How to choose a rubber bullet gun (2024)

They rely on cartridges filled with pressurized carbon dioxide CO₂.

For most models, the cartridges are inserted into the magazine or directly into the grip. When you pull the trigger, the valve opens and allows the pressurized gas to pass through, setting the projectile in motion.

Rubber balls

Not all rubber projectiles are the same. Depending on their design, they are intended either for self-defense or training. They differ in construction and thus in weight and impact force. For self-defense, weight and hardness are essential, while for training, even the most lightweight projectiles are fine.

Therefore, for self-defense, projectiles with a steel core or steel powder mix are most suitable. Such design significantly increases the weight and hardness of the projectile.

Pepper balls

These special projectiles contain the same substance used in pepper sprays - capsaicin. It is a strong chemical irritant extracted from chilli peppers. It causes severe pain, burning and irritation on contact with the mucosa and eye area.

Pepper balls are therefore dependent more on the effectiveness of the irritating substance than on the impact energy. That said, if you have a less powerful RAM gun where regular rubber projectiles would not be very effective, pepper projectiles are the way to go.

Marking balls

Marking balls (MAB) are designed primarily for training. They contain a liquid or powder dye that marks the point of impact on the target.

It is very easy to remove the colored chalk powder from clothing, making them a perfect alternative to paintball.

Projectiles with liquid dye can be used for similar purposes, however the content is much more difficult to remove.

Projectile shape

Cartridges

RAM guns are powered by metal cartridges filled with pressurized carbon dioxide CO2.

These are most commonly available as 12g threadless cartridges that are inserted into a grip or magazine. Before firing, the cartridge must be penetrated in order to release the compressed gas into the mechanism.

Some models, such as the HDX shotgun, use a larger 88g threaded cartridge. More pressurized CO2 means more shots per cartridge, but it is no longer compatible with the emergency system (explained below).

The disadvantage of carbon dioxide powered guns is their sensitivity to ambient temperatures - as they only work at temperatures above 10°C.

To activate the cartridge, simply thrust your palm against the valve cover located at the end of the grip to penetrate the cartridge.

Some models also feature an indicator with a red marking above the grip, which pops up when the cartridge has been penetrated.

The emergency activation system is an excellent feature for self-defense purposes. You don't have to worry about for how long the cartridge has been in the gun, and you can activate it in a split second in the case of a threat.

Umarex T4E

There are lots of manufacturers in the RAM gun market who are trying to offer quality products. Umarex, more specifically its T4E segment(Training for Engagement), is without a doubt one of the best. Their products' main strengths are their high reliability and sophisticated design. That's why our offer consists mostly of Umarex T4E products.

Pistols

We offer RAM pistols in .43 and .50 caliber with a muzzle energy of 5 to 11 Joules, making them suitable both for training and self-defense when using pepper balls. In addition, their compact dimensions make them easily portable.

While most pistols are not equipped with an emergency system, you can optionally purchase such magazines for the , , Walther PPQ M2 and Walther PDP Compact 4" models.

We've recently stocked the 2nd generation Umarex T4E TP50 pistol, which offers up to 13 Joules of muzzle energy.

Revolvers

A more powerful alternative - revolvers in .50 and .68 caliber. They are more robust and offer muzzle energy from 7.5J to 16J.

Compared to pistols, they have a smaller magazine capacity, but you can load them with unusually shaped projectiles. All of them feature the emergency activation system.

Currently, the Umarex T4E TR50 2nd generation with up to 13 Joules of energy is the absolute bestseller revolver.

Assault Rifles

Assault rifles of .43 caliber are more suited for practice shooting and practicing safe weapon handling due to the impact energy of 7.5 J. This is also aided by the BlowBack system, which simulates the realistic movement of the breech when firing.

However, in case of self-defence, you won't be disappointed - you can fire 14 balls in a fully automatic mode. The only drawback is the absence of an emergency cartridge activation system.

First of all, it is critical to mention that it is strongly advised not to leave activated cartridges in either RAM guns or other CO2 powered airguns. This is due to the fact that the pressurized gas gradually degrades the rubber o-rings in the guns and may eventually lead to leaks.

Therefore, you should activate the cartridge just before use, and if you've not used it entirely, slowly loosen the valve to release the remaining gas. Used cartridges cannot be refilled.

It is also important to regularly lubricate the insides of the gun, especially the gaskets. You can do this either with a silicone oil spray, or the simpler way - with oil cartridges that are designed exactly for this - to lubricate carbon dioxide-powered guns.

No doubt you'll agree that in self-defense, every second counts. That's why we strongly recommend guns with the emergency system, thanks to which the cartridge can be activated with a single strike of the palm.

Sure, it would be best if you never had to use a RAM gun. However, if you do get into such situation, this tool is something you can trust.

All RAM guns

Would you prefer defense sprays, electroshock stun guns or telescopic batons? Read our article How to choose a self-defense tool.