Just looking for anyone's experiences.
Tate: you may have already been there but here is a good place to try
(I have no experience with the 54)
http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?board=120.0recent discussion:
http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=84954.0
I have had an rws 48 since the late 80's. The side cock takes some getting used to and you will have to bend the rod back straight more than once.
They have a lot of power, the 48 is a .177, but with heavy pellets will shoot good. Light pellets will shotgun pattern in my gun and are loud.
The break barrel guns seem to be better balanced, my 48 sits unused while the benjamin np trail gets used a lot. The break barrel is just easier to shoot.
The rws guns are far better made and will last and function for decades. I am betting the .22 cal will be more accurate than the .177. Not sure what else is the difference between 48 and 54 models except cal. and stock. The stock may make up for the barrel heavy "club" feel of the older 48's which would make them easier to shoot well.
Good luck on your choice.
Closest I have is a 52 in .22 that I like a lot.
A little big and heavy but very accurate and dependable.
I missed buying a 54 by minutes locally, it was on clearance and I hesitated and missed out. I'm cheap and I had the 52 anyway but rats, I still think about that one.
Good luck!
I've never owned the 54, but I had a 22 caliber 52. It's a great hunting airgun. The 54 should be even easier to shoot with it's sledge system.
Thanks for the input. I've got an RWS break barrel in .177 now and had a 48 in .22 that I shouldn't have sent down the road. Just thinking about getting another in .22. Was thinking about the 54 because of it being easier on scopes. Barry
It is in no way easier on scopes. The sledge action removes the recoil from the shooter only. I sold mine because of the size and weight. Accurate and powerful.