X200 Vanguard Nominated for Airgun of the Year
Air Arms is thrilled to announce that the X200 Vanguard has been nominated for the prestigious Airgun of the Year award. This nomination recognises not just a new rifle in the line-up, but a major step forward in performance, handling, and all-day shootability for real-world shooters.
Built for those who expect more from their kit, the X200 Vanguard brings together British engineering, class-leading consistency, and shooter-focused design in one tough, reliable package. From the plinking range to pest control and informal competition, it’s already proving why it deserves its place among the top air rifles on the market.
The X200 Vanguard
If you’re new to the X200 Vanguard, here’s a quick overview:
The X200 Vanguard is a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle designed to deliver serious performance without compromise. At its core is a precision barrel and a fully adjustable two-stage trigger, giving you the control and confidence to stretch your shooting further.
Matched with a balanced synthetic stock, an ambidextrous side-lever, and a 350cc Buddy Bottle, the Vanguard is built for long, comfortable sessions where consistency really counts. Whether you’re on the range checking groups at 55 yards or in the field managing pests, the X200 is designed to keep up.
Performance Without Compromise
What sets the X200 Vanguard apart is how it performs where it matters most – on target.
- Class-leading precision – The combination of a precision barrel and a crisp, adjustable two-stage trigger means the rifle responds exactly how you expect, shot after shot.
- Real-world consistency – Thanks to its self-regulating valve and Buddy Bottle system, the X200 delivers smooth, reliable power throughout its charge, helping to tighten your groups and build trust in every pull of the trigger.
- Built for all-day shooting – With its generous 350cc air capacity, you can stay on the firing line longer, with fewer trips back to the bottle or pump.
Tailored Comfort, Better Control
The X200 Vanguard is designed to fit the shooter, not the other way round.
- Ambidextrous side lever – Smooth, intuitive cycling for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Adjustable butt pad – Fine-tune your shoulder fit for prone, bench, or standing shots.
- Reversible cheekpiece – Set up your cheek weld exactly where you need it for a clear, repeatable scope picture.
At just 3.5 kg and 943 mm overall, the rifle sits comfortably in the shoulder and balances well in real shooting positions. That means less fatigue, better focus, and more stable shot execution over long sessions.
All the Essentials, Ready Out of the Box
The X200 Vanguard is ready to hit the range straight away. Out of the box, you get:
- Two magazines
- A single-shot tray
- A gunlock
- A toolkit
Key Features and Specifications:
For those who like the details, here are some of the standout features that helped the X200 Vanguard earn its nomination:
- Action: Smooth, ambidextrous side-lever
- Calibre: .177 – ideal for target work, pest control, and all-round sporting use
- Power: Sub-12 ft-lb (UK licence-free configuration)
- Air Supply: 350cc Buddy Bottle for extended shot count
- Regulation: Self-regulating valve system
- Stock: Ergonomic synthetic stock with UIT accessory rail, adjustable butt pad, and reversible cheekpiece
- Trigger: Fully adjustable two-stage trigger for precise control
- Weight: Approx. 3.5 kg
- Overall Length: 943 mm
Together, these features make the X200 Vanguard a practical, versatile choice for shooters who want a rifle that can handle a bit of everything – from casual plinking to serious practice.
A Proven Winner at the Great British Shooting Awards
The X200 Vanguard enters the Airgun of the Year category with a strong legacy behind it. Air Arms has enjoyed exceptional success at the Great British Shooting Awards, securing six wins in the past seven years, a record that highlights the consistency, reliability and shooter confidence behind every rifle they produce.
Previous Winners
- 2019: S510 Ultimate Sporter
- 2020: S510 Sporter
- 2021: S510 Ultimate Sporter
- 2023: S510T Tactical
- 2025: HFT 500
These repeated wins show how Air Arms rifles continue to stand out to both everyday shooters and industry professionals. Each award marks another year of refinement, innovation and commitment to building rifles that perform in the field and on the range.
Cast your vote for the Air Arms X200
Help the X200 Vanguard Bring Home the Title
We’re incredibly proud to see the X200 Vanguard shortlisted for Airgun of the Year, but now we need your support. If the X200 has earned your trust, or if you believe in backing British airgun engineering, your vote can make the difference.
Every vote is a vote of confidence in UK design, precision manufacturing, and the shooters who helped shape this rifle. Whether you shoot competitively, enjoy weekends on the range or simply appreciate well built kit, your vote helps showcase what the X200 represents and why it stands out in the industry.
Thank You to the Air Arms Community
This nomination is as much about the shooters as it is about the rifle. From early testers to long-time customers, your feedback and passion help drive every new model we build.
Whatever the final result, everyone at Air Arms is honoured to see the X200 Vanguard recognised among the best. We’ll continue to do what we’ve always done – build reliable, accurate rifles that you can trust in the field and on the range.
Stay tuned to Air Arms channels for updates – and in the meantime, thank you for your support, your votes, and your continued belief in what we do.
