Beeman GS950 .22 Review

Overall Rating

Simple and accurate, yet extremely quiet for urban pest control. Out of the box and after 80 rounds in my apartment (10 meter range) I was shooting sub-1/2" groups.

The manuals for a shooter who is new to air rifles were *fair* (they instruct you how not to shoot yourself or your favourite pet) but do not do a good job of explaining how to "shake hands" with your new air rifle. Check out "Sniper Country" for advanced techniques or search on Google for tips and techniques.

Beeman GS950:
I read a lot of reviews and did a great deal of research online to find the best air rifle for me. I wanted to make sure my first air rifle was not a bad experience. I wanted a rifle you could use for urban pest control in an urban/suburban environment (mainly "dumpster chickens" that start making noise at 4:00am outside the apartment). I've used a number of rifles from .22 to .308 and .50. This was my first "air rifle".

From the factory, the scope was well-tuned but I strongly recommend screwing off the turret covers after 30 rounds and making some fine point adjustments. I went from 3/4" in the upper left corner of the target to sub 1/2" dead centre after making the corrections.

By the way, the GAMO pellet trap is a must for shooting indoors.

I haven't tried any long range shooting so I cannot comment on long range ballistics.

I read the other review on this air rifle and I think Pyramydair and Beeman have listened to their customers because the delivery and product were first rate. The wood stock is gorgeous, the scope is accurate, and with a little "breaking in" (read 80 rounds), I am extremely pleased.

I believe I made the right choice with this air rifle and after spending a lazy Sunday afternoon behind the scope, I realize that the focused relaxation and breath-control drills I learned years ago are no longer restricted to the nearest .243/.308 rifle range but could also be accomplished within my own little apartment.

As far as comparisons go, I can't offer much advice. I am totally new to the air rifle sport. However, this rifle was a welcome pleasure and I encourage readers to research based on what they would like to get out of their air rifle experience. Decide whether or not .177 or .22 matters (pest control) and whether or not the "Sub-1000" club might influence their decision---no one wants their neighbours to wake up to a supersonic 'crack' at 4:00am. I have no doubt there are supremely accurate .177 rifles in this price range (~$250) but when you add the scope and the "out of the box" accuracy, I believe I received a great deal more than I expected for the price.