Co2 rifle

CO2 air rifles – convenience, comfort and precision for recreational shooters

At Barrel and Boar we believe that shooting does not have to be complicated. For those looking for an air rifle that is easy to use, shoots smoothly and is surprisingly accurate at short distances, the CO2 air rifle an excellent alternative. Whether you are just starting out with shooting or have been an enthusiast of relaxed plinking in the garden for years, with a CO2 system you can enjoy an uncomplicated, enjoyable shooting experience.

What is a CO2 air rifle?

Using a CO2 air rifle carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) as a driving force. This gas is stored under high pressure in a steel capsule which is placed in the rifle. As soon as you pull the trigger, a valve opens briefly, releasing a small amount of CO2 and propelling the pellet through the barrel with force.

Unlike spring guns or PCP systems, you don't have to not to be stretched or pumped. No heavy levers, no external compressors – just a CO2 capsule and a magazine full of pellets. That's all you need to start shooting straight away.

How does it work exactly?

The technology behind CO2 air rifles is simple, but well thought out:

1. Placement of the capsule
   The CO2 capsule is placed in a compartment and pierced using a pin or screw system. An O-ring ensures an airtight seal.
2. Control of the bulkhead
   When the trigger is pulled, a valve opens and a precisely measured amount of gas is released.
3. Pellet drive
   The gas expands instantly and propels the pellet out of the barrel at high speed. The force is modest, but very consistent.
4. Multiple shots per capsule
   A 12-gram CO2 cartridge usually provides dozens of shots, depending on the model, power, and type of magazine.

Why choose a CO2 air rifle?

CO2 air rifles are ideal for those looking for simplicity, comfort and speed. And although they cannot compete with PCP systems in terms of power, they offer unique advantages:

• Ease of use
  No lugging around compressed air cylinders, no hand pumps. Just insert a CO2 cartridge and you're ready to shoot.
• Shooting without recoil
  Due to the absence of springs or heavy pistons, a CO2 air rifle almost completely recoil-free, ensuring a stable shooting position and a comfortable experience.
• High rate of fire
  Many CO2 guns have warehouse systems. This allows you to shoot in quick succession – some models even semi-automatic.
• Silent operation
  No metal spring relaxing, no bangs or twang. The firing sound is limited to the emission of gas.
• Affordable entry level
  CO2 air rifles are generally cheaper to purchase and require fewer accessories than PCP models.
• Constant impact
  The gas pressure inside the capsule remains constant as long as liquid CO2 is present. This ensures that the shots are fired under consistent conditions. highly accurate.

What exactly is a CO2 capsule?

A standard CO2 capsule contains liquid carbon dioxide under high pressure – usually around 60 bar at room temperature. As long as there is liquid CO2 in the capsule, the pressure remains stable. This means that the force of each shot remains virtually the same, which translates into a consistent impact.

But please note: CO2 is temperature-sensitive. In cold weather, the pressure in the capsule decreases, resulting in less powerful shots. In warm weather, the pressure increases. Rapid firing sequences can also cause the capsule to cool down, leading to lower pressure and an abnormal impact. The solution? Simply pause between shots so that the capsule has time to return to temperature.

What is a CO2 air rifle suitable for?

CO2 cartridges are particularly ideal for:

• Recreational shooting (plinking) in the garden or on your own property
• Novice marksmen who wish to practise without complex controls
• Shoot quickly with magazines, for example on tins or targets
• Shooting enjoyment without tension or recoil

Due to their ease of use, CO2 systems are also very suitable for young or less experienced shooters, provided, of course, that this is done under supervision and with the appropriate safety measures in place.

What do you need to know before purchasing and using it?

• Power and number of shots
  Most CO2 air rifles deliver around 7 to 9 joules, with peaks up to 40 joules with 88gr CO2 capsules. The more powerful the model, the fewer shots you get from a capsule.
• CO2 consumption
  Always ensure sufficient CO2 capsules in stock – you will find that you keep shooting well. An extra magazine or two is also no luxury.
• Maintenance
  As with other air rifles, we recommend lubricating moving parts with gun oil, cleaning the barrel occasionally and CO2 maintenance capsule to be used to keep the O-ring supple.
• Accessories
  Consider additional magazines, pellets of the correct size, a sturdy case or box and, if desired, a silencer (if permitted for your model).

Are there any restrictions?

Yes, like any system, the CO2 air rifle has its limitations:

• Limited power
  Not suitable for long distances or situations where high impact is required.
• Temperature sensitive
  Both ambient temperature and firing rate affect performance.
• Long-term costs
  The capsules are relatively inexpensive, but with frequent use, the costs can add up.
• Prohibited in the Netherlands
  There are many replica CO2 air rifles available. Unfortunately, these are prohibited in the Netherlands and we are therefore not permitted to sell them here. The products offered are only for export to other countries such as Belgium, Germany, and France.

The right CO2 air rifle for you

At Barrel and Boar We offer a wide range of CO2 air rifles: from compact entry-level models to advanced semi-automatic versions with more power and functionality. Our specialists will be happy to help you choose a model that suits your needs and usage situation.

Whether you are looking for relaxation, convenience or speed, with a CO2 air rifle you always have a reliable partner for recreational shooting at short to medium range.

Ready to get started? Please visit us at Barrel and Boar and discover for yourself how simple, comfortable and enjoyable shooting with CO2 can be. We would be delighted to let you experience it for yourself – with personalised advice and a wide selection from stock.

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