The Top 5 Air Pistol FAQs in the UK

By Tamme Tjarks | November 7, 2024

Last edited: Thursday 11th November 2024 14:20

Time to read: 4 minutes

Air pistols are a popular choice for both novice and experienced shooters in the UK. Whether you’re considering target shooting as a hobby, looking to upgrade your equipment, or just curious about the legal requirements, it’s important to be well-informed.

This article addresses the top 5 most frequently asked questions about air pistols in the UK, providing clear and concise answers to help you navigate the world of air pistols safely and responsibly. From power limits and licensing to the best pistol choices for beginners, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

1. Are air pistols legal in the UK?

Yes, air pistols are legal in the UK, but with certain restrictions. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Power Limit: Air pistols with a muzzle energy up to 6 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) are legal to own and use without a firearms certificate. Anything above this limit is prohibited, with no exceptions for licensing.
Age Restriction: You must be at least 18 years old to purchase and possess an air pistol.
Public Places: It’s against the law to carry an air pistol in a public place without a reasonable excuse (e.g., transporting it to and from a shooting club or a gun shop).
Private Land: You can use an air pistol on private land with the landowner’s permission. However, you must ensure that pellets remain within the property boundaries and that you’re not shooting within 50 feet of the centre of a public road.
Secure Storage: Air pistols should be stored securely when not in use to prevent unauthorised access, especially by children.

Important Note: These regulations apply to England and Wales. Scotland has its own set of rules, including an Air Weapon Certificate requirement for any air weapon with a muzzle energy above one joule.

It’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the specific laws governing air pistols in your region to ensure you’re using them legally and responsibly. If you have any doubts, it’s always best to contact your local police force for clarification.

Check out this video for everything UK Airgun law related

2. How accurate are air pistols?

The accuracy of an air pistol can vary significantly depending on several factors:

1. Type of Air Pistol:

Spring-piston pistols: These are generally less accurate than other types due to the recoil generated by the piston.
CO2 pistols: These offer decent accuracy, especially those without blowback action. Blowback can affect accuracy as the slide moves before the pellet leaves the barrel.
PCP pistols: These are known for their high accuracy due to their consistent power delivery and lack of recoil.

2. Quality of the Pistol:

Build quality: A well-made pistol with tight tolerances and a good barrel will be more accurate.
Trigger: A crisp, predictable trigger helps with consistent shooting.
Sights: Good quality sights, whether open sights or a scope, are essential for accurate aiming.

3. Ammunition:

Pellets: Using high-quality pellets that are the correct size and weight for your pistol can significantly improve accuracy.
BBs: Generally less accurate than pellets due to their spherical shape and lower quality.

4. Shooter Skill:

Consistency: Consistent shooting technique, including grip, stance, and breath control, is crucial for accuracy.
Experience: The more you practice, the better your accuracy will become.

5. Environmental Factors:

Wind: Wind can significantly affect the trajectory of a pellet, especially at longer ranges.
Lighting: Good lighting is essential for clear sight picture.

General Accuracy Expectations:

10 meters: Most air pistols can achieve reasonable accuracy at 10 meters, with groupings of 1-2 inches being achievable with practice.
Longer ranges: Accuracy decreases with distance, and hitting targets consistently beyond 25 meters can be challenging.

Watch this video to learn about air pistol accuracy

In summary: While some air pistols are inherently more accurate than others, achieving good accuracy also depends on using the right ammunition, proper technique, and accounting for environmental factors.

3. What’s the best air pistol?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing:

Your budget: Prices can range from under £100 to over £1000.
Your intended use: Plinking, target shooting, pest control, etc.
Your experience level: Beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
Your preferred power source: Spring-piston, CO2, or PCP.

Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect air pistol is to try out a few different models and see what feels right for you. Visiting a local gun shop or shooting range can provide valuable hands-on experience and expert advice.

Check out our article on the Top 5 Air Pistols to Buy, where we recommend the following pistols:

4. Can Airsoft Pistols be delivered to your door?

Purchasing an air rifle in the UK with Huntsman Sports is a straightforward process that can be completed either in-store or online.
If you prefer the in-store experience, simply visit the store, choose your desired air rifle, and provide two forms of identification. These could be a passport, driving licence, or a recent utility bill. The staff will guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free purchase.

For those who favour the convenience of online shopping, you can make your purchase right from the comfort of your home. Browse through the online selection of air rifles, make your choice, and proceed to the checkout. As a part of the purchase process, you’ll be required to upload scanned copies or photographs of two forms of identification for verification purposes. This can be conveniently done through the website’s secure platform.

Upon completion of the verification process, your air rifle will be packaged securely and sent to your specified delivery address. Please note that age restrictions and delivery policies apply.
Whether you decide to buy in-store or online, remember that owning an air rifle comes with the responsibility of adhering to UK law and safe practices.

5. How old do you need to be to own an air pistol?

In the UK, you must be at least 18 years old to own an air pistol. This applies to all types of air pistols, regardless of their power source (spring-piston, CO2, or PCP).

It’s important to note that even if you are over 18, you cannot purchase an air pistol for someone under 18. It’s illegal to sell, gift, or lend an air pistol to a minor.

However, there are some exceptions where someone under 18 can use an air pistol:

Under supervision: They can use it under the supervision of someone aged 21 or over.
At an approved club: They can use it as a member of an approved target shooting club.
At a shooting gallery: They can use it at a shooting gallery where only air weapons or miniature rifles are used.
On private premises: If they are 14 years old or above, they can use it on private premises with the consent of the occupier.

It’s crucial to be aware of and adhere to these age restrictions to ensure responsible and legal use of air pistols.

Conclusion:

We’ve covered the essentials of air pistol ownership and use in the UK, from legality and safety to accuracy and popular models. Remember that responsible ownership is key. Always prioritise safety, adhere to the law, and seek further information if needed. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, we hope this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and enjoy your air pistol shooting experience. Happy shooting!