Air Fare: Umarex Air Pistol Report

Air guns have always been a great way to introduce young ones and beginners to the thrills of shooting. They're also an excellent training aid for shooters of all skill levels.

Air pistols have come a long way in recent years. Several models now replicate the appearance and function of traditional pistols, allowing shooters to become familiar with handling and discharging firearms without experiencing the noise, recoil and muzzle flash of an actual pistol. For new shooters, air pistols are also useful for learning basic firearm safety principles without the pressure of handling a traditional firearm. For experienced shooters, air guns excite reminiscent youthful experiences and remain commonly useful in tactical training or competition purposes.

Guns & Ammo recently tested a variety of Umarex USA air pistols capable of discharging pellets, steel BBs or Airsoft BBs. All six air pistols maintained a common theme: these ship-to-the-front-door alternatives make shooting a little less expensive. Not to mention they're just downright fun.

Accuracy was tested from a distance of 10 meters, and velocities were clocked with a digital chronograph.