Review of the SIG SAUER MCX Gen II Pellet Air Rifle
Over the past year or so, I’ve been fortunate to try several airguns courtesy of the fine folks at Pyramyd AIR. The piece I’m about to review today is perhaps my favorite (so far). Maybe that’s because I’ve spent a fair amount of time shooting its traditional firearm cousin (the SIG MCX Virtus), or maybe it’s just that well-built. Honestly, it’s a combination of the two.
As you open the box, the front announces that the gun has “Authentic weight, balance, and handling.” That statement is spot-on.
When it comes to air rifles that blend power, precision, and realistic training capabilities, the SIG SAUER MCX Gen II pellet air rifle stands out as a top contender on anyone’s wish list. SIG’s second-generation air rifle aims to impress with its robust build, impressive accuracy, and user-friendly design.
Design and Build Quality
The SIG MCX Gen II mirrors the design of its firearm counterpart, the MCX Virtus, offering a realistic training experience without the noise and the need for expensive ammunition. Pyramyd offers a wide variety of pellets in .177 caliber that can be fired from the MCX.
The rifle features a sturdy polymer frame, which not only makes it durable but also relatively lightweight (7.35 lbs), ensuring ease of handling during extended shooting sessions. The sleek black finish gives it a professional and tactical look that appeals to casual enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Performance and Accuracy
Set up to use CO2 as a power source, the SIG MCX air rifle delivers consistent power, allowing for a smooth and reliable shooting experience round after round. Choosing the correct .177 caliber pellets provides impressive accuracy for this unique air rifle. Whether plinking targets in your backyard or honing your shooting skills, it delivers precise and repeatable results.
The 30-round belt-fed magazine is a standout feature, offering semi-automatic shooting without the need for constant reloading. This magazine system ensures you can focus more on your aim and less on reloading, making it an excellent choice for training scenarios.
The Particulars
- Rifled steel barrel
- Semi-automatic firing
- Flat blade trigger
- Adjustable front and rear pop-up sights
- M-LOK handguard
- Maximum velocity: 545 fps
- Picatinny optics rail
- Ambidextrous manual safety
- Overall length: 34.7 inches
- Barrel length: 17.7 inches
- Utilizes one 88 or 90 gram CO2 cylinder
Ease of Use
The ergonomic design of the SIG MCX Gen II air rifle ensures a comfortable shooting experience. The removable stock allows users to customize the fit to their preference, enhancing stability and control when in place. The rifle is also equipped with an integrated Picatinny optics rail, providing ample space for mounting a scope and other accessories to suit your shooting style.
Versatility and Applications
The SIG SAUER MCX Gen II air rifle is not just a tool for casual shooters; it serves as an excellent training platform for those looking to practice their skills with a realistic, cost-effective alternative to live firearms. Its quiet operation and lack of recoil make it suitable for indoor (basement or attic range) and outdoor use, catering to a wide range of shooting activities from target practice to tactical training.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Realistic design and build quality
- Consistent CO2-powered performance
- High-capacity 30-round belt-fed magazine
- Versatile Picatinny rails for accessories
Cons:
- CO2 canisters need regular replacement
- Magazine reloading takes a bit of patience
Conclusion
The MCX Gen II air rifle by SIG SAUER, sold by Pyramyd AIR for the impressive price of only $219.99 (complete with scope), is a top-tier air rifle that offers a realistic, reliable, and versatile shooting experience. Its combination of precision, durability, and user-friendly features makes it a standout choice for both casual shooters and serious trainers alike. If you’re in the market for an air rifle that delivers on all fronts and is tons of good old-fashioned fun, it is well worth considering.
