Pros
- Impressive power and accuracy.
- Quiet operation.
- Great value for money.
- Solid build quality.
Cons
- The included scope might require an upgrade for more seasoned shooters.
- Breaking the barrel might be tough for younger users.
Having had the privilege of owning and operating the Gamo Varmint Air Rifle for a while now, I'd love to share my experience for anyone considering purchasing this weapon.
Straight out of the box, the rifle feels good in your hands. It has a decent weight and feels sturdy. Taking a cue from the advice, I opened it up and took a keen look at the scope and literature provided. Everything seemed straightforward, but I took my time to ensure that the scope was properly mounted. I did find the included instructions handy.
Zeroing the scope can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with it, but here’s a tip: patience is your friend. My average shooting distance is within the 10-20 yards range, making it perfect for backyard practice and controlling small pests. I've had some impressive hits within this range: from squirrels to sparrows. In fact, on my best day, I had 3 confirmed hits – a squirrel at 9 yards, a sparrow at 12 yards, and another bird at 18 yards. The power and accuracy are impressive, especially considering the rifle's price point.
Speaking of power, I was taken aback by the sheer force this rifle packs. The pellets fly at an impressive 1250 fps and can penetrate surprisingly deep targets. The rifle even has a slight kick to it, which honestly, I wasn’t expecting from an air rifle. It's worth noting that the rifle can easily shoot through fences, so always be mindful of your background.
Another perk is the sound - it's surprisingly quiet. Given that I don't have a huge backyard, ensuring that I’m not causing a disturbance is important, and this rifle guarantees that.
Now, onto the scope: the included Gamo scope, while serviceable, had me contemplating an upgrade. After some time, it seemed to waver just a bit, and I found myself re-sighting more often than I'd like. Perhaps I might've received a defective one, but from what I’ve heard, a few other users have had similar experiences. That being said, the fact that the rifle comes with a scope at its price is still commendable.
In terms of usability for the younger folk – yes, the break barrel does require some force. My 7-year-old nephew tried it out, and let’s just say, I was on standby to assist him every time he wanted to reload.
Final Verdict
For its price, the Gamo Air Rifle is an impressive piece of equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter looking for some backyard practice or someone trying to control pests, this rifle won't disappoint. Just keep an eye on that scope, and you’ll have a great time!