In 1882 Walter Benjamin introduced his high powered “Benjamin Pump” air rifle. Benjamin-Sheridan air rifles and pellet pistols are some of the best American airguns ever made, and while each of these companies have their own unique story, they are intertwined and eventually combine. Benjamin, the creator and original owner of the historic and famous Benjamin Airguns company, as well as Ed Wackerhagen and his friend Bob Kraus, the creators of the equally historic and famous Sheridan Airguns company, were instrumental in making pellet guns into much more than just toys and training aids, here in the US. At that time they were primarily used as toys and training aids for kids and beginners. Air guns in the US have been around since the 1800’s. However, airguns have always had their place in our culture and high powered precision air rifles and pellet pistols are becoming increasingly popular, as more Americans become aware of their benefits and power. This is primarily due to our gun laws, which make legally owning traditional firearms much easier here, than in most other countries. Adult high powered air guns in the USA have been relatively slow to catch on, when compared to the rest of the world.
