Modern high-tech air rifles really don’t have much in common with the break-barrel model from granddad’s day – except that a pellet is propelled through a barrel with the help of compressed air and you can hit something with it. In the past, this compressed air was generated by a piston driven forwards by a tensioned metal spring, but today it is usually done much more elegantly with compressed air from small tanks, which are usually housed parallel under the barrel and half in the fore-end.
The Danish company Gunpit deals exclusively in high-class air rifles and air pistols. The company, which was only founded in 2017, is based in Herning – if Denmark were depicted in the centre of an oversized shooting target, the town of just over 50,000 inhabitants would be right in the “bullseye” centre. The good transport connections also make it easier for customers from all over Europe to visit the shop in person, which is open every working day, view the desired models on site and receive specific advice. Shooting tests are also possible by prior arrangement.
This is what top compressed air rifles look like today: the British Air Arms XTi-50 model with aluminium compressed air tank under the barrel, an orange-coloured laminated wood stock with hooked butt plate and hand rest and a high special platform for the scope (missing here). Designed for the outdoor discipline of field target shooting, the rifle in 4.5 mm is priced at just under €4,000 without scope.
In view of the often high level of investment, which can sometimes reach the €4,000 mark for top air rifles, prior expert advice is essential. And the Gunpit team is prepared for this, as founder Erik Gejl Grønne has been dealing with the complicated matter for years: “I have been in the air rifle industry for many years and founded my company when I realised that the market was being overlooked: Most hunting shops only had a few dusty air rifles on display in a corner of their shop. At the same time, a new generation of high quality manufacturers began to emerge and I saw the need for someone to represent them seriously and professionally. I’m also an active field target shooter at a high level, so our whole focus is on accuracy and performance – shooting airguns isn’t just part of our job, it’s our top priority.”
Every manufacturer whose products Gunpit carries in its range is one of the world’s best suppliers and has been selected by Erik Gejl Grønne’s team for its special qualities. Customers do not necessarily have to be top shooters themselves; beginners are also advised with the same care. Erik Gejl Grønne: “Our aim is to provide the European market with the best selection of airguns, backed by expertise and exceptional customer service. We want to be the preferred partner for all shooters and enthusiasts across Europe. Whether you are an experienced shooter, a beginner or simply an enthusiast, Gunpit is ready to help you find the best products on the market.”