Weihrauch HW50S Review

In the world of air rifles, few names carry as much weight as Weihrauch, and fewer models can claim such a rich heritage as the HW50S. From its humble beginnings in 1950 as Weihrauch’s first branded air rifle to its modern incarnation, the HW50S represents over seven decades of German engineering excellence. Today we will explore how this venerable air rifle continues to hold its own in today’s competitive market.

Historical Context

The story of the HW50 begins in post-war Germany, where restrictions on rifled barrels led Weihrauch to launch their first air rifle with a smooth bore .177 caliber barrel. Originally conceived as a mid-sized air rifle, it quickly gained favor with its creator, Hermann Weihrauch himself, who reportedly considered it one of his favorite designs. This personal endorsement speaks volumes about the fundamental principles that would guide the model’s evolution through the decades.

Modern Evolution: The HW50S

Today’s HW50S maintains the original’s commitment to quality while incorporating modern refinements. It’s worth noting that while this model is known as the HW99 in some markets, in Germany – its home territory – it proudly retains the original HW50 designation, highlighting its direct lineage to that first groundbreaking design.

Build Quality and Design

The HW50S exemplifies traditional craftsmanship with its blend of polished, blued metalwork and Italian Minelli-manufactured hardwood stock. The rifle’s appearance remains steadfastly traditional, eschewing modern synthetic materials in favor of classic wood and metal construction. This commitment to traditional materials doesn’t mean dated design – rather, it represents a refined approach to gunmaking that has stood the test of time. The HW 50S is one of the best spring air rifles for the money.

The carbine-like design results in a compact package that, while maintaining full-size rifle capabilities, remains manageable and portable. With a barrel length of 15.5 inches and a total weight of approximately 8.4 pounds when scoped, it strikes an excellent balance between stability and maneuverability.

Performance

Power and Velocity

Chrony tests:

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.177	RWS Hobby 7 Gr	864	11.61
.177	H&N Excite Spike Pointed 8.64 Gr	765	11.23
.177	Predator Polymag 8 Gr	775	10.67
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9gr	765	10.27
.22	Crosman Premiers 14.3 gr	610	11.80
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	754	10.91
.22	RWS Superdome 14.5 gr	630	12.78
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr	616	12.36
.177	JSB Exact 8.4 gr	775	11.21
.177	RWS Super Point 6.9 Gr	815	10.18
.22	RWS Hobby 11.9 gr	650	11.17
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 gr	770	10.4
.177	JSB Exact heavies 10.5 gr	660	10.16
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 Gr	769	10.38

The modern HW50S in .22 caliber demonstrates impressive performance metrics:

• Peak muzzle velocity: 799 fps with alloy pellets
• Maximum muzzle energy: 13.74 ft/lbs
• Consistent power output around 12 ft/lbs with lead pellets
• Higher power than its historical predecessors, which typically generated 8.9-11 ft/lbs

While these numbers might not compete with today’s magnum-powered air rifles, they represent an optimal balance of power, accuracy, and shootability. The gun delivers more than enough energy for target shooting, plinking, and small pest control applications. In fact, the HW 50S is one of the best air rifles for pest control

Accuracy and Consistency

Accuracy tests:

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.5 gr	20 yards	1/2"
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	10 meters	dime size
.177	H&N Excite Spike Pointed 8.64 Gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	Predator Polymag 8 Gr	15 meters	dime size
.22	Crosman Hollow Point 14.3 gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	JBS Exact	25 yards	5/16"
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9gr	10 yards	one hole
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	35 yards	dime size
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	10 yards	0.16"
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	30 yards	1/4"
.177	RWS Superdomes 8.3gr	25 yards	0.5"

Where the HW50S truly shines is in its accuracy and consistency. Testing has shown:

• Exceptional accuracy across all pellet types
• Particularly impressive performance with RWS Hobby 11.9 grain wadcutters
• Remarkably low velocity deviation (5.68 fps standard deviation)
• Consistent point of impact regardless of pellet choice
• Excellent hold tolerance, making it forgiving to shoot

The Legendary Rekord Trigger

One of the most significant improvements over the original model is the implementation of Weihrauch’s renowned Rekord trigger system. This represents a quantum leap from the original “Perfekt” trigger, offering:

• Match-grade adjustability
• Average pull weight of 2 lbs 10 oz (±3 oz)
• Very light first stage
• Precise, predictable second stage
• Exceptional consistency

The Rekord trigger’s performance is so smooth that many shooters report “not thinking about it” during use – perhaps the highest praise a trigger mechanism can receive.

Shooting Experience

The HW50S offers what might be described as a refined shooting experience. The 29-pound cocking effort, while relatively high for the power output, remains manageable thanks to the well-designed lever system. The recoil is notably mild, and the report is described as “backyard-friendly” – an important consideration for many shooters.

The rifle shows excellent hold tolerance, meaning it’s not overly sensitive to minor variations in shooting technique. This characteristic, combined with the consistent power delivery and excellent trigger, makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced shooters.

Sighting Options

The rifle comes equipped with high-quality iron sights, including:

• A “tunnel”-type front sight with interchangeable elements
• Fully adjustable rear sight with multiple notch options
• Removable front sight for unobstructed scope use
• Three stop screw holes for secure scope mounting

This flexibility in sighting options allows shooters to configure the rifle according to their preferences and shooting requirements.

Value Proposition

With a current market price of about $450 for the rifle alone, and approximately $500 when properly scoped, the HW50S positions itself in the premium segment of spring-piston air rifles. While this pricing might seem steep compared to many modern break-barrel air rifles, the value proposition becomes clear when considering:

• Exceptional build quality
• Outstanding accuracy
• Remarkable consistency
• Legendary trigger system
• Traditional craftsmanship
• Long-term durability
• Minimal maintenance requirements

Maintenance and Ownership

One of the HW50S’s strongest selling points is its simplicity and reliability. As a traditional spring-piston design, it requires minimal maintenance:

• No need for charging equipment
• Simple cleaning and basic lubrication
• Robust construction that stands up to regular use
• Available support from multiple specialist retailers

Features:

• Spring-piston breakbarrel rifle
• Single-shot
• 24 lbs. cocking effort
• Checkered beech stock with raised cheekpiece
• 2-stage adjustable Rekord trigger
• Globe front sight accepts inserts (included)
• Adjustable rear sight
• Steel barrel & receiver
• Rubber buttpad
• Incl. front sight inserts

Recommended uses:

• Target shooting/backyard plinking
• Pest control: crows, iguanas, rats.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

The Weihrauch HW50S represents a fascinating blend of historical heritage and modern performance. While it may not compete with today’s air rifles in terms of raw power or price point, it delivers something perhaps more valuable: a refined shooting experience backed by exceptional build quality and consistent performance.

The HW50S stands as testimony to Weihrauch’s commitment to traditional quality in an age of mass production. It’s not just an air rifle; it’s a statement about the enduring value of precision engineering and thoughtful design. For the discerning airgunner who appreciates these qualities, the HW50S continues to represent an excellent investment in shooting excellence.