Crosman 2260 Rabbit Stopper .22 — Review, Parts & Value

Crosman 2260 Air Rifle Review — The Classic CO2 Carbine

The Crosman 2260 is a .22 calibre CO2-powered bolt-action air rifle that has earned a loyal following among UK shooters for its simplicity, accuracy, and lightweight design. Unlike the popular 2240 pistol or the 2250 Ratcatcher carbine, the 2260 features a longer barrel and a full-length hardwood stock, giving it the feel of a traditional sporting rifle. In factory form, the 2260 delivers velocities of approximately 550 to 590 feet per second with lead pellets, producing around 9 to 10 foot pounds of energy — more than enough for rats, rabbits, and other small quarry at close to medium ranges up to 25 or 30 yards . The bolt-action is smooth, the trigger is crisp for a budget CO2 rifle, and the single-shot design encourages careful shot placement .

Crosman 2260 Rabbit Stopper — The Discontinued Icon

The Crosman Rabbit Stopper is the UK-specific version of the 2260, named for its intended purpose — humane pest control on rabbits and rats. This model is now discontinued and has become highly sought after by collectors and shooters who appreciate its simplicity and effectiveness . A used Crosman Rabbit Stopper in good condition can command prices around £160 or more, depending on condition and any upgrades fitted . The Rabbit Stopper is mechanically identical to the standard 2260 but was marketed specifically for the UK pest control market. If you own one, you own a piece of Crosman history — and a genuinely effective close-range hunting tool.

Crosman 2260 Parts and Seal Kits — Keeping Your Rifle Running

Like all CO2 air rifles, the 2260 and Rabbit Stopper rely on rubber seals that can dry out and crack over time, especially if the rifle has been stored for long periods without use . The most common issue is a failed CO2 bottle seal or exhaust valve seal, which causes gas to leak out as soon as you insert a cartridge. Fortunately, complete seal kits are available for the 2260 platform, including all necessary O-rings, the transfer port seal, the CO2 bottle seal, and even the hard-to-find exhaust valve seal . A full seal kit costs around £16 and includes lubricant to help the new seals bed in properly . At Fieldcraft Airguns, we stock genuine and aftermarket seal kits for the 2260 and Rabbit Stopper.

Crosman 2260 Upgrades — Making a Good Rifle Better

Owners on UK shooting forums describe the Crosman 22xx platform as the VW Beetle of airguns — endlessly customisable and almost impossible to break . Popular upgrades for the 2260 include a steel breech kit, which replaces the plastic factory breech with a metal unit that includes 11mm dovetail rails for proper scope mounting . A longer bolt probe improves gas flow and can increase power by directing CO2 more efficiently into the barrel . Trigger tuning kits are also widely available, replacing the heavy factory spring with lighter options or even magnetic systems for a much improved trigger pull . For those wanting more power, stainless steel high-flow valves and larger transfer ports can be fitted, but care must be taken not to exceed UK legal limits .

Crosman 2260 Problems — Honest Owner Feedback

The Crosman 2260 has a few known limitations worth discussing before you buy. The most common complaint is the amount of plastic used in construction — the breech, trigger, and trigger guard are all plastic, which feels cheap compared to steel alternatives . The factory open sights are basic and many owners report that the rear peep sight sits too close to the eye for comfortable use . CO2 performance drops significantly in cold weather, so the 2260 is best suited to spring, summer, and autumn shooting . Some owners also report that the safety mechanism can make the trigger pull heavier when engaged, leading some shooters to remove it — though this is not recommended . Overall, the 2260 is a reliable, effective pest control rifle when used within its limits, but it benefits greatly from a few key upgrades.

Crosman 2260 For Sale UK — What You Need to Know

The Crosman 2260 is no longer in widespread production, and new examples are rarely seen on the UK market. However, used 2260 and Rabbit Stopper models appear regularly on second-hand listings, with prices typically ranging from £70 for a well-used example to £160 or more for a tidy Rabbit Stopper . When buying used, check the condition of the seals (ask the seller if the rifle holds gas), inspect the barrel for rust or pitting, and ensure the bolt operates smoothly. At Fieldcraft Airguns, we occasionally have used 2260 rifles in stock, each serviced and tested before sale. We also stock all the spare parts, seal kits, and upgrades you need to keep a 2260 running for years to come. Every rifle sold by Fieldcraft comes with our exclusive 12 month warranty and delivery straight to your door.