Why Are Airguns Used
The term “airguns” refers to rifles, pistols or shotguns that are alternatively used instead of firearms. Instead of causing an explosion inside the mechanism (which propels a bullet), airguns fire projectiles by way of compressed air. Some guns are also powered by electricity, a spring or gas. Airsoft guns are a subcategory of airgun, and are low-powered guns that fire plastic pellets.
BB airguns feature hard metal bullets and shoot at much greater velocities. BB guns can easily project BBs at speeds over 500 feet per second. You are correct in thinking that there’s no reason to use a BB gun for fun. Airsoft guns are commonly used for parties and games. BB guns are traditionally used by adults for adult sporting, such as target practice and hunting. Some popular sports that use BB guns include Olympic 10 m Air Rifle and 10 m Air Pistol shooting events. Even the army has experimented with BB guns in an effort to better train their soldiers. Some of these higher velocity airguns are also used for pest control.
Using higher-powered airguns brings greater responsibility. This explains why airguns are usually marketed towards adults. Some nations may actually restrict BB guns to appropriate ages. Others may not have any hard rules, but still encourage parental supervision. In practically every state, it is illegal to display a BB gun out in public or to aim one at another person. Airsoft guns are usually permissible if they have an orange tip, identifying them as play guns.
Besides high velocity, the content of the projectile also determines appropriate user age. Lead projectiles (BBs) are the most commonly used pellets. These are hollow pellets that come in both spherical and pointed shapes. Other projectiles may be steel tipped plastic pellets, or plastic altogether. The most dangerous type of projectile is a metal one (copper, nickel and zinc). The standard caliber for airguns is about .177 or 22 millimeter. These pellets are ideal for practice and small game hunting. Cost per round averages to about two cents.
Believe it or not, air powered guns have been used for at least 400 years. The oldest recorded mechanical air gun in history dates back to 1580. It is still on display at the Livrustkammaren Museum in Stockholm. Just imagine…Shakespeare could have been packing heat! For more information on airsoft and BB guns, visit an online retailer.
Tags: airguns