General Airgun Safety – Always Handle with Care

Regardless of the type of airgun, the **fundamentals of firearm safety** apply. Treat every airgun as if it is **loaded and ready to fire** at all times.

  • Treat Every Airgun Like a Firearm: Always assume the airgun is loaded and ready to fire.
  • Never Point at Anything You Don't Intend to Shoot: Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
  • Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Fire: Prevent accidental discharge by maintaining proper trigger discipline.
  • Know Your Target and What’s Beyond It: Ensure you have a safe backdrop to prevent stray shots.
  • Store Airguns Safely: Keep them **unloaded and locked away**, out of reach of children and unauthorized users.
  • Always Wear Eye Protection: Ricochets and debris can cause serious injury.

Break Barrel Airgun Safety – Preventing "Bear Trapping" Incidents

Break barrel rifles are **powerful and reliable**, but improper handling can lead to severe injuries, particularly with **bear trapping** – a situation where the barrel slams shut unexpectedly.

  • Keep a Firm Grip on the Barrel: Never let go of the barrel while loading a pellet.
  • Never Let the Barrel Snap Shut: Always guide the barrel back into place with control.
  • Use Proper Loading Techniques: Insert the pellet while holding the barrel securely, avoiding fingers near the breech.
  • Check for Barrel Locking: Ensure the barrel locks securely before shooting to prevent misfires.

CO2 Airgun Safety – Handling Pressurized Cartridges Properly

CO2-powered airguns rely on **pressurized gas cartridges**, which require special handling to avoid leaks and malfunctions.

  • Use the Right CO2 Cartridges: Always use manufacturer-recommended cartridges to avoid damage.
  • Never Over-Tighten Cartridges: A snug fit is sufficient – over-tightening can cause **seal damage and leaks**.
  • Release CO2 Before Storing: If you don’t plan to use your airgun for an extended period, remove the CO2 cartridge to prevent **seal degradation**.
  • Store CO2 Cartridges in a Cool, Dry Place: Exposure to heat can cause them to expand and possibly rupture.

PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) Airgun Safety – Handling High-Pressure Air

PCP airguns operate on **high-pressure air (HPA)**, often exceeding **3,000 PSI**, requiring strict safety precautions to prevent serious injuries.

  • Use Only Approved Air Sources: Never attempt to fill a PCP airgun with an unapproved compressor or tank.
  • Check Pressure Ratings: Ensure your tank and fittings are rated for **the airgun’s maximum pressure**.
  • Fill Slowly: Rapidly filling a PCP tank can cause overheating or **seal damage**.
  • Bleed Air Before Disconnecting: Always **release pressure from the fill hose** before detaching it to prevent injury.
  • Inspect for Leaks: Regularly check for air leaks, which can weaken seals and reduce performance.

Safe Shooting Environment – Setting Up for Success

Creating a **safe shooting environment** ensures that **you and others remain protected** during target practice or recreational shooting.

  • Choose a Safe Backstop: Use a **thick, durable surface** like **plywood or a pellet trap** to stop projectiles.
  • Keep Bystanders at a Safe Distance: Make sure others are aware before you start shooting.
  • Secure Targets Properly: Ensure targets are **stationary** and **placed at appropriate distances**.
  • Avoid Hard Surfaces: Shooting at metal, concrete, or other **hard surfaces** can cause dangerous ricochets.

Final Thoughts – Responsible Airgun Ownership

Owning and using an airgun comes with **serious responsibilities**. By following these **safety guidelines**, you can **protect yourself, others, and your equipment** while ensuring an enjoyable shooting experience. **Stay informed, stay prepared, and always prioritize safety** when handling any type of airgun.