Benjamin Bulldog 357 Review: Precision Meets Power
If you’re looking for serious firepower in your air rifle, the Benjamin Bulldog 357 might be exactly what you need. Designed for hunters, this air rifle goes beyond pest control and enters the realm of taking down larger game with ease. With impressive accuracy, a compact design, and advanced features, it’s a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 is no ordinary air rifle. Its .357 caliber packs a punch, delivering precision and power in every shot. In this guide, we’ll dig into the details, explore the pros and cons, and help you decide if the Bulldog 357 is the right hunting companion for you.
Product Details – Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle
- Caliber: 0.357
- Rounds: 5
- Length: 40 inches
- Weight: 9.2 pounds
- Power Type: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)
- Barrel: Rifled steel
- Frame: Plastic
- Velocity: Up to 910 FPS
- Rail: 26-inch Picatinny rail
- Action: Reversible sidelever bolt
- Safety: Lever
- Noise Suppression: Baffle-less sound trap
âś… Best For: Serious hunters who need high-powered accuracy and stealth in the field.
Benjamin Bulldog 357 – Pros & Cons
Pros of the Benjamin Bulldog 357
- âś… Powerful PCP system: Capable of firing rounds at firearm-level speeds.
- âś… Big-bore suppression: The baffle-less sound trap ensures quieter shots, ideal for stealth hunting.
- âś… High precision: Rifled barrel offers accurate, consistent shooting for larger game.
- âś… Left or right-handed use: Reversible sidelever bolt action for flexibility.
- ✅ Compact and durable: Short, bullpup configuration that’s easy to carry and rugged.
Cons of the Benjamin Bulldog 357
- âť— Hefty weight: At 9.2 pounds, it’s on the heavier side for air rifles.
- âť— Limited shots per air fill: Requires regular refilling, especially for extended hunts.
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle has received mostly positive reviews for its power and accuracy. Users appreciate its ability to take down large game and its rugged, compact design.
In-Depth Review of the Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle
When stepping into the world of air rifles, it’s hard to find one that delivers both the power and precision of the Benjamin Bulldog 357. This PCP-powered rifle is not just another airgun—it’s a full-fledged hunting tool that allows you to hunt bigger game, from whitetail deer to hogs, with ease. Let’s break down the key features and see what makes this air rifle stand out from the rest.
Design and Build Quality
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 sports a sleek, all-black design with a synthetic frame, making it both durable and weather-resistant. Its bullpup configuration, which measures only 36 inches in total length, keeps the gun compact for easy maneuverability in dense brush or tight hunting spots. However, weighing in at 9.2 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, which is something to consider if you’ll be carrying it for long periods.
Firepower and Accuracy
One of the standout features of the Benjamin Bulldog 357 is its firepower. The .357 caliber barrel delivers speeds up to 910 FPS, making it more than capable of bringing down larger animals. It’s been praised for its remarkable accuracy, thanks to the rifled steel barrel. Whether you’re shooting from long range or close quarters, this air rifle holds tight groupings and ensures that every shot counts.
PCP-Powered for Serious Hunters
The PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) system provides high-powered shots, but it also means you’ll need to refill the air cylinder after about 10-11 shots. While this may limit extended hunting trips, the power output you get from each shot more than makes up for it. Refilling options range from manual hand pumps (which can be a bit labor-intensive) to more efficient scuba tanks or air compressors.
Stealth Mode: Sound Suppression
One feature hunters will love is the baffle-less sound trap system, designed to reduce the noise signature of each shot. This makes the Bulldog 357 much quieter than other air rifles in its class, allowing you to stay stealthy while hunting. If noise is a concern for you, this air rifle offers a great balance between power and discretion.
Who Is the Benjamin Bulldog 357 Rifle Perfect For?
If you’re a hunter looking for power, accuracy, and stealth, the Benjamin Bulldog 357 delivers:
- âś… Big game hunters who want the ability to take down large animals.
- ✅ Hunters looking for a compact rifle that’s easy to carry and maneuver.
- âś… Left-handed or ambidextrous shooters, thanks to the reversible sidelever bolt.
- âś… Airgun enthusiasts who need more power than a traditional air rifle can offer.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
While the Benjamin Bulldog 357 offers impressive performance, it may not suit everyone:
- âś… Hunters who need a lighter rifle for long treks or extended hunts.
Customer Experiences – Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle
We’ve thoroughly researched what real users are saying about the Benjamin Bulldog 357. Here’s what they loved and a few areas they think could improve:
- ✅ Power: Users consistently rave about the Bulldog 357’s power. One customer even compared its performance to that of a 9mm firearm, saying it completely mushrooms bullets on impact.
- ✅ Accuracy: The rifle’s precision impressed many, with some managing tight groupings at distances of over 100 feet.
- ✅ Stealth: The sound suppression feature received high praise from hunters, who noted that animals don’t spook when the gun fires.
- 🚫 Weight: A few users mentioned the gun’s weight as a drawback, noting that it feels heavy after extended use.
- 🚫 Refill Frequency: Some users wished for more shots per air fill, especially for longer hunting trips where refilling isn’t as convenient.
Value Analysis – Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle
Is the Benjamin Bulldog 357 worth its premium price tag? For hunters looking for serious firepower and precision in their air rifle, the answer is yes. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this air rifle a valuable investment.
Key Strengths: Power and Versatility
- Power: With up to 910 FPS, the Bulldog 357 competes with smaller firearms in terms of firepower. This makes it an excellent choice for big-game hunting, offering the capability to take down large animals with ease.
- Versatility: The reversible sidelever bolt and 26-inch Picatinny rail allow for customizable configurations, giving users the flexibility to adapt the rifle to their preferences.
Durability and Build
The synthetic frame and alloy steel barrel provide a tough, durable construction that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. This air rifle isn’t just for show—it’s built to last, even under rough use.
Considerations: Weight and Air Capacity
While the Bulldog 357 offers high-powered performance, its 9.2-pound weight may be a concern for those who prefer lighter firearms. Additionally, the air capacity limits each air fill to about 10-11 shots, which might not be ideal for long hunting sessions without access to a refill source.
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle is a solid investment for hunters seeking power, accuracy, and a versatile design. Its durability and high FPS make it a reliable choice for serious hunting expeditions.
Final Remarks: Is the Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle Worth It?
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 is a powerhouse, offering incredible firepower, accuracy, and reliability for hunters tackling big game. Its heavy weight and limited shots per air fill may pose challenges for some users.
FAQs – Benjamin Bulldog 357 Hunting Rifle
How powerful is the Benjamin Bulldog 357?
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 is incredibly powerful, with the ability to reach velocities of up to 910 FPS. It’s capable of taking down larger game, making it a strong contender for hunters seeking an air rifle with firearm-like capabilities.
How many shots can you get per air fill on the Benjamin Bulldog 357?
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 allows for approximately 10-11 high-powered shots per air fill. After that, you’ll need to refill the air cylinder to maintain accuracy and velocity.
Does the Benjamin Bulldog 357 include sound suppression?
Yes, the Benjamin Bulldog 357 features a baffle-less sound trap for noise suppression. This reduces the sound of each shot, making it quieter than many other air rifles.
Is the Benjamin Bulldog 357 suitable for left-handed shooters?
Absolutely! The Benjamin Bulldog 357 has a reversible sidelever bolt, making it ideal for both left-handed and right-handed shooters.
What accessories can you add to the Benjamin Bulldog 357?
With a 26-inch Picatinny rail, the Benjamin Bulldog 357 can accommodate a variety of accessories, including scopes, bipods, and lights, giving you the flexibility to customize the rifle to your needs.
Benjamin Bulldog 357 Review – Conclusion
The Benjamin Bulldog 357 PCP Hunting Rifle is built for serious hunters looking to take on big game with an air rifle. Its powerful .357 caliber and sound suppression system make it an ideal choice for those who need stealth and accuracy in one package. While the weight and air refill needs might deter some, its overall performance and durability make it an excellent investment for those seeking high-powered precision in the field.