I remember my first foray into the world of shooting. It started with a simple, hand-me-down BB gun—a classic lever-action that was more about noise and nostalgia than actual performance. It was fun, but I quickly outgrew its limited power and less-than-stellar accuracy. I found myself at a crossroads many aspiring shooters face: I wanted something more. I needed a rifle with enough power for small pest control around the property, enough accuracy to genuinely hone my marksmanship skills, and enough versatility to be fun for simple backyard plinking without breaking the bank. The problem is that the air rifle market is vast and confusing. On one end, you have toy-like BB guns, and on the other, you have high-powered, expensive pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) rifles that require specialized equipment. Finding that perfect middle ground—a true jack-of-all-trades—can feel like an impossible task. This is the exact niche the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle has aimed to fill for decades.
What to Consider Before Buying a Multi-Pump Air Rifle
Before you invest in a multi-pump air rifle like the Daisy 880, it’s crucial to understand who this type of gun is for and what key factors you should evaluate. The ideal customer for the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle is a beginner looking for their first serious air rifle, a parent wanting to safely teach marksmanship to a young shooter, or a homeowner needing an affordable and effective tool for controlling small pests like squirrels, rats, or invasive birds. Its variable power makes it exceptionally versatile. However, it’s not the right choice for everyone. Serious competitive target shooters will demand greater precision and a more refined trigger, while hunters pursuing larger game will require a much more powerful platform. If you’re looking for a realistic firearm replica for tactical drills, a CO2-powered model would be a better fit.
When you’re ready to buy, keep these four critical purchasing factors in mind:
- Power & Velocity Control: The single greatest advantage of a multi-pump pneumatic rifle is its variable power. Unlike a break-barrel or CO2 gun with a fixed power output, you control the velocity by the number of times you pump the forearm. For the Daisy 880, 2-3 pumps are perfect for quiet indoor target practice. Pumping it 5-7 times provides ample power for plinking cans in the backyard. For maximum velocity—up to 800 feet per second (FPS)—you’ll need the full 10 pumps, which is the level required for humane pest dispatching. This control makes it an incredibly safe and adaptable training tool.
- Ammunition Versatility: The ability to shoot both .177 caliber pellets and steel BBs is a massive selling point. BBs are inexpensive and perfect for casual fun, and the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle features a generous 50-BB reservoir for quick, repetitive shooting. However, BBs are inaccurate and prone to ricochets. For any task requiring precision—target shooting or pest control—you must use pellets. Fired from the rifled steel barrel, pellets offer vastly superior accuracy and terminal performance. This dual-ammo capability means you can have cheap fun with BBs and get serious with pellets, all with one rifle.
- Build Quality and Materials: This is a point of contention with modern air rifles. Older Daisy 880s were known for their metal receivers, giving them a substantial, durable feel. The current models, however, feature a predominantly plastic construction for the frame and pump handle. This keeps the rifle incredibly lightweight (under 4 lbs) and resistant to rust, but it can feel less robust. As one user noted, comparing it to an older model reveals the difference in feel. It’s a trade-off between modern cost-saving manufacturing and old-school heft.
- Sights and Optics: Out of the box, the Daisy 880 comes with a fiber-optic front sight and an adjustable rear sight. These are generally adequate for plinking at short ranges. However, many kits also include a basic 4x15mm scope. In our experience, and confirming the sentiment of many users, these bundled scopes are often the weakest link. They can be difficult to zero and may not hold that zero reliably. You will likely achieve better results by mastering the iron sights or investing in a modest aftermarket scope.
Considering these factors, the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle presents a compelling package for its intended audience. If its blend of versatility and value aligns with your needs, you can explore its features and check the latest price online.
While the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air 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
Unboxing the Daisy 880: First Impressions and Key Features
Opening the box of the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle is a straightforward affair. There’s no complex assembly required; the rifle is ready to go. The first thing that struck us was its lightness. At just 1.65 kilograms (about 3.6 pounds), it feels almost toy-like at first touch, a direct result of its synthetic stock and plastic receiver. Some may be put off by this, especially those accustomed to the heft of wood and steel. However, we see it as a benefit for younger shooters or for carrying it around the property for pest control without fatigue. The Monte Carlo-style stock has a raised cheek-piece that provides a comfortable weld for both right and left-handed shooters. Despite the plastic exterior, the critical component—the barrel—is rifled alloy steel, a crucial feature for achieving the accuracy this rifle is capable of with pellets. The pump handle feels a bit flexible, confirming some user feedback, but it functions reliably. Overall, the initial impression is one of utility over luxury; it’s a tool built to perform a job without unnecessary frills.
What We Like
- Variable Power System: The multi-pump action allows for precise control over velocity, making it perfect for everything from indoor practice to outdoor pest control.
- Dual Ammunition Capability: Shoots both affordable BBs for plinking and accurate .177 pellets for serious target shooting and hunting small game.
- Impressive Performance for the Price: Achieving up to 800 FPS, it delivers significant power and accuracy (with pellets) that rivals more expensive rifles.
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Its synthetic construction makes it light enough for shooters of all ages and sizes to use comfortably for extended periods.
What We Didn’t Like
- Predominantly Plastic Construction: The modern version lacks the durable feel of older models with metal receivers, and the pump handle can feel flimsy.
- Subpar Sights and Scope: The included 4×15 scope is of very low quality, and users report that the iron sights can be difficult and inconsistent to adjust.
Putting the Daisy 880 Through Its Paces: A Performance Deep Dive
An air rifle can look good on paper, but its true worth is only revealed on the range. We spent extensive time with the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle, testing its core functionalities to see if this time-tested design still holds up. We focused on the three pillars of its performance: its power plant, its accuracy potential, and its real-world usability and build quality. The results were, in many ways, exactly what we expected from this legendary plinker: a mix of surprising capability and understandable compromises.
The Heart of the Rifle: Power and the Pumping Mechanism
The multi-pump pneumatic system is the defining feature of the Daisy 880. It’s a brilliantly simple and effective design that grants the user ultimate control. During our testing, we validated its versatility across different power levels. At just three pumps, the rifle is remarkably quiet, perfect for setting up a 10-meter range in a garage or basement without disturbing anyone. The pellet exits the barrel with enough force for punching clean holes in paper targets but poses minimal risk of over-penetration. Increasing the effort to five or six pumps turns the Daisy 880 into a premier backyard plinker. At this level, it sends cans flying with satisfying authority. For maximum power, we took it up to the 10-pump limit. The pumping effort becomes noticeably more strenuous after the seventh pump, requiring a firm and steady motion, but the reward is significant. We chronographed lead-free pellets consistently in the high 700 FPS range, confirming Daisy’s “up to 800 FPS” claim is not just marketing speak. This level of power is more than adequate for dispatching small pests humanely at ranges up to 25 yards. One user’s anecdote about a pellet leaving an “exit wound the size of a 9mm slug in an apple” perfectly captures the impressive energy this rifle can generate at full power.
Unlocking Precision: Accuracy and the Sighting System
This is where the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle becomes a tale of two ammunition types. Let’s be blunt: if you expect surgical accuracy using steel BBs, you will be disappointed. Due to their spherical shape and inability to engage the barrel’s rifling, BBs fly inconsistently. We found our BB groups at 15 yards were around 4-5 inches, suitable only for hitting large targets like soda cans. The real magic happens when you switch to .177 caliber pellets. The rifled steel barrel takes over, imparting a stabilizing spin on the projectile. As one happy user reported, he was achieving dime-sized groups at 40 feet, a finding we were able to replicate. At 20 yards, with a stable rest and quality pointed pellets, we consistently produced 2-inch groupings. This level of accuracy is exceptional for a rifle in this price bracket and makes it a legitimate tool for small game hunting and serious marksmanship training.
The sighting system, however, is the rifle’s Achilles’ heel. The included 4×15 scope is, frankly, best left in the box. Its optics are cloudy, and it loses zero with frustrating ease. We had far more success with the open iron sights. The fiber-optic front pin is bright and easy to acquire, but the rear sight adjustment is a known issue. We experienced the same problem one user described, where adjustments didn’t seem to correspond with the point of impact correctly. It required patience and a bit of trial and error to get it dialed in. Our recommendation is to master the iron sights or, for a relatively small additional investment, upgrade to a quality 4×32 airgun-rated scope, which will truly unlock the rifle’s accuracy potential.
In the Hands: Build Quality, Ergonomics, and Overall Feel
There’s no getting around the fact that the modern Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle is a product of plastic. Veteran shooters who recall the old metal-receiver models will notice the difference immediately. One user lamented that the new version “feels like a plastic, grocery store quality dart gun.” While we feel that’s an exaggeration, the sentiment is understandable. The synthetic stock and receiver do feel less substantial than metal. The pump handle, in particular, exhibits some flex under the strain of the final few pumps. However, this construction brings tangible benefits. The rifle is impervious to rust, a significant advantage for a gun that might be stored in a shed or used in damp conditions. Its light weight makes it a joy to carry and shoot, especially for younger or smaller-framed individuals who might struggle with a heavy break-barrel rifle. The ergonomics are surprisingly good, with a comfortable length of pull and a well-designed grip and fore-end. It shoulders naturally, making it an intuitive platform for beginners to learn on. Ultimately, the build quality is a compromise. It isn’t an heirloom piece to be passed down through generations, but it is a durable and functional tool designed to provide years of reliable service with basic care. For those seeking an affordable, high-performance air rifle, this proven design offers incredible value.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user feedback paints a picture of a product that excels in its intended role but has clear limitations. Many new shooters are, as one user put it, “at the very least amazed with what this can do.” They praise its surprising power and out-of-the-box accuracy with pellets, highlighting its value as a “good first gun and hunting rifle for small game.” Another user confirmed our findings, stating that while BB accuracy is poor, with pellets, “it’s shooting dime sized groups at 40 feet,” calling it the “perfect gun for a young shooter to hone their skills cheaply.”
On the other hand, negative feedback consistently focuses on two areas: build quality and the sighting system. Several experienced users express disappointment with the shift from metal to plastic, with one stating, “These new Chinese made 880’s are cheaply made garbage… not as accurate as my old, USA made 880’s that had metal receivers.” Sights are another common complaint. One user spent a half-hour trying to adjust the sights to no avail, concluding, “I do not recommend the rifle due to the lack of function of the sight adjustment knobs.” This feedback is critical as it validates our own testing and highlights the key trade-offs a buyer must accept with this rifle.
How Does the Daisy 880 Compare to the Competition?
The Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle occupies a popular space in the market, but it faces stiff competition from other well-known models. Here’s how it stacks up against three notable alternatives.
1. Gamo Daisy 1938 Red Ryder Air Rifle
The Red Ryder is perhaps the most iconic BB gun in the world. It is the quintessential beginner’s rifle. Compared to the Daisy 880, the Red Ryder is simpler, less powerful, and less versatile. It’s a lever-action, BB-only gun with a much lower velocity (around 350 FPS). It’s not suitable for pest control and lacks the accuracy potential of the 880 due to its smoothbore barrel. However, its simplicity, classic wood stock, and nostalgic appeal make it an excellent choice for a younger child’s very first gun (with strict supervision) or for someone who purely wants a fun, low-power plinker for the backyard. The 880 is a significant step up in every performance metric.
2. Umarex Legends MP Blowback Metal BB Gun Air Rifle
- 52-shot, .177 caliber BB air gun with realistic blowback action; Semi-auto and full-auto shooting modes
- Powered by two 12-gram CO2 cartridges (CO2 NOT included. To ensure a proper seal and for best performance, Umarex-brand CO2 is recommended.)
This Umarex Legends rifle represents a completely different philosophy. It’s a CO2-powered, semi-automatic replica of a famous submachine gun. Its appeal lies in its realism, all-metal construction, and blowback action. It’s designed for rapid-fire fun, not precision. While it offers a thrilling shooting experience, it’s far less practical than the Daisy 880. It’s less accurate, has a lower velocity, and its operational cost is higher due to the need for disposable 12g CO2 cartridges. A shooter would choose the Umarex for a tactical, fun-focused experience, whereas the Daisy 880 is the superior choice for marksmanship training, pest control, and overall utility.
3. Black Ops The Sniper S Air Rifle 1,250 FPS
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The Black Ops Sniper S is a serious step up in power and intended purpose. This is a gas-piston, break-barrel rifle designed for long-range pest control and target shooting. With velocities reaching up to 1,250 FPS, it is significantly more powerful than the Daisy 880. It is also heavier, much louder, and requires considerable strength to cock the barrel for every shot. This is a single-shot pellet rifle for experienced shooters who need maximum energy and range. While it’s superior for dedicated hunting, its power and single-shot nature make it less suitable for casual plinking or for training a new shooter compared to the adaptable and user-friendly Daisy 880.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle the Right Choice for You?
After rigorous testing and careful consideration of user feedback, our verdict is clear: the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air Rifle remains one of the best values in the world of airguns. It is a true jack-of-all-trades that brilliantly serves the needs of beginners, young shooters, and homeowners. Its genius lies in its variable power plant and dual-ammo capability, offering a level of versatility that is simply unmatched at its price point. Yes, the plastic construction feels less substantial than its predecessors, and the included scope is largely disposable. However, these are acceptable compromises for a rifle that delivers so much performance for so little money. For plinking, training, and light pest control, it is a proven, reliable, and exceptionally capable tool. It may not be the prettiest or most robust rifle on the market, but it is a workhorse that gets the job done.
If you’ve decided the Daisy 880 Multi-Pump Air 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