Air rifle questions we’re often asked

Although airgun shooting is very accessible you can still fall foul of the law if you don’t stick to the rules relating to their use and ownership.

Q: Do I need a licence for an air rifle? 

If you live in England or Wales and have an air rifle with a muzzle energy level of 12 ft lb or less or an air pistol with a muzzle energy of 6 ft lb or less you don’t need a licence . However the law is different in Scotland and Northern Ireland where you will need a licence. A firearms certificate air rifle – known as an FAC air rifle – is over 12 ft lb in power, meaning that the owner needs to have a firearms certificate to own one wherever you live in the UK.

Pellets come in all shapes and sizes, but not all of them will be right for your airgun

Q: Which pellet is best for my air rifle?

Air rifles are picky about pellets. You’ll come across round head pellets, pointed pellets and wadcutters pellets. Using the right ones will make a big difference to your hit rate. Here’s how to get it right.

Q: What should I know about buying a second-hand air rifle?

You can pick up some bargains but you need to know what to look for. Read this before parting with your hard-earned cash.

Q: Can I use my air rifle in my garden?

Is it legal? How much space do you need to have?

Going out rabbiting?

Q:  Which are the best air rifles for shooting rabbits?

What type of air rifle should you use? What about calibres?

Make sure you wear gloves when handling rats

Q: What should I know about shooting rats with air rifles? 

Air rifles are useful for this type of pest control. Mat Manning talks you through it.

Although airgun shooting is very accessible you can still fall foul of the law if you don’t stick to the rules relating to their use and ownership.

Q: What do I need to know about air gun security?

As a responsible airgunner you must keep them out of the wrong hands. Here’s what you need to know.

Q: Which air rifles do you particularly recommend? 

Here’s a selection to be considering.

Q:  How can I shoot my airgun more accurately? 

Is it your technique? Your equipment? Here’s how to check.

Q: What’s the maximum distance you can hunt with a legal limit air rifle? 

How far can you aim and still achieve a humane kill?

Q: Should I use a sound moderator on my air rifle? 

You would be surprised at how much noise an air rifle can make.