Introduction:
My Experience with the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum
When I first heard about the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum, I was skeptical. CO2 air rifles don’t always get the credit they deserve, often overshadowed by PCP and spring-piston models. But after a few sessions with this rifle, I’ve come to appreciate why it has garnered such a loyal following. Reliable, powerful, and versatile, the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum is more than just a CO2 rifle—it’s a serious contender for anyone looking to combine performance with ease of use. Here’s my deep dive into what makes this rifle so special.
Build Quality and Design: Rugged Yet Refined
The Hammerli 850 Air Magnum makes a strong first impression. It’s a rifle that looks and feels like it was built to last. The German craftsmanship is evident in every detail.
- Stock: The synthetic stock is lightweight yet sturdy, perfect for all-weather use. It’s ergonomically designed, with textured grips and a raised cheekpiece for added comfort.
- Barrel: The precision-rifled steel barrel ensures accuracy, and its matte finish resists glare and corrosion.
- Weight and Balance: Weighing just over 3.9kg (8.6 lbs), the rifle is well-balanced, making it easy to handle during extended shooting sessions.
What struck me the most is how the rifle feels in hand. It’s not overly flashy, but it exudes a sense of purpose—everything about it is designed for performance.
Power Source: The CO2 Advantage
The Hammerli 850 Air Magnum is powered by an 88-gram CO2 cartridge. This might seem unconventional compared to PCP or spring rifles, but it has its advantages:
- Ease of Use: No need for a pump or compressor—just screw in a cartridge, and you’re ready to go.
- Consistency: The regulated CO2 system provides consistent power output, which translates to better accuracy over multiple shots.
- Capacity: One CO2 cartridge delivers up to 200 shots, making it economical and convenient for extended shooting sessions.
For someone like me, who values simplicity and consistency, the CO2 system is a game-changer.
Performance and Accuracy: Precision Meets Power
Out on the range, the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum truly shines. Its performance is on par with more expensive PCP rifles, offering impressive accuracy and power.
- Caliber Options: Available in both .177 and .22 calibers, the rifle caters to a variety of shooting needs. I opted for the .22 version, which delivers better stopping power for small game hunting.
- Accuracy: At 30 yards, I consistently achieved dime-sized groupings. With the right pellets and a bit of practice, the rifle is capable of excellent accuracy even at 50 yards.
- Velocity: The .22 caliber version delivers around 650 fps, while the .177 pushes up to 760 fps—more than enough for target shooting and pest control.
Whether you’re plinking in your backyard or taking out pests on a farm, the Hammerli 850 performs admirably.
Magazine System: A Seamless Shooting Experience
One of my favorite features of the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum is its 8-shot rotary magazine. Reloading is quick and straightforward, and the action is smooth and reliable. The bolt-action mechanism adds a touch of realism and makes the rifle feel more engaging to shoot.
- Efficiency: The magazine system allows for uninterrupted shooting, which is perfect for both target practice and hunting.
- Spare Magazines: Extra magazines are easy to find, and swapping them out takes seconds.
This feature makes the rifle not just accurate, but also incredibly user-friendly.
Real-Life Applications: Where the 850 Excels
Over the past few months, I’ve used the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum for everything from backyard target shooting to pest control. Here’s what stood out:
- Target Shooting: Its accuracy and ease of use make it a joy for plinking and range practice.
- Hunting: The .22 version has enough power for small game like rabbits and squirrels.
- Training: The bolt-action and magazine system make it a great training tool for beginners and seasoned shooters alike.
Compared to other CO2 rifles I’ve tried, like the Crosman 1077 or Umarex Fusion 2, the Hammerli 850 stands out for its balance of power, accuracy, and overall build quality.
Pros and Cons: The Honest Verdict
Pros:
- Consistent power and accuracy
- Reliable 8-shot magazine system
- Durable, all-weather synthetic stock
- Excellent value for the price
- Don’t have to reload every shot
Cons:
- Requires 88-gram CO2 cartridges, which can be less convenient than smaller cartridges
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Velocity might fall short for long-range hunting in larger calibers
- The magazine is small and if you have large hands, you may hate it
Pricing and Availability
The Hammerli 850 Air Magnum is widely available throughout the US at retailers like Pyramid Air and Airgun Depot.
If you are in the UK you should check out Justairguns.co.uk or or The Airgun Centre for competitive pricing and expert advice.
Prices typically range from £250 to £350, depending on the package and included accessories. For what you get, it’s a fantastic deal.
My Final Thoughts: A CO2 Rifle Worth Owning
The Hammerli 850 Air Magnum has completely changed how I view CO2 rifles. It’s reliable, accurate, and incredibly fun to shoot. While it might not replace a PCP rifle for those who demand the highest power levels, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who values simplicity and performance.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use rifle or an experienced shooter wanting something different, the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum won’t disappoint. It’s a rifle that delivers on all fronts—and one I’ll be using for years to come.
FAQ
Q: How many shots can I get from one CO2 cartridge? A: You can expect up to 200 shots per 88-gram CO2 cartridge, depending on environmental conditions and shooting pace.
Q: Is the Hammerli 850 suitable for hunting? A: Yes, the .22 caliber version is ideal for small game hunting and pest control.
Q: Can I use smaller CO2 cartridges? A: With an adapter, you can use 12-gram CO2 cartridges, though shot count will be reduced.
Comments