There’s a specific kind of satisfaction that comes from a quiet afternoon of plinking in the backyard. It’s a challenge of skill, a meditative focus on breath and trigger pull. For years, my dilemma has been finding the right tool for the job that doesn’t feel like a compromise. I wanted something more potent and accurate than a simple BB pistol, but not as cumbersome as a full-length break-barrel rifle for casual target practice at 15 yards. I also needed a reliable solution for the occasional garden pest—rabbits nibbling the lettuce, squirrels raiding the bird feeder—that required the respectable knockdown power of a .22 caliber pellet. The problem was that these two needs often pointed to two different airguns. Owning, storing, and maintaining multiple airguns felt like overkill. I was searching for a single, adaptable platform: a compact, self-sufficient, and versatile tool that could be a fun pistol one minute and a steady carbine the next. This quest for a true “do-it-all” airgun is what led me to the Crosman Drifter Kit.
- .22-CALIBER AIR PISTOL - Single shot, variable pump
- MODERN DESIGN WITH CARBON FIBER HYDRO DIP
What to Consider Before Buying a Variable Pump Airgun
Before you dive into the world of multi-pump pneumatic airguns, it’s crucial to understand who they’re for and what to look for. This type of airgun isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for rapid-fire action or the highest possible velocity for long-range shooting, a CO2-powered or high-end PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifle might be a better fit. The ideal user for a variable pump airgun like the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle is someone who values self-sufficiency, adaptability, and control over their power output. You never need to buy CO2 cartridges or have access to a high-pressure pump; your power source is your own arm strength. This makes it perfect for a bug-out bag, a camping trip, or simply hassle-free shooting at home. Those who lack the physical strength or patience to pump the gun 8-10 times for every single shot should probably look elsewhere.
When evaluating a potential purchase in this category, consider these four key factors:
- Power Source and Mechanism: The variable pump system is the defining feature. It allows you to tailor the power to your needs. For quiet indoor target practice or teaching a new shooter, 3-4 pumps are sufficient. For dispatching pests or shooting at longer distances, you can pump it up to the maximum (typically 10 pumps). This control is a huge advantage over fixed-power systems. However, be aware of the trade-offs: the pumping action takes time and effort, making quick follow-up shots impossible. You should also be mindful of the mechanics; as some users note with many pump airguns, carelessness can lead to a pinched hand.
- Caliber Choice (.177 vs .22): The Drifter comes in .22 caliber, which is a significant choice. A .22 pellet is heavier and carries more energy downrange than its .177 counterpart. While a .177 pellet often has a higher velocity and a flatter trajectory (making it great for paper target shooting), the .22’s greater mass provides superior knockdown power. This makes it the preferred caliber for small game hunting and effective pest control, which is a primary suggested use for this airgun. If your sole purpose is punching holes in paper, .177 might be better, but for an all-around utility airgun, .22 is arguably more versatile.
- Modularity and Versatility: The standout feature of this particular kit is its ability to transform from a pistol to a carbine. A detachable shoulder stock dramatically increases stability and, by extension, accuracy at longer ranges. Consider how you plan to use the airgun. If you only ever shoot from a bench, a dedicated rifle might suffice. But if you value the ability to have a compact pistol for easy storage and transport, which can quickly become a more stable rifle for precise shots, a convertible kit offers the best of both worlds.
- Sights and Optics Potential: Out of the box, an airgun is only as good as its sighting system. The Drifter comes with a fiber optic front sight and an adjustable rear sight. While functional, many shooters find stock sights to be a weak point. Look for an airgun that allows for future upgrades. Does it have a dovetail or Picatinny rail for mounting a red dot or a scope? The ability to add aftermarket optics can transform a decent airgun into an exceptionally accurate one. As we discovered, this is a critical consideration for getting the most out of this platform.
Considering these factors, the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle stands out as a unique and compelling package for the shooter who prizes flexibility above all else.
While the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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- DURABLE, WATER PROOF SYNTHETIC DESIGN - With rifled steel barrel, built-in BB reservoir and side-load pellet chamber
First Impressions: Unrolling a Complete Shooting System
The arrival of the Crosman Drifter Kit feels less like unboxing a single product and more like opening a complete, self-contained system. Everything comes neatly packed in a surprisingly high-quality roll-out carry case. This isn’t just throwaway packaging; it’s a functional “grab-and-go” bag that immediately adds value. It has dedicated pouches and straps for the main pistol/action, the removable stock, the included pistol grips, and even a tin of pellets. The first thing that strikes you is the modern aesthetic. The carbon fiber hydro dip finish gives the synthetic frame a sleek, contemporary look that sets it apart from more traditional wood-stocked airguns. In hand, the main unit feels substantial but not overly heavy. The synthetic material is robust, and the pumping forearm has a positive, secure feel. Attaching the shoulder stock for the first time reveals the gun’s dual personality. It clicks into place, transforming the large pistol into a compact, nimble carbine that shoulders naturally. The included 400-count tin of .22-caliber Piranha pellets means you can start shooting right away. It’s a thoughtful touch that reinforces the idea that this is a complete kit, not just a bare-bones airgun.
What We Like
- Superb Versatility: Easily converts from a pistol to a stable carbine configuration.
- Self-Contained Power: The variable pump action means no CO2 cartridges are needed.
- Excellent All-in-One Kit: Includes a quality carrying case, stock, pellets, and pouch.
- Impressive Power: The .22 caliber pellet hits hard, making it effective for pest control.
- Great Modding Platform: A solid base for aftermarket upgrades like optics and steel breeches.
What We Didn’t Like
- Challenging Stock Installation: Instructions are poor, and some units may require drilling.
- Subpar Factory Sights: The large front fiber optic can hinder precision accuracy.
A Deep Dive into the Drifter’s Performance
An airgun can have all the features in the world, but it all comes down to how it performs when you’re aiming down the sights. We spent considerable time with the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle, putting it through its paces in both configurations, testing its power, accuracy, and overall usability. This is an airgun with a distinct personality—one that rewards patience and a willingness to understand its quirks.
From Pistol to Carbine: The Transformation and Ergonomics
The core promise of the Drifter is its dual-identity, and this is where the experience begins. As a pistol, it’s a handful. It feels much larger and more substantial than a CO2-powered pistol like Crosman’s own 2240 model. It’s a bit front-heavy due to the barrel and pump mechanism, but the grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold. Firing it as a pistol is fun for casual plinking, but holding it steady for precise shots requires a firm, practiced stance.
The real magic happens when you attach the shoulder stock. However, this process was the source of our first major hurdle, a sentiment echoed by several users. The instructions are frustratingly vague, omitting the critical step that you must remove the pistol grip panels to access the mounting points for the stock. On our unit, the indentations for the screws were present but not fully drilled through. We had to carefully drill them out ourselves, a task that one user reported turning into a multi-hour ordeal involving a drill press. This is a significant manufacturing oversight. A buyer shouldn’t need a workshop to assemble their new airgun. Once we overcame this obstacle and securely fastened the stock, the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle became a different beast entirely. The ergonomics as a carbine are fantastic. It’s lightweight, compact, and shoulders incredibly well. The length of pull is comfortable for an average-sized adult, and the stability it provides is a complete game-changer for accuracy. It becomes the perfect tool for navigating brush or taking a steady, braced shot from a rested position.
Power and Pumping: The Heart of the Drifter’s Performance
The variable pump powerplant is the engine of the Drifter. Crosman claims velocities up to 550 fps, and our testing, along with user feedback, suggests that with a medium-weight pellet and the full 10 pumps, you can expect real-world speeds in the high 400s to low 500s. While not a powerhouse on the level of a magnum break-barrel, this is more than sufficient for the gun’s intended purpose. The real beauty is the “variable” aspect. For a quiet session in the garage, 3-4 pumps provide a satisfying “thwack” on a pellet trap without disturbing the neighbors. For dispatching a squirrel at 20 yards, pumping it up to the maximum of 10 delivers a serious impact. One user reported shooting a pellet clean through a tin can and embedding it deep into a brick backstop—a testament to the surprising energy this compact platform can generate.
The pumping action itself is smooth, but it does require a conscious effort, especially for the last few pumps. As with all airguns of this type, you learn quickly to keep your non-pumping hand clear of the linkage to avoid a painful pinch. This is not a gun for rapid-fire plinking. Each shot is deliberate: load, pump, aim, fire. This slower pace encourages focus and makes each shot count. The fact that you are completely independent of disposable CO2 cartridges or external tanks is a massive advantage for those who want a reliable tool that’s always ready to go. The Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle proves that manual power can be both effective and liberating.
Accuracy and Sights: Hitting the Mark (With Some Effort)
Out of the box, the accuracy of the Drifter is a mixed bag, and it all comes down to the sights. The adjustable rear sight is adequate, but the front sight is a very thick, bright fiber optic rod. For quickly acquiring a target like a soda can, it’s great. The bright dot is easy to see. However, for precision shooting, it’s a liability. The dot is so large that at 20 yards, it can completely obscure a small target, making consistent, tight groupings very difficult. Some users find they can get used to it, but many, including our team, found it to be the platform’s single biggest weakness. This is where the Drifter’s true potential as a “tuner” gun shines.
We immediately saw why so many owners add a simple red dot sight. With a basic reflex sight mounted, the accuracy potential was unlocked. Suddenly, the gun was capable of repeatable, tight groups. One user shared a photo of a dime-sized group at 25 feet, shot unsupported with the factory peep-sight—an impressive feat that shows the inherent mechanical accuracy is there if you can master the sights. For those willing to go a step further, the Drifter is a popular base for modifications. Many owners upgrade to a steel breech, which provides a solid dovetail rail for mounting a proper scope and improves the bolt action’s feel. With a decent scope, we found the Drifter is a reliable 30-yard small game getter. The takeaway is this: out of the box, it’s a decent plinker. With a small investment in better optics, it becomes a seriously accurate carbine.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings align closely with the broader community of owners. The sentiment is generally positive, with most users recognizing the incredible value and versatility of the kit. One very impressed shooter noted, “I expect dime sized groups on an air gun at 25ft and this delivers. I am very pleased.” This highlights the gun’s underlying accuracy potential. Another user celebrated it as an “Awesome backyard toy/varmint exterminator!” after adding a red dot, confirming our own experience that an optic upgrade is key.
However, the criticisms are just as consistent. The most severe feedback came from a user who gave it two stars due to the “terrible” directions and the need to drill holes to mount the stock, calling it a “BIG MISTAKE” to attempt without a drill press. This is a critical quality control issue that potential buyers should be aware of. Another common point of contention is the front sight, which one person described as “huge and makes for very poor accuracy and target picture,” though they added that with “a few cheap mods and it’s 100% perfect now.” This perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Drifter: a fantastic platform that may require a little tweaking to reach its full potential.
How Does the Crosman Drifter Kit Compare to the Competition?
The Crosman Drifter Kit occupies a unique space, but it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against other popular airguns that buyers might be considering. Each alternative serves a different type of shooter and purpose.
1. Gamo Swarm Maxxim 10X GEN 2 Multi-Shot Air Rifle
- caliber: 0.177
- velocity: 1300.00 ft/sec
The Gamo Swarm Maxxim is built for a completely different philosophy of shooting. Its primary advantage is the 10-shot rotary magazine and break-barrel action, allowing for rapid follow-up shots that are impossible with the single-shot, multi-pump Drifter. It’s a dedicated rifle, offering higher velocities and more power for longer-range shooting. If your main priority is pest control or hunting where a quick second shot might be necessary, and you don’t mind the louder report of a gas-piston rifle, the Gamo is a superior choice. However, you lose the pistol configuration, the quiet operation of a low-pump shot, and the self-contained simplicity of the Drifter.
2. Gamo Daisy Powerline Multi-Pump BB/Pellet Gun
- 625 feet per second at full charge (10 pumps)
- Features a classy stock and forearm
The Daisy Powerline Model 35 represents a more classic, budget-friendly approach to the multi-pump airgun. Its key feature is the dual-ammo capability, shooting both .177 pellets and a large reservoir of BBs. This makes it an incredibly affordable and fun plinker for casual backyard shooting. However, it cannot compete with the Crosman Drifter Kit in terms of power, build quality, or serious application. The .22 caliber Drifter delivers far more impact energy for pest control, and its modular kit with the stock and case provides a much more robust and versatile shooting system. The Daisy is a great starter gun, while the Drifter is a more serious, adaptable tool.
3. Black Ops The Sniper S Air Rifle 1250 FPS
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If raw power and velocity are what you’re after, the Black Ops Sniper S is designed to deliver. As a high-powered, .177 caliber break-barrel rifle, it boasts muzzle velocities exceeding 1200 FPS (with alloy pellets). This makes it suitable for target shooting and pest control at much greater distances than the Drifter. It comes bundled with a scope and has a tactical, sniper-rifle aesthetic. This is the choice for the shooter who wants to set up on a bench and practice long-range marksmanship. Its significant drawbacks compared to the Drifter are its size, weight, and the heavy cocking effort required for its break-barrel action. It lacks the Drifter’s incredible portability and modularity.
Our Final Verdict on the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle is a uniquely compelling package that delivers on its promise of versatility. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backyard airguns. It’s a fun pistol for casual plinking and a surprisingly capable carbine for precise pest control or target shooting out to 30 yards. The variable pump system offers fantastic control and freedom from CO2, and the included kit—especially the roll-out bag—adds tremendous value. However, it is not without its flaws. The poor instructions and potential need for minor gunsmithing to attach the stock are significant drawbacks, and the factory front sight limits its precision out of the box. We recommend this kit to the shooter who values adaptability, enjoys tinkering, and sees the potential in a great platform that can be made perfect with a few small upgrades, like a red dot sight. If you’re looking for one airgun that can do almost everything, this is an outstanding choice.
If you’ve decided the Crosman Drifter Kit .22 Air Pistol/Rifle is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API