From the ground up, the R1 was built to be an airgun that a shooter could use and cherish for a lifetime. The Beeman "R" Series trigger, universally recognized as one of the finest available on a sporting gun, has a crisp, delightful feel that is fully adjustable. The solid body tube has deep dovetail grooves machined into the sides for maximum accuracy and stability. The safety automatically engages each time the rifle is cocked. It has a convenient thumb release and a red indicator shows that the rifle is ready to fire. The elegant hardwood stock has a long forearm that adds grace and increased functionality for those who prefer to grasp the rifle further out.

As an example of the workmanship of the rifle, examine the end cap of the receiver. Notice how the cap has been machined from a solid block of steel and carefully designed so that when it screws onto the back of the rifle it mates flush with the body tube. If this much care goes into one component, imagine how much thought and care has gone into the rest of the rifle!

One of the first airguns to break the mystical 1000 fps mark, the R1 really delivers. We have chosen to rate the R1 conservatively at 950 fps in .177 caliber but to truly harness the power we recommend the .20 caliber. The larger caliber gives a shooter better energy and greater mass and frontal area than the .177 caliber. The large swept air volume of the R1 makes it particularly well suited to the heavier calibers. The rifle is available in .177, .20, and .22 calibers. For those preferring a shorter barrel, a carbine model is available in all but the .22 caliber.

The R1 is also available in a .20 caliber all-weather version of the gun with a composite stock and nickel-plated action. The electroless nickel plating on the R1-AW protects against Mother Nature, as well as, the salts and oils that come from the hands. The R1-AW stock is Kevlar and graphite reinforced fiberglass composite, and will not warp or change point of impact regardless of temperature or humidity levels. Specifically designed to be ambidextrous, the high cheek piece is especially suited for scope use. The stock is also available separately (catalog #7351) for current R1 owners looking for a nice upgrade to their rifle.