Weihrauch HW30 vs HW35 vs HW50 vs HW57: Which classic springer should you buy?

Chris Cooper
Chris Cooper
Date icon07-Oct-2026

Weihrauch’s spring-powered break-barrels have a reputation for build quality that keeps them in demand on the used market long after they left the showroom. The HW30, HW35, HW50 and HW57 are the model numbers buyers search for most often, and the search results can be confusing because the names look similar and each has variants. This guide helps you work out which one belongs on your shortlist.


A quick note on how we have written it. We have avoided precise specifications and prices on purpose. Weihrauch has updated and re-released many of its models over the years, and a used gun may be an older or newer version than you expect. Always check the details on the individual listing and ask the seller if anything is unclear. This is also the least data-rich of our comparison guides, so treat it as a starting point and do your own checking.


What the Weihrauch name means to buyers

Weihrauch is a German maker with a long history in air rifles, and its spring guns are known for solid construction and a precise feel. Used examples tend to be bought by shooters who value that quality, whether they plan to use them for target work, small-scale pest control within the law, or as a well-made all-rounder.


A spring-piston rifle also keeps things simple: no compressor, no bottle and no pump, just cock, load and shoot. That simplicity is part of the appeal, and it is why well-kept springers change hands quickly when they are priced fairly and described honestly. Technique matters, though, because a spring rifle rewards a relaxed, consistent hold and punishes a tense one. Give yourself a few sessions to learn how a particular gun behaves before judging its accuracy.


If you are new to the brand, our Weihrauch air rifles buyer’s guide gives the wider picture. If you are weighing springers against other types, our best spring air rifles roundup is a useful companion.


Browse: Weihrauch air rifles · Weihrauch HW30 · Weihrauch HW35 · Weihrauch HW50 · Weihrauch HW57


Weihrauch HW30: The lighter, gentler option

The HW30 is generally regarded as the lighter and more manageable of the family. Searches for the HW30 and its HW30K and HW30S variants are common, which tells you buyers are actively hunting for them. It suits shooters who want something easy to handle, including those who find heavier springers tiring over a long session.


Because there are several variants, ask exactly which version is on offer and compare listings. Check the condition of the stock and the barrel, and ask whether the rifle has been serviced.


Browse: Weihrauch HW30 · Weihrauch HW35 · Weihrauch air rifles · Weihrauch HW50 · Air guns


Weihrauch HW35: The bigger, more substantial rifle

The HW35 is the larger sibling and the model that draws the most interest. It has a reputation as a substantial, well-made springer, and variants such as the HW35E and HW35K regularly appear in listings and searches. Buyers who want a classic Weihrauch with real presence often start here.


A bigger rifle is not automatically a better one for every shooter. Heavier guns can be steadier for some people and tiring for others, so handle one if you can. As with any used springer, check the lock-up, the trigger, and the condition of the barrel crown.


Browse: Weihrauch HW35 · Weihrauch HW30 · Weihrauch air rifles · Weihrauch HW80 · Air guns


Weihrauch HW50 and HW57: The less common names

The HW50 and HW57 turn up less often than the HW30 and HW35, and fewer buyers search for them, so listings can be sparse. That makes them interesting for shooters who like something a little different. It also means you need to be careful: ask the seller for clear photographs of the markings and check that the description matches the gun in front of you.


We would rather say plainly that we do not want to guess at details we cannot be sure of. If you are considering either model, look at several listings, ask questions, and compare with the more common models above.


Browse: Weihrauch HW50 · Weihrauch HW57 · Weihrauch air rifles · Weihrauch HW30 · Weihrauch HW35


How to choose between them

Start with how you will use the rifle. If comfort and ease of handling matter most, the HW30 is a natural place to begin. If you want a more substantial rifle and are comfortable with extra weight, look at the HW35. If you enjoy something less common and are prepared to do your homework, the HW50 and HW57 are worth a look.


Then consider your budget and the condition of individual guns. Well-kept Weihrauch springers tend to hold their appeal, but condition varies. Our second-hand air rifle value guide explains how to judge what a gun is worth.


Finally, think about the next step. Plenty of shooters begin with a springer and later move on to a premium underlever such as the Weihrauch HW80 or a PCP.


Browse: Weihrauch air rifles · Weihrauch HW80 · Weihrauch HW97 · Weihrauch HW100 · Air guns


Buying used: A practical checklist

Ask whether the rifle has been serviced and when. Check that the barrel locks up firmly and that the trigger breaks cleanly. Look at the stock for cracks and at the metalwork for rust. Ask for clear photographs of the markings and the action, and confirm the calibre.


Make sure you understand the law. In Great Britain, an air rifle at or below the legal power limit does not need a firearms certificate, but responsibilities still apply. Our UK air rifle laws explained guide covers the basics.


If you are selling, clear photographs, an honest description, and the exact variant will help your listing stand out to UK buyers.


Browse: Air guns · Weihrauch air rifles · Gun parts and accessories · Safes and cabinets · Torches


FAQ

What is the difference between the Weihrauch HW30 and HW35? The HW30 is generally the lighter, more manageable rifle, while the HW35 is larger and more substantial. Variants differ, so check each listing.


Are the HW50 and HW57 worth buying? They are less common, so listings are scarce. Compare several, ask for clear photographs, and confirm the exact model before buying.


What should I check when buying a used Weihrauch springer? Check service history, barrel lock-up, trigger, stock and metalwork, and confirm the calibre and variant with the seller.


Where can I buy a Weihrauch air rifle in the UK? Rightgun.uk lists new and second-hand Weihrauch air rifles from UK sellers in one place.


Find your Weihrauch

Ready to compare? Browse Weihrauch air rifles on Rightgun.uk, shortlist a few, and ask questions before you buy. If you have a Weihrauch to sell, list it and reach UK shooters searching for exactly that model.


Further reading: Weihrauch air rifles buyer’s guide, Best spring air rifles in the UK, Weihrauch HW80 review, and Second-hand air rifle value guide.

Tags:
Weihrauch HW30 vs HW35 vs HW50 vs HW57 Weihrauch HW30 vs HW35 Weihrauch HW30 vs HW50 Weihrauch HW30 vs HW57 Weihrauch HW35 vs HW50 Weihrauch HW35 vs HW57 Weihrauch HW50 vs HW57 Weihrauch HW30 UK Weihrauch HW35 UK Weihrauch HW50 UK Weihrauch HW57 UK Weihrauch HW30S review Weihrauch HW35 review UK Weihrauch HW50S review Weihrauch HW57 review UK best Weihrauch springer UK best Weihrauch air rifle for beginners