium materials like high-grade wood or advanced 

synthetic stocks tend to be more expensive. Rifles with smoother actions, tight tolerances, and excellent finishing often come at a higher price point.

An air rifle with a beautifully crafted walnut stock and precise metal work will generally cost more than a rifle with a basic plastic stock and less refined construction due to the difference in build quality and materials used.

Additional Features:

The inclusion of extra features can also affect the price of .22 air guns. These features may include adjustable triggers, built-in moderators, upgraded sights, ergonomic stocks, or accessory rails. Rifles with more advanced and versatile features come at a higher cost. An air rifle with a fully adjustable match-grade trigger, integrated silencer, etc, will likely be more expensive than a basic model without these added features. 

It's important to note that while these factors contribute to pricing, they do not necessarily indicate superior performance or suitability for every shooter. Evaluating your shooting needs, preferences, and budget constraints is crucial when purchasing a .22 air rifle.

So, how much are .22 air rifles?

The answer is that it depends. Prices of .22 air rifles vary depending on the brand, model, and features offered. Entry-level .22 air rifles (often basic models suitable for beginners or casual users) typically start at around £150. These entry-level options provide a good starting point for those exploring air rifle shooting without breaking the bank.

On the other end, high-end .22 air rifles with premium features such as advanced technology, exceptional accuracy, and customisations can command prices exceeding £700. These top-tier models are designed for experienced shooters or enthusiasts prioritising quality, precision, and performance in their air rifle equipment.

Prices for mid-range .22 air rifles with improved accuracy and additional features compared to entry-level models generally range between £200 and £500. These mid-range options balance affordability and enhanced functionality, making them appealing for shooters looking to upgrade from beginner rifles to more advanced configurations.

Where can you purchase these Air Rifles?

To find specific .22 air rifle models within your budget and preferred price range, you should explore reputable gun shops, specialised online retailers, and platforms like Just Air Guns, Gunstar, Air Rifle Shop, Pellpax, and The Airgun Centre. You can find out more information about where you can purchase these air rifles in our article.

For options that are great for target shooting, pest control, and small game hunting, you can look at some of the .22 Air Rifles we offer.

Air Arms TX200 From £719

• The TX200 from Air Arms is a renowned spring-piston air rifle known for its exceptional accuracy, high-quality construction, and smooth shooting experience. This underlever airgun is favoured by shooters for its precision, consistency, and reliability, making it a popular choice for target shooting, hunting, and competitive shooting sports.

• Take a closer look at this model here.

Air Arms S510 From £1,209

• The Air Arms S510 is a highly regarded precharged pneumatic air rifle known for its precision, quality craftsmanship, and advanced features. It is popular among airgun enthusiasts, target shooters, and hunters alike.

• Take a closer look at this model here.

Air Arms Galahad From £1,499

• The Air Arms Galahad is a unique bullpup-style precharged pneumatic air rifle designed for versatility, compactness, and innovation. This advanced airgun features a futuristic bullpup design where the action is placed behind the trigger, allowing for a shorter overall length while maintaining a full-length barrel for improved accuracy.

• Take a closer look at this model here.

It's important to note that these prices are approximate and may vary depending on the specific model, retailer, and any ongoing promotions or discounts. Additionally, availability and pricing may change over time, so checking with reputable retailers or online marketplaces for the most up-to-date information is advisable.

Final thoughts

Purchasing a .22 air rifle requires careful consideration of various factors. We have discussed the key points affecting these rifles' price, including brand reputation, build quality, powerplant type, and additional features.

Brand reputation plays a significant role in determining the price, as established manufacturers with a proven track record often command higher prices. Build quality, including materials used and craftsmanship, can also impact the cost. The type of power plant, such as spring powered air rifles, gas ram, or PCP air guns, influences the price, with PCP rifles generally being more expensive due to their advanced technology.

When considering a purchase, conducting further research, reading reviews, and consulting experienced shooters is recommended. This will help ensure an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements. Additionally, staying updated on pricing through reputable sources and marketplaces is crucial, as costs may fluctuate.

Remember

Remember, while price is a significant factor, it should not be the sole determinant when purchasing an air gun. Consider other aspects like performance, reliability, and suitability for your shooting style. Considering all these factors, you can make a well-informed decision when purchasing the perfect air rifle that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable shooting experience.

Here at Air Arms, we want you to find the right air gun for you. For information on PCP rifles, spring-powered airguns, air pistols, or even laws surrounding air guns (from junior air rifles and laws on licensing) contact us today.