Req 2bb — Safe Storage and Handling
Air rifles are sometimes treated casually because they are “not real guns.” This is a dangerous attitude. An air rifle fires a projectile at significant velocity and can cause serious injury, including eye injury from a ricochet or direct hit. The same four safety rules from Req 1b apply fully.
Safe Storage Rules
1. Store the rifle uncocked and unloaded. A spring-piston air rifle that is stored cocked over a long period can weaken the spring (not all designs are affected, but it is good practice to de-cock before storage). Never store a rifle loaded with a pellet in the breech or a BB in the chamber.
2. Lock it up. Like a cartridge firearm, an air rifle should be stored in a locked cabinet or case to prevent unauthorized access by children.
3. Remove CO₂ cartridges before long-term storage. A leaking CO₂ cartridge can damage seals or corrode internal parts. Remove and dispose of partially spent cartridges before storage.
4. Store BBs and pellets separately. Keep ammunition in a separate container away from the rifle.
Safe Handling Rules
Apply all four safety rules:
- Treat every air rifle as if it is ready to fire.
- Never point it at anything you do not intend to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
- Know your target and what is beyond it.
Additional air rifle specifics:
- Break-barrel models: when cocking, keep the barrel pointed in a safe direction and keep fingers and hands clear of the pivot joint (the hinge mechanism can close quickly and pinch fingers if released).
- Never cock a break-barrel rifle and then set it down unattended—it is ready to fire.
- Do not fire CO₂-powered guns in temperatures below about 40°F (4°C) without checking the manufacturer’s guidance—cold reduces CO₂ pressure and the gun may not cycle properly.
Demonstrating for Your Counselor
Your counselor will observe you handling the air rifle on the range. Demonstrate muzzle discipline, trigger discipline, verifying the chamber/breech, opening the action to show clear during a cease-fire, and the correct method of cocking (for spring-piston designs) with hands and fingers in safe positions.