Shooters often judge a pellet on the first tin through a brand-new barrel — and that is rarely fair. Fresh barrels carry machining residue and a bare bore that needs a little “seasoning” before they settle.
Start by pushing a couple of lightly-oiled patches through to clear manufacturing debris, then dry-patch until clean. Avoid harsh brushing on most airgun barrels; they do not need it and over-cleaning can hurt more than help.
Then simply shoot. Many barrels lay down a thin, even coat of lead over the first hundred or two pellets, and groups tighten as they do. Use a consistent pellet during this period so you are seasoning, not chasing variables.
Once settled, clean sparingly — only when groups open up — and your barrel will reward you with repeatable performance.
