GENERAL AIRGUN INFO: ACCURACY
Although ballistic performance is the number one driving force behind precision airgun sales, its accuracy that truly sets adult airguns apart from other recreational shooting arms. Sure, power is what impresses most new converts to our sport, but without the means to precisely "project" 
that energy, all the power in the world won't win you a single competition or fill your game bag. As it happens, the potential accuracy of precision airguns has developed to such a high degree, they can now equal or even exceed comparable firearm models at ranges of 50-60 yards! When you add safer operation, low noise and reduced ammo costs to the equation, it becomes clear that precision airguns offer superior performance and expanded recreational opportunities unlike any other shooting sports activity.
As was discussed earlier, many factors effect the potential accuracy of precision airguns. General maintenance, type of sighting hardware, weather conditions, ammo tolerances and so on will ultimately determine just how accurate your particular gun can potentially be. Generally speaking, top sporter rifles like the RWS 48/52/54 series and new model 46 can consistently group five shots within one inch (C-T-C) or less at 50 yards. Even the lighter RWS 34 series will group five shots within 1 1/2 inches C-I-C, equaling most standard production .22 caliber rimfire rifles!
But that's not where the potential accuracy of precision airguns ends. World class RWS match rifles, such as the spring-piston model 75S TO1, can literally hit the head of a common straight pin with every shot at 10 meters! The new RWS line of repeating CO2 pistols will generally group a full 8-shot magazine within a respectable 1 1/2-2 inches at 10 meters. They can do it in just a few seconds!
SELECTING THE RIGHT CALIBER
Given similar technical advances in precision airgun ammo, potential accuracy differences between calibers have narrowed considerably in recent years. Still, the age-old caliber debate rages on, with endless arguments as to which caliber is best for what application. Through it all, the real proof continues to be demonstrated daily by the success of countless competitive shooters and hunters around the world. Of course, there remains a basic set of rules that apply as much today as they did decades ago. Such is the case for .177 caliber, which is still the bore size of choice with airgunners who desire accuracy above all else. Almost exclusively the domain of 10-meter events, .177 caliber is now also generally regarded as the best choice for airgun silhouette and field target competition. Only the type of .177 caliber pellet differs among this elite group, whereas 10-meter competitors use precision wadcutters such as RWS R-10. The latter group employs long-range dome styles such as RWS Superdome or FTS. Yet, no matter what the form of target competition, accuracy is always the number one criteria.
On the other hand, larger calibers such as .22 have tradition-ally been the bore size of choice among American small game hunters. Again, with the more recent improvements in spring-piston power plants, a typical 14-15 grain .22 caliber pellet can reach velocities in excess of 800+ FPS. The RWS models 48/ 52/54 will do this with ease, placing more striking energy on the target than similar .177 caliber guns. There's even some renewed interest in .25 caliber. Long considered obsolete, im-proved spring-piston technology has now combined with this devastatingly efficient caliber to produce the ultimate small game/pest control airgun. RWS offers the model 48/52 series in this potent caliber, plus a special .25 caliber dome style hunting pellet.
And what about the best hunting pellet? Here again accuracy should always be your primary concern when going afield after live game. It doesn't matter which caliber you prefer; .177, .20, .22 or .25 ...use the pellet that is most accurate in your particular airgun. In most such cases, dome style pellets (in all calibers) are best at ranges beyond 25-30 yards. For close quarter pest control situations, precision wadcutters can be of great advantage as they limit penetration, while delivering maxi-mum stopping power. RWS R-10, Meisterkugeln and Hobby are ideal for this purpose. Do note that the latter two pellets are also available in .22 caliber. For tougher small game species requiring greater tissue penetration, the RWS Superpoint in either .177 or .22 caliber is recommended. Conversely, the RWS Super-H-Point in either .177 or .22 caliber offers the ad-vantages of a wadcutter combined with the extra expansion of a hollow nose design. Both are also capable of outstanding field accuracy in many different sporting airguns.
PELLET WEIGHT, EFFECTIVE RANGE AND REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Even more critical than a pellet's external shape, its weight plays a dominate role in ballistic performance. Generally speaking, lighter pellets are more efficient in spring-piston precision airguns. They are faster, usually produce less recoil and offer a flatter trajectory path to the target. And that means a lot less guess work. On the other hand, heavy pellets are generally more accurate and retain greater striking energy down-range. To determine the best compromise between power and accuracy, experiment with various pellet styles at ranges at which your targets would most likely be encountered. RWS offers a .177 caliber "Pellet Sampler" for such purposes. Observe not only the differences in accuracy, but also how fast the pellet raises or drops from the point of aim. Measure and record these differences for later reference, as you narrow your selection of probable pellet types. With accuracy always the primary consideration, if you find several pellets that are equally outstanding, choose the one with the least amount of drop at long range. Once you've found that special pellet (or two) which performs well in your precision airgun, it's always wise to purchase enough to last a full season. That way, you'll never miss a practice session or hunting trip should your supplier run short or close unexpectedly!
In conclusion, while offering only limited power when compared to a firearm, precision airguns are actually more "usable" in many ways. They are safer, quieter, and offer far greater versatility and ease of operation. Yet, one of the most important fundamental factors in the adult airgun equation is owner responsibility. Our sport and hobby is growing faster than any other aspect of the shooting community. That means being accountable for safety and the proper use of precision airguns. No, precision airguns were never intended to replace firearms, kill deer-size animals or even take small game at distances re-served only for powder guns. Be realistic and responsible.
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Why buy an Adult Precision Air Gun
Three Basic Types of Air Guns
Air Gun, Caliber and Pellet Selection
Airgun Cleaning and Maintenance
RWS Airgun Maintenance
Inaccuracy in Air Guns
RWS Airgun Potential
History of Air Guns