Air rifles are a perfect way to introduce someone to shooting sports. Although most people think of air rifles as being just for young shooters, both new and experienced shooters alike can benefit from the extra practice achieved through shooting an air rifle. Shooting air rifles reinforces the skills that hunters use when shooting big game animals. It allows you to practice sight picture, breathing control and trigger squeeze. All of these items are key components of successful shooting. Another benefit to shooting air rifles is that they have no recoil so shooters do not develop the bad habit of flinching in anticipation of pulling the trigger like they might when shooting a large caliber hunting rifle.
There are several different price levels on air guns. You can pick up an entry-level air rifle for around $20 or you can spend up to several hundred dollars for the higher end models. Most people can find an air gun within their budget.
An air gun range can be set up inexpensively anywhere that has a fair amount of open space. This allows you to practice right at home in most cases. A simple backstop can be created from a cardboard box stuffed with newspaper. Many companies offer portable metal pellet traps that will also stop pellets.
With the price of gas and ammunition going up and no end in sight, building your own home range and practicing with an air rifle only makes sense.
With the price of ammo going up that is all any one is going to be able to shoot.
Posted by: Jon Smith | June 06, 2008 at 02:08 PM
The first gun I owned was a cheap pellet gun. Why does someone need to start with an expensive piece when they may give it up?
Posted by: Hungrydog | September 11, 2008 at 02:23 PM
An inexpensive pellet gun is a great way to introduce someone to shooting. It is probably the way most people do get introduced to shooting. There are pellet guns that fit everyone’s budget.
Posted by: Moultrie Feeders | September 22, 2008 at 04:15 PM
I agree with Feeders, because when I was a kid it took selling many newspapers to save for my Daisy Air Rifle. I am glad they still have inexpensive air rifles around. Shoot everything has gong up in price, except the entry air rifles.
Posted by: pellet rifles | February 13, 2009 at 06:18 PM
I started shooting as just a wee little kid and got a shot gun for my 12th b-day and was pretty good with it. After reading your article it probaly was do in big part that the air guns I shot didn't have any recoil so I was steady and did not flinch. I will be teaching my children in this way .
Thanx for the great tip.
Posted by: Mr. Hunting Scopes | March 21, 2009 at 09:06 AM
I've been looking for a good air rifle for my son. What would you suggest if I was looking for a first gun for him? I'm not quite sure what to get, any suggestions?
Posted by: Roy Slater | October 06, 2011 at 07:03 PM