As the first quarter show season wraps up, the SGC delivers a high-energy roundup of the standout launches from this year’s IWA event. Renowned for its strong attendance and strictly trade-only access, this flagship B2B showcase once again proved the perfect arena to get hands-on with cutting-edge products and to spot the trends set to define 2026/27.
MAIN: The ever-reliable airgun sector didn’t disappoint, serving up a host of highlights. Leading the charge, FX Airguns unveiled three new models alongside fresh calibre options tailored to the sub-12 ft/lb market. Taking centre stage were the striking Panthera MKII and Dynamic MKII. Both models arrive equipped with an all-new forend, revised optics rail, and a quick-set trigger system, delivering enhanced stability and rigidity exactly where it counts.
At the heart of these upgrades is a clear ambition: refine two already exceptional platforms and give shooters a decisive competitive edge. The Panthera MKII, with its adaptable forend capable of housing both hidden and external weights, plus a fully adjustable stock and trigger, is primed to become the go-to competition rifle of 2026. Its sibling, the Dynamic MKII, mirrors many of these advancements but takes a more versatile approach. Designed to bridge the gap between target shooting and hunting, it introduces a revised stock system incorporating a large air bottle. The result? Up to 360 shots per fill in 12 ft/lb trim and the potential to exceed 200 ft/lb in FAC configuration, making it the most powerful offering in the FX lineup.
For those focused on precision disciplines, FX has also turned its attention to the benchrest market with a purpose-built addition. The new Benchmark model blends the proven Dynamic breech block and over-barrel plenum with a 300cc carbon fibre bottle, 700mm barrel, match-grade trigger, and a traditional benchrest stock. The outcome is a beautifully balanced rifle engineered for smooth, linear movement and exceptional shot-to-shot consistency.
Complementing these rifle launches, FX also announced the introduction of .20 and .25 calibre options within the sub-12 ft/lb category. Initially rolling out across the DRS and Impact ranges, these new calibres will be available via user-installable barrel kits and magazines. Factory options are also expanding, with the DRS Compact and Impact M4 now offered in .20 calibre, while the M4 additionally gains a .25 calibre variant in 12 ft/lb trim.
Dynamic MKII RRPS: £1678.99 – £1756.99
Panthera MKII RRPS: £1600.99 – £1873.99
Benchmark RRPS: £2117.99
Dynamic Barrel Kits .20 / .25 – RRP: £225.99
Impact Barrel Kits .20 / .25 – RRP: £327.99
Umarex
Never one to stand still, Umarex is set to make serious waves in 2026 with the launch of its new air compressor range. Designed to cater to every level of shooter, the lineup spans from the entry-level Eco model at £319.99 RRP to the high-capacity PAC 1400 at £799.99. Crucially, it’s not just about price point, the real appeal lies in versatility and portability. Whether it’s the PAC 1100, capable of running from a car battery, or the PAC 1400 and PAC 400, compatible with common drill batteries, the range reflects a deep understanding of how and where shooters operate.
PAC 900 – RRP: £373.99
PAC 1100 – RRP: £586.99
PAC ECO – RRP: £320.99
PAC 400 – RRP: £426.99
PAC 1400 – RRP: £800.99
Alongside compressors, Umarex also unveiled a strong selection of new pistols targeting both the precision and recreational markets. For target shooters, the UX-branded SPA series introduces affordable sub-6 ft/lb pistols powered by either CO₂ or PCP. Offering 9-round .177 or 7-round .22 magazines, these models deliver flexibility and value, with RRPs set at £154.99 for the SPA Master and £133.99 for the SPA Professional.
Meanwhile, fans of replica-style plinking pistols have plenty to get excited about. Headlining the lineup is the Glock 19X MOS in coyote brown, joined by the Ruger SR1911 Competition and the new UX Statix model, all chambered in .177 BB. CO₂-powered and equipped with 17- to 19-round magazines, these pistols combine fast-paced fun with impressive realism, featuring working slides, optics-ready platforms, and removable magazines.
Umarex Ux Stratix – RRP: £222.99
Umarex Ruger 1911 Competition – RRP: £210.99
Umarex SPA Professional – RRP: £133.99
All in all, IWA 2026 has once again delivered a compelling glimpse into the future of the industry—one defined by innovation, versatility, and performance across every category.
