The Western Rattler Bullpup is a revolutionary big bore airgun designed for serious shooters and hunting enthusiasts. Combining high power, accuracy, and innovative bullpup design, the Rattler stands out as one of the most reliable and versatile air rifles on the market. Whether you are hunting medium to large game or looking for a precision target airgun, the Western Rattler Bullpup delivers unmatched performance.
The Western Rattler Bullpup is a high-performance, semi-automatic pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle designed for serious airgun enthusiasts and hunters. Manufactured by Western Airguns, this rifle stands out in the big bore airgun market due to its combination of power, accuracy, and innovative features.
Key Features of the Western Rattler Bullpup
Integrated Scope Mounting: Ready for optics, allowing you to mount scopes, red dots, or other sighting accessories.
Bullpup Design: Compact yet powerful, the bullpup layout allows for a shorter overall length without compromising barrel length or accuracy.
Caliber Options: Available in multiple big bore calibers such as .357 and .308 for versatile hunting capabilities.
High-Powered Performance: Capable of delivering up to 500+ ft-lbs of muzzle energy depending on caliber and configuration.
Durable Build: Constructed with high-quality synthetic and alloy materials to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Adjustable Components: Features adjustable trigger, cheek rest, and buttpad for a fully customized shooting experience.
Smooth Cocking Mechanism: Easy-to-use side lever or underlever options for convenient loading and repeatable shots.
The Western Rattler Bullpup is renowned for its impressive performance and accuracy, making it a standout choice among big-bore air rifles.
🔥 Performance Highlights
- High Muzzle Energy: The Rattler achieves up to 270 ft-lbs in .357 caliber and 435 ft-lbs in the Long Strike .45 version, delivering significant power for hunting and long-range shooting.
- Semi-Automatic Action: Its semi-auto mechanism ensures rapid follow-up shots, enhancing efficiency during hunting or target practice.
- Consistent Velocity: In testing, the Rattler demonstrated excellent consistency, with a velocity variation of just 3.7 fps over 12 shots in the standard model and 1.6 fps in the Long Strike version.
🎯 Accuracy Performance
- Impressive Grouping: At 50 yards, the Rattler achieved a 1-inch 5-shot group, showcasing its precision capabilities.
- Versatile Ammunition Compatibility: It effectively handles a range of projectiles, from 81-grain pellets to 174-grain slugs, maintaining accuracy across different ammunition types.
- Long-Range Precision: The Long Strike variant, with its extended 36-inch barrel, offers enhanced accuracy, achieving sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with premium ammunition.
🔫 Key Advantages of the Western Rattler Bullpup - 1. High Power Output
- The Rattler delivers impressive muzzle energy, reaching up to 270 ft-lbs. It effectively shoots both 81-grain pellets and 174-grain slugs, making it suitable for various hunting applications .
- 2. Semi-Automatic Action
- Unlike many big bore air rifles that require manual cycling, the Rattler’s semi-automatic mechanism allows for rapid follow-up shots, enhancing its effectiveness in dynamic shooting scenarios .
- 3. Compact Bullpup Design
- The bullpup configuration places the action behind the trigger, resulting in a shorter overall length without sacrificing barrel length. This design improves maneuverability and balance, making the rifle easier to handle in tight spaces .
- 4. Consistent Shot Performance
- Equipped with a hammerless firing system and an adjustable regulator, the Rattler ensures consistent shot-to-shot accuracy. The inclusion of a knurled throttle knob allows for easy velocity adjustments, accommodating a wide range of ammunition .
- 5. Quality Construction
- The Rattler features a fixed titanium magazine capable of holding up to 15 rounds, providing durability and reliability. The rifle’s build quality is designed to withstand demanding conditions, ensuring longevity and performance .
Care & Maintenance for the Western Rattler Bullpup
Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep the Western Rattler Bullpup performing at its best, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and longevity. Here’s a clear guide for owners:
🧰 Routine Maintenance
Keep the Barrel Clean
Use a soft cleaning rod and patches specifically designed for airguns.
Avoid harsh chemicals; a mild airgun oil or cleaning solution is sufficient.
Clean the barrel after every 500–600 shots or when accuracy drops.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply high-quality airgun oil to the bolt, hammerless system, and trigger components.
Avoid over-lubricating, as excessive oil can attract dust and dirt.
Check O-Rings and Seals
Inspect O-rings, cylinder seals, and regulator seals regularly for wear or damage.
Replace any worn or cracked seals to maintain consistent air pressure and performance.
💨 Air Cylinder & Fill System
Monitor Fill Pressure
Keep the cylinder below the maximum fill of 3,650 PSI to prevent damage.
Use a clean, filtered PCP air source to avoid contaminating the internal components.
Drain Cylinder When Storing
If storing the rifle for an extended period, partially drain the air cylinder to prevent stress on seals.
🔧 Handling & Storage
Store in a Dry, Cool Place
Avoid exposing the rifle to extreme temperatures or humidity, which can affect seals and metal parts.
Protect from Physical Damage
Use a padded rifle case for transport.
Keep rails and optics free from scratches and dust.
Avoid Dropping or Impact
The bullpup design balances the rifle well, but heavy impacts can misalign the barrel or damage internal components.
🛠️ Periodic Checks
Trigger & Safety Inspection
Test the dual safety mechanisms before each shooting session.
Ensure trigger pull remains smooth and consistent.
Magazine Care
Remove and clean the 15-shot titanium magazine to prevent jamming or misfeeds.
Lightly lubricate the magazine if needed, but avoid excessive oil.
Scope and Optics
Regularly clean scope lenses with a microfiber cloth.
Confirm that mounts are secure and zeroed for consistent accuracy.
💡 Pro Tips
Use Quality Ammunition
High-quality pellets and slugs maintain consistent velocity and reduce fouling.
Keep a Maintenance Log
Record cleaning, lubrication, and seal replacement dates to track the rifle’s upkeep.
Regular Performance Testing
Periodically test velocity and grouping to catch issues early.
Western Rattler Bullpup FAQ - 1. What calibers are available for the Western Rattler Bullpup?
- The Rattler is available in .30 and .357 calibers, suitable for medium to large game hunting.
- 2. What is the muzzle energy of the Rattler?
- Depending on the caliber and projectile, it delivers up to 270 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) of energy.
- 3. Is the Rattler semi-automatic?
- Yes, it features a hammerless semi-automatic action for rapid follow-up shots without manual cycling.
- 4. How many shots does the magazine hold?
- The titanium magazine holds 15 rounds, compatible with both pellets and slugs.
- 5. What type of air system does it use?
- It is a Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifle, with a 580 cc air cylinder filled up to 3,650 PSI.
- 6. How accurate is the Western Rattler?
- Sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy at 100 yards has been reported with the proper ammunition. Typical field accuracy is sub-1-inch groups at 50 yards.
- 7. Can I adjust the power?
- Yes, the Rattler includes an adjustable regulator and knurled throttle knob, allowing you to fine-tune velocity.
- 8. What is the overall length and weight?
- Overall length is 40 inches, and it weighs approximately 9.2 lbs, making it compact and maneuverable.
- 9. Does it have Picatinny rails for accessories?
- Yes, it comes with Picatinny rails for mounting scopes, bipods, and other accessories.
- 10. How do I maintain the Rattler for long-term performance?
- Regular cleaning of the barrel, lubrication of moving parts, inspection of O-rings and seals, and careful storage in a dry environment are essential. A more detailed Care & Maintenance guide is recommended.
- 11. Is it suitable for hunting large game?
- Absolutely. With high muzzle energy, semi-auto action, and powerful calibers, it is effective for medium to large game hunting.
- 12. Where can I buy the Western Rattler Bullpup?
- Available through authorized dealers such as Arizona Firearms Power
- 13. What safety features does it have?
- Dual safeties and a well-balanced bullpup design ensure safe handling.
- 14. Can I use optics or scopes?
- Yes, the rifle is fully compatible with scopes, and Picatinny rails make mounting accessories easy.
- 15. Is it easy to transport?
- The bullpup configuration reduces overall length while maintaining barrel length, making it more compact and easier to carry.