Air Gun Home :: View topic

Sam · New Member

Hello:
I need a couple of recommendations.
We have an acre on the edge of town, with a thriving population of ground squirrels infesting the garden and fruit trees. Neighbors are not real close, but still are there on both sides. Behind us is forest service land.

About 20 years ago, I ordered a RWS 48 air rifle in .22 caliber. It arrived in .177 caliber, and I kept it instead of sending it back. I don't remember where I ordered it from, it's been so long.

Ever since I received it, I have been VERY disappointed with this gun. I'm lucky to get the thing to hold a paper plate size grouping at 40 yards. I've tried three scopes, the open sights, the “artillery hold”, sandbags, feather pillows, and about every brand of pellets I can find. Nothing has worked. The end result has been to educate the squirrel population to scatter at the door opening instead of keeping the yard a bit clearer. I only hit a squirrel in about one out of ten to fifteen shots, and the majority run off after being hit.
I've cleaned the barrel, checked the crown with a cotton swab, verified all screws are tight, and cussed this thing out more than I care to remember. Is there something that might be considered a defect with the poor performance? I have the paper that says a lifetime warranty applies to the original owner. Maybe send it back on warranty?

Alternatively, I might get rid of the thing and get a new rifle. I am thinking that .22 caliber would be better for my needs. I like the thought of the PCP style reducing the vibration and being more accurate, but there are several comments about that type of gun being real loud. With our close neighbors, I'd prefer something at least as quiet as the RWS 48 we have, and quieter yet would be a plus, but I need a rifle accurate enough to consistently kill a ground squirrel at 50 yards. I also had eye surgery a few years ago, so I require a scope. My shooting with open sights days are past me now. Also the cost of a PCP with pump, is a bit off putting. I'd be OK with a different style as long as I could hit a tree rat without alerting the neighbors.

So, with this information, what rifle and caliber do you think would work best?

Thanks, Sam

toadmyster223 · Senior Member

I've got a Benjamin Titan GP that I've had for 2 or 3 years. I've got 100+confirmed kills with it, and after it settled in, it's dead-nuts accurate. Got it at Walmart for under 200 bucks.

You can't really beat PCPs for quality or power, but you're right about the price. Try out a good nitro-piston in 22 and see if you aren't satisfied.

twalter · Veteran Member

They have that new Jim Shocky endorsed NP in 22 for 189 at my local walmart that might worth a try.

Have you tried to tune that RSW 48 yet?