The difference between air guns and rifles: What every shooter should know

If you’re new to shooting or exploring which firearm best suits your needs, it’s important to understand the difference between air guns and rifles. While they may look similar, these two types of guns operate very differently and are suited for different shooting disciplines.

In this blog, we break down the key differences between air guns and rifles — covering how they work, what they’re used for and which is best depending on your shooting goals.

What is an air gun?

An air gun is a type of gun that uses compressed air or gas to fire pellets or BBs. Unlike traditional rifles that rely on the ignition of gunpowder, air guns operate without any explosive propellant.

There are several types of air guns:

• Spring-powered

• Gas-ram (or gas piston)

• Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)

• CO2-powered

Air guns are popular for:

• Target shooting and plinking

• Small pest control (e.g. rats or pigeons)

• Introduction to shooting sports

• Backyard shooting (subject to UK laws)

What is a rifle?

A rifle is a firearm that uses cartridges containing gunpowder to fire bullets at high velocity. Rifles typically have a long barrel with spiral grooves (rifling) that stabilise the bullet in flight.

There are different types of rifles, including:

• Bolt-action

• Semi-automatic

• Lever-action

• Straight-pull

Rifles are commonly used for:

• Deer stalking and large game hunting

• Long-range target shooting

• Professional and military use

• Competitive precision shooting

Key differences between air guns and rifles

Power source    

Air Guns: Compressed air, gas or spring    

Rifles: Gunpowder in cartridges

Ammunition    

Air Guns: Pellets or BBs    

Rifles: Bullets in brass-cased ammunition

Noise level    

Air Guns: Relatively quiet    

Rifles: Louder, often requires hearing protection

Legislation (UK)    

Air Guns: Easier to obtain (some under 12 ft/lbs)    

Rifles: Requires Firearms Certificate (FAC)

Effective range    

Air Guns: Shorter (20–50 metres)    

Rifles: Longer (100+ metres depending on calibre)

Cost to shoot

Air Guns: More affordable (ammo + maintenance)    

Rifles: Higher cost (ammo, licensing, maintenance)

Maintenance

Air Guns: Minimal upkeep    

Rifles: Regular and thorough cleaning required

Legal considerations in the UK

In the UK, air guns under 12 ft/lbs (for rifles) or 6 ft/lbs (for pistols) can be owned without a firearm certificate (FAC), as long as the shooter is over 18 and uses them responsibly. However, high-powered air rifles, as well as any traditional rifle, require an FAC.

Storage laws, safe handling and landowner permission also apply — so it’s important to stay up to date with current UK firearms legislation.

Which should you choose?

Choose an air gun if you:

• Are just getting started with shooting

• Want to shoot in your garden (where legally permitted)

• Need a quieter, low-cost option

• Are targeting small pests

Choose a rifle if you:

• Want to hunt larger game such as deer or fox

• Plan to shoot at longer distances

• Are interested in competitive or precision shooting

• Are prepared to go through the FAC application process

Final thoughts

While air guns and rifles may share a similar form, they are fundamentally different in how they work and what they’re used for. Understanding these differences is crucial whether you’re choosing your first gun, expanding your collection or simply curious about the sport.

At Rightgun.uk, we offer a wide range of both air guns and rifles, along with expert guidance to help you make the right choice for your shooting needs.

Must read:

• The history of shooting sports in the UK

• What deer can you shoot in July in the UK?

• A review of the Beretta Silver Pigeon I: A British favourite

• Browning B725 Shotgun: A modern classic for clay and game shooters