which is a better system for accuracy, the nitro piston or spring piston ? How does the 22 cal compare with the 177 cal ? Is one more accurate than the other or is one better than the other ? Has anyone any recommendations on currently available air guns ?
Both break barrel types are piston driven. The differance is the nitro piston compresses the piston against a cylinder of nitrogen gas, while the springers use a spring. The gas piston guns are a bit quieter, and the recoil (effects accuracy, not pain) is differant.
While neither should be left cocked for extended periods of time, It is less crucial with a NP. As far as accuracy there are many more factors to consider.
Of course the absolute top is the PCP guns. Pre Charged Pneumatic. Where you charge a cylinder on the gun from an air pump, compressor, or scuba style tank. But for near perfection you get much higher cost. The guns can run from over $300 to over a grand. Charging pumps are a couple hundred, fiberglass charging tanks double that or more, and have to be charged at a scuba shop, or with a compressor that can set you back more than a grand Great system, and guns, but way out of my price range.
177 vs 22 isn't as much an accuracy question as It is a power level question. Just like in powder burners, smaller, lighter, faster vs bigger, heavier, slower. One rule of thumb often mentioned is "177 for feathers, 22 for fur".
One reason I chose the Benji is the welded on integral scope rail isn't prone to shake loose like screw mounted bases. Either gas, or spring, piston driven air guns have a unique, and in some ways more violent recoil signature than powder burners.