How does an air rifle work?
As the name suggests, an air rifle works using air, and the principle is quite simple. Air pressure is built up inside the rifle, and it drives the projectile forward when you fire a shot. When the air rifle is cocked, the air inside is compressed, and it expands again when the rifle is fired. This creates high pressure and a lot of energy, which fires the shot. There are three different types, each with its own mechanism: spring-piston air rifles (springers), gas ram air rifles and PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifles. You can read more about the differences between these types and how they work here. What they all have in common is that they are fired by air pressure.
Loading an air rifle
To load the air rifle, you either break the barrel or use a cocking lever, which usually sits parallel to the barrel. Loading is usually done by hand, with the pellet inserted with your fingers. Once the pellet is in, the barrel or the lever is returned, and the rifle is ready to fire. Depending on which of the three types you choose, you will or will not feel recoil when firing. For example, you will feel recoil with a springer, whereas you will not with a PCP air rifle. It is entirely up to you which you prefer.
Air rifle calibres
Air rifles come in several calibres, generally these three: 4.5 mm, 5.5 mm and 6.35 mm, although larger calibres also exist. In many countries, special rules apply once the calibre exceeds 4.5 mm – for example a hunting licence or a police permit to acquire, own or use the rifle. Check the regulations in your country before you buy. You can read more about these rules here.
Air rifles from Handelshuset Aulum
Air rifles can be used for many purposes – for competition shooting, in shooting galleries at amusement parks, or simply for target shooting for fun. Whatever you want to use your air rifle for, you will find a large and varied range here at Handelshuset Aulum. Browse the range here on the website, or visit our shop in Aulum, Denmark. When you contact us, we are always ready to help you and answer further questions about our range.
