By Terry Bowers | JuniorShooters.net
Summer 2010
First Impressions and Initial Testing
My initial experience with the AirForce Edge was at our local indoor range, where I was coaching my juniors team for upcoming matches. A fellow coach and his team were present for a casual shooting session, providing a perfect opportunity to test the Edge. The juniors were eager to try it, and their feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
Alisha commented, “I liked it; it’s fast and quick.” She appreciated the easy-to-operate action, a hallmark of AirForce rifles. Others described it as “amazing,” “smooth and cool,” and “really accurate.” The AirForce Edge’s design, featuring a bolt and action that provide excellent access to the breech, allows shooters to focus more on shooting and less on handling pellets.
Key Features of the AirForce Edge
The AirForce Edge isn’t just about looks; it’s packed with features that set it apart:
- Adjustable Length of Pull: Customizable to fit different shooters.
- Adjustable Trigger: Allows for personalized trigger settings.
- Ambidextrous Cocking Knob: Convenient for both left- and right-handed users.
The TS-1 rear sight is another standout feature. It fits a standard 11mm dovetail mounting base and is adaptable to most airguns. The sight’s windage and elevation knobs offer a satisfying physical and audible “click,” ensuring precise adjustments.
Performance and Usability
The AirForce Edge’s air tank can be filled using a high-pressure hand pump or a SCUBA tank, reaching a maximum pressure of 3,000 psi. Filling the tank is straightforward, and each fill provides up to 100 shots. The tank, doubling as the rear stock and cheekpiece, integrates seamlessly into the rifle’s design.
A unique aspect of the Edge is the flexi-weight system, allowing for easy balance adjustments. The numbered top and bottom rails make it simple to recreate specific settings, enhancing the rifle’s versatility for different shooting positions.
The sight rail and barrel rails are also numbered, enabling precise placement of accessories. This feature is crucial in a shooting program, ensuring consistent setup for various users.
Precision Engineering
The AirForce Edge features a two-stage trigger with adjustable finger pad height, adjustable with a 1/16th Allen wrench. While the trigger is light, it’s designed for consistency and safety. From a coach’s perspective, a slightly heavier trigger could benefit new shooters, but the Edge’s trigger is well-suited for those looking for precision and performance.
Recommendations and Final Thoughts
If there were any suggestions for improving the AirForce Edge, it would be to standardize the adjustment Allen screws. While the butt plate cheek rest and length of pull use 1/8th inch adjustments, the forearm adjustment is 3/32nd. However, this is a minor point considering the overall design and functionality.
Adjustments are user-friendly and standardized, with most requiring a simple 1/8th inch Allen wrench. The single-shot action and integrated safety features make the AirForce Edge a reliable choice for junior shooters.
As a juniors coach, I prioritize equipment that enhances my athletes’ performance. The AirForce Edge meets this need with its quality, ease of use, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for young athletes. Thank you, AirForce Edge, for providing a high-quality, affordable option that supports junior shooting programs.
