Description
The pre-owned Webley Premier .177 air pistol represents a classic design in the world of air pistols, offering second-hand buyers the opportunity to own a piece of airgun history. Known for its precision and reliability, the Webley Premier has been a favourite among air pistol enthusiasts for decades, particularly in its .177 calibre configuration.
At the heart 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 .177 calibre, the Webley Premier offers an excellent balance of velocity and accuracy. With velocities typically ranging from 450 to 500 feet per second (fps), it’s capable of delivering flat trajectories at short to medium ranges. This makes it particularly well-suited for target practice and plinking activities. The .177 calibre pellets, being smaller and lighter than their .22 counterparts, allow for higher velocities and flatter trajectories, which can be advantageous for precision shooting.
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 .177 calibre pistol, where slight variations in pellet weight can have noticeable effects on point of impact.
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 .177 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 .177 calibre is its versatility. It excels as a target pistol, offering the precision needed for serious target work. The flat trajectory of the .177 pellets makes it easier to achieve consistent accuracy at various ranges without significant hold-over adjustments. This makes it an excellent tool for developing marksmanship skills.
The Webley Premier’s classic design also makes it an interesting piece for airgun collectors. As a pre-owned pistol, it may show signs of use consistent with its “good” condition rating, but this can add character and history to the piece. The 3-month warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that the pistol functions as expected.
In terms of performance, shooters can expect excellent accuracy from the Webley Premier .177, especially at ranges up to 10-20 meters. With practice and the right pellets, tight groupings are achievable, making it satisfying for both casual plinking and more serious target work. The higher velocity of the .177 calibre also means that the pistol can be effectively used at slightly longer ranges compared to its .22 calibre counterpart.
While this pre-owned Webley Premier doesn’t come with any extras, 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.
In conclusion, the pre-owned Webley Premier .177 air pistol offers a blend of classic design, reliable performance, and precision. 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, accurate pistol. Whether for target practice, plinking, or as an addition to an airgun collection, this second-hand Webley Premier represents good value, especially with the included 3-month warranty.
