UMAREX Airguns, founded in 1972, is the world’s largest manufacturer of over-the-counter firearm replicas. They’re also the largest importer of air guns in Europe. Umarex has approximately 1,000 employees worldwide. Interestingly, the acquisition of licenses to build replicas of well-known weapons was the key to their success. Because, they could sell them without restrictions. Umarex currently holds licenses for the brands Beretta, Browning, Colt, GLOCK, Heckler & Koch, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, IWI and Walther.

The first steps led to the first big success: Umarex developed a line of guns with powerful appeal to 10 million recreational shooters. You could freely purchase these blank firing guns and airguns over the counter. That was a key advantage, because Germany’s new weapons act, passed in 1972, required a permit for the purchase of lethal weapons.

Meeting this demand was no easy task. In fact, it seemed almost impossible. Because Umarex, at that time still called Mayer & Riem, manufactured only one gun. They then expanded their range and success came swiftly. Umarex became the largest importer of airguns from China. In 1974/75 they made a big impact with internationally renowned brands like Daisy, Marksman, Milbro and Norica. They secured exclusive rights for Marksman and became the general importer for Daisy rifles.

The industry was amazed. Umarex was ahead of its time. They began their expansion in the 1970s by exporting to Egypt, France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland. In 1985, the company strengthened its international presence with the founding of Umarex Austria. Based in Walchsee, Umarex Austria remains a highly regarded member of the Umarex Group.

Umarex Airguns currently produce a wide array of products. These include spring, CO2 and Compressed Air pistols, as well as rifles. Also, they produce accessories and air archery products for recreational shooters and hunters.