When I first got my hands on the Umarex 850 M2, I’ll admit I had some preconceptions about CO2-powered rifles. Like many airgunners, I’d typically gravitated toward spring-piston and PCP options, viewing CO2 as better suited for plinking pistols than serious rifles. However, after spending considerable time with this German-manufactured piece, I’ve had to seriously revise my thinking. Let me share my experience with this interesting and capable rifle.
Table of Contents
First Impressions and Build Quality
The moment I unpacked the 850 M2, I was struck by its solid feel. Unlike many synthetic-stocked rifles I’ve handled in this price range, there’s nothing cheap or flimsy about this one. The ambidextrous stock feels robust and well-engineered, and I particularly appreciate the textured surfaces and molded-in checkering patterns – they’re not just for show but provide genuine grip enhancement.
At 1,180mm long (with the moderator) and weighing in at around 3.6-4kg fully equipped, I found it to be a proper full-sized sporting rifle. I was interested to learn it’s based on the Walther RM8 PCP platform, and this heritage shows in its quality construction.
One feature that immediately impressed me was the removable forearm section housing the CO2 system. With just a push of a button, I can access the CO2 chamber and easily install an 88g cartridge. What really caught my attention was how solid everything feels when reassembled – no rattles, no play, just rock-solid construction.
Power
The heart of any airgun is its power plant, and this is where I had to adjust my expectations. The CO2 system has both strengths and limitations that I’ve come to understand through extensive use. In my testing, I’ve consistently achieved around 750 FPS with 7.0-grain pellets, generating between 8-10.5 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, though I’ve found this varies significantly with temperature.
Speaking of temperature – this is something I’ve had to learn to work with. I’ve noticed approximately 2 FPS increase per degree Fahrenheit rise in temperature, which means my summer shooting sessions yield noticeably better performance than winter ones. I’ve learned to avoid shooting in very cold conditions or when temperatures exceed 95°F, where I’ve experienced valve lock issues.
One aspect I’ve been particularly impressed with is the shot count. I regularly get 160-200+ shots per CO2 cartridge, though I’ve learned it’s best to use the complete cartridge in one session rather than storing the rifle partially used. Through chronograph testing, I’ve observed excellent consistency through most of the shot string, with power dropping off only in the final 20-30 shots.
Chrony tests:
| Calibers | Pellets | FPS | FPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| .177 | JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr | 651 | 7.94 |
| .177 | Gamo Platinum PBA 4.7 gr | 790 | 6.51 |
| .177 | H&N Field Target Trophy Green 5.56 gr | 759 | 7.11 |
| .177 | RWS Hobby 7.0 Grain | 717 | 7.99 |
| .177 | Crosman Premier Hollow Point 7.9 gr | 695 | 8.48 |
| .177 | JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr | 703 | 9.26 |
| .177 | H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr | 699 | 9.38 |
Accuracy and Shooting Experience
Where this rifle has really won me over is in its shooting characteristics. I’ve achieved consistent 0.5-inch groups at 30 yards with my preferred pellets, and what’s even more impressive is how well it shoots with various pellet types. I wouldn’t call it particularly pellet-picky – a refreshing change from some other rifles I’ve owned.
The bolt action, while I’d prefer it to be a bit smoother on closing, has proven reliable in use. I’ve grown particularly fond of the 8-shot rotary magazine. It’s well-made from aluminum, and I appreciate being able to load it single-handedly. The O-ring retention system for pellets is a clever touch that I’ve found makes loading both easy and reliable.
The trigger deserves special mention. Breaking at around 2.5-2.6 pounds, it’s better than I expected for a rifle in this price range. Yes, the second stage travel is longer than I’d ideally like, but it’s smooth and consistent, which I’ve found contributes significantly to accurate shooting.
Noise and Suppression
In terms of noise, I’ve found the basic rifle produces a moderate report with that characteristic CO2 “thwap” rather than the sharp crack I’m used to from unsuppressed PCPs. I’ve been using mine with the K3 Neo silencer, which comes with many packages, and it makes an already modest report even quieter. For my backyard shooting, it’s proven ideal.
Sights and Optics
While the rifle comes with fiber optic open sights, I’ll be honest – I quickly mounted a scope. The lack of proper windage adjustment on the rear sight is a limitation I wasn’t willing to work around. However, I’ve been impressed with the thought that went into the scope mounting system. The uninterrupted rail makes mounting options flexible, and the included raised cheekpiece adapter ensures proper eye alignment with a scope.
The Empire kit I purchased came with a 3-9×40 Walther scope. While basic, I’ve found it adequate for getting started, though I’m planning to upgrade eventually.
Practical Use and Value
I’ve primarily used my 850 M2 for backyard target practice and informal plinking, where it excels. The ease of use, good accuracy, and modest noise levels make it perfect for these roles. I’ve also found it to be an excellent rifle for introducing new shooters to the sport – the lack of recoil and simple operation help build confidence quickly.
The ongoing cost of CO2 cartridges (about $6-10 each) is something I’ve had to factor into my shooting budget, though I’ve found the optional adapter for 12g cartridges helps reduce operating costs, albeit with fewer shots per fill.
Features
- Bolt Action Repeater
- 8 Shot Rotary Magazine
- Powered by (1) 88 gram CO2 Cartridge
- 11mm Dovetail Rail
- Threaded Muzzle for Compensator installation
- Adjustable Trigger
- Automatic Safety
- Adjustable Fiber Optic Rear Sight
- Fiber Optic Front Sight
- Shoots .22 Caliber Lead Pellets
Recommended Use:
- Target shooting and plinking
- Pest control: rats, pigeons, iguanas.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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How Does The Umarex 850 m2 Compare To Other Air Rifles?
Umarex 850 m2 vs Hammerli 850
The Hammerli 850 AirMagnum was a hit at its release as it was a fun-to-use CO2-powered rifle with great specs and a durable polymer finish. The rifle was a great weapon for shooting and getting frequent practice – which should be your priority when looking for an airgun.
It also featured a 2 stage trigger, rotary magazines, a good quality barrel, and fiber optic fixed sights. Overall, it made for a fun shooting experience which could also make it the best backyard plinker.
However, compared to the specifications of the Umarex 850 M2, the Hammerli 850 with a .177 caliber can only fire at a velocity of about 650 FPS and lets you fire up to 8 shots. This may make it the best plinking gun, but it is not much of a weapon for a hunt.
In this case, the Umarex 850 M2 is much more flexible as even with the same amount of rounds it offers, the velocity is that of 750 FPS on a .177 caliber, making it faster and more accurate. You can use it for target practice, small hunts, or plinking.
The following is a quick table comparing and analyzing the features of both these guns.
| Category | Umarex 850 M2 | Hammerli 850 AirMagnum |
| Action | Bolt Action | Bolt Action |
| Barrel Style | Rifle | Rifle |
| Fire Mode | Repeating shots | Repeating shots |
| Dimensions | 48 x 6.25 x 2.5 | 12 x 45.1 x 4.2 |
| Loudness | 3-Medium | 3-Medium |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Shots Per Fill | 200 | 250 |
| Mechanism | CO2 | CO2 |
| Velocity | 750 FPS (.177 cal) | 650 FPS (.177 cal) |
As you can tell, both the guns do not have much of a difference, except that the Umarex 850 M2 slightly outdoes the AirMagnum in terms of velocity.
While it looks like the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum would definitely be convenient to carry around with its dimensions and shots per fill, accuracy should be the priority for guns and the Umarex 850 M2 serves just that purpose.
Conclusion
After extensive use, I’ve come to view the Umarex 850 M2 as a highly capable rifle that fills a unique niche. While it won’t replace my PCP for certain applications, it’s become my go-to for backyard shooting and informal target practice. The quality construction, excellent accuracy, and ease of use have made it a valuable addition to my airgun collection.
Yes, there are limitations – primarily the temperature sensitivity and ongoing CO2 costs – but I’ve found these are outweighed by the practical benefits: no pumping or charging equipment needed, reliable operation, and excellent shooting characteristics. For anyone considering a versatile, well-made rifle for target practice, plinking, or as a training tool, I can heartily recommend the Umarex 850 M2. It’s changed my perspective on what a CO2-powered rifle can be.
From my experience, it represents an excellent balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern features, delivering performance that has thoroughly impressed this initially skeptical airgunner. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced shooter looking for something different, I believe the 850 M2 deserves serious consideration.
