5.0 mm (.20) Airgun Ammunition

5.0 mm (.20) Airgun Ammunition: The Perfect Balance Between .177 and .22

5.0 mm (.20) is one of the most distinctive airgun calibres available today. Positioned perfectly between 4.5 mm (.177) and 5.5 mm (.22), it combines the flatter trajectory of the smaller calibre with the increased projectile weight and retained energy of the larger one. For many experienced shooters, .20 offers the ideal balance of speed, accuracy and ballistic performance.

Although less common than .177 or .22, the .20 calibre has built a loyal following among airgun enthusiasts. Its excellent shooting characteristics make it a favourite for shooters looking for something different from the standard calibres.

Why choose 5.0 mm (.20)?

The .20 calibre was developed to bridge the gap between the two most popular airgun calibres. It delivers more impact than a .177 while maintaining a flatter trajectory than many .22 pellets.

• More projectile mass than 4.5 mm (.177).
• Flatter trajectory than many 5.5 mm (.22) pellets.
• Excellent balance between speed, energy and accuracy.
• Ideal for precision target shooting.
• Available in various projectile weights.

A calibre with its own identity

While never achieving the popularity of .177 or .22, the .20 calibre has earned an excellent reputation among knowledgeable shooters. Several respected manufacturers have produced air rifles specifically chambered for this calibre, many of which are renowned for their outstanding accuracy.

Because ammunition choices are more limited than for the common calibres, many .20 owners deliberately choose premium pellets manufactured to tight tolerances.

Which air rifles use 5.0 mm (.20)?

Over the years, several well-known manufacturers have offered air rifles chambered in .20 calibre.

• Sheridan Blue Streak
• Sheridan Silver Streak
• Benjamin Sheridan C9 Series
• Benjamin 392 (.20 versions)
• Beeman R1 (.20)
• Beeman R9 (.20)
• Beeman HW95 (.20)
• Selected Weihrauch models, depending on production year and market.

Some of these rifles are no longer in production and have become highly sought after by collectors and experienced airgun shooters.

Projectile weight matters

As with every calibre, projectile weight has a significant influence on performance. Weight is measured in grains (gr) and affects muzzle velocity, retained energy and overall accuracy.

• Lighter pellets generally produce higher velocities.
• Heavier pellets retain energy more effectively over longer distances.
• Every air rifle has its own preferred projectile weight.

Testing different pellet weights is often the best way to determine which ammunition performs best in your particular air rifle.

Available projectile shapes

Most 5.0 mm ammunition is available as high-quality pellets in several designs.

• Domed (Round Nose) – the most popular choice for overall accuracy.
• Wadcutter – ideal for clean holes in paper targets.
• Pointed – streamlined pellets with a pointed profile.

Leading 5.0 mm (.20) ammunition brands

SEM Jacht & Schietsport offers carefully selected 5.0 mm airgun ammunition from respected manufacturers.

• JSB 
• H&N
• Beeman
• Crosman
• Benjamin

These manufacturers are recognised for their consistent quality and precise manufacturing standards, making them an excellent choice for .20 calibre air rifles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 5.0 mm the same as .20 calibre?

Yes. 5.0 mm and .20 calibre are simply two different ways of describing the same calibre.

Can I use .20 ammunition in a .177 or .22 air rifle?

No. Always use the calibre specified by the manufacturer of your air rifle.

Why isn't .20 calibre more popular?

Although it offers excellent ballistic performance, most manufacturers have focused on the more widely used .177 and .22 calibres.

Which manufacturers still produce .20 ammunition?

Depending on current availability, SEM Jacht & Schietsport supplies quality .20 calibre pellets from manufacturers such as JSB Match and H&N Sport.

Is 5.0 mm suitable for PCP air rifles?

Yes. Spring-powered, gas ram and PCP air rifles have all been produced in .20 calibre.

Why choose SEM Jacht & Schietsport?

SEM Jacht & Schietsport also supports less common calibres such as 5.0 mm (.20). We carefully select quality ammunition from trusted manufacturers and are happy to help you choose the right pellet for your air rifle, ensuring the best possible accuracy and performance.