Description
The pre-owned Webley Premier .22 air pistol, complete with its original box, represents a classic design in the world of air pistols, offering second-hand buyers the opportunity to own a piece of airgun history in its original packaging. Known for its reliability and power, the Webley Premier has been a favourite among air pistol enthusiasts for decades, particularly in its hard-hitting .22 calibre configuration.
At the core of the Webley Premier is its spring-piston power plant. This tried-and-true system provides consistent power without the need for external air sources or CO2 cartridges. The spring-piston mechanism delivers a satisfying shooting experience with each cock of the barrel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the traditional aspects of airgun shooting. The break-barrel design also contributes to the pistol’s self-contained nature, requiring no additional equipment for operation.
In .22 calibre, the Webley Premier offers impressive power for an air pistol. With velocities typically ranging from 400 to 450 feet per second (fps), it’s capable of delivering significant energy downrange. This makes it suitable not only for target practice but also for pest control applications at shorter ranges. The .22 calibre pellets provide excellent knockdown power and are less prone to overpenetration compared to smaller calibres, making them ideal for pest control scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Webley Premier is its robust, all-metal construction. This gives the pistol a substantial feel in the hand and contributes to its durability and longevity. The weight of 1.13 kg (2.5 lbs) helps to absorb recoil and provides stability during aiming, while the overall length of 260 mm (10.2 inches) makes it manageable for a wide range of hand sizes. This solid construction ensures that the pistol can withstand regular use and maintain its accuracy over time.
Accuracy is a key consideration in the Webley Premier’s design. The 190 mm (7.5 inch) barrel provides a good sight radius, enhancing the pistol’s inherent accuracy potential. The fixed front sight and adjustable rear sight allow for precise aiming and can be fine-tuned to the shooter’s preference or to accommodate different pellet weights. This adjustability is particularly valuable in a .22 calibre pistol, where the heavier pellets may require sight adjustments to achieve optimal accuracy at different ranges.
The two-stage adjustable trigger is another feature that contributes to the Premier’s accuracy. It allows shooters to customize the trigger pull to their liking, helping to ensure consistent shot placement. The break is typically crisp, which is essential for accurate shooting, especially at longer ranges. This level of trigger customization is a feature often found on more expensive air pistols, making it a valuable inclusion in the Webley Premier.
Ergonomics play a crucial role in the Webley Premier’s design. The wooden grip is shaped to fit comfortably in the hand, promoting a consistent hold and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The checkering on the grip panels provides a secure hold, even in damp conditions. This attention to ergonomics is particularly important in a spring-piston pistol, where maintaining a consistent grip is crucial for shot-to-shot consistency.
Safety is a priority in the Webley Premier’s design, with an automatic safety mechanism that engages when the pistol is cocked. This helps prevent accidental discharge and promotes safe handling practices. However, as with all airguns, proper safety procedures should always be followed, especially given the power potential of this .22 calibre pistol.
Maintenance of the Webley Premier is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the barrel and action will help ensure consistent performance and longevity. The spring-piston system is known for its reliability, but over time, the mainspring may need replacement to maintain optimal power levels. This simplicity in maintenance makes the Webley Premier an excellent choice for those new to air pistol shooting.
One of the advantages of the Webley Premier in .22 calibre is its versatility. While it excels as a target pistol, offering the precision needed for serious target work, its power and accuracy also make it suitable for pest control tasks, such as dealing with rats or other small vermin at close range. This dual-purpose capability adds value for those who require a multi-functional air pistol.
The inclusion of the original box with this pre-owned Webley Premier is a significant bonus. Not only does it provide proper storage and protection for the pistol when not in use, but it also adds to the collectible value of the item. For airgun enthusiasts and collectors, having the original packaging can be a desirable feature, often indicating that the pistol has been well cared for throughout its life.
In terms of performance, shooters can expect good accuracy from the Webley Premier .22, especially at ranges up to 10-15 meters. With practice and the right pellets, tight groupings are achievable, making it satisfying for both casual plinking and more serious target work. The heavier .22 calibre pellets also retain energy well, making them effective for pest control at these ranges.
While this pre-owned Webley Premier doesn’t come with any additional extras beyond the original box, it’s compatible with a range of aftermarket accessories. Shooters might consider adding a pistol scope or red dot sight to enhance accuracy at longer ranges, or a suppressor to reduce muzzle report for backyard shooting or pest control use.
In conclusion, the pre-owned Webley Premier .22 air pistol, complete with its original box, offers a blend of classic design, reliable performance, and versatility. Its robust construction, adjustable sights, and customizable trigger make it a solid choice for both newcomers to air pistol shooting and experienced enthusiasts looking for a dependable, powerful pistol. Whether for target practice, pest control, or as an addition to an airgun collection, this second-hand Webley Premier represents good value, especially with the included 3-month warranty and original packaging.
