Air gun safety is paramount; although not as powerful as firearms, these guns can cause serious injury if not handled properly. Air guns use compressed air or gas to propel projectiles, such as pellets or BBs. They come in various types, including air rifles and air pistols, and are used for target shooting, pest control, and recreational purposes. Where any laws are referenced they refer only to the laws In England & Wales. Different rules are in force in Northern Ireland and Scotland
Here are some essential safety tips for handling air guns:
- Always treat an air gun as a real firearm: Never point it at anything you don’t intend to shoot, even if you believe it is not loaded. Always assume it’s loaded and ready to fire.
- Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction: Always ensure the muzzle of the air gun is pointed in a safe direction, away from people, animals, and any other objects you don’t want to shoot.
- Know your target and beyond. Be aware of what’s in your line of fire and behind your target. Air gun pellets can travel significant distances, and you must ensure there’s no risk of hitting someone or something unintentionally.
- Use appropriate ammunition: Only use ammunition recommended for your specific air gun model. Using the wrong pellets or BBs can cause damage to the gun or result in inaccurate shots.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot: Always keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. It helps prevent accidental discharges.
- Store air guns safely: When not in use, store air guns unloaded and locked away in a secure place, out of reach of children and unauthorized users.
- Always wear eye protection: When shooting or in the vicinity of others shooting, wear appropriate eye protection to guard against potential ricochets or debris.
- Be aware of local laws and regulations: Familiarise yourself with the laws and regulations concerning air gun usage in your area. Some places may restrict where you can shoot, or there may be age limits for air gun ownership. UK Air Gun Law
- Never alter your air gun: Modifying it to increase its power or performance can be dangerous and may lead to malfunctions or unintended consequences. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Educate others about air gun safety: If you own or use air guns, teach those around you, especially children, about the safe handling and operation of these devices.
- Please do not rely on the safety mechanism alone: While most air guns have a safety mechanism, they should never be the sole means of ensuring safety. Always practice safe handling and keep your finger off the trigger until you can shoot.
- Use a backstop for shooting: When target shooting, use a proper backstop to catch the pellets or BBs. It can be a thick cardboard, a pellet trap, or a safe and solid surface that can stop the projectiles from travelling further.
- Check your air gun before each use: Inspect your air gun regularly for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. If you notice any issues, have it checked and repaired by a qualified professional before using it again?
- Be cautious with older or second hand air guns: If you acquire an older or second-hand air gun, have it inspected by an expert to ensure it is safe to use and meets current safety standards.
- Never “dry fire” your air gun: Dry firing means pulling the trigger without any ammunition in the gun. Doing this repeatedly can damage the gun’s internal components, so avoid it whenever possible.
- Handle Air Tanks with Caution: Air tanks used for Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) air guns store substantial potential energy and should always be treated with the utmost care. It is crucial to handle them safely to prevent accidents or potential hazards. Avoid casually leaving air tanks rolling around in the trunk of a car, as this can be highly unsafe. In the unfortunate event of a car fire resulting from an accident, informing the fire brigade about the presence of an air tank in the trunk is essential. The reason is that an exploding 12-liter, 300-bar tank can cause significant damage to both the vehicle and anyone nearby, including firefighters.
- To ensure safety, regularly check that your air tanks are within the valid testing period and that the hoses (whips) used to fill the air guns are undamaged and in good condition. When filling your air guns, do so slowly and cautiously. Always obtain air refills from reputable filling stations, as they will have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle air tanks safely. By adhering to these precautions, you can mitigate potential risks associated with air tanks and ensure the safe operation of your PCP air guns.
Adhering to these additional safety guidelines can further enhance the responsible use of air guns and minimize the risk of accidents or incidents. Safe practices and accountable behaviour are crucial when handling any weapon or potentially hazardous device.
Gov Guidance Safe Handling Of Air Guns