Air Rifles

What is an Air Rifle?

An air rifle is an air gun with a long stock and a long barrel, providing greater stability and control while shooting. Air rifles are widely used for recreational shooting, target shooting, precision shooting, Field Target (FT), Hunter Field Target (HFT), benchrest and other shooting disciplines. Depending on the power system, air rifles are available in a wide range of calibres, power levels and configurations. Our range includes PCP air rifles, spring-piston air rifles, gas ram air rifles and CO₂ air rifles from leading manufacturers including FX Airguns, Weihrauch, Gamo, Diana, Hatsan, Huben, AirForce, Hammerli, Walther and Umarex.

Types of Air Rifles

Choosing the right air rifle starts with selecting the most suitable power system. Each system offers its own characteristics and advantages.

PCP Air Rifles

PCP stands for Pre-Charged Pneumatic. These air rifles use a pre-filled compressed air cylinder to deliver consistent power with very little recoil. This makes them particularly well suited to precision shooting, long-range shooting and competition.

Spring-Piston Air Rifles

A spring-piston air rifle stores energy by compressing a powerful steel spring before each shot. When fired, the spring drives a piston forward, compressing the air that propels the projectile. Spring-piston air rifles are reliable, durable and do not require compressed air or CO₂.

Gas Ram Air Rifles

Gas ram air rifles operate on the same principle as spring-piston models but use a sealed gas strut instead of a steel spring. This often provides a smoother firing cycle and more consistent performance.

CO₂ Air Rifles

CO₂ air rifles use replaceable CO₂ cartridges as their power source. They are simple to operate and are particularly popular for recreational shooting. Because CO₂ pressure changes with temperature, performance may vary in colder conditions.

Break Barrel, Underlever or Sidelever?

Besides the power system, air rifles also differ in their cocking mechanism.

Break Barrel

A break barrel air rifle is cocked by hinging the barrel downward. This is the most common design for spring-piston and many gas ram air rifles.

Underlever

An underlever air rifle is cocked using a lever located beneath the barrel. Because the barrel remains fixed, this design is often preferred by shooters seeking maximum barrel consistency.

Sidelever

Sidelever air rifles use a cocking lever mounted on the side of the action. This system is commonly found on premium precision and competition air rifles.

Choosing the Right Calibre

Choosing the correct calibre influences trajectory, projectile weight, retained energy and the intended application of an air rifle. The most suitable calibre depends on your shooting discipline and personal preferences.

4.5 mm (.177)

The .177 calibre is the most popular choice for recreational shooting, target shooting and competition. Its relatively high velocity produces a flat trajectory, making it ideal for accurate shooting at short to medium distances.

5.5 mm (.22)

The .22 calibre fires a heavier projectile than .177 and is widely used in PCP air rifles and more powerful spring-piston models. It is a versatile calibre for recreational and sporting use.

6.35 mm (.25)

The .25 calibre is primarily used in powerful PCP air rifles. Its heavier projectile makes it well suited to shooting at longer distances.

7.62 mm (.30)

The .30 calibre is mainly found in high-powered PCP air rifles and is chosen by shooters looking for increased projectile weight and energy. Pellets and, where appropriate, slugs are available for all common air rifle calibres.

Pellets or Slugs?

Not every air rifle is designed for the same type of projectile. Choosing between pellets and slugs has a significant impact on accuracy and overall performance.

Pellets

Pellets feature the familiar diabolo shape and are suitable for virtually all air rifles. They are the standard choice for recreational shooting, target shooting and competition and are available in a wide range of weights and designs.

Slugs

Slugs are generally heavier and more cylindrical than traditional pellets. They are primarily intended for powerful PCP air rifles. Factors such as barrel twist rate, barrel dimensions and available power all influence their performance.

Choosing the Right Rifle Scope

A quality rifle scope helps you get the most from your air rifle. The most suitable optic depends on your shooting distance, discipline and the type of air rifle you use. For recreational shooting, a compact scope is often sufficient. For Field Target, benchrest and precision shooting, many shooters prefer a variable-magnification scope with adjustable parallax. Equally important is a stable scope mount that keeps the optic securely aligned with the rifle.

What Should You Consider When Buying an Air Rifle?

Several factors should be considered before purchasing an air rifle.

• The preferred power system (PCP, spring-piston, gas ram or CO₂).
• The most suitable calibre.
• Your typical shooting distance.
• Recreational shooting or competition use.
• Compatibility with accessories such as a rifle scope, bipod or moderator.
• The availability of suitable pellets or slugs.

By identifying your intended use in advance, it becomes much easier to select an air rifle that matches your shooting style and requirements.

Air Rifle Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure reliable operation and extends the service life of an air rifle. How often maintenance is required depends on how frequently the rifle is used, the type of ammunition and the shooting conditions. Clean the barrel only when necessary and always use cleaning products that are suitable for air guns. After cleaning, protect exposed metal parts with an appropriate lubricant to help prevent corrosion.

Leading Air Rifle Brands

Our range includes air rifles from manufacturers recognised worldwide for their quality, innovation and reliability.

FX Airguns

FX Airguns is renowned for premium PCP air rifles featuring modular designs and extensive adjustment options. The brand is widely respected among precision and long-range shooters.

Weihrauch

Weihrauch has earned an outstanding reputation for its precision-engineered spring-piston air rifles and the famous Rekord trigger system. The company also manufactures high-quality PCP air rifles.

Gamo

Gamo offers a broad selection of air rifles for recreational and sporting shooters. The brand is known for combining modern features with excellent value for money.

Diana

Diana is one of the most established names in the air gun industry, producing high-quality spring-piston air rifles alongside modern PCP models.

Hatsan

Hatsan manufactures PCP, spring-piston and gas ram air rifles with extensive features and a wide range of calibre options.

Huben

Huben specialises in powerful PCP air rifles featuring innovative magazine systems and high shot capacity.

AirForce

AirForce Airguns develops high-performance PCP air rifles with a modular platform designed for demanding shooters.

Hammerli

Hammerli combines ease of use with solid engineering and offers air rifles for both recreational and sporting applications.

Walther

Walther manufactures air rifles for training, recreational shooting and competition, ranging from traditional spring-piston models to modern PCP platforms.

Umarex

Umarex offers an extensive range of air rifles across multiple price categories and produces many officially licensed models.

Recommended Air Rifle Accessories

The right accessories allow you to tailor an air rifle to your shooting discipline and improve overall performance.

• Rifle scopes for accurate shooting at a variety of distances.
• Scope mounts for secure and repeatable optic installation.
• Bipods for increased stability during precision shooting.
• Moderators for compatible air rifles.
• Pellets and slugs in a wide range of calibres.
• Maintenance products to keep your air rifle performing reliably.

Frequently Asked Questions about Air Rifles

What is the difference between an air rifle and an air gun?

An air rifle is a type of air gun with a shoulder stock and a longer barrel. The term "air gun" includes both air rifles and air pistols.

What is the difference between a PCP and a spring-piston air rifle?

A PCP air rifle uses a pre-filled compressed air cylinder to provide consistent power with very little recoil. A spring-piston air rifle generates compressed air mechanically with a spring before every shot.

Is a gas ram better than a spring-piston air rifle?

Both systems have their own advantages. Gas ram models often provide a smoother firing cycle, while spring-piston air rifles are known for their simple and proven design.

Which calibre should I choose?

The .177 calibre is widely used for target shooting and competition, while .22 is a versatile choice for recreational and sporting use. Larger calibres are generally found in powerful PCP air rifles.

Can I use both pellets and slugs?

Not every air rifle is designed for slugs. Compatibility depends on factors such as calibre, barrel twist rate and power output.

Which rifle scope is best for an air rifle?

The ideal scope depends on the shooting distance and discipline. Precision shooters often choose variable-magnification scopes with adjustable parallax.

How often should I clean my air rifle?

Clean the barrel only when necessary, particularly if accuracy begins to decline or fouling becomes noticeable.

Can every air rifle be fitted with a moderator?

No. A moderator can only be fitted if the air rifle has the correct barrel thread or a compatible adapter.

Which accessories are recommended?

Many shooters choose a quality rifle scope, sturdy mounts, suitable pellets or slugs, a bipod and appropriate maintenance products.

Why choose an air rifle from SEM Jacht & Schietsport?

SEM Jacht & Schietsport offers a carefully selected range of air rifles from leading manufacturers. Our technical expertise helps you choose the right rifle and accessories for recreational shooting, target shooting and precision shooting.

Why Choose SEM Jacht & Schietsport?

SEM Jacht & Schietsport offers an extensive range of air rifles from leading manufacturers, supported by expert advice and carefully selected accessories. Whether you are buying your first air rifle or upgrading an existing setup, we are happy to help you find the right combination for your shooting discipline and experience.