Air rifle shooting is a fun and rewarding sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. However, like any sport involving firearms, it requires proper safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are 10 essential safety tips for practicing sports air rifle shooting:
- Treat every air rifle as if it is loaded. Never assume that an air rifle is unloaded or safe to handle. Always check the breech and the magazine before handling or passing an air rifle to someone else. If you are not sure how to check, ask someone who knows or consult the owner’s manual.
- Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Never point an air rifle at anything you do not intend to shoot, even if it is unloaded or on safe. A safe direction is one where a discharge would not cause harm or damage to anyone or anything. When not shooting, keep the muzzle pointed down or over the firing line.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. The trigger is the final control of the air rifle and should only be touched when you have aligned your sights on the target and are about to fire. Do not rest your finger on the trigger or squeeze it prematurely, as this could cause an accidental discharge.
- Know your target and what is beyond it. Before shooting, make sure you have a clear view of your target and what is behind it. Do not shoot at anything that you cannot identify or that could cause ricochets or splinters. Use a proper backstop or bullet trap to stop and contain your pellets.
- Wear eye protection at all times. Air rifles can propel pellets at high velocities that can cause serious eye injuries if they hit you or bounce back from a hard surface. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when shooting an air rifle, even if you are not the one shooting.
- Use the right pellets for your air rifle. Air rifles are designed to shoot specific types and sizes of pellets that match their power and accuracy. Using the wrong pellets can damage your air rifle, reduce its performance, or cause jams or misfires. Check the owner’s manual or the markings on the barrel to find out what pellets are suitable for your air rifle.
- Maintain your air rifle properly. Air rifles need regular cleaning and lubrication to function smoothly and reliably. Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual or seek professional help if you are not sure how to do it yourself. Do not use oil or solvents that are not meant for air rifles, as they could damage the seals or other parts.
- Store your air rifle safely and securely. When not in use, store your air rifle in a locked case or cabinet, away from children and unauthorized persons. Remove the magazine and unload any pellets from the breech before storing. If possible, use a trigger lock or a cable lock to prevent unauthorized access.
- Follow the rules of the range or club where you shoot. Different ranges or clubs may have different rules and regulations for air rifle shooting, such as hours of operation, fees, targets, distances, etc. Respect these rules and follow them at all times. If you are not sure about something, ask a range officer or a club member.
- Have fun and enjoy the sport! Air rifle shooting is a great way to improve your marksmanship, concentration, discipline, and confidence. It can also be a social activity where you can meet new friends and share your passion for shooting. Remember to always be safe, responsible, and courteous when shooting an air rifle.
