Six benefits of an air rifle versus a traditional firearm.
Is there really a place for airguns compared to powerful firearms?
Are air guns only suitable for shooting cans or piercing paper targets?
We think there is a place for modern air rifles. Airgun pellets are less expensive to purchase than firearm bullets.
A good air rifle is more accurate than a comparable firearm. Many modern ones are powerful and accurate, well suited to hunting small game such as squirrels, rabbits and birds.
Here are some benefits of air rifles over firearms.
1. The ammunition will not deteriorate over time, as air rifle ammunition is simply a pellet; there are no powder primers or cases to worry about.
2. It’s easier to own a BB gun, since most US states don’t classify BB guns as firearms.
3. A good quality airgun is actually more accurate than a firearm up to a distance of around 50 yards.
4. They can be purchased at a very affordable price, and more importantly, the granules are exceptionally cheap. The more you practice, the better your aim with an air rifle. You don’t have to hold back, just keep practicing.
5. Most pellets slow down after about 50 yards, which makes it safer to shoot.
6. Airguns are comparatively quiet. Making them less likely to disturb the neighbors and when you are hunting they are less likely to scare away other animals.
Air Gun Designs and Systems
1. Air Pump System – Some rifles require more than five pumps to achieve sufficient reservoir pressure.
2. Air Tank System: A high pressure, pre-filled air cartridge pushes the pallet out of the barrel. The benefit of this system is that it allows semi-automatic firing.
3. Spring and piston: the barrel is broken or cocked compressing a spring when the trigger is activated, the release spring forces a piston for which it compresses air which forces the vane out of the barrel.
Different caliber.
caliber .177 – it is a very fast caliber with a top speed of over 1250 feet per second (FPS). This caliber would easily be the most popular and is suitable for small game hunting, competition shooting, plinking and target practice.
calibers .20 – This medium weight caliber has a lower velocity than the .177 caliber. It may be seen as a compromise between the other 2 calibers, but the reality is that it is not very popular in the US. The range of guns and shot is limited in this caliber and can be more expensive.
22 gauge The largest caliber in common use. These heavy pellets have a lower velocity than the smaller .177 caliber. Their speed is from 650 FPS to 1250 FPS, they have a stronger impact due to the mass of the pellet.
What is the right air rifle for hunting?
The answer, of course, depends on the game you are hunting.
The .177 caliber is fine for birds, squirrels, and rabbits. For hunting larger game, the heavier pellets provided by the 22 caliber are recommended. Make sure the velocity is above 650 FPS.