There are always one or two attention-grabbing firearms at the annual Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous; we’re talking the type of firearm that all of our editors and contributors won’t shut up about after shooting it. Well, for 2019, there was one that had literally everyone talking and anyone who fired it walked away with a massive smile on their face. We’ve been waiting more than three months to show it to you. So without further ado, we give you the Umarex AirSaber.
Umarex AirSaber Details
As far as hunting goes, the AirSaber is a game changer. It’s essentially the result of a bolt-action rifle and crossbow “getting together” after a night of too many drinks … we’ve all been there. No? OK, moving along.
The Umarex AirSaber operates on a Single Arrow High Pressure Air Propulsion System; more simply, it’s a bolt-action arrow air rifle, which is how we’ll refer to it moving forward. It fires carbon fiber arrows with an overall length of 22.63 inches.
With an air cylinder capable of a maximum of 3,625 PSI, the rifle delivers an arrow at more than 450 FPS, generating approximately 169 foot pounds of energy. The air cylinder’s volume allows for “up to 20 shots with the impact necessary for any ethical big game hunt right up to the coveted cape buffalo,” according to Umarex.
In terms of aesthetics, the AirSaber features an olive drab green synthetic stock. It also includes a Picatinny rail system good for mounting things like, oh, you now the Axeon Optics Scope included in the package. Beyond that, there’s plenty of real estate for other aftermarket accessories like a bipod and a quiver.
The Arrows
The carbon fiber arrows made specifically for AirSaber are “Straight Flight Technology Arrows”; in other words, they have straight flight fletching and stabilize quickly. The techology gives shooters an increased range for any type of game. Umarex equipped its arrows with 100-grain field tips and also threaded them for aftermarket broadheads acceptance.
“Shooters should be wary of ‘robin-hooding’ arrows at distances under 30 yards and can expect groups of sub two-inches at 70 yards,” Umarex added.
Umarex AirSabres Testing
We tested the Umarex AirSaber thoroughly at the 2019 Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous. The bolt-action firing mechanism made it incredibly easy to fire. Simply load an arrow down the barrel, close the bolt, and send it! We repeated that process over and over again.
Each AirSaber includes a total of three 376 grain carbon fiber arrows equipped with field tips. It also includes an Axeon 4x32mm optic with custom Air Archery reticle, offering aim points from 20 to 70 yards. And now for MSRP. The AirSaber starts at $369.99, and we assure you it’s worth every penny and then some. Additional six-packs of arrows are available for $39.99.
Watch our range experience with the AirSaber in the video above. Check out arrow velocities in the chart below. For more information, please visit UmarexUSA.com.
Also, regarding state-by-state guidance, check out the Airgun Sporting Association’s airgun hunting laws and regulations. By interpretation, deer are legal with the AirSaber in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Virginia. However, hunters should always check with their state’s game and fish department before hunting with it.
