Can an Air Shotgun Really Hunt Rabbits? We tried it with the Umarex Primal 20

Published on March 14, 2026
Duration: 9:57

This video explores the hunting capabilities of the Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun for cottontail rabbits. The presenter conducts pattern tests with various ammunition types at 25 yards, finding that a lead-only load performed best. Despite a reloading issue encountered after a successful harvest, the Umarex Primal 20 is deemed effective for hunting small game, comparable to traditional shotguns. The video also showcases the use of a Durwin Hunting E-bike for accessing hunting grounds.

Quick Summary

The Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun is effective for hunting cottontail rabbits. Pattern testing at 25 yards showed that a lead-only shot load provided the best results. While a reloading issue was noted where the magazine plug could fall out due to recoil, the airgun proved capable of harvesting game.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introducing the Umarex Primal 20 Air Shotgun
  2. 00:08Hunting Overview with E-Bike
  3. 00:18Airgun Shot Shell Components
  4. 00:23Ammunition Testing Combinations
  5. 00:38Shot Pattern Testing at 25 Yards
  6. 00:49BBs Only Test & Air Shotgun Power
  7. 01:05Pattern Test Results - Mixed Shot
  8. 01:22Pattern Test Results - BBs & Lead Only
  9. 01:44Heading Out to Hunt with E-Bike
  10. 02:28Spotting and Taking a Rabbit
  11. 04:36Reloading Issue Discovered
  12. 05:46Primal 20 Hunting Effectiveness Conclusion
  13. 06:51Promoting Airgun Email List
  14. 07:20Next Day's Hunt & Shed Antler Find
  15. 09:05Decision on Hunting Doves & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun effectively hunt rabbits?

Yes, the Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun can effectively hunt cottontail rabbits. After pattern testing, a lead-only shot load provided good groupings at 25 yards, and a successful headshot was achieved on a rabbit.

What ammunition performed best for hunting with the Umarex Primal 20?

For hunting cottontail rabbits with the Umarex Primal 20 at 25 yards, a lead-only shot load demonstrated the best patterning and effectiveness, covering the target card well.

What are the key components of the Umarex Primal 20's ammunition system?

The Umarex Primal 20 utilizes unique 20-gauge shot cups and wads that can be filled with various types of shot, including lead, BBs, or a combination of both, allowing for ammunition customization.

What potential issues were encountered while hunting with the Umarex Primal 20?

A reloading issue was observed where the plug for the second shot fell out due to recoil, rendering the airgun a single-shot until manually reloaded. This may impact the ability for rapid follow-up shots.

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