Air guns are categorized by their power source, including Spring-Piston and Gas Ram (Which use mechanical energy to compress air), Pneumatic (either pump-action or Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP), using stored air), and CO2 (Using consumable CO2 cartridges for power. These different types dictate the gun’s performance, power, and how it’s operated. Air guns also come as Air Rifles (long guns) and Air Pistols (handguns) and can use various projectiles, such as pellets, BBs, or even darts.
Those Power Sources in more detail
Spring-Piston
A spring is compressed when the gun is cocked, and this spring then powers the piston to propel the projectile. Guns of this type are often referred to as “Springers”.
Gas Ram
Similar to a spring-piston, but uses a sealed gas-filled cylinder instead of a mechanical spring to provide the power to the piston.
Pump Pneumatic (or Multi-Stroke)
Requires the user to pump the gun a certain number of times to build up air pressure in a reservoir.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP)
Stores a high-pressure reservoir of air (or other gas) that is released with each shot.
CO2
Uses small, replaceable cartridges filled with compressed carbon dioxide to power the gun.
Forms of Air Gun
Air Rifles
Longer, rifle-style air guns designed for accuracy and longer-range shooting. These may be fitted with telescopic sights and Bi-pods to improve the shooting experience
Air Pistols
Handgun-style air guns.
What is allowed on our Shooting Ranges
Airguns are designed to fire a number of different type of projectiles including pellets, usually lead or a lead alloy, or round projectiles often referred to as BB’s. These round projectiles are normally used in BB guns and Airlift Guns. Please note that round these projectiles may not be used on our shooting ranges.
In England and Wales, most air weapons of this type do not need a firearm certificate. But you must be over 18 to buy or hire one. Persons between 14 and 18 may operate an air weapon on private property including our ranges, and those under 14 may operate an air weapon under under adult supervision.
Any air rifle has muzzle energy greater than 12ft/lbs needs to be licensed and may not be used on our ranges.
Air pistols with a muzzle energy greater than 6ft/lbs are prohibited in England