There are a few reasons why people use air rifles in the UK to kill small vermin, even though they may require a licence if they exceed 12 ft-lbs of power.
- Firstly, air rifles can be quieter than firearms, which can be vital if you’re trying to avoid disturbing the peace in a residential area. This makes them more suitable for pest control in urban or suburban environments.
- Secondly, air rifles can be less expensive than firearms, as they don’t require the same amount of upkeep or maintenance. Airfiles make a more cost-effective option for pest control.
- Thirdly, air rifles are usually considered safer than firearms, as they have a lower velocity and less potential to cause severe injury or damage. This makes them a better choice in areas with a higher risk of collateral damage or injury to people or property.
- Finally, there may be legal restrictions on the use of firearms in certain areas, such as nature reserves or protected areas, where the use of air rifles may be permitted.
Overall, while air rifles may require a licence in some circumstances, they can still be a practical and effective option for pest control in certain situations. Need to know more? we have a guide on the UK Gun Law.
The cost comparison between air rifles and firearms for pest control can vary depending on many factors, including the specific models and brands of weapons used and the types of ammunition used.
Here are some general cost comparisons:
Air rifles:
- The initial cost of an air rifle can range from around £50 for a basic model to £1,000 or more for a high-end model.
- Air rifle pellets are generally less expensive than bullets, ranging from around £5 to £20 for a tin of 500 pellets, depending on the brand and quality.
- Air rifles require little maintenance and have lower operating costs than firearms, as they do not require regular cleaning or lubrication and do not use expensive ammunition.
Firearms:
- The initial cost of a firearm can range from around £300 for a basic model to several thousand pounds for a high-end model.
- The cost of ammunition for firearms can be significantly more expensive than pellets, with prices ranging from around £10 to £50 or more for a box of 20-50 bullets, depending on the calibre and brand.
- Firearms require more maintenance and have higher operating costs than air rifles, as they require regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection to ensure proper function and safety.
Overall, while air rifles may have a higher initial cost than some basic firearms, they can be a more cost-effective option for pest control in the long term due to their lower operating costs and less expensive ammunition. However, the specific cost comparison will depend on the particular models and types of weapons used and the frequency and duration of use. We have created a handy guide on the average cost of a used air rifle in the UK after comparing 10 thousand listings
Calibres
The best calibre for an airgun will depend on the intended use and personal preference. Generally, the most common calibres for airguns are .177 (4.5mm), .22 (5.5mm), and .25 (6.35mm). Here are some general considerations for each calibre:
.177 (4.5mm):
- This is the most popular and widely used airgun calibre.
- It has a high velocity and is suitable for shooting tiny pests and targets at shorter distances.
- It is also the most accurate and has the flattest trajectory, making it a good choice for target shooting.
.22 (5.5mm):
- This calibre is slightly larger and heavier than .177 and has a slower velocity but delivers more kinetic energy on impact.
- It is better suited for shooting medium-sized pests at moderate ranges, typically up to 50 yards.
- It has a more pronounced trajectory than .177 and is less accurate at longer distances.
.25 (6.35mm):
- .25 is one of the heaviest airgun calibres and has the slowest velocity but delivers the most kinetic energy on impact.
- It has a steep trajectory and is less accurate than .177 and .22 at longer distances. It is best suited for shooting larger pests and small game at short to moderate ranges, typically up to 50 yards.
.30 & .35
- These are the biggest two calibres in the UK. Because of the pellets’ increased weight, they need more power to shoot. This is the point that power exceeds 12ft-lbs and requires a firearms licence. (FAC)
Ultimately, the best calibre air rifle for pest control will depend on the intended use, the type of pests being targeted, and personal preference. We recommended trying out different calibres and models to see which works best for you. The next burning question is slugs vs pellets and the different scenarios for using one or the other.
If you are considering getting into pest control we have our market place where you can buy used air rifles for sale.