Written on: 31/12/2012 by ampmaestro (19 reviews written)
It's all about having the quality of build to match the power, and with the Diana 350 you get the best of both worlds. It has enough serious power in the .22 calibre (and .177 I guess) to cover about 100% of your airgunning needs and you don't ever have to ask yourself if it will hang in there because it more than likely will. The rifle is an extremely well built unit and with its new T06 trigger is so smooth to fire. You do have to adopt a good hold to get great accuracy though and you... (read more)
Written on: 30/07/2012 by BottleBuster
This was not cheap to buy around 460 Euro plus a decent zoom scope & of course Diabolo Exact pellets. I tried the standard 4,5mm pellets but the velocity so so high that the pellet exceeded sound speed ( audible crack when fires) & accuracy was poor. So I tried 4,52mm & boy what a difference. Accuracy over 65 meter was perfect & would break a vodka bottle filled with water at that distance on first hit. The gun oozes quality, construction is solid & the gun is relatively heavy compared to my... (read more)
Written on: 04/05/2012
I have bought my brand new RWS 350 .22 magnum air rifle a few days back. My first shots with H&N Baracuda 21.10 grain (sorry, don't remember the exact weight) and H&N Field Target Trophy 15.10 grain pellets, made in Germany, are great. I had owned HW80 .22 (FAC), Gamo Stutzen .22, Winchester X1000.177, and Hatsan Mod.60 .22. I have also test-shot several pellets from Webley Patriot .22, Gamo Extreme 1250 .22 and other strong springers. My experience tells me that 350 .22 magnum is, so far,... (read more)
Written on: 08/03/2012 by FacetJockey (3 reviews written)
I have 2 RWS 350's, a Feuerkraft in .177 and a Magnum in .22. Both are one hole shooters if I do my part with a consistent hold. At my indoor 25 foot range I regularly put 10 shots in a 1/2" bull. I rest the rifle just ahead of the trigger on a bundle of rags using my off hand to steady my shooting arm that is also resting. This target hold gives very tight groups with all types of ammo so far. If the groups begin to widen it is solely because I was sloppy with the stock to shoulder... (read more)
Written on: 09/03/2012
CORRECTION;
The compensator I used on the Feuerkraft .177 was a 10" Picatinney converter unit made by UTG for RWS's with the T05 trigger. It is just out so it may be hard to find for a while.
Written on: 02/10/2010 by Charlie Lurp (1 review written)
Just started working with my new 350. Great accuracy and trigger but I'm not getting the high FPS always quoted in the catalogs. Most lead pellets are turning in something between 790-830 FPS over my Crony. When I do the math it means they are all giving me between 20 and 21 pounds. I was kind of hoping for a 24 pound rifle but that is kind of an arbitrary figure I pulled out of the air I guess. Maybe as the rifle breaks in the FPS will climb a little. Overall, I'm very happy with the rifle (read more)
Written on: 09/09/2010
What power this air gun has good shooting. Accuracy a bit heavy to hold
but great power. for the trapline. it will dispatch Coyotes & Fox
Coons Feral Cats. pest birds. Rats the size of cats.target shooting
it also will go thru a 5 gal paint plastic bucket. I use supperdome 14gr
pellets. & Meisterkugeln professional line pellets. 14.0 gr - Heaver pellts are a bit slower but great knock down power.RWS MAG 350 22 CAL.
GREAT AIR GUN ALL AROUND.......................
...
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Written on: 27/04/2010
hi every one this is shoeb from india i have recently brought my diana 350 mag .22 and im quiet impressed with its power.I use it especially for hunting and i was really amazed when i shot a rabbit at a distance of 90 meters,it was a perfect kill shot.
my second best shot was at a distance of 68 metres i have blasted a big farm sized rat.
(ammo=rabbit mag 2)
(weapon diana rws 350 mag .22)
(read more)
Written on: 19/06/2011
I would like to know how Shoeb bought his RWS 350 in India. I want to buy too as I am so much interested with th mag 350.
Thank you.
Aiurgunlover for sports and target shooting
Written on: 17/04/2010
I've owned an RWS 350 .22 since they were introduced, the only problem with this gun I've ever had was scope creep. Thats intrinsic with any springer this powerful, all real magnums have this problem. The best remedy for this I've found so far is use the beefiest one piece scope mount you can find, and as for that set screw near the front of mount that is supposed to go into that dimple on the scope rail (slide the mount forward and let that set screw hang down in front of the scope rail)... (read more)
Written on: 28/11/2009
I'll openly admit I'm a sucker for power. Dollar for dollar the RWS 350 will give you the best power and quality combination of the magnum class springers I have tried. I simply could not justify the 3x price of a new Theoben Eliminator even though I'll admit it is the "class" of the big springers. The Theoben is a beautiful air rifle and a bit more powerful than the RWS 350. I liked the looks of the Gamo Hunter Extreme better than the RWS 350 and even got to shoot one. It was much harder to... (read more)
Written on: 15/09/2009
I've been shooting my RWS 350 with a Golden Antler scope and JSB or Predator pellets. My rifle is tuned and the barrel is chopped and crowned. I would recogmend this procedure to anyone with this rifle. It lessens the weight,eases cocking,and improves accuracy.
It's important to master the artilery hold on this one.
(read more)
Written on: 25/07/2009
I have had the RWS 350 for over a month now (.22 cal), broke my first scope with it and purchased a leapers 3x9-50 scope with utg rail mounts. Will see how long that lasts. Accuracy is good enough to shoot the tops off dandelions at 35 yards and hit pop cans at 70 yards all day long with crosman premier hollow points.
After about 2000 rounds it is cocking really smooth now and settling in.
I like the accuracy but don't like the weight. BUT for a break barrel rifle it doesn't get much...
(read more)
Written on: 23/06/2009
While 1,200 f.p.s. sounds impressive, experienced airgunners know it's best to keep the terminal velocity of diabolo pellets below the threshold of the sound barrier for best accuracy. Any object traveling at or above the speed of sound (a variable velocity that remains around 1,100 f.p.s. at sea level) creates a wave of pressure through which it must pass. That wave is disruptive to shapes not streamlined for supersonic flight - which the diabolo pellet definitely isn't. The pressure wave... (read more)
Written on: 23/06/2009
While 1,200 f.p.s. sounds impressive, experienced airgunners know it's best to keep the terminal velocity of diabolo pellets below the threshold of the sound barrier for best accuracy. Any object traveling at or above the speed of sound (a variable velocity that remains around 1,100 f.p.s. at sea level) creates a wave of pressure through which it must pass. That wave is disruptive to shapes not streamlined for supersonic flight - which the diabolo pellet definitely isn't. The pressure wave... (read more)
Written on: 04/05/2009
The RWS 350 is well made, hard hitting and accurate. A great hunting choice. With a long rail scope mount and a decent scope it's is a killer combination for ground squirrel, rabbit and other furry critters in the same size range. Choose your ammo wisely. Mine likes 14.3 grain Crossman Domed Premiers. If you're looking for a springer this gun the is one. (read more)
Written on: 04/04/2009
Me and my granpa both bought this RWS 350 gun and we both ran into the same problem as everyone else, Its acurarcy sucks, and we cant get groups smaller than 5 -6 inches, we tried 5 differant typs of pellets and the best we found were gold ones. (read more)
Written on: 09/04/2009
hmmm... I would have normally said : "you probably got a lemon"... but I suspect you are not holding this quality German air rifle correctly. search on Google: how to properly hold an air rifle. It makes the world of difference!!!!
Written on: 28/04/2009
You did not say if you have the .177 or .22 caliber. If the .177, be aware the Velocity rating is listed at 1250 fps. Anything over 1080 fps is going supersonic so ANY pellet will begin to tumble and lose accuracy. You must slow it down either by using a heavy pellet or by detuning.
Written on: 23/05/2009
I suppose I'll have to concur with you on the occasional poor manufacturing quality of the 350's that are made. Most are well made. As 99% of the reviews are positive.
<br/>
<br/>I also encountered a poorly made 350 model that slipped through the final inspection. I did have to send it back, of which upon a quick turn around time yielded an extremely reliable & accurate rifle.
<br/>
<br/>It is a big gun, requiring the shooter to work out physically so as to "learn" to shoot such a power plant. Mine is a .350 in .22 caliber. And yes I get tired holding it up, shooting and cocking. After an hour I'm pooped, I don't bench rest the gun, I sit or stand free.
<br/>
<br/>Yes there are guns that shoot easier and are more accurate if not just as. But I feel the reason the RWS 350 in either caliber is so popular is that buyers, consumers or airgun shooters want the "power" ....and the balance of better made manufacturing components & quality than most other brands that have cut costs by using plastic or producing it "off shore".
<br/>
<br/>I hope you give the RWS 350 another chance. And if not that's okay too, I'm just as picky as to what I like to shoot. The 350's come in a wide array of features & configurations now, if you go to diana mayer gammel spacher.com or diana airguns .com.
<br/>As for Umarex and their customer service, I was treated well. I always approach customer services carefully.
<br/>
<br/>Never criticize your mechanic before or when he is tuning your car.
Written on: 23/03/2009 by goldenman (1 review written)
I read all the reviews Icould before buying a 350. It seems most complaints are about accuracy. I've had a R1 and FWB 124 about 20 years ago, so I know what accurate air rifles can do,and I know how to shoot them. This is the first air rifle that I have shot with iron sights, as I always had a scope on my other rifles. I have found, at least for me, that I need to have a light hold on the front of this rifle for it to be accurate. Or at least accurate for me with iron sights. The 350 I... (read more)
Written on: 05/03/2009
I found the RWS 350 the scope requires constant re sighting in as it will not stay on target for more then a day . It is strong and good looking but highly inaccurate. Personally, I would not guy it again . (read more)
Written on: 16/06/2010
were you using a scope and mount designed specifically for airguns? probably not
Written on: 06/02/2009
I bought my Diana 350 .177 magnum one years ago. I did not have any gun in my hand for almost 30 years. I used telescopic sits 12x50 - Nikko st. I have no problem to hunting rabbits up to 50-60 meters with Barakuda Match heavy 4,53mm. I think that those pellets are the best for this rifle. There is my results.(best of five) Barakuda: 4,51mm - 941f/s(1m) - 28mm/c.t.c.(50m) 4,52mm - 973f/s(1m) - 25mm/c.t.c.(50m) 4,53mm - 981f/s(1m) -... (read more)
Written on: 01/02/2009
This rifle is one of the best on the market. I've owned the RWS 350 for 2 years and shot several thousand targers shooting completely through most all. It shoots well with most all airgun ammo. I wish I had bought one earlier (read more)
Written on: 26/01/2009 by Dale Smith (1 review written)
I'm very displeased with the acuracy of this gun in .177. Thus far I have put about 150 rounds thru the gun. I bought the heaviest pellets I could find locally. RWS Superdomes, 8.3 gr. and then Crossman Premier Hollow Points that I didn't go to the trouble of accurately weighing but which tipped the scales set at 8.3 in the heavy direction. Probably over 9 gr. According to info I've read these weights should be sufficient to keep the velocity well below the speed of sound. My groupings... (read more)
Written on: 06/02/2009
I am trying almoust 20 different pellets. The best is Baracuda Match heavy 4,53. You can hit 20mm c.t.c. at 50m easely.
<br/>Do not use pellets under 10gr. weight.
<br/>
<br/>Best regards,
<br/>
<br/>Zoran
<br/>SLOVENIA
Written on: 09/02/2009
USE WALTHER OPTIC FOR MAGNUM MODEL AIR RIFLE. IT IS STRONG WITH SPECIAL STRONG MOUNT FOR DIANA RAIL.
<br/>I BROKE TO SCOPES IN THE BEGINING (HAWKE 4-12X50 AND NORCONIA 8X56, BOTH AFTER ONLY 50-100 SHOTS)
<br/>WITH WALTHER I DO NOT HAVE ANY PROBLEM AFTER 2500 SHOTS.
<br/>YESTERDAY I AM TRYING THE FIRST TIME JSB EXACT HEAVY 4,52 - 10,3gr. ON 50m I GOT THE SAME ACCURACY LIKE BARACUDA (20mm/c.t.c.) , BUT 2 cm HIGH. THERE IS A VELOCITY TEST:
<br/>BARACUDA 4,53 - (974f/s-1m) and (703f/s - 50m)
<br/>JSB EXACT HEAVY 4,52mm - (993f/s-1m) and (806f/s -50m). IN THE EVENING I SHOT RABIT ON 55-60m IN CHEST AND PELLET GO THRU HIM. AFTER TWO JUMPS, HE DROP. THIS IS A GREAT HUNTING PELLET, IT HAS THE BEST BALISTIK OF ALL MY PELLETS AND HIGH VELOCITY AT THAT WEIGHT.
<br/>IT HAS ALLSO A LITLE SMALLEST HEAD AND IT IS EASY TO PUSH INTO RIFLE. TRY IT?
<br/>I HOPE, I HELP YOU. IF YOU LIKE TO KNOW SOMETHING...
<br/>YOU WILL SEE, THAT YOU HAVE AN EXELENT RIFLE!
<br/>BEST REGARDS,
<br/>
<br/>ZORAN
<br/>
Written on: 26/12/2008
A very smooth cooking and accurate german gun. Do not mount scopes, its a hasle, open sights are fun and still dead accurate!!
THe RWS 350 air rifle is:
long lasting
finest german quality
accurate
extreme power (right out of the box!!)
It can be a little noisier that expected.
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Written on: 18/12/2008 by Hardcorediver44 (2 reviews written)
My first Magnum springer rifle and well worth the extra price. Looks very nice hanging on the wall and have used it to take rabbits from 50 yrds out no problem. RWS is the starting point if you want to get into real quality adult air rifles. (read more)
Written on: 30/10/2008
Save your money stay clear of this rife !!!!!! The looks of the RWS 350 are great and so is the power, dont get me wrong these are good things, unfortunately the accuracy of the air rifles is really really poor so i would not be able to recommend (read more)
Written on: 16/11/2008
I don't know how many shots you have put thru you gun or if you know how to shoot it properly but at 30yards I can make 5 shot groups all day that can be covered by a dime. Maybe your's has a flaw If your is .177 you should be shooting 10gr pellets. Lower weight pelletts will go super sonic then you won't be able to hit the side of a barn. With the proper pelletts and right hold you will find that the 350 is accurate and it will take close to a 1000 rounds to break the gun in properly-Scott298
Written on: 07/01/2009
Hmmm,
<br/>Could you please be more discriptive with your information?
<br/>Describe your the shooting inaccuracy, point of impact, how you tried to rectify your negtive experiences.
<br/>What you normally shoot, what calier.
<br/>What you would recommend instead....
<br/>
Written on: 11/01/2009
I found this review unhelpful due to not enough information to offered explaining the reviewers' negative rating.
Written on: 30/09/2008
If you like power with looks, this is the weapon. Go for it! A fantastic weapon. Has great power & brilliant stability. Sleek lines, nice checkered forearm grip & good overall finish. Accuracy leaves much to be desired. (read more)
Written on: 21/12/2008
I don't know about you but once the gun is broken in and you learn how to use it the accuracy is there. Mine is in .177 cal at at 30 yards I can get 10 shot groups that can be covered by a nickle. I have a leapers 3x12 scope and the leapers mounting system for the 460. your biggest problem could be with barrell droop-that doesn't mean the gun is broken-it means that when you scope it the barrell aims a little lower than what you are seeing thru the scope. And if you have a scope you will continue to have accuracy problems until you correct it. If you go on Pyramyd Air blog they are plenty of blogs that cover hol and barrell droop alonfg with scoping the rifle. The other day I dropped a crow at an estimated 65 yards in one shot-that's how accurate they can be. You may want to take yours to a gun smith and give it the once over and if there is a problem rws will take care of it pronto-Happy Holidays
Written on: 29/09/2008 by scott298 (6 reviews written)
To start with I have various rim-fire and center fire guns along with shot guns and blackpowder. I haven't used them in years due to a wide variety of reasons. While making the x-mas returns I happened to be in a sports store and decided to look at pellet rifles, my wife took notice of this and encouraged me to buy one-go figure. I walked out with a gamo 440 with scope. Once home I set up targets in my backyard and got down to business, herein lies the problem-I've always loved to shoot... (read more)
Written on: 31/10/2009
I found this review very helpful because.I'm thinking of buying one.I just tried a .22 cal.Remington Summit,two actually, returned both because they shot so inaccurate. I guess you get what you pay for. I am going to give the rws 350 a try, and hope it groups like my two other .177 cal. spring guns...
Written on: 08/08/2008 by JoeSpringer (1 review written)
I bought the RWS 350 awhile ago online, fast service I must say. Well I also have the RWS 460, 52 and a Beeman RX2 one day I took them out in the woods shooting with some friends. We set out two field targets one at 35 yards and the other at 45. I started switching out between the RX2, 460 and 52 for the first half hour and not having much luck. I normally do not use these air guns for field target because they are all .22 caliber but for air gun hunting they are the best. I was knocking... (read more)
Written on: 19/07/2008
I dont not like this gun very much (read more)
Written on: 13/07/2008 by Marlon James (9 reviews written)
Currently I have an older RWS one piece c-mount circa 1997 that holds zero, in place a cheap $35.00 Barska 2-12x44 mil-dot scope. I figure if that breaks I won't feel so bad. So far so good. I'm putting down varmints at 18 yards with no problemo using Beeman crow magnums hollow points, RWS Superpoints or Daisy Hobby wadcutters being the lightest. But the RWS scopes are better, in light gathering & and sharper imaging.
The solution might be the BKL 11mm scope mount with "six screws" holding...
(read more)
Written on: 26/07/2008
Please read update info on my scope mount update in the January 2008 review.
Written on: 15/09/2008
Leapers has come out with a new mount specifically for the dDisns rifles . They are extremly strong and compensate for barrell droop. Their mount uses the pictany weaver style ring and comes in 30mm. I have the 350 in .177, use a leapers 3x12344 30mm illuminated scope with the leapers one piece mount. I shoot mostly crosman premier heavy and Beeman Heavy pellets-anything over 10.0 gr. I have put over a thousand rounds thru the gun without a problem and can get 5 shot groups from a rest that can be covered by a nickle--this is one gunj the moore you shoot the better it gets-it doesn't wear out it wears in to a smooth strong get them out of there pellett rifle. I suggest you looki at the leapers mount for the rws and their scopes as well. I own an rws450 scope and their mount and have never broken a scope or mount-shoot straight -Scott298
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Written on: 19/09/2008
you don't have to wait-leapers has a scope mount that will fit and they compensate for barrell droop in rws rifles-this way you don't have to turn your rlrvation knob to the limit. Rhe man who writes pyramyd's blog is one of the best known in the business, you should check his reports on leapers scopes and their mounts. I use them and have never had a stronger set up-and on to of that their built so you never have to worry about scope shift or breakage or shearing a pin-Scott298
Written on: 19/09/2008
To Scott298,
<br/>Yes, I saw the Leapers Rail at Pyramid Air that allows the use of Weaver type rings that fit right into the picatinny rail. The rail also compensates for barrel droop on the RWS 48 & the 350. Currently I have put 700 rounds through a 30mm one piece BLK type mount with four solid anchor screws that came with nylon & steel washers. It was sent to me from Umarex USA. I still had to shim it with friction tape & Blue Loctite the rails & anchors.
<br/>
<br/>For now it is very solid with an RWS 450 30mm scope tube 4x12x50mm illuminated reticle, on a custom walnut stock from Diana Gammelspacher in Germany. ($350.00)
<br/>
<br/>And yes I agree that once the 350 was set, it is capable of dime to nickel sized benched groups at 17 yards for me. when held correctly the gun literally shoots itself. I get 1 to 1.5 inch groups at 22 yards in the field with out a rest. Prone, kneeling, seated or standing.
<br/>I have been favoring the heavy .22 Beeman Crow Magnums & the very light .22 Beeman & RWS hollow points. The lighter pellets seem a little hard on the gun due to less resistance of the lighter pellet. Performance is spectacular & humane if not extremely accurate.
<br/>
<br/>If for whatever reason my current setup fails, I will most definitely go with the Leapers picatinny rail & Weaver rings.
<br/>
<br/>It's interesting the shooting characteristics of the gun as it breaks in. It is sooo solid & consistent even with the recoil. It's a beast compared to the R-1 or RWS 48. It's a real beast compared to almost any also-rans or other pop manufactured springers in it's category.
<br/>
<br/>My next step after this may be to go PCP Condor or Talon reaching the 1450 fps in .22. Is that just marketing hyperboly or actual?
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<br/>Thanks for the Information, I'll keep it in mind. Marlon James
Written on: 25/09/2008
Marlon-sdh298-Scott-I'm saving for 2 more guns-I want another springer the Air Arms txmk11 in .177 and thier pcp-can't remember the model but it had a good write up in the pyramyd air blog. My 350 is in .177 and I'm thinking about replacing the barrell to a .22. With the 350 in .222-the air arms tx in.177 and their pcp in .22 I think I'll have the best of both world and won't ever have to buy another gun again. Shoot straight Scott
Written on: 25/01/2008 by bwg (2 reviews written)
I'm happy that so many others have experienced good success/accuracy with their RWS 350; I wish I could write the same about my gun. Unfortunately, mine appears to be one of the handful that provides less than stellar performance. I know from on-line forums others who have similar experiences to mine, but I guess our numbers are in the minority. My guns certainly has good power, but I cannot hit my target, so that power is wasted. My advice is if you purchase this gun, buy from a store with a... (read more)
Written on: 13/02/2008
Hi bwg,
<br/>I am sorry to hear that your gun does not work properly. Do not be disappointed and continue your shooting with the gun (if you still own her),maybe after breaking in period, the gun would be more accurate. Have good time.
<br/>
<br/>knsabet.
Written on: 15/07/2008
To BWG,
<br/>Ya I had the same problem with my 350 in .22. Due to severe barrel droop or barrel deviation I was hitting 6 inches low & 6 inches far right, below the point of aim.
<br/>
<br/>After returning the 350 to Umarex they adjusted the barrel, slight tooling marks were left where they must have made the adjustment.
<br/>
<br/>At 15 yards I was hitting within a half inch, a dime. But at 20 yards ya, I have a hard time holding it to keep it in the 3 inch range. Shooting in the field without resting in a sitting position. I don't believe those claims of 1 inch at 50 yards. But 2 to 3 inches at 25 is my personal maximum range, call me old, call me practical, but 3 inches at 25 is okay.
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<br/>Personally I use a heavier pellet for a more stable flight. The Beeman Crow Magnum Silver Arrow & Bear Cub, Ilike using the RWS Super Points within 15 yards because they are just a little lighter. The Beeman Trophy & Kodiak hit real good on vermin within 20 yards, putting them down long enough to follow up a shot.
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<br/>I just ain't that good at long distances (50 yds) with the 350. But my Condor PCP .177 can reach out on a still day. I can't say it's any better or more accurate but all my shots put down the quarry if I choose to take a long shot at 35 to 40+ yards. Of course I could just shoot my Ruger 10/22 bull barrel, with a 3-16x44mm weaver, on top, and hit aspirins at 50 yards all day long.
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<br/>Maybe the 350 airgun is only meant to be shot within 25 yards....and all those other claims of 1/2 inch accuracy at 50+ yards might just be tall or exaggerated contentment or fabrication.
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<br/>Your review speaks for itself. Anyone who can disasemble their spring rifle and put it back together knows what they're speaking of. Yeah I get picky about accuracy too and remind myself not all guns from a manufaturer are all made exactly the same, we can't expect Porche performance from a Ford or Chevy truck.
Written on: 16/11/2008
Sorry to hear about your problem-I shoot 5inch groups at 30yards without any problem -do you have the rife scoped? You should read the blogs on pyramyd air-Their writer B.B.pellitier will tell you how to get the most out of your gun and how to hold it properly-sorry if I"m a littlt late getting back to -Scott298
Written on: 14/01/2008 by Marlon James (9 reviews written)
Where do I start? Research, marketing, performance and power claims?
1) Out of the box the gun has clean and trim lines. With just the right amount of volume and weight to fill your hand, not too bulky. It just sat in my shoulder like it was natural to be there. Held still real nice too. Looking at the stock showed nice wood grain on a soft satin finish. Once the gun came back it shot like a dream.
2) With open sights the gun was impeccably accurate to the point of boredom. At 12, 15 or 22...
(read more)
Written on: 15/01/2008
At this time this review was rewritten trying to recall information from the first untagged RWS 350 review labeled guest, that was lost due to clicking the wrong button. I apologize for any confusion. But the info should be similar. More importantly a positive retrospect of the gun.
<br/>Marlon James.
Written on: 13/02/2008
Hi, Marlon.<br/><br/>I'm surprised that you gave the rifle a 10 after all of that... As I indicated in my RWS 48 review, Umarex's support/service is sub-par; I, too, received a rifle (a 48) back dysfunctional (after being sent in dysfunctional!)<br/><br/>Nonetheless, I still own my 350, but it doesn't get much use now that I have a 54. The 54 is a world more accurate. I don't like the side cocking very much relative to the break barrel, but the 54 shoots great. My winter targets are typically pinecones at 40 to 60 yards, and the 54 hits them and hits them often!<br/><br/>The 350 can hit them, too, it's just much harder to maintain the sight picture, and my 350 shoots poorly with Crosman premiers (which my 54 prefers best). My 350 shoots CrowMags and Kodiaks best, which (unfortunately) aren't the most conducive at 60 yards!
Written on: 16/02/2008
To Kicknotes,
<br/>Ya I gave it a ten. Based on it's initial potential and it's final outcome. After all of the ordeal; the galling metal to metal, severe inaccuracy or negative manufacturing idiocyncracies, the final outcome was excellent. I have put 5,200+\- pellets through it. The 350 has become a beast. A beast in accuracy, durability and power. The gun shoots itself at 15 yards w/ .5" groups. At 22 yards 1" humane groups can be attained with proper conditions and technique. With a Beeman 4-12x40mm AO/TT illuminated reticle shooting can get boring. Both my 350 & 48 digest & shoot almost any pellet with no change in scope adjustment or point of impact.
<br/>I really want to try some of the cool sounding Predator or alloy pellets in sabot; or finding a perfect round pellet for penetration. Again both guns in 22 literally shoot anything any time any where.
<br/>I have gone even as far to add just the smallest drop of Corsman airgun lube to the pellet on insertion into the breech & barrel to achieve a controlled dieseling effect for penetration. Ya I know it's not good for the seals & gun and it is very loud. I was just experimenting carefully.
<br/>As for the customer service, I have long since understood that when speaking to gunsmiths or service people who are handling my guns, to not address them inappropriately or unprofessional. My experience with customer service at Umarex was brief, to the point and minimal. Thus they took extra care in tuning my gun.
<br/>I also have an RWS 48 that is 12 years old now. It too is a dream to shoot. Umarex also repaired this gun when the cocking arm broke last year. Both guns are well made and shoot extremely well. Maybe a custom stock for both.
<br/>But have you taken a look at the NEW RWS 350 Professional model at the diana-airguns.com website in Germany. There are new models coming out fully customized out in walnut or beech, muzzle break and scope all in one package.
<br/>And what do you think of the Air Arms TX MKlll or the Beeman HW97 MKlll? As another air rifle to add to your collection?
Written on: 19/02/2008
I was certainly polite to Umarex in my (also minimal) dealing with them; I guess your experience was better than mine. I did see that RWS has various flavors of the 350, but I didn't pursue much looking beyond that initial finding. When I use my rifles for pest control, I'm typically looking at 30-50 yards, so a 1" group at 22 yards is a little too large for my liking (not to discredit you or your 350 -- I just need tighter shots at a longer range).<br/><br/>Concerning other models, I looked at the AirArms TX200 and the HW97k when considering my newest purchase. The HW97k wasn't available anywhere in the U.S. (PyramidAir kept pushing the date back until eventually saying "discontinued"). StraightShooters has the 97 MK III, but only in .177 and .20, and I wanted a .22.<br/><br/>After much research and consideration, I opted for the 54 over the TX200, because the weight was comparable, the accuracy was very comparable (both guns can outshoot me), and the 54 was more powerful.<br/><br/>I'd still very much like to add one more rifle to my collection -- unfortunately, I'm spoiled by the accuracy of the 54, and I can't spend $600+ on a comparable rifle at this point. I may splurge a bit and upgrade to a better scope to squeeze more out of my 54...
Written on: 21/02/2008
Kicknotes,
<br/>I have also been eyeballing the features of the Air Arms TX 200. Because of it's different design in receiver & chamber, barrel to under lever & stock configuration. Reviews on Pyramid's blog seem appealing. I'm still trying to find a better profile of the company that makes the TX 200.
<br/>I recently handled an Air Force Condor in .22 which is a whole other world. I was able to find PCP RWS air rifles that were discontinued but may still be available somewhere.
<br/>As for these old retired eyes and hands seeing and holding still for any distance is a challenge. Moving from center and rimfire shooting & reloading, to airgun recreation seemed a good option.
<br/>And I concur. The RWS 54 (I have a 48 in .22) is faster to point and shoot, and I think more consistently accurate than my break barrels.
<br/>But variety prevents boredom. So maybe I'll put a custom stock on my guns just to further personalize & enhance my air shooting experience.
<br/>
Written on: 20/03/2008
I just realized that my 350 has the same issue yours does/did -- one part of the pellet skirt sticks out and is crushed when the barrel is closed. This could definitely be contributing to my less-than-perfect accuracy. You sent yours back to RWS for repair, correct? I may do the same.
Written on: 01/04/2008
To Kicknotes,
<br/>The technicians at Umarex suggest to seat the pellet "just" within the barrel breach. I use a Beeman pellet seater (about $12.00+/-).
<br/>There is a rounded ball end and a pointed end. Using the rounded end to push the pellet just within the breech. The longer pointed end will seat the pellet deeper. Which causes a different point of impact, as well as a harder slamming of the piston to the chamber. As to whether the deeper seating is advantageous I do not know.
<br/>
<br/>But I get get a more consistent accuracy seating the pellet just within the the breech. As per the gunsmiths at Umarex.
<br/>I have tried seating "heavier pellets" deeper. In .22 (Kodiak, crow magnum, RWS Rottweilers) and they are very accurate but have a slight jarring recoil to less resistance from being sat deeper, traveling through the barrel .
<br/>With lighter pellets being sat at the breech face, (daisy precision max, RWS meisterkugeln, beeman bear cub, RWS super points) all shoot well and have a less jarring recoil when sat at the breech face.
<br/>
<br/>The angled barrel breach face on the RWS 350 is designed that way to mate with the chamber breach face. Compared to the Beeman R-1 the angle of the RWS is greater than the R-1. The R-1 is able to receive or load pellets "flush" to it's barrel breach. It seems the RWS 350 has a tighter inside diameter at the breach end of the barrel not allowing the pellet to seat more easily or deeply, thus leaving a small bottom portion of the pellet skirt "exposed to crushing" upon closing the barrel.
<br/>
<br/>May I ask what type of scope rig do have set up on your RWS 350? I have destroyed 2 Beeman scopes since 12/07. Due to the recoil of the 350, an internal lens within the scope tube shot loose, and the illumination dial on the second scope sheared its retaining screws. Both scope and mounts (two piece) have shot loose even with shim & lock tight. All within 1,400 pellets shot in 1.5 months. The need to check and tighten before each session became routine. Was it you or jz99 that has experience with Leapers Scopes & mounts? I'm leaning towards RWS (ASR) Scopes.
<br/>
<br/>Unfortunately the 350 has a stiffer recoil than my RWS 48, Beeman R-1, HW 97MKIII. When brand new the 350 was awesome jarring in recoil. It is much smoother now yet still jarring to lesser made scopes or products.
<br/>
Written on: 09/04/2008
Marlon: It was I that mentioned Leapers scopes. On both my 350 and my 54, I have an AccuShot one-piece mount (both medium height) and a Leapers 3-9x40 (or 42?) scope.<br/><br/>I personally think that two-piece mounts are one of the roots of evil on high-recoil springers, and I avoid them when possible. I understand that some setups require two-piece mounts to expose the loading port, but for RWS rifles, I use one-piece mounts with no problems.<br/><br/>I do hang the mount BACKWARDS, with the scope stop pin butted-up against the rail (but not touching the receiver tube!). I tried it the "normal" way first, and I experienced scope creep, so I flipped the mounts around. Been fine since.<br/><br/>My 54 does have a shim under the rear mount to compensate for the built-in barrel droop.<br/><br/>Now, concerning the scopes -- I don't particularly like the Leapers "zero locking" feature, and I have found that over time, it gets harder and harder to make scope adjustments, possibly because of the recoil jarring around the scope and putting internal parts off balance somehow...(?) Fortunately, I know which pellets my 350 and 54 like, so I don't adjust the scope all that often.<br/><br/>Since I'm happy with the accuracy of the 54 for most all of my shooting needs, and I have the 350 for handling any bigger game if needed, I don't think I'll be purchasing any new rifles in the near future. That said, I may purchase a Bushnell Elite scope, simply because I've been told the difference is night and day between low- and high-end scopes, and I'd like to get the most out of my 54 (even though it's great as it is!)<br/><br/>On another note, I think I mentioned in a comment in another post (maybe your Diana 48 review?) about screws provided by Umarex to fill the holes where the rear sight plate was. I received them, and they work fine. They're simply called "control screws", and they were $2.75 each, plus about $5 to ship, but they do the job. They fill the rear sight plate holes, sitting ALMOST flush against the receiver tube (much lower than the stock screws). There is still the circular "divot" punch mark in the center of the two screws, but that's unavoidable, as there isn't a plate available to cover it as there is for Beeman rifles. (Again, this is on my 54; I left the rear sight on the 350).<br/><br/>Lastly, I did pick up a Beeman pellet seater, and I experienced basically what you did: if I push the pellet down the breech with the pointed end, I smell dieseling, the report is louder, and the POI shifts (up in my case). I ended up using the round end (as you'd mentioned) to "just" push into the breech flush, and it seems to be fine. I have been using the round end to smooth out skirts of ALL pellets (even for the 54) prior to use, and it seems to improve accuracy by improving uniformity and fit.
Written on: 18/04/2008
Kicknotes,
<br/>I found a variety of Leapers scopes on the Pyramid Air Website.
<br/>The choices boggle the imagination.
<br/>1. 6-24x50mm illuminated red & green mil dot reticle, 1" tube 1/4 MOA. $99.99
<br/>
<br/>2. 3-12x44mm range finding rheostat wheel, AO mil dot illuminated reticle, 30mm tube 1/8 MOA. $136.99
<br/>$149.00 for nitrogen filled fog & water proof, side wheel parallax adjustments.
<br/>
<br/>3. 4-16x50mm AO/ TT illuminated red & green mil dot, zero lock/reset, 1" tube 1/4" MOA, side wheel rheostat. $81.99.
<br/>
<br/>I've broken 2 each Beeman scopes (3-12x40mm 1" tube, TT/AO illuminated. reticle, made in china) After the 2nd return and waiting my 3rd scope.
<br/>
<br/>The Beeman service rep. finally confessed that the models #5023 & #5059 at $79.99 scopes were bad. Having problems all year in 2007. Problems on R-1's and other magnum rifles RWS's and 350's especially.
<br/>
<br/>The first scope sheared it's illumination screws which broke the illumination. dial. The 2nd scope on my RWS 350 shot a lens in the front half of the scope tube loose. I lost field of view and the lens jingled in the tube.
<br/>Beeman will send a different model if the 3rd scope fails.
<br/>So thanks for the heads up on Leapers!!
<br/>
<br/>
<br/>
Written on: 26/07/2008
Hey Kicknotes,
<br/>I finally received the new RWS 30mm one piece scope mount. It is very similar to the BKL mount but with only 4 very heavy duty anchor screws with 1/4 inch allen holes. The new RWS one piece requires the removal of the set screw on the rear dovetails, and covers and fits tightly onto the rails.
<br/>
<br/>Very cool, very clean. No shimming was required as the mount compensates by 1/.25th inch for the renowned RWS barrel droop. I still added 1/.37th inch of friction tape shim to get the full range of elevation on my 3x12x44mm RWS scope. Earlier I stated a 50mm AO. I was mistaken. But now the scope is just fantastically clear & bright. It'sIlluminated mil-dot is unique only the cross hairs light up. The scope cost me $69.00 because it was a demo model with very insignificant wear. The mount costed $69.00 plus shipping & handling.
<br/>
<br/>All that being said. At a seated shooting position I can hit 1/4 inch at 15 yards using daisy Hobbies, and have already quarried varmints (garden ruining squirrels) at 22 yards using both Beeman Crow Magnum & RWS Super Points. Ya I still give it a nine after all I went through. Ya I give the Umarex staff an 8.5 for their professional service and treatment of me. I know I might be in the minority on that last comment. But moreover, shooting the 350 .22 is now just an awesome pleasure of power & accuracy. Now if only Jim Maccari would reconsider making custom stocks again. he is currently not. So Happy Shooting.
Written on: 11/01/2008 by knsabet
I have had my RWS 350 (.22 cal) for three months now. This is my second gun after a RWS 52 in .177. Out of the box the gun's appearance was excellent. The fit and the finish were superb. This gun is as great to look at as it is to shoot. It had beautiful stock with perfect finishing and nice bluing on metal parts and the muzzle. The gun was in a plastic bag and all the metal parts were coated with a thin layer of oil. Also, there was a lot of grease on the breech and on pivot point which... (read more)
Written on: 07/01/2008 by Tobias Rieper (1 review written)
I bought my 350 as a demo for an unbelievable price and other than some expected minor cosmetic blemishes this rifle is a dream come true. At first I tried my luck with a Remington Summit in .177, but this gun's performance was disappointing to say the least. I returned it and saved a bit more and after much research decided on a 350 in .22 caliber. So far I love it. I have dropped cold small birds (and a crow the size of a hawk) with iron sights at distances of over 25... (read more)
Written on: 26/11/2007 by HighFiber
Very good quality, extreme power. great trigger. I can not imagine a more accurate airgun that is this powerful. (read more)
Written on: 22/11/2007 by marvin1schulz (3 reviews written)
This is the strongest shooting air gun I've ever seen, it will go clean through a solid 3/4" yellow pine board , I haven't really done any target practice with it yet, but did some plinking, and it seems to be very accurate. the wadcutter pellets are by far the best choice for this gun as far as power goes, and again I'm talking about the Gamo Shadow Sport, I can't beleive it chronoed at 1300 fps with wadcutters. It will not make it into the 1200fps with raptors. Marvin. (read more)
Written on: 31/10/2007 by jz99 (2 reviews written)
OK, this is a long one but I waited almost a year for this so it's worth it. I have had my .177 350 for almost a year now and waited this long to give an accurate review until it was broken in. When I first got the gun I fired off a few hundred rounds with a cheap scope just to get a feel for the gun. After that I opened the gun up and lubed everything properly. I also smoothed some metal to metal points and deburred everything.
Sometime during the next approximate thousand rounds...
(read more)
Written on: 01/11/2007
Was a helpful review jz99 :)
<br/>
<br/>I wanna get the 350 magnum soon but i am kinda a new shooter. So might need a little help :)What is approximately its accuracy at like 100 yards or 50 yards? Can you get a 2 inch groupings at 100 yards using the heavy accurate pellets using the 350 magnum?Is there a difference in accurate between a .177 and .22? i plan to get the .22 . I heard it is accurate but don't know much details about how accurate it is.
<br/>You said also that the airgun needs lubes right after you get it....do you mean dieseling? Or special lubes? In the catalog which you can download from the net also, it is said to not take the gun apart (dismount screws) or it will lose the warranty....Do you have to take the gun apart to put some lubes? I heard that dieseling an airgun can harm its spring and piston.
<br/>
<br/>Thanx
Written on: 01/11/2007
I haven't shot mine at 100 yards yet but, on Youtube there is a video of some guys shooting a coffee can with no scope at 100 yards. At 50 yards the gun will still have 12 FTLBs of energy, plenty for killing little vermin. That's with Crosman Premiers though and those are what's most accurate in this gun apparently, from my experience and lots of others. 2" might be pushing it at 100 yards. That's more of a PCP grouping at that distance. With this gun I would be happy with 2" CTC groups at 50-60 yards. The .177 and .22 would be the same as far as accuracy. The .22 having a few more pounds of energy and a little more drop of the pellet at further distances than the .177. The.22 is whats's recommended for hunting because of the larger pellet which translates to more knockdown power. The airgun shouldn't need lubes for a while except the few drops in the spring chamber. I fhink it was every 500 shots you do that, but like I said mine came very dry inside. It still dieseled after several shots new though but that quickly went away. If the gun cracks like a .22 rimfire any time after those few first initial shots then you need to resolve that before it damages the gun like you said. The lube I was talking about was for the insides which can be bought at airgun tuner sites. There are lots of those guys around to get that although I used a synthetic moly with graphite paste in mine which is similar to they all sell. They usually have several different lubes for different parts of the gun. I just kept it simple and used the one I got for everything and it did the job. Taking apart the gun will void the warranty. How they know you did is beyond me as you will have to tighten the screws up every so often so they can't say "hey I see screw driver marks on the screws so your out of luck." If you are getting a gun like this believe me you will want to pull it apart, look inside and have some fun. Anybody you ask will say to get a spring compressor or make one. This is where I say don't try this at home but...I don't use one. I just lean on the gun a little and remove the pin holding it together and gently ease off letting the spring uncompress. The uncocked spring only has like an inch of preload so it's not that hard. I'm only 5"9" and 150 lbs and it's no problem whatsoever. Getting it back in is the same. I did use one when I first got it then realized it was very little preload on it. Again I don't recommend this but it's possible. The warranty only covers manufacture defects. If you have shot several hundred rounds out of the gun more than likely it will be OK to tear in that sucker as any defects would have been apparent by then. The few parts that you might have to replace are very cheap to purchase and install yourself anyways. Tuning the gun is half the fun and being stuck with the gun in it's factory state is boring. Besides after the tune or better yet a professional tune it will be a much better gun firing gun. I forgot to mention but if you are new to airguns or in this case a magnum springer try looking at as much you can at http://www.pyramydair.com/blog/ This is Tom Gaylords blog and he is the guy you go for answers anything airgun related. I can say it took part of the year to really learn how to shoot this gun accurately. I think I found the ultimate secret though. When you hold the gun by the forearm that is where all the weight goes on the gun. Also don't squeeze the forearm, it should just be resting there in your open hand like a balance beam or teeter totter. You should be able to let go of the trigger and the butt from your shoulder and the gun should stay on target. Basically balance the gun in that hand and barely rest it to your shoulder . Your trigger finger and thumb should be the only thing touching the gun on your trigger hand. I can't stress that enough. When you squeeze the trigger again with only those two fingers you should make as little movement as possible to the gun. Sometimes I just sit holding the gun unloaded and uncocked and practice squeezing the trigger while holding it on a target. You kind of pinch your fingers together not pull the trigger back. That causes the gun to recoil differently every time. What you want is as little contact and as light as possible from you to the gun. Try that and practice it and you will save all the time I spent learning the perfect hold for this gun.
Written on: 30/11/2007
I found this review helpful because...The shooter identified the problem of scope stop shearing due to heavy recoil of the RWS 350 against poorly made accessory parts; a characteristic commonly stated in other reviews. Lamentations of scopes, scope mounts, scope stops, stock screws breaking or coming loose. When receiving a new firearm it is necessary to check ALL parts, screws, linkages, trueness, and fitting to assure a safe shooting session, ESPECIALLY with a new firearm. There are numerous, hundreds of cases in airgun forums stating the many law suits and liabilities in our courts due to shooters harmed and hospitalized by improper usage or maintenance to one's new or used magnum airgun. What I seek are those safe and sensible corrections or solutions towards problems to provide safe and functioning firearm.
Written on: 02/12/2007
To jz99,
<br/>You mentioned that you set up a 30mm 8-32x56 Leapers scope with one peice high mount. I'm looking for target turrets, adjustable objective lens, and at least a 40mm objective lens, and a brand that will take a beating in the field, that won't break if it gets bumped, slides down or dropped. I have read a number of reviews expressing breakage or loosening of scopes, screws and parts affected by recoil. I'd like to ask how you dealt with the front and rear sights...Did you muzzle break it? If so what type kind or brand? Were you able to find a cover plate for the rear sight screw holes if you took the rear sight off? What lubes do you use for the chamber? Please comment on your choices. RWS chamber oil? At least one major company does not recommend the use of chamber oil due to deterioration of piston seals. What brands are out there that are reliable?
Written on: 02/12/2007
To jz99
<br/>You also mentioned scope stop screw shearing. Any options to scope rig or set up that will withstand the recoil of the 350? For those of us without the machining capability what brand would you recommend? Umarex, Beeman, Leapers, Bushnell. I have a set up circa 1997 one piece mount with stop screw built in, with an RWS 3-12x40mm TT/AO (model 400). Also have a 2-9x32mm TT/AO Beeman Blue Ring scope on Beeman custom mounts and scope stop that has withstood everything for 23 years on my R-1 from being banged dropped, cold, heat and rain. But I know the recoil on the 350 is a bit jarring. I did have a williams peep sight on it when I was younger and my eyesight was better, but it lacked the aesthetics and my eyes are older now. A good accurate scope set up that won't break off sure looks better. These days I wanna get the value for my dollar and avoid poorly made accessories or parts.
Written on: 03/12/2007
Marlon
<br/>I recommend looking into the Leapers scopes. They have a lot of nice features for the $ and are bright and clear. After I removed the front sight I had to file it down a bit to accept the RWS muzzle brake I purchased from straightshooters.com. It was actually a bit better bluing on it than the gun itself but it's hardly noticable. The rear was just a couple of screw holes which until you just mentioned it, I had forgot about really. For chamber oil I use paintball marker oil. It isn't combustable and does the job nicely. I tested it on the seal by drenching a seal in it and it didn't break down the seal. For the scope stop pin problem I went to the hardware store and purchased a hardened bolt that fit very snug. I cut the head off and made my own pin. I also drilled down into the scope rail some too to give the pin more to grip into. I don't see any brand better than the next. I also have the Leapers mount, the cheapest by the way. A lot of people have some bad luck with this gun eating scopes on them. Check http://www.network54.com/Forum/184474/ to see. I think what it really comes down to is letting the gun settle down after a few hundred or maybe even a thousand rounds before scoping it. Once that it is mounted make sure everything is located thoroughly and tightened securely. The only reason that the gun will break anything is if it isn't "part" of the gun. If you let that scope or mount slide a little with the kick the 350 gives I cant see anything surviving that jolt it gives. Mine has settled down a lot even since writing this originally. I can even rest it on a hard surface, shoot and see through the scope what I'm hitting now. I even saw the pellet fly through the air once through the scope. It has calmed down a lot.
Written on: 05/12/2007
Hey jz99 thank you for the helpful reply....and by the way sorry for the delay in response ,but i just got the new 350 classic today :) I just noticed the reply today and was satisfied with it.Thank you again. I noticed there is oil on the outside of the barrel and even little oil on the front of the wood stock...is that normal for a NEW airgun? is that lubes from factory? And also have you noticed once you bought the airgun if the nylon was closed from the two sides? Mine was only closed by one side,but the other end (barrel) had the nylon closed by a red rubber band (elastic).So I wonder if the gun is 100 % new..or could it have been used before I purchased it? ...and of course I received it with the external box. And one more thing...about the cocking force...I noticed that it only requires a little effort in THE BEGINNING only ,but after hearing that 'Tick' sound(the moment when u break the barrel),it does not require effort at all .Is this normal ? Seems like the barrel is a little loose right after u break it(go up and down easily when u push with your hand ,no spring resistance).I thought that I should apply some pressure till the barrel is all the way down....but this isn't the case actually.....once u break it or hear the sound in the beginning,u have to do very little effort to get the barrel down....in short the pressure is in the beginning only. The dealer gave me the warranty anyway and have no problem giving me another one...so I just wonder if these things mentioned in my comment are normal or not. Thank you!
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Written on: 06/12/2007
jz99,
<br/>Thanks for your response and information. Yes these Leaper Brand scopes appear on paper or advertising to have desirable features and value. Compared to the popular brands & models. I'm glad you mentioned the clarity of the scopes. It's what I'm concerned about. Good point about brand to brand genericism, I suppose that would only apply to the better echelons of gun & scope makers. I also agree that preparing parts and accessories for a shooting session is important and lock tightening if need be. You wouldn't drive your truck with loose rims or chassis bolts...I am loyal to RWS in that my firearm is configured to being all RWS. Buuut that Leapers 4-16x50mm TT/AO and rheostat wheel for $90.00 is extremely enticing. In the web sight there is a "30mm" before the magnification and objective numbers, is the 30mm the measurement of the tube? What scope mount will that take? So that I can adjust the or sight the wind & elevation to the "middle" of their measurement or adjustments so that I will have room to go up or down left or right with out dialing my scope out to the max? To avoid not having enough adjustment left. (up or down mostly than left or right) hope I made sense.
Written on: 07/12/2007
The dealer gave me another one and this one works perfectly! 10x
Written on: 09/12/2007
Yup, Fileyn you just got the bad egg. Remember to keep the scope off of it until it settles some. I would at least wait several hundred shots before I mounted anything.
<br/>
<br/>Marlon the 30mm is a larger tube to let more light in than the 1" tube. Leapers makes the mounts 30mm and other companies do too. Depending on the size of the scope lens you use will determine what height you need if you go with the Leapers mounts but I would stay with a one piece. The Leapers one piece high mount I used doesn't have any adjustment on it so I used a thin piece of plastic film under the back of the mount to compensate for barrel droop. I forgot what the thickness of it was but I can measure some with a digital micrometer if you intend to do so also. Otherwise get a one piece with the droop compensation built in or an adjustable one. I think that anything adjustable is just more moving parts to break so I would just go one piece and raise the back end yourself.
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<br/>PS.....This gun is so accurate now. I was outside today with it resting on my bench by itself, hand under gun on bench, hand under gun with a pillow and just the pillow and it was shooting the same each way. I also was holding it differently trying different hand placement and it was still spot on shot after shot. This was at about 25 yards and I was kind of squatting next to the bench with the gun resting , not sitting down. I was taking shots at 3/4" - 1" rocks and hit them every time this way. That's kind of a big target but that is also with no certain hold on the gun which is a real world situation. I also had the block of cement with stucco on it that I was putting the rocks on and I was able to hit the same spot on the stucco over and over. It was just drilling down into the stucco and cement further with each shot. You don't always have a bench, rest or remember exact hand placement in the heat of a hunt. I know when I get a little critter in my scopes view I start to get all jittery. It seems it is becoming friendlier to shoot every time I go out and try new stuff. I have about 1700 shots of Crosman heavies through it so far.
Written on: 09/12/2007
To jz99,
<br/>Just received my RWS 350 I ordered through my local gun shop. I'll be writing and commenting about it soon. You are correct in that "the gun is extremely dry inside". A RASPING with grinding of metal to metal sound when cocking the firearm. I lubed all joints and pivot points I am waiting to acquire best he lube. Tightened the front and rear sights they shot loose. No manual came with the piece. Downloaded one from Umarex. EXTREME DEISELING in the first 15 shots, .38 special loud. Louder than my .22LR I'm sure the house on the other side of the vineyard heard. There appeared to be some residue coming from the chamber fouling onto the breech seal, that was easily wiped. If I didn't know any better it looked like "dry slide" a molibdenium disulphide or moly graphite lubricant.
<br/>Emailed Umarex (the info tag in the gun) wrote to Glenn Seifert (a gunsmith tech, apology for the misspell) and I'm still waiting, I do recall your info or other shooters using paint ball lube. As there are the advertised chamber & piston lubes. I'm tentative about one lube for all/everything. I'll be writing a review after a break in period. The 350 .22 is already smoothing out so to speak. It's nifty, and falls into a particular class. It most def. needs a scope, maybe later. In brief initial gut reaction, I'm not impressed, should I have gotten the HW 97MKIII?
Written on: 14/12/2007
Yeah I wasn't that impressed with mine either for a while. It shoots so well now I can't imagine having to pay double for anything similar. I can't say enough on how the nature of the gun changed recently. It's so smooth and very enjoyable to shoot now that it has calmed. It's really nice having the scope zoomed in at 32X and seeing through the scope what the pellets hit now.
Written on: 16/12/2007
To jz,
<br/>Finally sent it back to Umarex. Umarex was professional in response if not neutral and helpful. Was able to acquire idiosyncrasies and manufacturing characteristics from B.B.Peletier at a Pyramid blog. Info made sense and was accurate in comparison to reviews I've read and comments by shooters. I suppose the installation of scope & mounts will make my open sight point of impact problem moot. I'll see. I've ordered a Beeman 4-12x40mm AO/TT 1" tube and mounts. For only $80.00 for the scope and $36.00 for the mounts. I'll set up the rig once I receive my 350 back. Yes I agree. There is something ugly and cool about the 350. All things in consideration. Handling, the stock quality are great, plastic trigger & receiver cap are what they are. It's a beast when it hits your target, and maybe a beauty in time.
Written on: 06/01/2008
Hello :-)
<p>This air gun is truly a POWERHOUSE (I got it as a classic version).I destroyed several thick beer glass bottles .It just take 1 shot to break a glass bottle of beer at 40 yards! Amazing penetration.I am using H&N pointed (8.64 gr).<P>
As far as accuracy.....this 350 is hard to shoot with at 40 yards as it recoils so badly but as you said when I hold the gun tight,it was better.But on average for every 4 shots at 40 yards,I got 1 hit at the bottle of beer.I still don't know if it is my problem,or the gun's problem. I have to shoot more and to test it.DO YOU THINK I SHOULD BUY A GOOD QUALITY BIPOD ? <P>
Sometimes it is hard to keep your hand on the desired target position and specially at 40 yards as the SLIGHTEST move from your hand (1/4 inch) AT THE MOMENT YOU SHOOT could lead to a miss if it is a long distance,even when using a scope. And not to mention the recoil after done shooting.
<P>Now at around 250 shots,I just mounted a Gamo sporter 3-9x that cost me 90$ on my 350 'classic' version (the one with longer but thinner woodstock)
<P>The scope came with a single mount and a scope stop.I shot several shots and the scope stayed in place and hasn't moved at all.BUT after about 30 shots,I noticed that the crosshair was rotating to the right after each shot!! It took approximately another 20 shots and the crosshair broke! THERE IS NO INTERSECTION POINT ANYMORE. I am just disappointed...isn't Gamo a good brand? The Gamo extreme which is a hard recoiler and has the same power of the 350 magnum (1250 fps) comes with the Gamo 3-9x mounted in from its factory.
<p>AND not to mention that the '+' crosshair always rotated to the right until finally locked into a 'x' position for about 10 shots before it broke ......do you have an idea why to the right? I wonder why the crosshair rotated only to the right and not in the left.
<P>
Thanks for your help man
Written on: 07/01/2008
Fileyn,
<br/>I would stay away from the bipod for now until it calms down. If you can rest it on a hard surface and can keep the scope on target then it's ready for the bipod. They have bipods that attach to the barrel but I would like to make one that attaches to the stock. It will be tough as the breaking barrel will get in the way. Mine was the same monster and I thought it was a bad choice until it finally settled like it has. I believe I have been through about 2500 pellets so far so it took some time. Gamo isn't the best and to tell the truth is one of the cheaper grade manufacturers of air gun products. Hopefully you can return your scope. When you go for another I would look into the Leapers scopes. They are magnum airgun rated and have a lifetime warranty. From what I have heard you just call up and they will get another one to you with no questions asked. As far as why the scope reticle rotated to the left, the spring inside coils up and turns when it releases it doesn't just spring back into the same position before it was cocked. It also kind of torques left or right depending on which direction the spring is wound. There is a washer with bearings that helps with the torque of the spring that you put at the ends of the spring. I forgot what they are called but that will help too.
Written on: 08/01/2008
To jz99
<br/>Hello, thanks for your helpful review.
<br/>I own a 350 on .22 for two months and shot nearly 700 through her. It is a piece of art: very accurate, superb power, excellent finish. The only thing which bothers me is the sound of the main spring while cocking the gun. I fell it is dry inside. It sounds as if the spring is scratching the inside wall of the cylinder. I don't know if that is usual or not. My question: is it necessary to take the gun apart to lube properly the inside wall of the cylinder and the main spring? Also I want to know how this excellent gun can be disassembled. I have made a simple spring compressor. I don't know what would be the next step after removing the two pins from the rear side of the cylinder? Please inform me. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
<br/>
Written on: 16/01/2008
To jz99,
<br/>I ran across a review at Pyramid Air on the product testing and results of the Leapers Scope you endorsed. The test seemed reasonable if not just. In the Tips & Tricks at Pyramid there is a category on the Leapers Scopes dated 2004. A whole article extolling it's virtues. Maybe I'll get one of those 4-16x50mm AO/TT/ illuminated red & green mildot reticle w/ side wheel rheostat for only $89.99 and scope rings for $8.99 at Pyramid Airguns . Now That sounds like value. Yep time to get a new scope.
Written on: 23/01/2008
Funny thing...I thought I only had shot about 2500 pellets through my gun but after weighing all Crosman Premier Heavy the pellets I have I realized I only have about 1500 left from the 5500 since I purchased the gun. That means I actually have about 4000 through the gun.
<br/>------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<br/>knsabet,
<br/>The sound you hear will go away eventually but lubing and a little polishing will fix it quick. In order to luber anything but the seal you have to open the gun up which voids the warranty so it's a catch-22. After 1000 rnds through the gun I would think you are safe to open it and forget the warranty. The spring compressor is recommended but I do mine by using a brass fitting and lean on the gun to compress the spring and a little screwdriver to push the 2 pins out. There isn't much preload on the spring but if you do that be careful. After the spring is ot you'll see that inside the gun it is only compress about an inch and a half. After removing the4 screws holding the stock to the action it is just compress spring, remove 2 pins and it all comes apart easily. Make sure to see how the safety goes together as it can be a little tricky putting back together. --------------------------------------------------------------------------
<br/>Marlon,
<br/>The thing with Pyramid air is that the guy who does the testing/reviews seems to really push the Leapers. Almost as if he(Tom Gaylord) is getting paid to sell them/kick backs on sales. They have good reviews every where else except a few I found that more than likely were bad mounts or bad installation. I would look around for better pricing though. I bought my Leapers 8-32X56 illum. for one hundred and eighty five shipped instead of two hundred and thirty without shipping from Pyramid Air. It doesn't matter where you buy it from as the warranty is through the manufacturer. That would be the only thing on the gun that I would make sure you have a good warranty on because that's what's most likely to break if things go wrong. Leapers has the lifetime so that covers all. The scope rings that are $8.99 are two piece. Try to get a one piece instead. There are a lot of good one piece mounts that are droop compensated or are adjustable for the built in droop on the 350. They are a lot more than $9.00 though. That's why I went with the Leapers one piece hi mount and just shimmed the back of the scope with a piece of thin, hard platic. It isn't usually recommended to shim as it may bend the scope but the amount I shimmed was about 5 sheets of paper thick so I tried that first and had good luck so I kept it that way. After removing it a couple times to clean the gun it didn't hurt anything so I myself would recommed trying the Leapers one piece and depending on how big the the scope you do get would be the difference in the low,med, or hi mount. With the 50mm a medium mount may just fit but a hi will be plenty of room I have the hi mount and have about a 1/4" between my 56mm scope and gun. The closer the better so if maybe buy the scope and both med and hi mounts and whichever fits better keep and return the other and you'll just have to pay return shipping. Just make sure that wherever you buy the mounts from will return the one that you don't need . As long as you dont tighten anything down and just set the scope on the mount and dry fit it I cant see why they wouldn't return it.
Written on: 23/01/2008
JZ99,
<br/>Yep,
<br/>The article at Pyramid did appear to be as if the testers were advertising the Leapers Scopes.
<br/>
<br/>Also I can't remember at this moment where I saw a 4-16x50mm AO/TT/ illuminated reticle for $90.00 without the mounts.
<br/>
<br/>I also agree and have found that the RWS 350 does shoot low, resulting in my having to dial "up" my elevation almost to the maximum.
<br/>
<br/>But check this out; Umarex sells a one piece mount called "C-mount". With a feature that allows one to "dial" the cant or angle.
<br/>
<br/>I read one review of a frustrated hobbyist having no success in sighting his gun due to the adjustments of the screws on the RWS C-mount affecting the angle and centering of the scope to rifle.
<br/>
<br/>And yes I concur. At least on my rifle the 2 piece scope mounts although lock tighted shows scope shifting after 50 shots. And the screws are tight. Thought of using friction tape. The Beeman mounts have this feature already (friction tape). Maybe I'll add one or two more strips to effect angle & elevation adjustment, as well as scope shifting due to recoil.
<br/>
<br/>Still the gun shoots extremely well!
<br/>Low at close range, 6 to 8 yards. Dead on at 15 to 22 yards.
<br/>But I sure do hate having to adjust that scope every time it shifts. Beeman did say that the scope I have is appropriate for their Kodiak or RX-2 rifles.
<br/>
<br/>And they did say their scopes are made for their rifles.
<br/>So is continuity in parts really a factor? RWS guns to RWS scope & mounts, Beeman scopes to Beeman rifles, or just indused marketing psychosomatics by dealers?
<br/>Buyer beware?
Written on: 23/01/2008
To JZ99,
<br/>By the way!!
<br/>I get a different point of impact when loading the pellets in the RWS. Deeper or shallower.
<br/>I use a pellet seater. The round end. To just seat the pellet within the breech. I get great results in accuracy & consistency.
<br/>But if I use the cone end of the seater which seats the pellet "deeper" by 1/8th maybe 1/4 of an inch down the barrel.
<br/>My shot is a lower point of impact with the same great accuracy.
<br/>There's a sharper - louder report. I really can hear the piston slamming and recoil sharper, if not also dieseling.
<br/>This is in using heavier pellets. Crow magnums, Silver Arrows, Kodiak's, RWS wadcutters all about 16 grains +/-.
<br/>And in using lighter pellets the crack or report is loud and the P.O.I. is changed.
<br/>I've memorized where certain pellets group, thus avoiding the need to click or dial the scope.
<br/>My question is;
<br/>What is your opinion on seating the pellets deeper? Is velocity enhanced? Is there elevated wear and tear if seating deeper? Or are springs and pistons now built to perform this way?
<br/>Again this is my first "new" air rifle in 11 years, and discovering this forum allows me first hand information from other hobbyists.
<br/>
Written on: 23/01/2008
jz99,
<br/>
<br/>Thanx,i returned the scope but the guy said he will make it stronger from the inside so that it won rotate anymore.Its been like 10 days...And the main problem is that we dont have good quality scopes in Lebanon.So the best i could find was this Gamo 3-9X40 which mounts on a 1000 fps Gamo airgun.I will try also to add a Gamo stop scope that comes with a Recoil absorber.I hope that will help reduce the recoil when i put next to my single mount.Do you think that might solve the problem?
<br/>
<br/>Thanx
<br/>
<br/>
Written on: 28/01/2008
Hello dear jz99,
<br/>Thank you for reply. Do you mean it is better no to take the gun apart? Maybe after one or two thousands shots the sound of the main spring is reduced and the gun be cocked more smoothly than before. Now that I have run more 500 hundreds shots I fell it becomes smoother. What is your suggestion? Jz99, I have another question. I don’t access to any chamber oil for my RWS model 52. In fact, it is impossible for me to order one. The only silicone oil that is available is a brand which is used for treadmill. I think its flash point is something about 100 to 300 centigrade as the seller said. I don’t know is it suitable for lubing the chamber. What is your opinion? What other lubricants do you suggest instead? Would you please inform me?
<br/>Thank you very much.
<br/>Knsabet.
<br/>
Written on: 05/02/2008
knsabet,
<br/> The Diana rifles have a lifetime warranty against defects. That will be voided if you modify the gun and apparently if it's opened. If you feel comfortable with opening the gun to lube and having to replace anything that breaks I would go ahead after the 1000 or so rounds through the gun. One of the most expensive parts of the gun is the stock. It is almost the cost of the whole gun. That would be the only part that would set you back a lot if you have to replace if it breaks/cracks. The spring and seals are the other parts that will definitely have to be replaced but they are a couple dollars for the seal and about $30 for the spring. They will last a long time so that's why I figured after my gun was operating smoothly with nothing wrong from the factory I open it and lube it properly. If anything happens after 1000 rounds it probably isn't the factory technicians fault so I felt that if something did break/wear out I would do it myself. As far as the chamber oil I use paintball marker oil in mine and no problems as long as it's a drop or two sitting overnight. Slick 50 motor oil treatment is another alternative widely used but that's the only one I know would also work. Filwyn and Marlon I posted comments back for your last two replies but it didnt seem to come up yet. I read knsabets post and replied and realized my comments back to you two were not there but I have to run out quickly. I'll repost my replies if they aren't there when I get back.
Written on: 07/02/2008
Thank you very much for helping me. yes, you are right. I will follow your advice. Have fun.
Written on: 07/03/2008
Scott298-I own the 350 in .177 and have it scoped with a leapers 3x12x4 33mm tube rectile intensified . It is mounted to my gun wit the b square adjustable mount. It has the parallex adjustment on the opposide of the windage knob and when I shoot at something all I have to do is adjust the wheel until the target is crystal clear and that takes care of any parallax problem at any range. I've put thru approx 1500 rounds thru the gun- all 10gr and higher. At 30 yards i can get a dime to cover the hole made by a 5 shoot groop even though I'm shooting at shoot-n-c targets-(the one's that leave a bright green hole when the pellet penetrates.) Now a dime would sould like a large hole but when you take into account the diameter of the green circle made by the pellet is actually larger than the pellet hole itself. So if you have 5 green holes at 30 yards that can be covered by a dime I am quite happy with that and I do not question the power of this gun. In .177 with a 10gr or better pellet you can take out most vermin with a proper shot. Numerous squirrels have stopped dead in their tracks with one head or lung shot and I believe the .177 does shoot flatter than the .22. In either .177 or .22 I do not think there is a better springer out there -for the money. Yes air arms makes a great gun and I am going to buy one when I have saved the $500+ the gun will cost but for $340 I don't believe anything can touch the 350. And Even with scope I still have the original sight's on the gun I am quite happy and proud to own my 350 and it is one gun that I will never sell. Scott298
Written on: 17/09/2008
After 1 year my leapers scope is stil in one piece-never broke-the clarity and the ability to put a big wheel on the parallex knob are great. Most scope you have to adjust the parallex by turning the front of the scope tube and using their numbers which causes you to gustimate range. With leapers they have a knob opposite the windage knob that you can attach a wheel to. When viewing at your target you get rid of parallex by adjusting the wheel till the subject is sharp and clear-no need to worry about what distance yor target is at-just turn the wheel till the image is sharp and parallex is gone. Another new iten that every rws owner shoulf be aware of is that leapers makes scope mounts specific to rws models-they are built with barrel droop built in so you don't have to go to the limits on your scopes elevation knob-just match your model with your gun and your done. In addition I have found these mounts to hold better than anything else. The way they have them engineered it is impossible to break a pin or screw or have your scope shift-when you use these mounts your scope isn't gonig anywhere unles you take it off! And the look great on the gun-after shooting for 1 year I don't think you can touch the 350 in it's price range--My 350--I LOVE IT!
Written on: 19/09/2008
Yep,
<br/>If my current BLK type one piece 30mm mount fails or my RWS 450 4x12x50mm falls apart...I will definitely go with the Leapers Rail & 50mm scope with the rheostat or parallax wheel. Based on the current responses, comments & reviews by RWS 350 owners & shooters.
Written on: 24/09/2008
It's about two years now for this 350. It feels like the power has went down some. When I shoot a metal 5 gallon bucket at 25-30 yards it was going all the way through. Now at very close up(15 feet) it only goes through one side and either dents heavily or splits the other side open but doesn't go through. I slowed down shooting as I've been too busy working lately. I have about 5000 shots on the gun now. I thought it would go for 10,000 before I needed a new spring so I'm going to open it back up and give every thing a once over to make sure it isn't something else making it lose that initial power. I'm about ready to get new seals from Macarri so maybe I'll just replace the spring anyways.
Written on: 29/09/2008
December will complete a year for my 350. With over 6,000 shots overall, the action is smoother, the shot recoil and vibration are not as jarring. Lubricating the spring & seal has kept the 350 working well my Oehler finally gave out and I think they don't make them any more. I was getting 975 fps with Beeman Bear cubs, 862 fps with the Crow Magnums and 1162 with the Beeman Hollow points & Daisy Precision wadcutters with the Daisy being lighter. The Daisy's are harder on the gun than the other pellets. It's almost like dry firing it.
<br/>At 19 yards I am punching completely through hard cans. Quarry at that distance also get punched through with RWS Superpoints. There are new Alloy pellets out from Pyramid & Umarex in .22 (for me). The alloy's seem to pierce better with cans and thin sheet metal. I know it's bad, but JUST A DROP of Crosman "Pellgun Oil" put into the breech before the pellet will give you a controlled diesel shot that ripps right through cans, sheet metal & small quarry. But dieseling your gun is bad for your seal.
<br/>There is an article on piston seals at the Pyramid air Blog Sight that diagrams in pictures various conditions of seals and "how to" change your spring etc.
<br/>Ya I don't expect the 350 to shoot as sharply as it did out of the box, loud, sharp heavy and jarring recoil, and the "boing" sound of the spring after firing. I sent my gun to Umarex and got it back within 2 weeks after they had deburred and polished the inside of the receiver. Upon inspection I noticed a dry moly lube on the inside where the spring lives. My gun is smooth, easier to cock, shoots and sounds more consistent. I guess once every 5 o so years, we do have to send it in or replace the parts ourselves.
<br/>But even still, the gun shoots better, harder, faster than anything else I have. My buddy has a Condor in .22 that consistently gets over 1340 fps with the heaviest pellets. Lighter pellets travel faster but are more frenetic to control and just splatter on impact. Just have fun. Just shoot.
Written on: 01/10/2007 by harrelljohn76
I really like my RWS 350. I recommend it. (read more)
Written on: 22/10/2007
Hello,
<br/>
<br/>Have you noticed if there are numbers or codes written on the internal parts (spring,hammer....) of any of an RWS airgun? I plan to get a used 350 so i want to just check if it is in good condition and that no parts have been modified or replaced .
<br/>Also can you please help me by telling me what are the parts other than the main spring than can affect the velocity of an airgun?
<br/>Thanx for any help! :)
Written on: 29/09/2007 by tclos (1 review written)
I own an RWS 350 in .22. The .22 uses the power generated more effectively than the .177 in a long-stroke springer such as the 350. The RWS sidelevers are short-stroke springers, and may use lighter pellets more effectively than the heavy pellets. That's why the cocking effort is comparatively mild-it uses a longer stroke.
(Kinetic energy=int (Force*differential distance). But remember, the cocking lever is a moment arm, so the magnitude of the force experienced on the spring is...
(read more)
Written on: 22/10/2007
Hello, nice review
<br/>
<br/>Have you noticed if there are numbers or codes written on the internal parts (spring,hammer....) of any of an RWS airgun? I plan to get a used 350 so i want to just check if it is in good condition and that no parts have been modified or replaced .
<br/>Also can you please help me by telling me what are the parts other than the main spring than can affect the velocity of an airgun?
<br/>Thanx for any help! :)
Written on: 24/10/2007
Yes, their are other factors that may account for different firing characteristics other than the mainspring. Internal wear of parts, lubrication, dieseling. Remember though, the same model made by a company with good enough quality control generally have similar firing characteristics with regards to the mainspring (RWS mainsprings are generally stiffer, than say a Gamo) but may have other factors that may differ (even how often it is used!).
<br/>With regards to different parts being used in the same gun, I've never taken my 350 apart, so I do not know. However, try testing the gun with a chronograph and also for accuracy. If the gun produces around 21-24 foot pounds and has good accuracy, I wouldn't worry.
Written on: 26/10/2007
hi tclos,
<br/>
<br/> According to what some airgunners said ,now i know there are no codes/neumbers written on the parts but just on their data sheet.
<br/>I downloaded a software chrono,they say it should work fine,although its not as accurate as REAL chronographs but it comes close.... Have you got any ideas about it? Download it at : www.talonairgun.com if u dont have it.It is called softchrono.
<br/>And also are the parts that affects velocity the same that affect accuracy? i know that seals could affect the velocity.
<br/>Is dieseling good for airguns? I have read that dieseling harm the spring and internal parts of an airgun.
<br/>Thanx
Written on: 16/07/2007 by kicknotes (10 reviews written)
Ordered the 350 new from a dealer online after an experience with a defective-upon-arrival Diana 48 -- and Umarex's poor service/support (see my Diana 48 review).
Overall, I think the 350 is a great rifle. I was looking for a powerful .22 to complement my Gamo CF-X in .177, and the 350 does exactly what I was looking for. It's very powerful, and while the cocking effort is stated at 36 lbs., I found it easier to cock than a Diana 48 (which is stated at 33 lbs.)
Unlike Gamo break barrels,...
(read more)
Written on: 24/07/2007
After putting over 1000 rounds through the 350, I've found that a tighter-than-normal hold (but not quite a death grip) works better for me than does minimal-contact palm floating. I did have to move my zero up 12 and left 12 clicks, but my groups tightened up considerably. I attribute this to the improved stability of the rifle in stance as opposed to the loose hold.
<br/>
<br/>Give it a try.
Written on: 09/09/2007
I have been considering the purchase of the RWS 350 to compliment my R-1 in.177 and RWS 48 in .22. The R-1 being 14 years old, the RWS 48 9 years old. They are both shooting well.
<br/>My desire to update to an RWS 350, Gamo hunter extreme both in .22.
<br/>I have read as many reviews favoring model, caliber, brand, aesthetics, quality, service and nothing made in china, favoring the European manufactures. I am still undecided leaning towards a balance of manufacturing quality, stock aesthetics, power and accuracy, brand quality and reputation. Price is not an issue. You get what you pay for. Is there anything else positive or negative about RWS 350 and Umarex USA that I should be aware of? There are airgun companies that do sell models at a lower price. Umarex prices are high. Are cheaper prices indicative of quality, perhaps in-obtrusive blemishes or flaws or even refurbished... what about best scopes for high power air rifles?
Written on: 10/09/2007
Well, concerning Umarex as a company, read my review of the Diana 48 if you haven't yet concerning my experience with their (total lack of) customer service: http://www.reviewcentre.com/review251446.html
<br/>
<br/>Concerning "you get what you pay for"... I typically agree -- but I just purchased a Beeman P3 for about $180 new, unaware that the Weihrauch HW40 is the EXACT same gun for about $40 less. So in some cases, you are paying for the name.
<br/>
<br/>I have never purchased a used, refurbed, or blemished gun, because I never fully trust prior owners (or the servicers!), and I want to extract the maximum value for my dollar -- so to your question on that point, I can't provide any insight. I like to be the first owner of my guns.
<br/>
<br/>While I had a poor experience with trying to get Umarex to replace a D.O.A. Diana 48 and I think that as a company they are sorely lacking, I'm pleased with the performance of the 350 I have, so I won't let the poor customer service of what is basically a small few-person U.S. service facility mar the quality of the generally well-produced rifles themselves.
<br/>
<br/>Concerning scopes... I never purchase "combos", because for the most part, the scopes are junk -- or at least not worth the price you're paying for them. Fixed 50-yard objectives, often fixed 4x zoom, sometimes junk two-piece mounts... I use an Accushot one-piece mount ($15) on all my rifles with a Leapers 3-9x40 AO scope with lithium-powered 3V red/green mil-dot reticle (about $60 new), and I've never had a problem. The 350 is the most powerful rifle I've put them on, but I believe they can take the recoil of any springer out there currently. Leapers "TrueStrength" models supposedly all can.
<br/>
<br/>My best advice is just to purchase from someplace that honors returns/exchanges without a hassle, and you'll save yourself a lot of time -- whether you get a lemon or simply dislike your selection.
Written on: 22/10/2007
Hello, thanx for the review :)
<br/>
<br/>Have anyone noticed if there are numbers or codes written on the internal parts (spring,hammer....) of any of an RWS airgun? I plan to get a used 350 so i want to just check if it is in good condition and that no parts have been modified or replaced .
<br/>Also can anyone please help me by telling me what are the parts other than the main spring than can affect the velocity of an airgun?
<br/>Thanx for any help! :)
Written on: 04/11/2007
Speaking of parts for the 350 or high performances air rifles.
<br/>I have discovered a market of custom parts.
<br/>From spring guides to muzzle breaks, custom trigger guards to customized stocks, better seals etc.
<br/>There are so many airgunsmiths offering remodifications for performance to appearance.
<br/>Any advice on upgrading?
<br/>Do we just buy on the high end side $1000.00 Theobin types. I have been fortunate with no problems.
<br/>I'm always wary of who to order from or send in for repairs.
<br/>I have been using Beeman since 1976 when Dr. Beeman owned & operated his business and I still use Beeman's after he sold it.
<br/>There is nothing like having a high performance air rifle that has quality custom parts.
<br/>But who is reputable with a good repair policy, custom work and value for the dollar?
<br/>I have viewed some nicely customized air arms on the net.
<br/>I think I'll err on the practical side than the super modified.
<br/>Finally is trying to eek out more power better? or does it depend on the types of shooters we are, you know the Fords or Chey's, hybrids or SUV's.
Written on: 06/11/2007
Hi Marlon James,
<br/>
<br/>What are the links that provide custom parts? Where is this shop? Is it in the usa?
<br/>thx
Written on: 09/11/2007
To Fileyn,
<br/>
<br/>Check out "Airgun Artisans.com" would be a good start with links to custom gunsmiths. "airgunsmith.com" is another site where links and custom work and parts are available to view. As is "the Kermit airgun club" that you'll find as a link in the "airgunsmith website". For me there is a wide array of airgun sites and information, for every type of air gun hobbyist from newcomer to old timer, economy or highend aftermarket options. There is a brotherhood of airgun enthusiasts and the exchange of information that reflects it's artistry in fabrication in wood, metal, design and engineering. Hope this info helps. I just discovered it myself in trying to rebuild a Phase 1 generation of Corsman American Classic 1377. I also found a custom stock that individualizes my RWS 48 and Beeman R-1 that is almost 20 years old.
<br/>Marlon James
Written on: 06/11/2009
I found this review very helpful because...I have read many, many reviews on this very rifle. I just ordered one 2 days ago. This reviewer has stated that he is no expert, but every thing he said about different pellets and placement/grouping is exactly what I have discovered breaking in another brand break barrel air rifle. It was very well written for people who are not "experts" but are probably considering this gun for purchase.
Written on: 13/07/2007 by rob1usa
Tons of power but deceiving because heaviness of rifle absorbs a lot of shock. This thing feels like a m1 garand out of ww2 (my friend let me hold his once) but thats good because it adds to stability. Didn't bother with standard sight adjustments because scope was mounted immediately. Blows through a lot of different materials quite easily, accurate. I don't like plastic triggers they are cheap and deteriorate with age. My 69 year model RWS had metal trigger that is far superior to the... (read more)
Written on: 09/09/2007
Really...plastic triggers and safety? From an RWS? Does Gamo do the same thing with the hunter extreme? So there are pluses and minuses in quality. Is there one company that makes a near perfect product? If so who and what? Break barrel, underlever,and what about stock quality? Isn't there an aftermarket store that provides custom parts?
Written on: 29/05/2007 by clearanceman (2 reviews written)
It is accurate, solid, great trigger feel, much nicer than my Beeman GH950. Using a pillow on a windowsill as a rest, it will shoot a group at 30 yards where the holes touch each other. The only complaints are the gun is hard to charge and the fps is overstated, just under 800 fps with .22 call 16 grain pellets, there is probably no way to reach the advertised 1050 with .22 cal pellets. (read more)
Written on: 30/05/2007
Just wanted to say mine shoots the group at 30 yards with the holes touching each other using predator pellets. These are amazing pellets in this 350 and my Beeman GH950. Highly recommended.
Written on: 04/05/2007 by kwl351 (2 reviews written)
I bought mine at Cabelas in the bargain cave for $255.00 in 177 and it was perfect except no box or scope - I started to collect magnum type springer airguns, Gamo Elite in 177 got for 341.00 also in bargain cave perfect shape, RWS Model 54 $360.00 also at bargain cave - (hey i shop for bargains and I always talk them down anywhere from 20.00 to 50.00 off there discounted prices ) and a Beeman RX2 (gas spring) got at sportsman warehouse $400 on sale - I love all of them as each has its... (read more)
Written on: 16/11/2008
First off you hold the 350 in a very loose grip-infact your front hand shold be open with the gun resting on it. The trick is to hold the gun the same way every time-you are supposed to let the gun go with the flow-don't try to supress the recoil let the gun move-and I owned a gammo-took it back to the stor then ordered the 350. And the gammo1250 is NOT the most powerful springer out there-it can't hold a candle to the patriot and I'll bet that if you crony your gamo with the 350-using lead pelletts-not those gimmick raptors the 350 might just surpass your gamo-SScott298
Written on: 13/03/2007 by Eric2525 (1 review written)
When I first purchased my 350 magnum in .177 cal. I was very excited. I felt like I researched the rifle, and I thought it would be suitable for the task a hand. I first ran 750 pellets through for breaking in purposes 10.6 Kodiak's. And started pursuits on some troublesome rabbits. The rifle has tremendous knock down power, on game 10 lbs and under. I do not recommend using the rifle for the long range pest control the manufacture boasts about. The weapon simple loses too much inertia... (read more)
Written on: 15/03/2007
You are confusing muzzle velocity with muzzle energy. This does not change significantly with pellet weight on springers, so the fps is directly affected by the weight.
<br/>
<br/>If a 10.6 grain pellet is giving 900fps, then the muzzle energy is 19 ft. lbs.
<br/>
<br/>To achieve 1250fps at 19ft lbs needs a pellet of about 5.5 grains. A pellet of that weight loses downrange energy very quickly, so is useless for hunting. Also 1250fps is above the speed of sound and causes diabolo pellets to tumble, so you wouldn't hit a barn door at that velocity.
<br/>
<br/>The downrange energy is not governed by the rifle, but by the pellet, some perform much better than others. Try some different pellets and don't go below 8.5 grains, to keep the muzzle velocity sub-sonic.
<br/>
<br/>Good luck.
Written on: 16/03/2007
Try shooting a couple thousand more rounds through your rifle. Most likely the velocity will increase and accuracy will improve after a more thorough break in
Written on: 17/03/2007
1st and foremost you have to use the proper technique when shooting this rifle-as for the velocity no ,manufacture accurately lists the velocity of their guns. In order to achieve the 1250fps listed velocity you need a very light pellet. Straight Shooters has a complete velocity chart on the 350 using approx 30 different pellets. When I first got mine I thought the accuracy was off. Clean the barrel-go onto different web sited that explain how to shoot this gun and find a pellet that works. I shoot Crosman Premiers heavy and I can shoot a 4 shot group at 40 yards that can be covered by a penny. You have a great gun -learn how to shoot it.
Written on: 20/03/2007
Thank you for the advice on the technique. I am planning on ordering a RWS 350 in a couple days. I was wondering if I should get the .177 or the .22? I will be using the gun to hunt squirrel and pests of similar size. I thought I would get someones opinion on it. I used to have a Gamo hunter 1250 but I was unimpressed with the quality and returned the gun. I'm confident that this gun will be a lot better in terms of accuracy also. I'm leaning towards the .22 cal because it has a lot more energy delivered on target according to straight shooters. It seems people can hit dimes and pennies at a far range with the .177 so mabye the .177 is more accurate with a heavy pellet than the .22 cal. Your opinion will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Written on: 21/03/2007
Both the .177 and .22 should have the same accuracy--Where may be a larger pellet choice in .177. The thing to remember is that you do not want the pellet breaking the sound barrier-when this happens the pellet looses stability. I own the 350 in .177 and I only shoot heavy pellets -usually 10.5 grain. The heavy pellets keep the velocity in the 900 range. You can get high velocities in the .177 by shooting a lighter pellet-but what's the point-it won't be on target. I hunt with the .177 but I will only take a shot if I can clearly hit the kill zone. I do a lot of target shooting that's why my 350 is in .177. If you are going to use yours for hunting stick with the .22-don't worry about the velocity , in .22 you will have greater power-that's what's really important.
Written on: 21/03/2007
Thanks for the advise. I have already ordered the gun. It seems like the 350 is going to be a great choice using the right technique.
<br/> Do you have an idea how long the mainspring in this gun will last? If so, do you think they are better than other brands like Gamo?
Written on: 22/03/2007
tbird--Gamo is made in Spain the 350 is made in Germany--some web sites do not even offer Gamo. If you look at the Gamo 440 reviews you will see one that I wrote. I bought a Gamo - shot about a thousand rounds through it then returned it. This is when I bought the 350. Although the 350 was more expensive it has been worth every penny. If you can only afford one rifle -go for the 350-ten years down the road you'll still be enjoying it. As far as the spring is concerned I wouldn't waste anytime worying about--in my opinion German quality is far superior than Spanish--any other questions -just ask--Scott
Written on: 25/03/2007
Before writing this review I failed to mention, my exact knowledge of the RWS 350 (.177 cal.) This is actually my second RWS 350 in less than a 14 month period. I've taken the time to properly break the weapons in, according to most experts. My first rifle actual grouped better than the second. The first rifle had a bad breech seal. So I sent it back to UMAREX , in which the rifle was destroyed in transport by UPS. According to every article I've read online about the 350, they all read the same. They all stress proper technique, hold the rifle loosely let the rifle float in your hand. Never grip the rifle too tightly, and make sure all screws are properly tightened. As for as breaking the rifle in properly is concerned. I am a retired United States Marine that manages a county sponsored shooting range. So on a good week I have over 20 hours to devote to proper break-in. I've run a gamut of pellets through my rifle. I've purchased all the name brand pellets consisting in weights over 9.2-11.5 grain. RWS Supermags, Beeman, Crosman, H&N, & JSP. Needless to say I stand firmly behind my first post. The RWS 350 magnum is not a suitable rifle for hunting game over 8 lbs, or at distances over 20 yards. So for all overly skilled operators of the RWS 350 magnum. Boasting kill shoots and grouping at 40 yards and more I strongly disagree! The rifle is at best what it is named, a precision airgun. Positive grouping at 40-50 yards is great, but at that distance you lose all knockdown power (muzzle energy). So I can appreciate all comments and advice, but I'll stick with my rimfire and centerfire rifles.
Written on: 26/03/2007
To Eric2525. From what you're reporting, it sounds like the RWS 350 you're shooting is in .177 cal. If you did all the research, why didn't you get it in .22 cal? The 350 can be had anywhere from around $300 to $380. The 350 is a lot of gun for that money. If you're looking for killing power out to 50 yards and beyond, you could have forked out over a $1,000 or better for a PCP rifle. Mine is in .177, and I can get good groupings at 40 yards. I took out a squirrel at a little over 30 yards with a Crossman Premier heavy. That pellet pushed him at least 2 feet upon impact, and there was no need for a follow-up shot. I would agree that the 350 in .177 is certainly not the proper gun for 10lb rabbits, or the .22cal for that matter. I have shot many rimfire and centerfire rifles, and I own several. When I first started shooting my 350, I was looking for a stronger effect due to my experience with bullets that were propelled by a powder charge. It took a little time for me to come around, but I have a lot of respect for what the 350 can do using a spring and a little bit of air. I'm sorry that your experience hasn't been a good one.
Written on: 28/03/2007
To Sdh298,
<br/>
<br/>I just received my rws 350 in .177cal today. I have shot about 25 pellets and the accuracy is great already with 10.5g CPH. I can't believe how smooth this thing shoots. It has recoil but not that cheap twang sound. Upon breaking the barrel it creates a squeaky noise but that should lighten up with time. I shot a couple pellets through my f-1 chrony(cph) 1st shot was 921 second was 928 third was 936. Overall I am impressed with this guns first day.
<br/>I think I may have a recent model because the receiver has an engraving of a person holding a rifle. Below that it says Diana 350 And magnum is written vertically. Above the picture it says RWS. Does your rifle have this design?
Written on: 28/03/2007
Hi bud. You can't expect the FPS to be as high as stated by RWS if you are shooting much heavier weight ammo, as stated by the manufacturer of the rifle. Spring powered air rifles do not take kindly to heavy ammo, unlike precharged rifles.
Written on: 28/03/2007
Tbird- have the same one- if you think the going is good now, wait until you break her in. Been using cph 10.5 with good results. Recently tried Beeman Kodiak extra heavy, and they seem to slip into the breach a little easier, and it's 50/50 as to which one groups better. Have JSB Exact heavy on order - be interesting to see which of the 3 is the best. I don't remember if you scoped yours. I am afraid if I go back to the main page I'll loose everything I typed so far. The key here is getting a scope that can withstand the recoil, and most of all be very careful at the scope mount you use - open sites are great too. If you haven't found them yet, there's great info on pellet velocity from straight shooters, and there is a blog at Pyramyd that has so much info. It helps fill the voids when you can't shoot. <br/>
<br/>Shoot straight Scott - keep in touch and let me know how things shake out.
Written on: 28/03/2007
to saxonblood-yes heavy pellets will drop the fps-which is what you need in a rifle like the 350. light pellets fly out to quickly-you need the heavy pellet to keep the velocity around 900fps-and at the muzzle the 350 produces about 20 ftlbs. other rifles may not like heavy pellets but the 350 will eat them all day long
Written on: 30/03/2007
sdh298
<br/>
<br/> I do have a scope on this rifle. It's the 350 scope by rws. It's small and compact and so far it's doing well although only a 4x. I went out today and shot my first squirrel and dropped him easily.
<br/> That creaking sound seems to be smoothing out a little. Great gun.
Written on: 30/03/2007
I think I can speak with some experience on air weapons, in the the 1980,s i was involved in extracting maximum foot poundage from spring weapons, i have continued since then with further r and d with pc air weapons, and have found that 37 fpe is easily obtained with air arms .22 s 400/ s410 classic rifles, I was a friend of gerald cardew who took air rifle development to new levels in the 1980,s 90,s and both of us followed the same mantra, i remember stating to the new wiz kids on the block then that the secret of high feet per sec in a spring powered air rifle was as short as possible trasfer port which they disputed, even though I was proved right in later spring powered models in whicht high energy levels were obtained which proved I was right.
Written on: 30/03/2007
Tbird-great start-when I had my gamo440 It had a 4x scope-it went bask when I returned the gun-package deal. I was using the rws 450 a 3x9 and then bought a leapers 4x16. Didn't really need it just got caught up in the new gun thing-at least if my wife lets me get another gun I'll already have a scope for it. Unless your going into competi0on nothing wrong with a 4x-heck you already got your 1st squirrel! Curious as to what type of mount your using-shoot straight -Scott
Written on: 01/04/2007
Those 10.6 grain kodiaks are super accurate. You asked about those mounts - they are two piece mounts from RWS. They are okay but I have to tighten them sometimes because they shake a little lose. Eventually I may get a one piece mount and a better scope.
I have taken about 200 shots through the gun and it seems to be smoothing out. How long did it take to break in your rifle? Also can I expect the velocity to increase or decrease after the break-in?
Written on: 03/05/2007
I think what you have said about the weight distribution of the rifle reflects your very personal thoughts since ı found it very front balancing after 16 months of using of my 350:(
<br/> So I can ,for my part , unfortunately never say that the rifle has a good weight distribution or balance:(
Written on: 15/06/2007
I have a .177 350 and love it. It shoots 10.5 grain Crosman domes at about 925 fps, some serious punch. Very accurate, and I shoot only open sights. I can get .75 groups, rested, at 80 feet on a good day. Have killed 14 pigeons so far with it, they don't go far when drilled with this rifle. Very well made, German quality, affordable price, excellent accuracy and power. Overall, a super rifle. I ordered 5 thousand 10.5 pellets as that is all I will shoot in this powerhouse.
Written on: 12/04/2008
I found this review helpful due to similar experiences with my RWS 350 .22.
<br/>What is even more helpful are the comments and insights of the readers who/that appear to have tenured insight on air gunning.
<br/>Judging from the responses alone it's obvious of their acute awareness of all the details characteristic to that of the 350 in either caliber.
<br/>Just the information alone from the 19 or so comments should help any if not all shooters from beginner to advanced.
Written on: 09/03/2007 by Pedro Laia (12 reviews written)
Hello, this is an update review of this outstanding piece of art - the RWS Diana 350 in 0.177. After some months using it and some 1000 shots after, (I don't really count them), this rifle keeps showing its supreme quality and brute force!
I've managed to improve my accuracy with it - I can hit a soda can at 43 meters away with open sights, however there is more work to be done in accuracy.
About pellets I've seen it doesn't really like the pointed ones like "Gamo Magnum" (since I had...
(read more)
Written on: 10/03/2007
Sounds great at least your happy with a good build rifle
Written on: 13/03/2007
Yes I am, it really is a very good built rifle. Many people over here prize the excellent Weihrauch manufacture quality, I've had the opportunity to see one in a shop - an HW 55, and to be honest, I really liked its appearance and good quality looks, however I don't agree that like many people say's it could be "so much better than an RWS Diana" period.
Written on: 17/03/2007
Sounds like your having a great time with your 350. I have the same one-I find it likes heavier domed pellets -I shoot Crosman premiers 10.5-4shot groups that can be covered by a penny at 40 yards-shoot straight-Scott
Written on: 03/02/2007 by sdh298
To start with I have various rim-fire and center fire guns along with shot guns and blackpowder. I haven't used them in years due to a wide variety of reasons. While making the x-mas returns I happened to be in a sports store and decided to look at pellet rifles, my wife took notice of this and encouraged me to buy one-go figure. I walked out with a gamo 440 with scope. Once home I set up targets in my backyard and got down to business, herein lies the problem-I've always loved to shoot... (read more)
Written on: 11/02/2007
The one thing I am always interested in is power. Graphs showing numbers are great, but after a while I want more. Last night I received my gun cleaning kit and my Crossman premiers. After cleaning out the 350 I was interested in how the Crossman would preform. Across the street at over 40 yards is a park with a 55gal steel drum for litter. IT was dark and raining. I opened up the window (due to the conditions there was no one on foot), aimed at the can and thwaak - no ding - I mean THWAAAAK! It sounded like someone had taken a bat to it. Several days later I was walking by the can and went to look for impact spots on it. I was expecting little scrapes, NOT MAJOR DENTS that almost went through one side. Charts are great, BUT every once in a while, you need to THWAAAAK SOMETHING.
Written on: 11/02/2007
Does anyone have any experience using Logun penetrators, .177 in the RWS 350?
Written on: 25/01/2007 by scott298 (6 reviews written)
Just got thru putting over 500 rounds thru my 350 in the last 36 hours. My arms ache, my shoulders are sore and I'm grinning from ear to ear. I had done a lot of shooting in my youth owning center fire , rimfire and black powder rifles, during x-mas I had bought a gamo 440 combo as an impulse buy. After putting 600 rounds thru it I broke a scope ring and the stock would loosen up every 30 shots-it went back to the store. Went on-line found these reviews and bought the 350 in .177 cal. ... (read more)
Written on: 20/01/2007 by scott298 (6 reviews written)
I have not shot for years, which is sad because my centerfire, rimfire and shotguns are collecting dust. Post x-mas shopping I came across a great deal on a .177 cal airgun rated at 1000fps with scope for $170..Bought it as an impulse. I have set up a range in my backyard and am thrilled with the ease and convience of being able to walk out my backdoor and start firing. My enthusiasm quickly diminished when the gun did not group well and the scope and stock became loose time after time. I... (read more)
Written on: 02/01/2007 by aeroqst (5 reviews written)
I just bought the 350 Magnum airgun after reading other reviews on it and comparing performance of various models. Mine is a 22 cal.. The gun just wangs the pellets out there and with the open iron sights shows deadly accuracy at 50 plus yards. The trigger pull is smooth and predictable. I am usually not the steadiest of people when it comes to holding an aim point but this rifle seems to make it much easier. The recoil is moderate and smooth for such a powerful airgun making for some pretty... (read more)
Written on: 27/12/2006 by rzebrak (24 reviews written)
I grew up seeing as a small boy, men who had Diana while competing in pigeon’s competitions. When pigeon got back from flight the owner had to take of from his leg a bracelet and insert into clock device to have a proof of coming to finish.
If the pigeon hesitated and didn’t go fast enough into cage owner would shoot it if times of return were very good.
They also use them to shoot falcons and protect returning pigeons. It was long time ago and some of these Diana’s look like artifacts very,...
(read more)
Written on: 09/03/2007
I completely agree with you rzebrak, here in Portugal, since I remember seeing airrifles for the first times (some 15 years ago), I completely became attracted by Diana's, first because of their design, and second because they always were the most famous ones. regards
Written on: 23/03/2007
I bought a .22 Ruger LR recently, and I was shooting from over 50 yards using several rifles, including the Diana 350.
<br/>
<br/>The Diana 350 was the most consistent, and much better than the Rugger, even though it is only an air rifle.
Written on: 29/11/2006 by colahjr
Excellent rifle. I own several others including Gamo, Crosman, Remington, Diana, and Daisy. Some are as accurate at 40-50 yards, but none will reach out as far as the MAG 350 and deliver the impact that it can. (read more)
Written on: 22/10/2007
HI
<br/>
<br/>I guess the 350 magnum will easily hit a target at 100 yards... :D.
<br/>Just have some questions if you can help me.....
<br/>Have you noticed if there are numbers or codes written on the internal parts (spring,hammer....) of any of an RWS airgun? i plan to get a used 350 so i wanna just check if it is in good condition,and that no parts have been modified or replaced .
<br/>Also can you please help me by telling me what are the parts other than the main spring than can affect the velocity of an airgun?
<br/>Thanx for any help! :)
As rated by real users
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Hmarramlien's Response to ampmaestro's Review
Written on: 09/01/2013
I agree with this review. I personally owned HW80 .22 (FAC version) for two and a half years and knew pretty well how the HW80 works and how much power it can deliver at 50 yards. When I bought my RWS 350 .22 TO6 trigger in June 2012, I quickly realised that it was much better than my HW80 .22 FAC version in all respect. I can proudly say that I don't use telescope with air rifles. I am happy with the iron sights. Iron sights are wonderful both in HW80 and RWS 350. The guns are easy to carry around without scope.
I recommend RWS 350 .22 to anyone interested in owning a meaningful spring air rifle. Happy save shooting...!