When I was a boy most air rifles looked like rifles. They were generally long and thin with a metal bit at the top and wooden bit at the bottom. Yes, I agree .. for many that was regarded as bland and boring.
Ive just had a wee browse on line and (wow) IMO there are some ugly offerings out there now.
I get the function over form concept, I know that variety is the spice of life and I also know that beauty is I the eye of the beholder .... but maybe some designers should have avoided the liquid lunch that day.