Gamo Big Cat 1250 Air Rifle Review
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The Gamo Big Cat 1250 is built for one thing: raw velocity. With a claimed 1,250 fps (alloy pellets), it’s one of the fastest break-barrel air rifles in its price class. That headline number attracts buyers — but the Big Cat also backs it up with solid construction, an included scope, and the versatility to handle both .177 target shooting and light pest control work.
[Check Current Price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Gamo+Big+Cat+1250+air+rifle&tag=airrifles8-20)Overview
The Big Cat 1250 is a single-shot, break-barrel spring-piston rifle in .177 caliber. The high velocity comes from an extended barrel and high-compression spring — a proven formula. While 1,250 fps is the alloy-pellet ceiling, you’ll get 950-1,000 fps with quality lead pellets, which is still excellent for a spring-piston rifle. The 4x32 scope is included and mounted, so you’re field-ready without additional investment.
Specifications
Caliber: .177
Ammunition: Pellets
Action: Break barrel, single shot
Power source: Spring piston
Muzzle velocity: Up to 1,250 fps (alloy pellets) / ~950 fps (lead)
Stock: Synthetic, all-weather
Scope: 4x32 centerpoint scope included
Trigger: SAT (Smooth Action Trigger)
Weight: ~6.1 lbs
Key Features
1,250 fps velocity: High velocity flattens trajectory, reducing holdover at 40+ yards. Practical benefit for pest control — less guessing on where the shot will land at varying distances.
All-weather synthetic stock: Single-piece molded stock with textured grip panels. Handles rain, humidity, and cold without warping. Decent ergonomics with a fluted fore-end for a natural hold position.
SAT trigger: Gamo’s Smooth Action Trigger delivers a cleaner, more predictable break than typical entry-level triggers. Meaningfully reduces trigger-induced shot error.
4x32 scope included: Ready-mounted, bore-sighted CenterPoint scope. Functional for 25-40 yard shooting. The scope rail accommodates upgrades when you’re ready for higher magnification.
Fiber optic sights: Open sights included as a backup if you prefer irons or don’t want to shoot through the scope.
Pros
High velocity for the price — among the fastest spring-piston rifles in its class
Scope and sights both included — complete package
All-weather synthetic stock is durable
SAT trigger is above average
Good for pest control and informal target shooting
Relatively lightweight for carry
Cons
1,250 fps is alloy pellets only — real-world lead pellet velocity is lower
High-powered spring piston has noticeable recoil — artillery hold is mandatory for accuracy
Single-shot only
Included scope is entry grade — upgrade to improve long-range accuracy
.177 only — no .22 option in this model
Verdict
The Gamo Big Cat 1250 does what it promises: delivers high velocity at an accessible price with a complete scope-and-sights package. It’s a capable pest control and target shooting rifle for anyone who wants more power than entry-level guns deliver without stepping up to gas-piston or PCP technology. Master the artillery hold, use quality lead pellets, and the Big Cat will hit where you aim it.
[Check Current Price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Gamo+Big+Cat+1250+air+rifle&tag=airrifles8-20)