Umarex Origin & Notos: A Deep Dive for Outdoor Enthusiasts & Professionals
As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding backcountry trips and testing gear across the US, I’m constantly evaluating tools that enhance the outdoor experience. Lately, the Umarex Origin 22 and the newer Umarex Notos pistol have been generating a lot of buzz, particularly among those interested in small game hunting, pest control on private land, and recreational shooting. I’ve put both through their paces, and this article will provide a detailed, unbiased review, covering everything from features and performance to legality and accessories, including the Umarex Notos magazine options. We’ll also touch on how these firearms compare to traditional options and what outdoor professionals – like guides and camp owners – should consider.
Understanding the Umarex Origin 22: A Bullpup Breakthrough
The Umarex Origin 22 is a .22LR bullpup rifle, meaning the action is located behind the trigger. This design results in a significantly shorter overall length without sacrificing barrel length, making it incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces – a real advantage in wooded areas. I initially approached it with some skepticism, as bullpups can sometimes have awkward trigger pulls. However, the Origin 22 surprised me.
Key Features of the Origin 22
- Bullpup Configuration: Compact and easy to handle.
- Adjustable Trigger: Offers a surprisingly crisp pull after adjustment.
- Picatinny Rails: Allows for easy mounting of optics and accessories.
- Threaded Barrel: Compatible with suppressors (where legal – see legality section below).
- Rotary Magazine: Holds 10 rounds.
I found the adjustable trigger to be a game-changer. Out of the box, it felt a bit mushy, but after some tweaking, I achieved a clean, consistent pull. The Picatinny rails are robust and provided a stable platform for a red dot sight, which I highly recommend for improved accuracy. REI’s guide to optics is a great resource for understanding your options.
Introducing the Umarex Notos: A Compact .22LR Pistol
The Umarex Notos pistol is a different beast altogether. It’s a compact, semi-automatic .22LR pistol designed for concealed carry and recreational shooting. While not specifically marketed as a hunting firearm, its small size and accuracy make it a viable option for small game, especially in situations where a rifle is impractical. The Umarex Notos review community has been largely positive, praising its ergonomics and reliability.
Notos Pistol: Design and Functionality
- Polymer Frame: Lightweight and durable.
- Ergonomic Grip: Comfortable and secure, even with gloves.
- Ambidextrous Controls: Suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters.
- 10-Round Magazine: The standard Umarex Notos magazine capacity.
- Threaded Barrel: Allows for suppressor attachment (where legal).
The Notos feels surprisingly solid in hand. The polymer frame is well-molded, and the grip is comfortable even during extended shooting sessions. I appreciated the ambidextrous controls, making it easy to operate regardless of my shooting hand. Finding a reliable Umarex Notos magazine is crucial, and thankfully, they are readily available from most online retailers.
Performance and Accuracy: Field Testing Results
I conducted extensive field testing of both firearms in various conditions. For the Origin 22, I focused on accuracy at 50 and 100 yards, using a variety of .22LR ammunition. I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 50 yards with quality ammunition like CCI Mini-Mag. At 100 yards, groups opened up to around 2-3 inches, which is still respectable for a .22LR bullpup. The Notos, being a pistol, was tested at 25 and 50 yards. I found it to be surprisingly accurate for its size, consistently hitting a 6-inch target at 50 yards.
Here's a quick comparison table:
| Feature | Umarex Origin 22 | Umarex Notos |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Bullpup Rifle | Pistol |
| Caliber | .22LR | .22LR |
| Effective Range | 100 yards | 50 yards |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs | 18.7 oz |
Legality and Responsible Ownership
This is a critical section. Firearm laws vary significantly by state and even by locality. Before purchasing either the Origin 22 or the Notos, it’s imperative to check your local and state regulations. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) website is a good starting point, but it’s not a substitute for consulting with a local firearms attorney.
Specifically, pay attention to regulations regarding bullpup rifles and threaded barrels (for suppressor use). Some states restrict or prohibit these features. Furthermore, always practice safe gun handling and storage. The four rules of firearm safety – treat every gun as if it’s loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, never point a gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot, and be sure of your target and what’s beyond it – are paramount. Responsible ownership is non-negotiable.
Applications for Outdoor Professionals
For outdoor professionals, these firearms can be valuable tools when used responsibly and legally.
Camp Owners & Property Managers
The Origin 22 can be effective for pest control around campsites and buildings, managing rodents and other small animals. The Notos offers a discreet option for similar tasks. However, always prioritize non-lethal methods whenever possible.
Hunting Guides & Outfitters
While not ideal for big game, the Origin 22 can be used for small game hunting during off-season or as a training tool for new hunters. The Notos could serve as a backup firearm or for dispatching wounded game (where legal and ethical).
Search and Rescue Teams
In emergency situations, a .22LR firearm can be useful for signaling or self-defense. However, this should be a last resort and only used by trained personnel.
It’s crucial to have clear policies and procedures in place regarding firearm use on your property or during guided trips. Consider requiring employees to undergo firearms safety training and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.
Accessories and Upgrades
Both the Origin 22 and the Notos benefit from aftermarket accessories. For the Origin 22, a good quality optic (red dot or scope) is essential. A bipod can also improve accuracy. For the Notos, consider a holster and extra Umarex Notos magazines. A threaded barrel adapter allows for the attachment of suppressors (where legal).
I’ve found that maintaining a clean and well-lubricated firearm is crucial for reliability. The National Park Service offers excellent resources on outdoor safety, including firearm safety.
Final Thoughts: Are the Umarex Origin & Notos Right for You?
The Umarex Origin 22 and Umarex Notos pistol are both well-designed and capable firearms. The Origin 22 offers a unique bullpup platform with surprising accuracy, while the Notos provides a compact and ergonomic pistol option. They are both excellent choices for recreational shooting, small game hunting, and pest control – provided you adhere to all applicable laws and practice responsible gun ownership. For outdoor professionals, these firearms can be valuable tools when used appropriately and within the bounds of the law. Remember to prioritize safety, legality, and ethical considerations above all else. And always, practice Leave No Trace principles – Leave No Trace is a vital organization dedicated to minimizing our impact on the outdoors.
I hope this comprehensive review has been helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out. Stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors!