First Look: Air Venturi Hellboy Tactical Air Rifle

Want some training on your AR platform but just can't make it to the range? The Hellboy tactical air rifle from Air Venturi gives AR owners the opportunity to practice their AR-handling skills with a semi-automatic C02 rifle based on the popular M4 Carbine made famous by its use in the U.S. military.

The all-metal construction of the Hellboy provides added realism in weight and feel, since the metal receiver, magazine and barrel contribute to an overall weight of 5.2 pounds, not far off from many go-to home-defense ARs on the market today. The semi-automatic operation of the rifle is powered by a single C02 cartridge that's installed in the magazine, along with 18 .177-caliber BBs. Propelled out of a 14.5-inch smooth-bore barrel, the BBs exit the muzzle at an average velocity of about 495 fps, depending on altitude and ambient conditions.

Optic options abound on the Hellboy tactical air rifle, shipping complete with open sights and a flip-up rear aperture. For those who prefer training with a mounted optic, the carry handle can be removed to uncover a 5.5-inch optics rail compatible with all Picatinny and Weaver optics mounts. Those training for home defense can mount their go-to red-dot optic for a full training experience.

Each Hellboy is also equipped with integrated sling swivels, allowing users to mount their preferred sling for added stability, ease of transport and other skill-building drills. The stock can be adjusted for length of pull, allowing the air rifle to expand from 30 inches to 33.5 inches in overall length. Other features include a fully field-strippable design and a functioning charging handle for added realism. 

The suggested retail price on the Air Venturi Hellboy tactical air rifle is $159.99.