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.
