I ended up buying a Crosman HB22;
http://www.crosman.com/airguns/benjamin/HB22 from
www.specialtyshootingsportsoutdoors.com
Their price was very competitive. I called my order in and was provided with very friendly, professional service. They answered my questions and also tested and measured my gun.
"Michael tested your gun, the HB22 is doing 8 pumps with a Beeman Laser 415fps, 10 pumps (same pellet) 436fps, 12 pumps 455fps (same pellet). I think they recommend the 8 pumps for normal use."
-I chose the HB22 because it had a great amount of velocity for the price, especially in the heavier calibre.
-It is also a totally dependable product, according to every review I've read and has been on the market for so long that parts if required, will be available forever.
-It is one of the few pistols available in .22 calibre, which is important to me as I will be buying a 900fps+ rifle, once I get my PAL, which I've decided I also want in .22 calibre for rabbits etc. I don't want two different sized ammo to have to deal with.
-I've heard that it's reliably accurate and should serve my purposes in the short term with learning how to shoot and killing the rats who've taken up residence in our compost.
-It is not an easy gun to get ready for firing, and being a father of a six year old, that is important to me. It has a variable power rate and that will make it fun and safe to use with my kid, so I can teach her to shoot.
When I end up buying my Benjamin Sheridan Discovery, I will buy it from Specialty Shooting Sports!
Thanks to those of you who helped me out
