Air rifles and air pistols offer great versatility and enjoyment for UK recreational shooters when handled responsibly and securely. However, air rifles carry inherent hazards, requiring care and diligence for safe operation.

We outline airgun practices to adopt for protecting yourself, bystanders and your equipment during shooting activities or maintenance. Whether plinking targets or participating in airgun hunting within legal specifications, these guidelines prevent accidents and injuries when operating airguns. 

Always Treat Airguns as Loaded

Always assume air rifles are loaded and ready to fire, even if you think they are unloaded. Accidents happen when people mistakenly believe the gun has been emptied, only to discover a pellet remaining inside that discharges unexpectedly.

Always Control the Direction the Gun is Pointing

Always carefully control which direction the airgun is pointing to avoid accidentally shooting someone. Keep guns pointed in a safe direction, away from people and be extra careful when cocking the gun or operating the bolt. 

Check What is Behind and Around Your Target

Before shooting, look around the target area to make sure no people, buildings, or animals are in the path of the pellets and are further than the pellets can travel. Beware of pellets bouncing off hard surfaces and changing direction.

Confirm What You Are Shooting At

When shooting, be 100% sure of your target before firing to avoid accidentally shooting a person or pet. Watch out for camouflaged fences or foliage that can hide your view. Use optics and rangefinders to be certain of targets.

Use Eye and Ear Protection

Always wear eye shields or goggles along with over-ear muff style hearing protection when firing airguns yourself or positioned near active firing lines. Airgun malfunctions or poorly maintained seals can emit pressurised air, debris or pellet components at high speeds, causing eye injuries or hearing damage.

Airgun Pellet Damage is Serious

Airguns can destroy eyes or penetrate skin, especially at close range. Seek medical help immediately for embedded pellets rather than trying self-removal. Heavy hunting pellets can break bones or damage organs.

Restrict Access to Stored Guns

Securely store airguns in locked containers out of reach of unsupervised children or unauthorised people. Use trigger locks and securely mount guns to prevent handling without supervision. Do not hide storage keys within reach.

Maintain Guns Properly

Regularly maintain seals, valves, cocking levers as manufacturer recommends, replacing worn parts. Stop using guns with reduced power, leaks or mechanical issues until they are repaired by a professional. Do not attempt repairs without appropriate training.

Stay Sober Around Guns

Strictly refrain from handling airguns or airgun equipment while impaired by any substance influencing cognitive awareness, motor skills or mood. This includes prescription medications like sedatives and recreational intake of alcohol or other legal/illegal drugs. 

Get Proper Training

Seek formal instruction in airgun safety, shooting technique, and maintenance to build critical skills and prevent developing bad habits. Attend accredited airgun training courses whenever possible.

Shop Wolfman’s Range of UK-Legal Airguns

Prioritising factors like target verification, eye protection and access restrictions protects ourselves and our companions from preventable harm. Regular training and maintenance further reduces negligence by reinforcing responsible habits. 

Get in touch with The Wolfman today

The Wolfman offers high-powered air rifles and pistols, compliant with UK laws, from top manufacturers for all shooting needs. Receive guidance from specialists in selecting ideal airguns and safety accessories for your experience level by contacting us today.