Have Airguns REPLACED Rimfire? More POWER, Better ACCURACY?

Published on December 24, 2023
Duration: 20:29

This video compares a high-end Voodoo Gunworks .22LR bolt-action rifle against a Western Airguns 357 Rattler semi-automatic airgun to determine if airgun technology has surpassed rimfire. The test involves shooting at distances of 200, 300, and 400 yards, evaluating accuracy and power retention. The airgun demonstrated impressive long-range performance, with the reviewer concluding that modern airgun technology is on par with, and in some aspects, surpasses top-tier rimfire offerings, especially considering the significant cost difference.

Quick Summary

Modern high-power airguns, such as the Western Airguns 357 Rattler, are now capable of matching or surpassing the accuracy and power retention of expensive rimfire rifles like the Voodoo Gunworks .22LR. Tests at 400 yards showed the airgun offering comparable performance, often at a significantly lower cost and with greater availability, making them a serious contender for long-range shooting.

Chapters

  1. 00:46Introduction: Airgun vs Rimfire
  2. 01:01Test Airgun: Western Airguns 357 Rattler
  3. 01:46Test Rimfire: Voodoo Gunworks .22LR
  4. 02:14Shared Optics: ATN 5-20 Scope
  5. 02:32Ammunition Selection
  6. 03:19Comparison Premise: Airgun Tech vs Rimfire
  7. 03:58200 Yard Test Begins
  8. 05:00Second Shot at 200 Yards
  9. 06:12301 Yard Test
  10. 07:30Impacts at 300 Yards
  11. 08:16Pushing to 400 Yards
  12. 09:46Setup at 400 Yards
  13. 10:27Hit at 400 Yards
  14. 12:10Reviewing 400 Yard Impacts
  15. 13:34200 Yard Re-Test (Foggy Conditions)
  16. 17:21Conclusion: 400 Yard Limit
  17. 18:15Final Verdict: Airgun vs Rimfire at 400 Yards
  18. 19:40Airgun Technology's Advancement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can modern airguns match the accuracy and power of rimfire rifles?

Yes, modern high-power airguns, like the Western Airguns 357 Rattler tested, can match or even surpass the accuracy and power retention of top-tier rimfire rifles, especially at longer distances like 400 yards. This comparison highlights significant advancements in airgun technology.

What are the key differences between the airgun and rimfire rifle tested?

The test featured a semi-automatic .357 airgun with significant energy output (around 300 ft-lbs) and a high-end, expensive .22LR bolt-action rifle. While the .22LR is known for accuracy, the airgun demonstrated comparable long-range performance, often at a much lower cost and with greater availability.

How did the airgun perform at long range compared to the rimfire?

At 200 and 300 yards, both platforms performed well, but at 400 yards, the .357 airgun showed superior consistency in hitting the same point of impact. This suggests better energy retention and accuracy at extended ranges for the airgun in this specific comparison.

Is it worth considering a high-power airgun for long-range shooting?

For shooters looking for long-range capabilities without the noise, cost, or regulatory hurdles of some firearms, high-power airguns are becoming a viable option. The test demonstrated that they can achieve impressive accuracy and power retention at distances previously dominated by rimfire.

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