1866 Multipump Rifle FAQUpdated a month ago

How do I operate the 1866?

1. Place the rifle on safety.
2. Pull back the bolt until it stops (this seals the pump assembly).
3. Pump 1 to 10 times.
4. Load a BB or pellet (never both at the same time).
5. Push the bolt forward.
6. Take off safety, aim, and fire.

Note: The trigger may feel stiffer than expected, but this is normal, as this is an entry level gun, so the trigger needs to be a very deliberate pull. Simply pull with more force. They will get smoother with time. They should not become a hair trigger, though. If the trigger pull is too light, it signals that the rifle is worn out and should be repaired or replaced.

How Do I Load and Shoot Pellets vs. BBs?

• Loading BBs:

  • Open the door on the left-hand side of the rifle.
  • Add ~50 BBs (do not overfill).
  • Tilt the rifle slightly upward when cocking to feed a BB to the magnetic tip of the bolt.

• Loading Pellets:

  • Ensure the BB magazine is empty or tilt the rifle downward to prevent a BB from loading.
  • Drop a pellet into the loading tray with the head facing forward. Push the bolt forward to seat it.
  • Use cross-locking tweezers if handling pellets is difficult.

What should I do if my gun isn’t working or is faulty?

All Barra guns come with a 1-year warranty. Do not attempt to repair the gun yourself without guidance, as this may void the warranty and can be dangerous.

• A stiff trigger is common, especially for new rifles. Try pulling the trigger more firmly.
• If the issue persists, check the next section for troubleshooting faulty guns.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

1. Broken or Damaged Receiver:

   • If the receiver is cracked or damaged during shipping or use, email [email protected] with photos of the damage.

2. Missing Sights:

   • Front or Rear Sight Missing Entirely: The barrel shroud must be replaced. Do not attempt to fix this yourself. Contact [email protected] with photos and your address, and we will assist with the next steps.
   • Ramp or Adjustable Portion Missing: Email [email protected] with photos and your address, and we will send the required part with installation instructions.

3. Faulty Seals:

   • If pumping does not increase power, the seals may be defective.
   • If air leaks out during cocking or pumping, this could indicate a valve or O-ring issue. 
     Please ensure that the bolt on the side of the receiver is pulled back into the open position before pumping the gun. If the bolt is in the forward/closed position during pumping, the gun will not hold air and will not shoot. You can refer to your owner's manual or the video for basic operation guidance: Barra 1866 Cowboy Gun // Basic Operation
   • If rifle is under warranty, email [email protected] with details, and we’ll be happy to replace the rifle.

4. Pump Assemblies:

   • Pump pivot pins may wear after ~5,000 shots at max power. Use gun oil on pivot points and foam wiper every 500 shots to extend the lifespan.
   • Out-of-warranty repairs: Pump and outer valve O-ring size is #113 and can be sourced from hardware stores.

5. Rust:

   • Store the rifle in a dry area and regularly oil it to prevent rust.
   • If your new rifle arrives with rust, email [email protected] with photos and your address for assistance.

6. Stuck Bolt Latches:

   • Apply gun oil and wiggle the latch. If it remains stuck, email us for troubleshooting.

7. Safety Not Working:

   • Ensure the receiver screws are tight. If the issue persists, contact [email protected] for further assistance or a possible replacement.

What happens if I over-pump the rifle?

• Accidentally over-pumping once or twice is fine but avoid exceeding 10 pumps regularly as it can weaken the seals.
• If over-pumped, dry fire in a safe direction a few times to release remaining air.

What Should I Do If My 1866 Isn’t Shooting Accurately?

• Use pellets, as they provide better accuracy than BBs.
• Clean the barrel but avoid oiling it unless storing the gun.
• Test various pellet brands, styles, and weights. Shoot groups of 10 to find the pellets that produce the smallest group size. Once identified, adjust your sights to center the groups on the bullseye.

Can I Attach a Scope to the 1866?

Yes, you can attach the 4×32 BDC rifle scope to the 1866 Multi-Pump Air Rifle, but you’ll need to purchase dovetail rings separately. The 1866 has an 11mm dovetail rail, so be sure your optic or scope rings are compatible with that type of rail. Large, heavy optics are not ideal for the 1866.

How Do I lubricate / maintain my 1866?

• Keep the exterior clean with a dry, clean cloth.
• Lightly oil the outer barrel shroud with something like Ballistol or Rem oil. Do not leave the exterior greasy! A very light film of oil is all it takes to protect.
• Clean the barrel with a patch soaked in Ballistol or Rem oil, follow with several dry patches. Push them through with a brass or aluminum rod or use a patch puller. If you are storing your gun long term, run a lightly oiled patch through the barrel. Right before you resume use, run a couple of dry patches through.
• It is best to clean the barrel of the gun when it is brand new. The barrel usually doesn't need to be cleaned unless you notice a change in accuracy or prefer to shoot through clean barrels. It often takes a few shots to establish consistent accuracy right after cleaning a barrel.
• Lubricate the pump pivot points and the pump foam wiper with a drop or two of non-detergent motor oil. Most commonly available in 30wt and is usually found in the lawnmower section of hardware stores. Air tool oil is another good choice but tends to be more expensive. Do not over oil, as this attracts more dirt. Wipe any excess oil over the surfaces of the pump linkage and pump tube to assist in rust protection. Again, a light film is all it takes to protect from rust.