Umarex: time to reward yourself

Okay, it’s not originally an American company, but having been in the US since 2006 it’s got a decade of citizenship on this side of the Atlantic. Originating in Germany in 1972, Umarex has a similar pond-hopping history to the likes of Sig Sauer, Walther, Beretta, Glock and other Euro marques that branched or resettled here due to America’s unparalleled market potential. Though they do make cartridge-firing weapons - namely licensed 22LR replicas of desirable but unattainable (for most) weapons like the MP5 - their primary field and forte is pellet and BB firing replicas of popular handguns, rifles and sub machine guns. I can hear firearm snobs sniffing in snobbish disdain but spare a moment’s consideration for the pre-legal age teen looking to cut his teeth, or the financially challenged among us who like the idea of frequent practice with our favorite (or fantasy) weapon without the wallet stomping impact on our bill-paying capability. There’s also a lot to be said for being able to get really familiar with your gun in the comfort of your own home, perhaps even reclining in your lazy boy as you watch your favorite reality TV series, down in your man cave, imbibing on a choice beverage. Call me a slob if you must, but that appeals to me just a tad. Being a 1911 fan I confess to finding the Umarex STI Duty One very attractive. Not only does it have actual blow back action to simulate a little muzzle flip but the look and heft is as close as you can get this side of it’s real counterpart. Because muscle memory depends largely on acquiring familiarity with proportions and placement of controls, I have to say this CO2 powered 1911 provides all except the muzzle flash and deafening report (which I can live with out) that I wouldn’t notice in a highly adrenalized state anyhow. So for practice it’s perfect! It’s also a heck of a lot of fun and serves to de-stress me after an aggravating day dealing with work related challenges. How often do you wish you could just grab your range bag, jump in the truck and head off to the targets when you come home from your workaday? Probably fairly frequently…but domestic responsibilities take precedent and nine times out of ten we forego personal needs for the common good and love of family. So, with about $100-$150 bucks go get on http://www.pyramydair.com and treat yourself to an Umarex (yes, they make a full auto Uzi too!) for that point in your evening that you can steal an hour to yourself and have some uber enjoyable range time WITHOUT breaking the bank or neglecting familial duties. You won’t regret it. Ed.