The Basics:
An air weapon is any rifle or pistol that uses compressed air to power its projectile. These are split into 3 basic catagories, springers, Co2 and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP). We'll run over the basics of each type soon, but first lets go over their similarities. Most rifles are available in 2 calibres .177 (4.5mm) and .22 (5.5mm), and in general the first is more popular with target shooters because of its flatter trajectory, whilst the second is more popular among hunters due to its higher retained energy.
Advances in technology has led to some incredible power levels from air rifles reaching almost live fire potential. UK law denotes that an air rifle must not exceed 12 ft/lbs of energy otherwise it becomes a firearm, and an air pistol no more than 6 ft/lbs.
What is a Springer?
A Springer uses a large coil spring with a piston head on the end that fits tightly into a cylinder. A cocking action is used to compress the spring, either the barrel breaks and becomes the cocking lever or an under lever is used which sits under the barrel. When the trigger is pulled the spring is released and the piston head compresses the air into the barrel forcing the pellet out.
How is Co2 used as a power source?
A Co2 capsule is fitted into the rifle or pistol and compresses a cylinder with a valve at the end. The mechanism from the trigger pull hits the valve and works against the air pressure releasing a measured amount through a transfer port and into the barrel, pushing the pellet out. Co2 power sources have given rise to much more interesting rifles and pistols such as semi-automatic and magazine feed.
And finally PCP
PCP's use compressed air in a large cylinder and work in a very similar fashion to Co2. The cylinder is not disposed of when it is empty, instead it is charged from a dive bottle to about 200 Bar thats a staggering 2800 psi. These are by far the most consistent of all the rifles discussed meaning pellet on pellet accuracy is guaranteed out of the box. This is however normally reflected in the price. Again multi-shot is available with magazine feed on many models.
Visit us and look at our range of air rifles and air pistols. We will spend time with you and make sure that you leave with the right setup for you. Due to changes in the law, please be sure to bring some form of picture ID and proof of address when visiting us to make your purchase.
Don't forget to look at our Pre-owned area.
Beginners Sporting Rifle
Shooting tin cans or targets in the garden is how most of us start out. We will customize a package and talk through all the required points so that you can have a safe, fun and above all cost effective introduction to this fantastic sport.
Advanced Sporting Rifle
Shooting at high standard is a combination of personal skill and perfectly tuned equipment. We carry a stock of pre-charged pneumatic rifles for the ultimate in precision shooting.
Pistols
We also carry a selection of air pistols, fantastic fun for the younger shooter.
Just for fun
For when you just simply want to have a good time and enjoy using your equipment.
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