Field target shooting is all about precision, control and sporting discipline, so you’ll need the right kit that’ll complement your skills. No matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie just starting out, there’s an air rifle to suit your budget and performance requirements!
What is Field Target Shooting?
Field targeting shooting is a popular air rifle sport that tests a competitor’s ability to hit targets in various outdoor environments. Metal knock-down targets are placed at various distances, between 8 and 55 yards, within lanes in open fields or woodlands.
Shooters must strike the ‘hit zone’ of the target, which will knock it down, indicating a successful hit. They are not told the target’s range and must use their judgement, experience and often, rifle scopes, to take their shot.
Generally, shooters will use PCP air rifles (.177 or .22), although some may prefer spring air guns.
What to Look For in Field Target Shooting Rifles
There are a few things to consider when picking a suitable target shooting gun. Basics include:
- - PCP: Less recoil for a more controlled aim.
- - .177 calibre: The high velocity means .177 pellets fly with a flatter trajectory (most shooters prefer .177 air rifles for field target shooting).
- - .22 calibre: On the other hand, these heavier pellets are less affected by wind conditions.
- - 12ft-lb: Rifles must not exceed this energy/power limit.
When getting into the specifics, other things to consider include:
- - Adjustable stock: allows for better eye-level alignment and stability when taking seated shots.
- - Optic capability: your rifle will need to be compatible with high-magnification scopes to help determine a target’s range.
- - Trigger quality: a rapid-response, multi-stage adjustable trigger ensures accurate shots are fired exactly when you want them.
- - Weight and balance: a well-balanced gun increases your stability and makes shooting in various scenarios more comfortable and predictable.
If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at a few of our top recommendations.
Air Arms XTi-50
If you’re serious about field target shooting, this competition rifle represents the best of the best. Purpose-designed for high specification and accuracy, the XTi-50 promises unmatched performance straight out of the box.
With an adjustable stock, fully-floating match-grade barrel, optimal balance, extendable pistol grip and almost endless other adjustable components, this air rifle provides everything you need to dominate the field.
Air Arms S400
On the slightly cheaper end of the Air Arms’ offerings for field shooting is the S400. This rifle is generally considered one of the best options for beginners, offering fantastic accuracy and reliability without the ultra-premium price tag.
The S400 (and later S500) gun has a relatively simple design with fewer internal components to reduce maintenance and increase reliability, making it ideal for those who prefer a no-nonsense experience. The smooth yet simple bolt action also gives greater control over every shot, putting precision and stability at the forefront.
Air Arms TX200
If you’d rather a spring-piston rifle, Air Arms has got you covered here too. The TX200 is widely considered one of the best, certainly capable of holding its own against high-end PCP rifles.
Complete with an attractive beech stock, adjustable two-stage trigger, built-in moderator and under lever action, the TX200 has become renowned for a smooth, accurate shooting experience with reduced recoil and fantastic reliability.
Weihrauch HW97K
Another well-respected spring-piston rifle, the Weihrauch HW97K is often seen as a fearsome competitor straight out of the box. Designed with target shooting in mind, this German-made rifle provides a high level of accuracy and consistency.
The fixed barrel ensures incredible accuracy over long distances, and the weight makes it perfectly balanced and comfortable to hold for long competition periods. It is also complete with a dovetail rail, fully adjustable trigger and automatic safety for a solid, reliable experience.
Weihrauch HW100 X
For the same excellent German manufacturing in PCP form, look no further than the HW100 X. Loaded with high-spec features, this rifle is prized for its brilliant accuracy, increased shot count and ultra-efficient regulator.
The high-grade aluminium cylinder creates a lightweight gun that still manages to pack a real punch. Combine this with fast fire side lever action and a two-stage match trigger, and you’re primed to out-shoot the competition.
Daystate Huntsman Revere
Daystate is another favourite brand for target shooters, owing to its fantastic selection of high-performance, competition-ready guns. The Daystate Huntsman Revere offers a nice balance of premium features, without being the priciest option out there.
Offering a consistent shot count thanks to the HUMA-Air regulator and the patented hammer-and-valve system, along with a shrouded match-grade barrel, two-stage adjustable trigger and sporter stocker, the Huntsman Revere provides everything you need for accurate, consistent shooting.
For more high-quality air guns suited to a range of budgets, see our full range of air rifles.
