
The Air Arms S500
Effortless precision, refined simplicity.
The Air Arms S500 is a masterpiece of British engineering, built for shooters who value control, consistency, and craftsmanship. With over 40 years of innovation behind it, the S500 delivers exceptional accuracy and smooth single-shot operation in a sleek, reliable platform.
Whether you're building confidence as a newcomer or refining your skills as a pro, the S500 is the rifle that keeps pace with your progress and rewards every shot with precision
WHAT SHOOTERS ARE SAYING
Discover the S500
Precision That Builds Confidence
The S500’s single-shot design and match-grade Lothar Walther barrel work together to deliver outstanding accuracy, shot after shot. But it’s not just about hitting the target – it’s about building trust in your own ability. As you master each shot, you sharpen your focus, improve trigger control, and gain the confidence that only comes from knowing your rifle will perform exactly as you need, every time.
Smooth, Consistent Power You Can Trust
With every lever pull, the S500 delivers steady, predictable power through its finely balanced valve system. This isn’t just technical performance – it’s peace of mind. Reliable power means tighter groups, fewer frustrating adjustments, and more time spent refining your skills instead of troubleshooting. Whether you’re dialling in at the range or practising under pressure, the S500 helps you stay locked in and focused.
Comfort and Control That Elevate Your Game
The S500’s ergonomic stock and intuitive handling aren’t just about comfort – they’re about giving you the control you need to perform at your best. By reducing fatigue and improving balance, the S500 helps you stay steady and composed during long sessions. You can focus on improving, practising, and pushing your limits, without fighting your equipment.
Action
Single-Shot Simplicity
The S500 features a precision single-shot action – smooth, deliberate, and built for shooters who want to sharpen focus and master every trigger pull. Without magazines or cycling distractions, it’s pure shooting discipline.
Calibre
.177 – Precision & Flat Trajectory
Perfect for target shooting and pest control where fine accuracy and flatter flight paths matter.
.22 – Balanced Accuracy & Impact
A versatile calibre offering solid stopping power and excellent accuracy – a reliable all-rounder for mixed use.
Consistency and Power Options
Unregulated – Simple & Reliable
The S500 Carbine comes unregulated, offering straightforward operation, lower maintenance, and reliable performance.
Regulated – Consistent & Powerful
The Carbine XS and Carbine XS Extra are regulated, providing consistent pressure, enhanced accuracy, and higher shot counts – ideal for shooters who want maximum consistency and high-rated power.
Power fit for Purpose
Sub-12 ft/lb (No FAC Required)
Our Sub-12 ft/lb models can be owned in the UK without a firearms certificate, making them perfect for target shooting and effective pest control across all sporting environments.
High Power (FAC Required in the UK)
For shooters who need extra range and impact, the high-power Ultimate Sporter models are built to deliver. Offering increased muzzle energy for tackling larger quarry and challenging shooting conditions, they’re available in .177, .22, and .25 calibres. Always ensure you comply with local licensing regulations.
Stock Options
Beech or Walnut Sporter
Classic, beautifully finished sporter stocks for a timeless look and balanced feel.
Superlite Series (Hunter Green or Traditional Brown)
Lightweight and modern, these stocks reduce fatigue over long sessions without sacrificing durability.
Ambidextrous & Handed Options
Available in ambidextrous, right-handed, and left-handed designs to ensure a perfect fit for every shooter.
Carbine Options
Carbine – Compact and Efficient
All S500 models come in carbine format, delivering a shorter barrel for better manoeuvrability while maintaining excellent power and shot count, which is ideal for mobile or confined shooting setups.
Not All Air Rifles Are Built Like an Air Arms S500
Here’s what you risk when you settle for less
❌ Wildly Fluctuating Velocities: Rifles without a balanced valve deliver inconsistent power, making every shot unpredictable and ruining your accuracy.
❌ Scattered Groupings: Poor precision engineering leads to erratic results, wasting your ammo and time on missed opportunities.
❌ Frustration and Second-Guessing: Inaccuracy turns shooting into a guessing game, eroding your confidence and halting progress.
❌ Early Wear and Tear: Cheap materials break down quickly, causing seal failures and mechanical issues right when you need reliability.
❌ Frequent Breakdowns: Sloppy build quality means more time in repairs than on the range, disrupting your practice sessions.
❌ Hidden Repair Costs: Constant fixes and replacements drain your wallet, turning a budget buy into an expensive headache.
❌ Stunted Skill Development: Limited adjustability and clunky design hold you back, preventing you from refining your technique and advancing.
Why You Need the Air Arms S500
7 Reasons Why You Need the Air Arms S500
- Match-Grade Precision: The Lothar Walther barrel delivers exceptional accuracy, helping you achieve tight groupings and build shooting confidence.
- Consistent Performance: A finely balanced firing system ensures steady velocities shot after shot, eliminating guesswork for reliable results.
- Skill-Sharpening Design: Engineered to improve your technique with every trigger pull, making it ideal for range practice or field use.
- Smooth Single-Shot Action: The sidelever cocking and wide breech make loading effortless, keeping you focused on your shots.
- Ergonomic Comfort: Balanced stock options provide a natural fit, reducing fatigue and enhancing control during extended sessions.
- Customisable Options: Choose from various calibres, power levels (including regulated FAC models), and stock finishes to match your style and goals.
- British Craftsmanship: Handbuilt with over 40 years of expertise, the S500 offers durability and longevity, evolving with you as your skills advance.
FAQ's
The S500 is available in .177 and .22 calibres to suit your shooting style – whether you prioritise target precision or impact in the field.
The single-shot action promotes focus and precision by removing distractions – ideal for refining technique and mastering shot placement.
The standard S500 is available in unregulated or regulated versions, offering reliable performance. The XS Xtra is regulated with a larger air reservoir, providing higher shot counts, increased power (especially in FAC versions), and enhanced long-range accuracy.
Yes – its smooth handling, straightforward operation, and dependable accuracy make it a great choice for newer shooters looking to improve quickly.
Absolutely. With its calibre and power flexibility, the S500 is well-suited to both scenarios.
The fully shrouded barrel helps reduce muzzle report, making it quiet enough for discreet shooting without compromising performance.
Yes. The S500 features a dovetail rail for optics and is compatible with a range of aftermarket accessories.
Not at all. The S500 is built for durability and ease of care. Regular cleaning and occasional seal checks are all it takes to keep it in top condition.
Beech and walnut finishes are available, as well as lighter synthetic variants on select models.
Use our Find a Retailer tool to locate your nearest Air Arms dealer. Many retailers offer demo rifles or on-site ranges.