Benjamin 392
Bottom Line
The Benjamin 392 is a must-have for both nostalgic shooters and those seeking a solid, dependable performer.
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, no-nonsense air rifle that brings a bit of old-school charm to the table, the Benjamin 392 might just be what you’re looking for. This classic multi-pump pneumatic rifle has been a favorite among shooters for years – and for a good reason. It’s got that vintage feel with its hardwood stock and brass barrel. But don’t let the looks fool you, this rifle packs some serious power and accuracy. Curious about what makes this air rifle popular among enthusiasts? Our unbiased Benjamin 392 review will give you a closer look. Now, let’s find out if the Benjamin 392 is the perfect match for your next shooting adventure!
Table of Contents
Bottomline
The Benjamin 392 is a must-have for both nostalgic shooters and those seeking a solid, dependable performer.
Pros
- Multi-pump design
- 685 FPS velocity
- Solid construction
- Adjustable power level
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Needs above-average pumping effort
- Firm trigger pull can be a disadvantage to some
- Loud
What Customers Say
This gun feels great to shoot. Plenty accurate and very well built. I don’t have any issue with the synthetic stock using the iron sights – and in fact like the synthetic finish very much. They feel rock solid and the paint finish on the barrel/pump tube seems thick and durrable. The gun has plenty of knock-down power. 5-6 pumps is plenty… going for 9-10 each shot will have your arm falling off- it gets very stiff to pump after 6. You have to reaaaaaaaaally want that last 100-150 fps+. Eats cheapo domed hollow-point pellets and spits ’em real good.
Ferf
Alternatives
Better Value: Crosman 362
The Crosman 362 is a solid multi-pump air rifle that’s easy to handle and packs a punch. It can shoot up to 875 fps with alloy pellets and 700 fps with lead, making it great for small game hunting or just some backyard target practice. Weighing only 4.5 pounds and measuring 35.5 inches, it’s lightweight and compact, with adjustable rear sights and a tough, weather-resistant stock. It’s affordable too, costing under $115, but keep in mind that pumping it to full power takes some effort, and it can be a bit loud. While it’s perfect for plinking and hunting, it’s not the best choice if you need quick follow-up shots. Overall, it’s a versatile and budget-friendly air rifle.
Better Power: Air Arms S510 XS TDR
The Air Arms S510 XS TDR is a solid choice if you’re into both hunting and target shooting. It comes in .177 and .22 calibers and can hit speeds up to 900 fps, so it’s got plenty of power. What’s cool is its takedown design. You can easily break it down and pack it up, so it’s perfect for carrying around. The adjustable power lets you tweak it to fit different situations, and it’s built to be super accurate with a precision barrel and regulated air system. It’s also comfortable to shoot, thanks to the adjustable stock and ergonomic grip, plus the built-in silencer keeps things nice and quiet. It’s a bit pricey and has some weight to it, but if you’re looking for a top-quality air rifle that’s easy to transport, this one’s a great pick.
Looking for quieter options? See our picks for the quietest air rifles!
Benjamin 392 Specifications
- Caliber: .22
- Velocity: 685 FPS
- Power: 14.9 ft-lbs of energy
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
- Overall Length: 36.25 inches
- Barrel Length: 19.25 inches
- Mechanism: Multi-pump pneumatic
- Sights: Blade & ramp front sight, Adjustable rear sight for windage & elevation
- Stock: Elegant hardwood stock
- Barrel: All metal barrel construction
- Trigger: Firm trigger pull
First Impressions: Benjamin 392
The hardwood stock and brass barrel have this vintage charm that will instantly take you back to the good old days of shooting with your grandpa. It’s solid, with just the right amount of weight. But you know that it’s built to last.
Setting Up the Benjamin 392
- Sighting In: Adjust the iron sights by turning the elevation screw to raise or lower your shots, and tweak the windage screws to move your shots left or right. Zero in the rifle at 10 yards with 5 pumps for the best close-range accuracy. If you prefer using a scope, go for a sturdy mount like Baker Airguns and a reliable scope like the Discovery VT-Z 4-16X44.
- Pellet Choice: The Benjamin 392 works well with a variety of .22 caliber pellets, including Gamo Redfire and Crow Magnum hollow points. Test different pellets to see which one gives you the best accuracy. Heavier pellets can deliver more energy with higher pump counts.
- Pumping Technique: Pump the rifle at least 2 times but no more than 10. Pumping beyond 10 strokes won’t add much extra power. Also, avoid oiling the pump hole directly.
- Trigger Tuning: The trigger pull on the Benjamin 392 can feel long and heavy, especially when target shooting. If you’re not comfortable adjusting it yourself, consider getting a professional to tune it.
Benjamin 392 Features
Power and Velocity
It can hit up to 685 feet per second (fps) with standard lead pellets, and if you’re using alloy pellets, you can push it up to 800 fps. That’s some serious speed for a .22 caliber air rifle, giving you the flexibility to choose the right ammo for the job. When you pump it up to the max, you’re looking at about 14.9 foot-pounds of energy, which is plenty for taking down small game like squirrels or rabbits. It’s reliable, powerful, and durable, making it a great pick for anyone who wants an air rifle that can do a bit of everything.
Accuracy
The Benjamin 392 is famous for its spot-on accuracy, thanks to its pneumatic system that uses compressed air instead of a spring. This means you don’t get that annoying spring recoil messing up your shot, so your aim stays true every time. Whether you’re knocking down targets or going after small game, this rifle keeps your shots straight and consistent. And if you really want to up your game, throwing on a good scope using the dovetail mounts can make an already accurate rifle even better.
Construction and Durability
This rifle is built tough. The Benjamin 392’s all-metal barrel is solid and ready to take on years of use without breaking a sweat. The classic hardwood stock gives it that old-school feel. But if you’re into something more modern, there’s a synthetic stock option too. The brass bolt and hardware add a nice touch of style and durability.
At just 36.25 inches long and weighing 5.5 pounds, the Benjamin 392 is easy to carry around, whether you’re out in the field or just plinking in the backyard. What really sets it apart is its legendary durability—this is the kind of rifle that can last for decades with just a little care. People who own a Benjamin 392 often pass it down through the family, and it just keeps on shooting like the day it was bought.
Sights and Adjustability
The Benjamin 392 comes with fully adjustable rear sights, so you can tweak them for windage (side-to-side) and elevation (up and down) to get your shots exactly where you want them. Up front, it’s got a blade and ramp sight that’s straightforward to line up. If you’re more of a scope person, no worries—the 392 can easily take one with the B272 inter-mount, giving you the option to upgrade your aiming game and really dial in those long-distance shots. Whether you stick with the iron sights or add a scope, you’ve got plenty of options to make this rifle work just the way you like it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Benjamin air rifle?
The Benjamin 392 can reach speeds of up to 685 feet per second (fps) with .22 caliber pellets, delivering a powerful energy output of about 21 foot-pounds at full pump. This makes it a solid choice for small game hunting and plinking.
What is the most accurate air rifle in the world?
Figuring out the “most accurate air rifle in the world” really comes down to what you need and what you like. That said, rifles like the Air Arms TX200 and Anschutz 9015 often get top marks for precision, thanks to their top-notch design and engineering.
How many times do you pump a Benjamin air rifle?
To get the best out of the Benjamin 392, you’ll want to pump it between 2 to 10 times. At least 2 pumps are needed to fire, but the more you pump, the more power you get. Just keep in mind that going beyond 10 pumps doesn’t really give you much extra speed or power, so it’s best to find the right number of pumps based on what you’re aiming for.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Gun Reviews
Conclusion: Benjamin 392 Review
The Benjamin 392 is solid, dependable, and always ready for a good time, just like that old friend who never lets you down. Its classic design and rugged build give it a vintage charm that’s hard to resist, and the fact that it’s still packing a punch after all these years is a testament to its enduring quality. Sure, pumping it up can feel like a bit of a workout, and it may not have all the bells and whistles of modern air rifles, but that’s part of its appeal. It’s straightforward, no-nonsense, and gets the job done. The Benjamin 392 is a solid choice that brings both nostalgia and performance to the table. Just be ready to put in a little muscle, and you’ll be rewarded with a trusty companion for years to come.
Benjamin 392 Score Card
| Ergonomics | The Benjamin 392 feels good in hand with a comfy grip and cheekpiece that works for different shooting styles, though aiming with open sights could be better for some. | 4 |
| Trigger | The Benjamin 392’s trigger is reliable, but if you’re after a smoother, more refined feel, you might need to tweak or upgrade it. | 3 |
| Accuracy | When paired with good pellets, the Benjamin 392 shines in accuracy. Many users rave about its precision, making it a top pick in its category. | 4.5 |
| Quality | It’s built to last with solid materials and craftsmanship. It’s tough enough for regular use, making it a go-to for air rifle fans. | 4.5 |
| Value | It used to be a great deal, but recent price hikes might make you think twice. Depending on the model and market, it still delivers decent performance for the cost. | 3.5 |
| Overall | The Benjamin 392 is a must-have for both nostalgic shooters and those seeking a solid, dependable performer. | 3.9 |
Last update on 2024-10-10 / Images from Amazon Product API