The Falcon air rifle is manufactured by Gamo Outdoor USA. Gamo is a Spanish company that was founded in the 1960s and is one of the largest airgun manufacturers in the world. They are known for producing high-quality and innovative air rifles that are popular for recreational shooting, pest control, and small game hunting.
History of the Falcon Air Rifle
The Falcon air rifle was first introduced by Gamo in the 1990s. It quickly became one of their most popular air rifle models and has been produced continuously since then with updated models and variations. The earlier Falcon models were spring-piston break barrel air rifles. In the 2000s, Gamo introduced the Falcon PCP model which featured a pre-charged pneumatic power system. This allowed for greater power and consistency compared to the original spring models.
Some key milestones in the history of the Falcon air rifle include:
- Early 1990s – The original Falcon spring-piston air rifle is introduced.
- Late 1990s – Additional Falcon models are introduced including the Falcon Gold with a gold-colored receiver.
- Early 2000s – The Falcon PCP pre-charged pneumatic model is released.
- 2010s – Gamo introduces additional Falcon PCP models with enhanced technologies like the Smooth Action Trigger and Recoil Reducing Rail.
- 2020s – The latest Falcon models feature the RSA (Recoil Reducing System) technology to improve accuracy.
While the designs and technologies have evolved over the decades, the Falcon has remained one of Gamo’s flagship air rifles known for power, accuracy, and quality.
Falcon Air Rifle Models and Features
There are a wide range of Falcon air rifle models that come in .177, .22, and .25 calibers. The models utilize different power systems, stocks, and technologies:
Spring-Piston Models
- Falcon – Standard wood stock break barrel springer rifle.
- Falcon Gold – Upgraded model with gold-colored receiver.
- Falcon Optima – Break barrel with fluted polymer bull barrel and all-weather stock.
Pneumatic Models
- Falcon PCP – First pre-charged pneumatic Falcon air rifle.
- Falcon Tactical – PCP model with tactical style polymer stock.
- Falconer – Side lever PCP model easier to cock and load.
Key features found across many Falcon models include:
- Fiber optic sights
- Ventilated rubber recoil pad
- Automatic safety
- Single shot breech or magazine fed
- 11mm dovetail for mounting optics
- Precision rifled steel barrel
- 2-stage adjustable trigger
Higher end models also incorporate Gamo’s patented technologies like the Smooth Action Trigger, Recoil Reducing Rail, and RSA Recoil Reducing System.
Falcon Air Rifle Power Source
The power source is one of the biggest differentiators between Falcon air rifle models. The two main power systems used are:
Spring-Piston
The original Falcon air rifles use a spring-piston power plant. This system uses a coiled steel spring that is compressed when the barrel is cocked. Upon firing, the spring pushes a piston forward compressing air in the chamber, which propels the pellet down the barrel.
Benefits of the spring-piston include:
- Simple and reliable power system
- Inexpensive to manufacture
- Capable of high velocities up to 1,000 fps
Drawbacks include more vibration and louder firing noise.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP)
Falcon PCP models use compressed air held in a reservoir to propel the pellet. The air reservoir is filled from an external high pressure source like a hand pump or scuba tank. When the trigger is pulled, air from the reservoir is released into the barrel.
Benefits of the PCP system:
- Very consistent velocities and power
- Lower vibration and quieter operation
- Capable of greater power beyond 1,000 fps
- Higher shot count per fill compared to spring models
The main drawback is the need to have access to an external high pressure air source.
Falcon Air Rifle Calibers
The Falcon is available in the three most common air rifle calibers – .177, .22 and .25. Each has pros and cons:
.177 Caliber
- Shoots lightweight pellets typically 7 to 9 grains
- Highest velocities up to 1,200 fps
- Flat trajectories good for target shooting
- Less ideal for hunting due to less pellet energy
.22 Caliber
- Heavier pellets from 14 to 21 grains
- Slower velocities around 700-900 fps
- Flatter trajectories and more energy than .177
- Considered best all-round caliber for hunting and target shooting
.25 Caliber
- Heavy pellets 25+ grain weights
- Slow velocities under 700 fps
- Trajectory arcs more over longer ranges
- Excellent energy levels for hunting medium game
The most popular caliber for the Falcon is .22 due to its versatility. But the model is effective in any of the three calibers depending on your specific needs.
Falcon Air Rifle Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the Falcon’s standout features. Many models can achieve 1-inch shot groups at 50 yards when using quality pellets and with minimal wind. Features that give the Falcon excellent accuracy include:
- Match grade rifled steel barrels
- 2-stage adjustable triggers
- Fiber optic front and rear sights
- Vibration dampening components like RSA and scope rails
- Heavier weight and proper balance
- Smooth and consistent firing cycles
The top-tier PCP models tend to be the most accurate especially when paired with a high magnification scope. But even basic spring-piston Falcon’s are capable of tight groups thanks to the quality barrels and triggers.
Falcon Air Rifle Upgrades and Accessories
Some popular upgrades and accessories for the Falcon air rifle include:
- Scopes – Adding a quality variable 3-12x or 4-16x scope can transform accuracy at longer ranges.
- Bipods – Attaching a Harris-style bipod provides a stable shooting platform.
- Sling – A simple sling makes carrying the rifle afield much easier.
- Pellet magazine – Rotary magazines allow for quick follow up shots.
- Suppressor – Can be attached to reduce noise and vibration.
- Higher capacity air tank – Larger 300cc or 500cc tanks extend shots per fill for PCP models.
The dovetail rail also makes mounting optics like red dot sights quick and easy. The Falcon’s solid construction allows for adding accessories without compromising performance.
Falcon Air Rifle Hunting and Field Use
With sufficient power and accuracy, the Falcon serves as an excellent hunting air rifle for small game like squirrels, rabbits, and birds. The .22 and .25 caliber PCP models have enough energy to humanely take foxes, raccoons, and other predators.
Characteristics that make the Falcon a good hunting rifle:
- High muzzle velocities and foot-pound energies
- Quality optics like scopes improve aiming
- Accurate enough for head shots on small game
- Large pellet capacity with single shot tray or magazines
- Moderate weight between 6 to 9 lbs for easy handling
The Falcon performs well in the field thanks to its reliability, ergonomics, and weather resistance. The adjustable stock and grip angles allow shooters to get comfortable. The automatic safety helps prevent accidental discharge while trekking through brush. The rifled steel barrels maintain accuracy even in wet weather.
Falcon Air Rifle Prices
Falcon air rifle prices range from around $150 to $500+ depending on the specific model and features. Some approximate MSRP prices are:
- Falcon – $150
- Falcon Gold – $180
- Falcon Optima – $220
- Falcon PCP – $400
- Falcon Tactical PCP – $500
Upgrades like high power scopes and accessories will increase costs further. But overall, the Falcon provides excellent value with lower prices than comparable break barrel and PCP air rifles.
Where to Buy the Falcon Air Rifle
There are several options to purchase Falcon air rifles and accessories:
- Local retailers – Major sporting goods stores will carry a selection of Falcon rifles and pellets.
- Independent dealers – Smaller specialty shops focused on air guns will offer more models.
- Online – Most major air gun websites have the full Falcon lineup available.
- Gamo website – Can buy direct or find authorized dealers near you.
- Amazon – Carries current production and older models of the Falcon.
- Gunbroker – Site to buy new, used, and vintage Falcon air rifles.
Be sure to shop from an authorized Gamo dealer to ensure you receive a genuine Falcon rifle covered by warranty. Do your research to find the right Falcon model for your budget and needs.
Falcon Air Rifle Review Conclusions
After over 30 years of continuous production, the Falcon remains a benchmark spring-piston and PCP air rifle. It combines excellent power and accuracy with a proven design and affordable price point. The range of models and calibers offers versatile configurations for both hunting and target shooting.
While not as fancy looking as some competitors, the Falcon has earned a sterling reputation for performance and reliability. Upgraded technologies like the Smooth Action Trigger and Recoil Reducing rail have kept it competitive with other modern air rifles. Given its history and popularity, expect the Falcon to continue being a top air gun choice for years to come.
