Air Rifles

All about Air Rifles - The Complete Guide for Beginners and Advanced Gun Owners

Welcome to our ultimate guide to air rifles! Whether you are new to air rifles or already an experienced shooter, here you will find all the information you need to make the right choice when buying an air rifle. From operation and legal rules to the different types of air rifles, their applications and their pellets. Those who have never owned an air rifle before will be full of questions. And even if you already have an air rifle at home, there is so much more information to glean about air rifles. Read on and find out everything you need to know to make a good decision and enjoy your air rifle to the fullest.

We have put all this information on this page and on the pages below, so that you can find everything there is to learn about airguns. A kind of airgun wiki, full of reliable information. With this knowledge, you will certainly be able to make an informed choice among the air rifles we have for sale. And of course, it's all just very interesting reading, too.

What is an Airgun and how does it work? - The basic explanation

An air rifle is a weapon that uses air pressure to shoot out a pellet through a barrel. This type of weapon is also called an air rifle, airgun, rifle, air pressure rifle or windgun. The major difference with firearms is that no explosive material such as gunpowder is used to fire the bullet. Instead, air pressure is built up that propels the projectile through the barrel.
The power of an air rifle is expressed in joules (J). The more joules, the more powerful the shot. The way air pressure is built up varies for each type of air rifle. The most common types are:

Spring rifles

The spring rifle is one of the most traditional and popular types of air rifles still used by many shooters today. The principle behind a spring box is relatively simple, but at the same time ingenious. Basically, it uses a powerful metal spring that, when tensioned, stores energy that is later converted into a powerful shot.

How exactly does a spring rifle work?

In a spring rifle, there is a piston in a cylinder that is pressed against the pressure of a spring. This tensioning can take place in different ways, depending on the specific type of spring rifle. The most common system is the articulated barrel, where you fold down the barrel until it engages in the tensioned position. This process compresses the spring and tightens the piston, ready to release its power as soon as the trigger is pulled.
However, there are other methods of tensioning a spring rifle. There are models with underspanners or side tensioners. With an underspanner, the tensioning lever is usually under the barrel and is pulled backwards to tension the spring. With a side tensioner, a lever on the side of the weapon is used to perform the same action. Both systems have the advantage of keeping the barrel fixed, which can improve accuracy.

The firing mechanism

When you pull the trigger, the tensioned piston is released. The spring forcefully pushes the piston forward through the cylinder, suddenly compressing the air in the cylinder strongly. This compressed air is passed through a small opening, known as the breech, into the barrel at high velocity. The airgun pellet inside the barrel is propelled outwards by this air pressure.

Tensioning and shooting - The different methods

As mentioned earlier, there are several ways to cock a spring rifle. The articulated barrel is by far the most common and popular method because of its simplicity and efficiency. However, underspanners and side tensioners are often praised for their sturdiness and consistency, as the barrel in these models does not move during tensioning. This ensures that the barrel always remains tight and precise, which contributes to better accuracy during shooting.

Why choose a spring rifle?

The spring rifle is often considered the most versatile air rifle, suitable for both recreational shooting and competitions. For beginners, the simplicity and robustness of a spring rifle offers an ideal introduction to the airgun world. They are reliable, mechanically simple and relatively affordable. In addition, many shooters experience the typical 'twang' sound released when releasing a shot as a nostalgic and pleasant aspect of the experience.
For the more advanced shooter, high-end spring rifles are available that are exceptionally accurate and meet the highest requirements for competitive shooting. Especially for disciplines such as Field Target (FT) and Hunter Field Target (HFT), there are specialised models designed for maximum precision.

Kickback and Noise

A key feature of a spring rifle is recoil. This is caused by the sudden release of the tensioned spring, causing a slight shock when the shot is released. For some shooters, this is a disadvantage, especially when extreme precision is required. For others, on the contrary, it is an essential part of the charm of a spring rifle. The sound of the spring relaxing - often described as a 'twang' - is a feature that adds to the authentic feel of shooting with a spring rifle.

Gasrambuks

The gas ram rifle is a popular alternative to the classic spring rifle, mainly because of its advantages in terms of shooting comfort, accuracy and durability. Although this type of air rifle is very similar to the spring rifle, there is one important difference: the use of a gas spring instead of a traditional metal spring.

The operation of a Gas ram gun

In a gas ram gun, the energy required to fire an air rifle pellet is not stored in a metal spring, but in a sealed cylinder filled with compressed gas. Nitrogen is usually used for this purpose, as it is more stable than ordinary air. The system works as follows:
During tensioning, the gas spring is compressed by a lever mechanism, such as an articulated barrel, under tensioner or side tensioner.
Compressing the gas spring increases the pressure in the cylinder. This process is very similar to the compression of a gas spring found, for example, in the tailgate of a car.
When the trigger is pulled, the gas spring comes forward in one smooth motion. This action creates a powerful air pressure that propels the bullet through the barrel.
Unlike a traditional spring rifle, which works with a metal spring that is compressed, the gas spring provides a much smoother and more consistent shot. The system is designed to completely eliminate the loss of energy due to friction and torsion (twisting of the spring during compression).

Why choose a Gasrambuks?

Using a gas spring instead of a metal spring offers several distinct advantages. One of the biggest advantages is the consistent shooting experience. Whereas a metal spring can weaken over time or cause irregular vibrations, a gas spring offers extremely stable and reliable shooting power.
In addition, a gas ram rifle is whisper quiet compared to a traditional spring rifle. Because there is no metal-to-metal contact that causes a 'twang', the noise during shooting is limited to the sound of air being forced through the barrel. This makes a gas ram rifle very suitable for situations where noise can be a problem.
Furthermore, gas ram guns are also more low-maintenance. Whereas a metal spring can weaken due to wear or prolonged compression, a gas spring generally remains effective for much longer. This ensures that a gas ram gun retains its full power for longer and is less likely to need replacing.

Different tensioning methods at Gasrambuks

Gas ram rifles can be tensioned via various mechanisms, just like traditional spring rifles. The most common ways to tension a gas spring are:
Knikloop: Waarbij de loop zelf wordt gebogen om de gasveer samen te drukken.
Onderspanner: Een hefboom onder de loop die naar achteren wordt getrokken om de veer op te spannen.
Zijspanner: Een hendel aan de zijkant van het wapen, die meestal wordt gebruikt bij modellen die een vaste loop hebben voor meer nauwkeurigheid.
The advantage of these systems is that they offer versatility in use, without affecting the operation of the gas spring itself. Which method is most suitable often depends on personal preference and the specific model being used.

Application and Performance of a Gas ram gun

The gas ramrod rifle is widely praised for its versatility. It is ideal for recreational shooting in the garden, where precision is not always the top priority, but comfort and ease of use are important. With the lack of annoying vibrations normally associated with metal springs, a gas ramgun offers a much more stable shooting experience.
Moreover, the better gas ram rifles are also ideally suited to sport shooting disciplines. Competitive shooters appreciate the reliability and consistency of the gas ram system. Especially in disciplines where repeatability and accuracy are essential, such as Field Target (FT) and Hunter Field Target (HFT), the gas ram rifle comes into its own.

Summary: The advantages of a Gasram rifle

Consistente prestaties: Geen torsie-effecten zoals bij metalen veren, wat resulteert in een stabielere kogelvlucht.
Stil schieten: Door het ontbreken van metalen trillingen is een gasrambuks aanzienlijk stiller dan een traditionele veerbuks.
Duurzaamheid: De gasveer behoudt zijn kracht en efficiëntie langer dan een metalen veer.
Breed inzetbaar: Geschikt voor zowel recreatief schieten als sportieve competities.
A gas ram gun is an excellent choice for shooters who value a smooth and quiet shooting experience, without sacrificing power or accuracy.

PCP air rifles (Pre-Charged Pneumatics)

The PCP Rifle, also known as Pre-Charged Pneumatics or compressed air rifle, is a type of air rifle known for its impressive power and high precision. What is special about this system is that the energy source is not a spring or gas spring, but compressed air stored in a special reservoir. This innovative system ensures that PCP air rifles excel in power, accuracy and ease of use.

How does a PCP air rifle work?

Unlike traditional spring or gas ram rifles, which derive their power from a mechanical tensioning system, a PCP air rifle works with a reservoir filled with compressed air. This compressed air is stored at very high pressure, usually ranging from 200 to 300 bar.
Firing a shot is done in a special way:
Vullen van het Reservoir: Voordat een PCP-luchtbuks gebruikt kan worden, moet het reservoir worden gevuld met samengeperste lucht. Dit kan gebeuren door middel van een handpomp, een persluchtfles (zoals een duikfles) of een speciale compressor.
Het Mechanisme: Wanneer de trekker wordt overgehaald, wordt een klein hamermechanisme geactiveerd dat een ventiel kortstondig opent. Dit ventiel laat een precieze hoeveelheid perslucht vrij uit het reservoir, die vervolgens door de loop wordt geleid.
Aandrijving van de Kogel: De vrijgekomen lucht stuwt het kogeltje met hoge snelheid door de loop naar buiten. Hoe groter de luchtdruk in het reservoir, hoe krachtiger het schot zal zijn.
Advantages of a PCP air rifle
PCP air rifles are considered the powerhouses among air rifles, and for good reason. Its advantages are numerous:
Enorme Kracht: In vergelijking met andere typen luchtbuksen zijn PCP-modellen ongeëvenaard als het gaat om kracht. Ze kunnen vermogens bereiken van wel 1000 joule, wat ze veruit de krachtigste luchtbuksen zonder vergunning maakt.
Nauwkeurigheid: Doordat PCP-luchtbuksen vrijwel geen terugslag hebben, is de precisie van deze modellen uitzonderlijk. Dit maakt ze bij uitstek geschikt voor langeafstandsschieten en competities zoals 100 meter schieten.
Gebruiksgemak: Het ontbreken van een mechanisch spansysteem betekent dat er geen fysieke kracht nodig is om de buks te laden. Het enige wat je hoeft te doen is een kogeltje plaatsen of de buks doorladen vanuit een magazijn.
Stilte bij Schieten: Hoewel PCP-luchtbuksen krachtiger zijn dan andere luchtbuksen, zijn ze relatief stil tijdens het afvuren. Dit komt doordat het mechanisme geen bewegende metalen onderdelen bevat zoals een veer die ontspant.
Hoge Schotsnelheid: Omdat het systeem gebruikmaakt van een groot reservoir met perslucht, kunnen meerdere schoten snel achter elkaar worden gelost zonder dat er opnieuw gespannen hoeft te worden.

How do you fill a PCP air rifle?

Filling a PCP air rifle is an essential part of using it. Since compressed air is the power source, it should always be refilled properly. There are several ways to supply compressed air to a PCP air rifle:
Handpomp: Een handpomp speciaal ontworpen voor PCP-luchtbuksen is een betaalbare optie, maar het vullen kost vaak meer tijd en fysieke inspanning. Vooral bij buksen met een groot reservoir kan dit behoorlijk intensief zijn.
Persluchtfles: De meest gebruikte methode is het gebruik van een grote persluchtfles, zoals een duikfles. Deze wordt vaak bij een gespecialiseerde zaak of duikwinkel gevuld. De lucht wordt overgebracht naar het reservoir van de luchtbuks via een vuladapter.
Compressor: Een elektrische compressor biedt het ultieme gebruiksgemak. Het apparaat is in staat om de luchtbuks snel en efficiënt tot de gewenste druk te vullen. Dit is vooral handig voor mensen die regelmatig met hun PCP-luchtbuks schieten.
In our shop, we always fill compressed air bottles with special dehumidified air. This prevents corrosion and significantly extends the service life of your PCP air rifle.

Applications of a PCP air rifle

The unique features of PCP air rifles make them suitable for a variety of purposes. Whether you are looking for a rifle for recreational use, competitive shooting or even hunting (where allowed), a PCP air rifle offers unmatched versatility.
Competitief Schieten: Vooral bij langeafstandsschieten, zoals 100 meter wedstrijden, worden PCP-luchtbuksen geprezen vanwege hun stabiliteit en kracht.
Recreatief Schieten: Voor wie gewoon lekker wil plinken in de achtertuin, biedt een PCP-luchtbuks een leuke en krachtige ervaring, mits het terrein groot genoeg is om veilig te schieten.
Jacht: In sommige landen is het legaal om met PCP-luchtbuksen op wild te jagen of schade te bestrijden. De krachtige schoten en precisie maken ze zeer geschikt voor deze toepassing.

Are PCP Air Rifles the Best Air Rifles?

When it comes to sheer power, precision and versatility, PCP air rifles are absolutely at the top. They offer a shooting experience that cannot be compared to any other system. The only downside is that they rely on an external air source, which means you always need access to a compressed air bottle or compressor. But once that is taken care of, PCP air rifles offer the ultimate experience for both recreational and professional shooters.

CO2 air rifles

CO2 air rifles are a popular choice among shooters looking for a simple and easy-to-use system intended mainly for recreational shooting. This type of air rifle uses CO2 gas as the propellant to shoot projectiles through the barrel at a reasonable speed. Although it CO2 pistol cannot compete with PCP air rifles in terms of power, they do offer several advantages that make them very attractive to both novice and experienced shooters.

How does a CO2 air rifle work?

The principle of a CO2 air rifle is relatively simple and very effective. Instead of using compressed air introduced through a pump or compressor, a CO2 air rifle works with CO2 cartridges or capsules. These are usually available in standard sizes such as 12g or 88g cartridges.
The process is as follows:
Plaatsen van de CO2-capsule: De capsule wordt in een speciaal compartiment van de luchtbuks geplaatst en door een mechanisme doorboord om het gas vrij te laten.
Vrijgeven van gas: Bij het overhalen van de trekker wordt een ventiel geopend, waardoor een kleine hoeveelheid CO2-gas in de loop wordt vrijgelaten.
Aandrijving van de Kogel: Het vrijgekomen CO2-gas zet plotseling uit en stuwt het luchtbukskogeltje met behoorlijke snelheid door de loop naar buiten.
Herhaalde Schoten: Bij een luchtbuks met magazijn kan het systeem meerdere keren achter elkaar vuren zonder dat de capsule direct vervangen hoeft te worden.

Advantages of CO2 air rifles

While CO2 air rifles are not the most powerful air rifles on the market, they do offer unique advantages that make them an excellent choice for certain applications.
Eenvoudig in Gebruik: Het vervangen van een CO2-patroon is snel en gemakkelijk. Er is geen externe apparatuur zoals een pomp of compressor nodig.
Soepele Schietervaring: Doordat het systeem geen gebruik maakt van veren of pompen, is er vrijwel geen terugslag. Dit maakt het schieten met een CO2-luchtbuks zeer comfortabel en plezierig.
Relatief Stil: Omdat het systeem geen mechanische veren bevat die geluid produceren, zijn CO2-luchtbuksen doorgaans stiller dan veerbuksen of gasrambuksen.
Hoge Vuursnelheid: Veel CO2-luchtbuksen worden geleverd met een magazijnsysteem, wat betekent dat meerdere schoten snel achter elkaar kunnen worden gelost zonder steeds te moeten herladen of spannen.
Betaalbaarheid: CO2-luchtbuksen zijn over het algemeen goedkoper dan PCP-systemen en vereisen minder dure accessoires. Het enige wat je nodig hebt zijn vervangbare CO2-patronen.

Limitations of CO2 air rifles

Despite its many advantages, CO2 air rifles also have some limitations that need to be taken into account.
Beperkte Kracht: In vergelijking met PCP-luchtbuksen zijn CO2-luchtbuksen aanzienlijk minder krachtig. Ze bereiken doorgaans een vermogen dat vergelijkbaar is met lichte veerbuksen. Voor serieuze langeafstandsschoten of competities zijn ze daarom minder geschikt.
Temperatuurgevoeligheid: Het functioneren van CO2-luchtbuksen wordt sterk beïnvloed door de omgevingstemperatuur. Bij koud weer neemt de druk in de CO2-capsule af, wat resulteert in een lagere vuurkracht en minder consistente schoten.
Hogere Kosten op Lange Termijn: Hoewel de aanschaf van een CO2-luchtbuks relatief goedkoop is, kunnen de kosten van CO2-patronen bij intensief gebruik oplopen. Dit maakt het op de lange termijn duurder dan een persluchtsysteem dat opnieuw gevuld kan worden.

What are CO2 air rifles suitable for?

CO2 air rifles are mainly used for recreational shooting, such as backyard plinking or target shooting at short- to medium-range targets. Thanks to their easy handling and user-friendly nature, they are also popular among novice shooters looking for an air rifle without complicated pumping systems or powerful recoil behaviour.
For sports shooters who prefer a quiet, relaxed shooting experience, without the hassle of manually tensioning springs or filling compressed air bottles, CO2 air rifles are an excellent choice. In addition, many CO2 air rifles are equipped with magazine systems, making it possible to shoot in quick succession without reloading each time.

Are CO2 air rifles a Good Choice?

Whether a CO2 air rifle is right for you depends entirely on your personal preferences and the purpose for which you want to use it. If you are looking for an air rifle that is easy to use, without the hassle of pumps or compressed air bottles, a CO2 air rifle offers a great solution.
However, it is important to remember that CO2 air rifles are less powerful than their PCP counterparts. For long-range shooting or use in colder conditions, they are less suitable. But for relaxed shooting at short distances, they are ideal.

Summary: Why choose a CO2 air rifle?

Gebruiksvriendelijkheid: Eenvoudige bediening zonder ingewikkelde systemen.
Betaalbaarheid: Geschikt voor elk budget door de lage aanschafprijs.
Geschikt voor Beginners: Lage terugslag en gemakkelijk te hanteren.
Minder Geschikt voor Lange Afstanden: Kracht en consistentie zijn beperkt in vergelijking met andere luchtbukssoorten.
With the right expectations, a CO2 air rifle offers a highly enjoyable shooting experience, ideal for recreational use and light sporting applications.

Pump guns

Pump guns are a piece of air rifle history that is still loved by a specific group of shooters. This type of air rifle uses a completely manual system to build up air pressure. Whereas modern systems such as PCP air rifles use an external reservoir filled with compressed air, in a pump rifle the pressure is built up by pure muscle power.
Although less popular than PCPs or gas ram guns these days, pump guns still have their own charm and advantages. They are especially appreciated for their nostalgic character, ease of use and the ability to fully control the shooting power.

How Does a Pump Gun Work?

The principle behind a pump shotgun is quite simple but effective. The air rifle has an internal cylinder that is filled with compressed air by a pumping mechanism. This mechanism can be an articulated barrel, where the barrel is bent downwards, or a separate lever that is moved back and forth.
The process is as follows:
Handmatige Luchtopbouw: Door de pompbeweging wordt lucht samengeperst en naar het reservoir geleid. Hoe vaker je pompt, hoe hoger de luchtdruk in het reservoir wordt.
Opslag in een Reservoir: De opgebouwde lucht wordt opgeslagen totdat de trekker wordt overgehaald.
Vrijgeven van Lucht: Bij het overhalen van de trekker wordt een ventiel geopend, waardoor de samengeperste lucht door de loop wordt geleid en het projectiel met kracht wordt afgevuurd.
This form of pressure build-up is entirely manual, meaning you don't need external equipment such as compressors or CO2 capsules. This makes pump guns relatively cheap and low-maintenance.
Advantages of pump guns
Although pump guns are not used as often as their modern counterparts today, they still offer some unique advantages:
Volledige Controle over de Schietkracht: Omdat je zelf bepaalt hoeveel lucht je samenperst, heb je directe controle over de kracht van het schot. Voor dichtbij schieten gebruik je minder pompslagen, terwijl je voor grotere afstanden of meer kracht meer slagen kunt toepassen.
Geen Externe Apparatuur Nodig: In tegenstelling tot PCP-luchtbuksen hoef je geen persluchtflessen of compressoren mee te nemen. Alles wat je nodig hebt, zit ingebouwd in de luchtbuks zelf.
Betaalbaarheid: Pompbuksen zijn doorgaans goedkoper dan moderne systemen zoals PCP-luchtbuksen, vooral op de lange termijn.
Nostalgische Waarde: Veel schutters die al langer in de wereld van luchtbuksen actief zijn, herinneren zich nog de klassieke pompbuksen van merken zoals Sheridan. Het gevoel van zelf de kracht opbouwen blijft voor velen een aantrekkelijk aspect.

Limitations of pump guns

Despite their advantages, there are also some drawbacks to pump guns, which have made them increasingly unpopular:
Arbeidsintensief: Het continu pompen kan vermoeiend zijn, vooral wanneer je een hoger vermogen wilt bereiken. Dit maakt ze minder geschikt voor langdurige schietsessies.
Beperkte Kracht: Zelfs wanneer je de maximale druk opbouwt, kunnen pompbuksen meestal niet concurreren met de kracht van een PCP-luchtbuks. PCP’s kunnen immers luchtdrukniveaus bereiken die met handmatige pompen onmogelijk zijn.
Langzame Vuurcadans: Na elk schot moet de buks opnieuw worden gepompt, wat de vuursnelheid aanzienlijk vermindert. Dit maakt pompbuksen minder praktisch voor gebruik bij competities of jacht, waar snelheid en consistentie belangrijk zijn.
Gevoelig voor Slijtage: Het constante pompen kan na verloop van tijd leiden tot slijtage van de interne afdichtingen, vooral bij intensief gebruik.

What are Pump Guns Suitable for?

Pump guns are ideally suited for recreational shooting and shorter distances. They are popular with shooters who like to determine their own shooting power and enjoy the mechanical experience of pumping. Pump guns are also an interesting choice for younger shooters or beginners who want to experiment with air rifles without immediately investing in expensive accessories.
In addition, they are sometimes bought out of sheer nostalgia. Many older shooters look back fondly on the days when they had their first air rifle - often a simple pump rifle - with which they tried to shoot through as many layers of wood as possible. The fact that you can control the pressure yourself remains a fun and attractive feature for many.

Why choose a pump shotgun?

Although they cannot compete with modern systems such as PCP air rifles in terms of power and consistency, the pump rifle retains a unique place in the world of air guns. Their simple operation, low cost and complete independence from external devices make them attractive to a specific group of shooters.
Moreover, using a pump shotgun can offer a fun, old-school experience that you won't easily find with modern air rifles. The charm of pumping, determining the force and immediately feeling the result after a shot, gives pump guns a special place in the hearts of many shooters.

Innovation and Shooting Speed in one System

While classic air rifles revolved around manual loading systems such as the articulated barrel for many years, modern techniques have led to impressive innovations in air guns. One of these innovations is the introduction of magazine air rifles. This type of air rifle offers a much more efficient and faster way of shooting, making it popular among both recreational and serious shooters.
What is an Air Rifle with Magazine?
An air rifle with magazine differs substantially from traditional models that required you to manually load a new pellet after each shot. Instead, an air rifle with magazine uses a system that holds several pellets at once and reloads them automatically after each shot.
Although manual rifle cocking is still sometimes required, reloading ammunition becomes a fully automatic operation. This means you are ready to fire again in a split second. This makes it possible to fire in quicker succession, which is a big advantage for many shooters.

How Does a Warehouse System Work?

For air rifles with magazine, the mechanism is usually driven by a PCP or CO2 system, although there are also some spring rifles and gas ram rifles that support this technology.
PCP air rifles: The most common type of air rifle with magazine. The use of compressed air makes it possible to fire several shots in quick succession without reloading or tensioning. Reloading a new pellet is almost noiseless and with no noticeable recoil.CO2 air rifles: Also popular for their ease of use. Although they are less powerful than PCP air rifles, they do offer the convenience of a quick reloading system without the need for reloading.Spring Rifles and Gas Rifles: Although less common, models with a magazine system do exist. These rifles require manual tensioning of the spring or gas ram, but reloading a pellet is done automatically from the magazine.
The magazine itself is often rotary or linear in design. Rotating magazines are small cylinders containing multiple bullets, which rotate one position further after each shot. Linear magazines, also known as 'strip loaders', place the pellets one after the other and are often used in semi-automatic systems.

Different shooting speeds

One of the biggest advantages of a magazine air rifle is its ability to fire multiple shots in quick succession. This is also known as the rate of fire. Depending on the type of air rifle, different firing speeds can be achieved:

Handmatig Doorladen (Bolt Action): Bij deze systemen wordt na elk schot een nieuwe kogel in de loop geplaatst door een grendel of hendel naar achteren te trekken en weer naar voren te duwen. Dit is de meest voorkomende vorm van doorladen bij PCP-luchtbuksen met magazijn.

Semi-automatisch: Hierbij wordt na elk schot automatisch een nieuwe kogel klaargezet zonder dat je een handeling hoeft te verrichten. Veel CO2-luchtbuksen maken gebruik van dit systeem. Het enige wat je hoeft te doen is de trekker steeds opnieuw overhalen.

Volautomatisch: Dit is de ultieme vorm van snelheid. Volautomatische luchtbuksen kunnen kogeltjes afvuren zolang de trekker ingedrukt wordt gehouden, tot het magazijn leeg is. Dit systeem is echter vrij zeldzaam en wordt voornamelijk toegepast bij hoogwaardige PCP-modellen.
Benefits of Air Rifles with Magazine
Using a magazine offers some significant advantages that make them a popular choice among shooters:
Faster Firing Speed: The reloading system allows you to shoot faster than with traditional manually loaded air rifles. This is especially useful in plinking (shooting at targets for fun) or fast shooting competitions.Ease of Use:Especially with PCP and CO2 air rifles, the magazine system works almost effortlessly, eliminating the need to reload all the time.Continuity:Because you can fire several shots in a row without concentrating on reloading, you can fully focus on aiming and shooting. This often benefits accuracy.Wide Scope:Magazine systems are especially popular in recreational shooting, but are also increasingly used in competitive disciplines.
Are there any drawbacks?
While air rifles with magazines offer many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
Complexity: The mechanics of a magazine system are often more complex than a standard air rifle. This means more maintenance may be required to keep the system running smoothly.Higher Cost: Models with a magazine system are often more expensive than conventional air rifles.Limited Compatibility:Not every air rifle is suitable for a magazine system. Spring rifles and gas ram rifles in particular are less likely to be available with a reloading mechanism.

Is an Air Rifle with Magazine something for you?

If you are looking for an air rifle that offers speed and ease of use, a magazine air rifle is definitely worth considering. Especially if you like shooting in succession without having to reload all the time, this technology offers an excellent solution.
Moreover, most modern PCP and CO2 air rifles nowadays come with a magazine system as standard, meaning there is plenty of choice. Whether you are a novice shooter who likes to shoot in the backyard, or a serious shooter aiming for competitions, a magazine air rifle can significantly improve your shooting experience.

Is an air rifle legal in the Netherlands?

Yes, air rifles are completely legal in the Netherlands. You can buy an air rifle as long as you follow certain rules. The main rules are:

Uiterlijk: Een luchtbuks mag niet op een echt vuurwapen lijken in Nederland. Replica’s die niet te onderscheiden zijn van bestaande vuurwapens zijn verboden. Al onze luchtbuksen voldoen aan deze wettelijke eis. Daarnaast hebben we voor België en andere Europese landen wel replica luchtbuksen beschikbaar. Deze kun je niet in de winkel ophalen en worden alleen opgestuurd. Voor inwoners van Nederland zijn deze, zoals eerder gezegd verboden.

Leeftijdsgrens: Als je een luchtbuks wilt kopen en bezitten, moet je minimaal 18 jaar oud zijn. Dit geldt zowel voor online aankopen als voor aankopen in een fysieke winkel.

Vergunning: Voor het bezitten en gebruiken van een luchtbuks is géén vergunning nodig. Dit maakt luchtbuksen zeer toegankelijk voor hobbyisten en sportschutters.

How powerful can an air rifle be?

In the Netherlands, there is no maximum limit on the power of an air rifle. Whereas there used to be a limit of 7.5 joules, this rule has now been dropped. This means that even powerful air rifles, such as PCP models with a power of up to 2,000 joules, are completely legal.
Different types of air rifles have different powers:

Veerbuksen en Gasrambuksen: Hebben doorgaans een vermogen tot 40 joule, wat ideaal is voor schieten op kortere afstanden.

PCP-luchtbuksen: Kunnen oplopen tot maar liefst 2000 joule, waardoor ze zeer geschikt zijn voor lange afstanden.

CO2-luchtbuksen: Zijn minder krachtig, maar nog steeds uitstekend geschikt voor recreatief schieten.

Which calibres are allowed?

All calibres are legal in the Netherlands. Choosing a calibre depends on your personal preference and the purpose for which you want to use the air rifle. The most popular calibres are:
4.5 mm (.177): Perfect voor precisieschoten en sportief schieten op korte afstanden.

5.5 mm (.22): Biedt een goede balans tussen kracht en nauwkeurigheid.

6.35 mm (.25) en groter: Krachtigere kalibers die beter bestand zijn tegen wind en een grotere impact hebben.

9 mm en hoger: Wordt vooral gebruikt voor langeafstandsschieten of waar toegestaan voor de jacht (zeker niet in Nederland!). Je hebt zelfs luchtbuksen in .50 en nog hoger!
Choosing the right calibre depends on your preference, your shooting style and the purpose for which you are using the air rifle. Larger calibres are more powerful, but also have a heavier bullet, which affects accuracy and bullet trajectory.
Besides calibre, there are also different bullet types:
Platkop: Ideaal voor doelkaarten omdat ze scherpe, ronde gaatjes maken.

Bolkop: De meest gangbare vorm, zorgt voor een stabiele kogelvlucht en is geschikt voor langere afstanden.

Holle punt: Deze kogels zijn ontworpen om meer impact te creëren en worden vaak gebruikt voor krachtigere luchtbuksen.

Puntkop: Geeft meer doordringend vermogen, vooral effectief bij langeafstandsschoten.

Where are you allowed to use an air rifle?

The use of an air rifle is only allowed on private land that is not publicly accessible. Examples include:

• Enclosed gardens
• Shooting ranges
• Terrain of others, provided you have obtained permission.

It is crucial that the bullets cannot get outside the compound. This means you should always have a suitable back wall, such as a bullet catch or a solid wooden slab (pay close attention to ricochet!). Moreover, you should bear in mind that shooting visible from the public road can cause confusion or even panic. So always use common sense.

From A to B with an air rifle?

When transporting an air rifle, it should always be packed in such a way that it cannot be used immediately. The best way is to transport your air rifle in a case or case. If possible put it in the boot. In addition, the weapon should always be unloaded and it is wise to carry your ID to prove your age. Legally, it is not illegal to cycle with your pouch and rifle. The question is whether it is wise.

At what age can you own and use an air rifle?

It has been offered before. To buy, own and use an air rifle, there is a minimum age of 18. This age limit is set by law and designed to ensure safety. This is why we ask for valid ID to verify your age every time you buy an airgun. Are you coming to our shop? Then you can easily show your ID to our staff. Do you buy through our webshop? Then you need to upload a copy of your ID during the checkout process. This is a mandatory step to ensure we comply with legal regulations. In connection with AVG, we do not do anything with your data. It is purely for verification purposes.

Air rifle accessories - What do you need?

To get the most out of your air rifle, there are various accessories that make shooting safer, more precise and more comfortable. Commonly used accessories are:

Scope/ Red dot: Om je nauwkeurigheid te verbeteren bij langeafstandsschieten.

Kogelvangers: Essentieel voor veilig schieten, vooral wanneer je op eigen terrein schiet.

Luchtpomp of Persluchtfles: Onmisbaar voor het vullen van PCP-luchtbuksen.

Foedrals and Suitcases: Voor veilig transport en opslag van je luchtbuks.

Reinigingskits: Voor het schoonmaken en onderhouden van je luchtbuks, essentieel om de levensduur te verlengen.

Want to buy an air rifle?

Looking for an air rifle? Barrel and Boar will be happy to help you out!