Air Rifle Vs Airsoft: how to decide which to buy
When it comes to air guns, there are two main options: air rifles and airsoft guns. Both have their benefits and uses, but which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between air rifles and airsoft guns, highlighting the different types, how they’re used, and the pros and cons of each.
We’ll also give tips on how to decide which option is best for you, based on your intended use for the gun. So make sure you read all the way to the end to find out which gun is best for you to buy.
Please note, although we’re an air rifle website we have tried our best to remain objective in this article.
What Is An Air Rifle?
An air rifle is a type of gun that uses compressed air (instead of gunpowder like traditional firearms) to propel a pellet. With air rifles, compressed air is stored in a chamber and when you pull the trigger, a valve opens and releases the compressed air behind the pellet, propelling it out of the barrel.
These guns are generally considered to be less powerful than traditional firearms, but they are still capable of taking down small game and pests at short to medium range.
What Types Of Air Rifle Are There?
There are several types of air rifles, including:
- PCP Air Rifles
Pre-charged pneumatic air rifles use a separate air tank or pump to compress the air before firing. They are easy to maintain, but require a separate air tank or pump to charge them. - Spring-Piston Air Rifles
Spring-piston air rifles use a mechanical spring-piston system to compress the air. They are known for their power and accuracy, but require more maintenance than some other types. - Break Barrel Air Rifles
Break barrel air rifles have a hinge mechanism on the barrel that allows the shooter to “break” the barrel open, revealing the chamber where the pellet is loaded. They are easy to use and maintain and are good for target shooting and hunting. - Gas Ram Air Rifles
Gas ram air rifles use a gas-filled cylinder instead of a spring to compress air. They are low maintenance and provide consistent power and accuracy.
What Are Air Rifles Used For?
Air rifles are used for a variety of different things, including:
- Target shooting
Air rifles are popular among target shooters because of their accuracy and low noise level. They can be used for competitive or recreational target shooting at a variety of distances. - Hunting
Air rifles are not powerful enough to take out larger animals but they are often used for hunting small game, pests and other small animals. - Pest Control
Air rifles are considered to be one of the more humane methods of pest control as they can be used to take down small game and pests without causing unnecessary suffering. - Plinking
Plinking is a popular recreational activity that involves shooting at targets such as cans, bottles, or other small objects. Air rifles are popular among plinkers because of their low noise level and low recoil.
What Is An Airsoft Gun?
An airsoft gun is a replica firearm designed to fire small plastic pellets (BBs) using compressed gas or an electric motor. They are commonly used for recreational activities such as airsoft games and target shooting, but can also be used for training and simulation purposes.
Airsoft guns are not not subject to the same regulations and laws as air rifles.
What Types Of Airsoft Gun Are There?
Similar to air rifles, there are many different types of airsoft guns, here are the common ones you’ll see for sale in the UK:
- Spring-Powered Airsoft Guns
Spring-powered airsoft guns use a mechanical spring-piston system to compress a spring and shoot the BB, they are the most basic and simple type of airsoft gun, and are typically less expensive than other types. - Gas-Powered Airsoft Guns
Gas-powered airsoft guns use compressed gas, such as CO2, to shoot the BB. They are more powerful and realistic looking than electric airsoft guns, but require a bit more maintenance. - Electric Airsoft Guns (AEG)
Electric airsoft guns, also known as Automatic Electric Guns (AEG), use a battery-powered electric motor to compress a spring and shoot the BB. They are more powerful and accurate than spring-powered airsoft guns and offer higher rates of fire. - Bolt-Action Airsoft Guns
Bolt-action airsoft guns use a bolt-action mechanism to compress the spring and shoot the BB. They are typically a bit less powerful than other types of airsoft guns.
What Are Airsoft Guns Used For?
Some of the common uses for airsoft guns include:
- Airsoft Games
Airsoft guns are commonly used for recreational activities such as airsoft games, which are tactical games similar to paintball and laser tag. They involve teams of players using airsoft guns to simulate military or law enforcement scenarios. - Target Shooting
Airsoft guns are also commonly used for target shooting as well. They are very accurate and have a low noise level which makes them perfect for target shooting. They can be used for target shooting in indoor and outdoor ranges, and they can be used to shoot at a variety of targets such as paper targets, steel targets, and even balloons. - Film Props
Airsoft guns are also used in film and theater production as realistic-looking prop firearms.
Which Is Best?
Why Air Rifles Are Better
- They’re More Powerful
Air rifles are generally more powerful than airsoft guns. They can shoot pellets at higher velocities and with more energy, which makes them better suited for hunting and pest control. They also have a greater range, which allows for longer-distance shots. - They’re More Accurate
Air rifles are also more accurate than airsoft guns. They have a tighter shot group and a more consistent trajectory, which makes them better suited for target shooting and precision shooting. - They’re More Durable
Air rifles are also more durable than airsoft guns. They are built to withstand the rigors of hunting and pest control, and they are less likely to break or malfunction than airsoft guns.
Why Airsoft Guns Are Better
- They Cost Less
Air rifles can be more expensive than airsoft guns. They are often made with higher-quality materials and are built to last longer, which makes them more expensive to purchase. However, this can be a reason to go with airsoft as you don’t have to break the bank to get shooting. - They Make Less Noise
Air rifles can be louder than airsoft guns. They use more powerful springs or compressed air to propel the pellet, which can produce a loud noise when fired. This can be a problem for those who want to shoot in a backyard or other location where noise is an issue. Whereas with an airsoft gun, most people wouldn’t even hear you. - They Produce Less Recoil
Air rifles can also have more recoil than airsoft guns. The powerful spring used to propel the pellet can cause the rifle to kick back when fired. This can be a problem for those who are sensitive to recoil or for those who are trying to make precise shots. - There’s Less Legal Restrictions
Air rifles are subject to more restrictive laws than airsoft guns. - There’s Less Safety Concerns
Air rifles are more powerful than airsoft guns, and hence they need more care and attention when handling them. They have the potential to cause greater harm if misused or handled carelessly.
How To Decide Between The Two
When deciding between an air rifle and an airsoft gun, it’s important to consider your intended use for the gun.
For those who are looking for a gun for hunting small game or pest control, an air rifle may be the best option. Air rifles are more powerful than airsoft guns and can be used for longer-range shooting. They are also more accurate.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a gun for recreational activities such as airsoft games and back garden target shooting, an airsoft gun may be a better choice. Airsoft guns are less powerful than air rifles, but they are more affordable and easier to get hold of. They are also quieter and have less recoil.
FAQs
What is the difference between an air rifle and an airsoft gun?
Air rifles are generally more powerful than airsoft guns and fire metal pellets instead of BBs. Air rifles are used for hunting, pest control, and target shooting. Whereas airsoft guns are used mainly for recreational activities such as airsoft games and target shooting.
Do I need a license to own an air rifle or airsoft gun in the UK?
In most of the UK, you do not need a license to own an airsoft gun or air rifle. However, if your air rifle fires pellets at over 12ft/lbs, you will require a firearms certificate. Please note, the laws around air rifles are different in Scotland.
What is the best way to store an air rifle or airsoft gun?
To store an air rifle or airsoft gun safely, you should keep it in a locked, sturdy cupboard or cabinet, and keep the keys in a secure location that is not easily accessible to children or other unauthorized persons. You can also use a locking device or security cord to secure the gun.
