The Air Arms S500 5.5mm (Sub12)

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
 
Reliable Accuracy, Shot After Shot
The S500 is built around a precision-engineered Lothar Walther barrel and finely balanced firing valve – two core features that make a serious difference. Whether you’re zeroing at the bench or lining up in the field, this combination delivers tight groupings, consistent trajectory, and reliable shot placement.
Single-Shot Simplicity
No magazines. No distractions. The S500’s single-shot format strips things back to pure shooting discipline. It forces precision with every load, helping you hone your focus, improve trigger control, and sharpen your technique. For those who want to perfect every shot, this is where skill development starts.
Effortless Operation
With its refined side-lever action, the S500 chambers each pellet smoothly and precisely, minimising movement and maintaining your shooting rhythm. Built for intuitive handling and reduced fatigue, it’s ideal for long practice sessions or focused target work. The result? A rifle that works with you, not against you.
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.
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.
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.
What calibres is the S500 available in?
The S500 is available in .177 and .22 calibres to suit your shooting style – whether you prioritise target precision or impact in the field.
What’s the benefit of the single-shot design?
The single-shot action promotes focus and precision by removing distractions – ideal for refining technique and mastering shot placement.
What’s the difference between standard and XS Xtra models?
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.
Is the S500 suitable for beginners?
Yes – its smooth handling, straightforward operation, and dependable accuracy make it a great choice for newer shooters looking to improve quickly.
Can I use the S500 for both target shooting and pest control?
Absolutely. With its calibre and power flexibility, the S500 is well-suited to both scenarios.