If you are looking to use a pump, and don't mind a single shot, try the Benjamin Maximus. It's only a 2000 PSI fill. The Marauder, and most other guns are a 3000 PSI fill, and I've used a pump on my Marauder. That last 500 PSI is a real bear. You get your work out and really makes shooting a chore.
The gun shoots well, but might need a moderator. The TK Moderators go for around $54 shipped. It's a good starter gun to get you going. Reviews are excellent so far.
Maximus comes in .22. Retail is around $220, Pyramid Air sells for $200-ish. If you use the Crosman 25% off code AGNATION, it's $165 on Crosman's site and on Friday's shipping is free.
The pump retails for $190. so $45 off makes it $145.
So,
Moderator - $54
Pump $145
Maximus - $165
tin of pellets $10
Now for sights - if you put a scope on it, use good glass. That'll probably cost more than the gun!
Anyway, you can be shooting with open sights for under $400 with a nice backyard friendly gun that works well with a pump. Gotta warn ya, that last 500 PSI fill on the marauder is a real bear.
So, your requirements are:
1) I expect to be using a pump so I am looking for something that works well with a pump -
Yes, 2000 PSI Maximus works well with a pump
2) I would prefer a lighter rather than heavier rifle or pistol [needs to be less than 10 lbs with scope and mounts – 70 year old eyes make a scope a requirement].
5 pounds for the gun plus whatever scope you want
3) Strong preference for a rifle/pistol with traditional looks… bull pups do not appeal to me
Traditional style. Synthetic stock, but nice look.
4) Primarily a paper shooter but I won’t rule out the occasional squirrel or varmint
Works well for both
5) I would like to stay under $1000 for the package [gun, pump, scope, mounts – the further under the better without sacrificing quality too much]
About $375 plus the scope
6) Backyard friendly
Moderator makes it really back yard friendly
7) I’m OK with buying used
Haven't seen any on the used market yet, this one's new.
9) I prefer .22 caliber but .177 or maybe even .25 would work
Comes in .22, or .177, also comes in the tuned down European versions making them even quieter.
10) I want a gun that is good right out of the box. I don’t have the skills or desire to do a lot of tinkering
You can tinker with these, but not needed other than sighting the scope.
Downside to the Maximus - with the moderator it will be long. The bolt pull will be heavy as you are compressing a spring around 10 pounds, and the trigger is mediocre. About a 4 pound pull. Hey, it's a $165 gun, so you do compromise in places. But it is accurate and shoots the inexpensive ammunition well, Crosman Premier Domes at around $10 for 500
Lastly, I do prefer a magazine, but the Maximus is strictly a single shot. No mag available.
Do some research on your short list of guns and see what comes up. Good luck whatever you choose.
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