Classic Gun Spotlight: Air Arms Camargue

Shooting the breeze… Named after a prevailing wind, the Air Arms Camargue has entered folklore as a true airgun great, says Simon Everett

A swivelling tap loader and funnelled loading port made pellet siting easy

The 1980s were a time of great airguns, with enhancements being made to already proven designs. This was brought about by greater engineering accuracy as CNC technology became affordable for all companies.

The Camargue’s side lever, funnel-shaped loading port entry and ergonomic grip were deemed to be unique in the 1980s

Air Arms’ rifles were named after famous prevailing winds: Bora, Mistral, Camargue and Khamsin. These were basically the same rifle, but with different barrel lengths and stock designs. The Camargue was based on the existing Jackal design, with improvements made to the tolerances that produced a smooth cocking, sweet shooting rifle.

An elegant and comfortable Tyrolean stock ensured perfect head alignment with the sights

This action had a side cocking lever that gave full power and was loaded through a swivelling tap loader. This loading port was funnelled to ensure accurate pellet engagement into the fixed barrel, a system that afforded supreme accuracy allied to a fine French walnut Tyrolean stock.

The barrel was finished with a compact and effective moderator

A top-quality air rifle much favoured in the hunting and HFT arenas, the Camargue came with sling swivels, a plaited leather sling and an effective moderator as standard. Introduced in 1986 (production ended in the mid-90s), early models featured a single-stage trigger, superseded by a true second-stage trigger with a sweet let-off.  


This article originally appeared in the issue 97 of Airgun Shooter magazine. For more great content like this, subscribe today at our secure online store: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk

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Posted in Air Rifles, Tests

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