We tested for accuracy by shooting a variety of pellets at 15 meters. in an indoor range. We usually shoot airguns at 10 meters, but the scope would not focus at the shorter distance. By far the best results were obtained with Gamo Match pellets. Based on our experience with many spring-piston guns, including similar models from Gamo, it can be counted on to be a reliable game-getter. Suffice it to say it delivers devastating hits on pests like starlings, pigeons and rats.

Perhaps just as important to many prospective owners, the rifle proved to be great fun in extended backyard shooting sessions. Firing at paper bullseyes, or even more enjoyably, at reactive targets like swingers, silhouettes and good old- fashioned tin cans, we found it addictive and on several occasions couldn’t stop until 100, even 150 shots had gone downrange. The cost for an hour and a half of engrossing sport? Maybe $2 for the pellets.

It would be tough to stretch your shooting sports dollar further than by investing in the distinctive new Gamo/NRA 1000 Special Edition. Hours of convenient shooting and hunting enjoyment await, and every purchase generously supports NRA’s efforts to ensure today’s youth receive vital gun safety and marksmanship training. For a limited time, Gamo USA is offering to sell these rifles directly to NRA members.

Manufacturer: Gamo Industrias S.A.

Importer: Gamo USA; (800) 725-7024; Gamo-airguns.com

Caliber: .177

Action Type: break-open, single-shot. spring-piston air rifle

Barrel: 18" F-212 matte-blue steel

Rifling: 12-groove 1:22" RH twist

Sights: 4x32 mm scope with 1/4-minute click adjustments, parallax-free at 50 yds.

Trigger Pull: two-stage, 5 1/2 lbs.

Overall Length: 43 3/4"

Weight: 6 lbs., 4 ozs. minus scope; 7 lbs., 4 ozs. with scope

Accessories: NRA minted gold-finish medallion in fore-end, NRA seal embossed on receiver; serial numbers with exclusive NRA-prefix

Suggested Retail Price: $199.95