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

Published on March 14, 2026
Duration: 9:57

This guide details the use of the Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun for hunting cottontail rabbits, as demonstrated by an experienced shooter. It covers preparation, shot placement, and addresses a reloading issue encountered with the airgun's magazine. The video also highlights the utility of the Durwin Hunting E-bike for accessing hunting grounds.

Quick Summary

The Umarex Primal 20 air shotgun is effective for hunting cottontail rabbits, with successful clean headshots achieved at around 10 yards. Pattern testing showed lead-only shot at 25 yards to be the most effective. A noted limitation is the magazine's tendency to dislodge the shot cup plug due to recoil, effectively making it a single-shot firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introducing Umarex Primal 20 Air Shotgun
  2. 00:08Durwin E-Bike & Hunt Overview
  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 has demonstrated effectiveness in hunting cottontail rabbits, with a successful clean headshot achieved at approximately 10 yards. Its performance with lead-only shot at 25 yards also shows promise for small game hunting.

What are the key components and ammunition types tested with the Umarex Primal 20?

The Umarex Primal 20 utilizes unique 20 Gauge shot cups and wads that can be loaded with various projectiles, including lead shot, BBs, and mixes of both. Pattern testing was conducted with these different combinations at 25 yards.

What is the effective range and capacity of the Umarex Primal 20 for hunting?

The Umarex Primal 20 proved effective for a clean headshot on a rabbit at about 10 yards. While it has a magazine, recoil can cause the second shot's plug to fall out, making it effectively a single-shot airgun until manually reloaded.

How does the Durwin Hunting E-bike assist in the hunting process?

The Durwin Hunting E-bike, featuring fat tires and a rear rack, aids in accessing hunting grounds efficiently and scouting for game. It provides a practical means of transportation for hunters in varied terrain.

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