Why Choose Air Guns from Ammunition Depot?
Air guns and pellet guns were first introduced in the late 16th century as innovative tools for hunting and military training, with early models dating back to Germany where engineers like Guter Lobsinger pioneered pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) designs.
Originally developed as alternatives to traditional black powder firearms, these early air rifles were prized for their silent operation, low recoil, and impressive power, especially in European armies during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Over the centuries, advancements in compressed air and CO₂ technology transformed air guns from curiosities into reliable tools for target shooting, small game hunting, and competitive shooting sports.
Today, air guns and pellet rifles are a cornerstone of the shooting world — used by everyone from first-time shooters and recreational plinkers to Olympic athletes and precision shooting competitors.
Whether you're training in your backyard or practicing for field target matches, modern airguns deliver exceptional accuracy, affordability, and ease of use.
At Ammunition Depot, our collection includes a wide range of .177 and .22 caliber pellet guns, CO₂ and PCP air rifles, air pistols, and all the air gun supplies you need — including pellets, air tanks, scopes, cleaning kits, and more.
Whether you're looking for an entry-level break-barrel or a high-performance tactical air rifle, we carry trusted brands built for accuracy, consistency, and shooting enjoyment.
Uses Cases for Pellet Guns
- Sport Shooting
Air guns are widely used in competitive sports, including events like the Olympic 10m Air Rifle and Air Pistol shooting. Their precision and adjustable features make them suitable for professional training and competition. - Hunting and Pest Control
Specially designed high-powered air rifles are effective for controlling pests and hunting small to medium-sized game. They offer a quieter alternative to traditional firearms, making them ideal for populated areas where noise may be a concern. - Recreational Shooting
Air guns are great for recreational use due to their low operating cost and safety when compared to traditional firearms. They are perfect for new shooters to learn shooting fundamentals before advancing to more powerful firearms. - Training and Education
Air guns serve as excellent training tools for new shooters. They provide a realistic experience that helps in building proper shooting techniques without the high costs or legal restrictions associated with shooting traditional firearms.
Benefits of Air Rifles and Air Pistols
- Accuracy
Modern air guns can offer surprising accuracy. They are capable of shooting sub-minutes of angle, meaning they can consistently hit tight groupings at significant distances, such as 100 yards and beyond.
Many shooters are impressed when they place five pellets through the same hole at 25 yards. This level of precision makes air rifles ideal for recreational shooting and more serious, competitive target practices. - Cost-Effectiveness
Ammunition for air guns is inexpensive, and they do not require actual gunpowder or expensive propellants, which reduces the cost of shooting practice. - Great for Learning
Air guns are excellent for beginners because they generally have low recoil and produce minimal noise. These features help new shooters focus on mastering the fundamentals of shooting without the intimidation factor often associated with louder firearms with more kick.
Since you can use them in many places, including indoor areas like basements, you can practice more frequently, reinforcing your skills. Starting with an air gun can build a solid foundation that applies to all types of shooting disciplines. - Low Noise Levels
Air rifles and air pistols operate quietly, especially compared to conventional firearms, thus reducing noise pollution and making them neighbor-friendly in residential areas. - Minimal Legal Restrictions
Air guns face fewer legal restrictions, making them easier to purchase and own. This accessibility makes them a practical choice for many people interested in shooting sports. - Versatility
Air guns come in various calibers and sizes, making them suitable for shooters of all ages and skill levels.
Many air guns are quiet enough to use in your backyard, which is perfect whether you're knocking over cans for fun, participating in competitive field target shooting, or preparing for a big game hunt. Their ability to adapt to different shooting activities makes them exceptionally versatile. - Safety
While it's essential to follow standard firearm safety practices with air guns, they are inherently safer than more powerful firearms. Air guns fire pellets and BBs that are less powerful and don't travel as far as traditional firearm ammunition.
This makes them a fantastic tool for teaching gun safety, as the lower power provides a safer environment for learning handling and shooting principles. Introducing a new shooter to gun safety with a BB gun or a low-powered air rifle can effectively instill a lifelong respect for firearms
Types of Air Guns Available
Popular Air Rifles
RWS Model 34
- Type: Break barrel
- Caliber: .177 and .22
- Features: Known for its robust construction and reliable performance. It offers smooth operation with a well-balanced design, perfect for target shooting and pest control.
Umarex Gauntlet
- Type: Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)
- Caliber: .177, .22, and .25
- Features: Provides consistent, accurate shots with a regulated PCP system, boasting a 10-shot magazine and a built-in pressure gauge.
Sig Sauer MCX Virtus PCP
- Type: Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)
- Caliber: .22
- Features: Modeled after the MCX Virtus Assault Rifle, it offers semi-automatic firing and includes a 30-round pellet magazine, ideal for both training and target practice.
Hatsan BullBoss
- Type: Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)
- Caliber: .177, .22, and .25
- Features: Compact bullpup design, excellent for maneuverability and stability, with an adjustable cheek rest and a detachable air cylinder.
Diana RWS 460 Magnum
- Type: Underlever spring-piston
- Caliber: .177, .22
- Features: High power output suitable for hunting and long-range targets, with a straight and classic stock design and an adjustable trigger.
Popular Air Pistols
Byrna SD
- Type: CO2 powered
- Caliber: .68 caliber projectiles
- Features: A non-lethal self-defense weapon that shoots chemical irritant projectiles, ideal for personal security without the need for a firearm license.
Sig Sauer P320
- Type: CO2 powered
- Caliber: .177 pellet
- Features: Replica of the P320 firearm, it features a 30-round belt magazine and can shoot pellets at up to 430 fps, perfect for practice and plinking.
Umarex Glock 19
- Type: CO2 powered
- Caliber: .177 BB
- Features: Faithful replica of the Glock 19, it provides a realistic practice tool with a fixed slide and no blowback, keeping it simple and cost-effective.
Umarex XBG
- Type: CO2 powered
- Caliber: .177 BB
- Features: Lightweight and compact design with a 19-shot drop-free metal magazine and a picatinny rail for accessories.
Sig Sauer P226
- Type: CO2 powered
- Caliber: .177 pellet
- Features: Full-metal body provides a realistic weight and feel, enhanced by its semi-automatic firing mode, making it ideal for training and target shooting.
Air Gun FAQs
QUESTION: What is an air gun and how does it work?
ANSWER: An air gun is a firearm alternative that uses compressed air, gas, or CO2 cartridges to propel a pellet, BB, or dart. Unlike traditional firearms, air guns do not rely on gunpowder, making them quieter, easier to handle, and often more affordable to shoot.
QUESTION: What are the Types of Air Guns?
ANSWER: Popular types include Spring Powered, Gas Piston, Precharged Pneumatic, Variable Pump, and C02.
- Spring Powered: A spring powered air rifle utilizes a piston and coiled spring inside the chamber. The the rifle is cocked, the spring will be compressed and then decompressed once the trigger is pulled.
- Gas Piston: A gas piston air gun works the same way as the spring piston gun but utilizes a gas-filled cylinder instead of a coiled spring.
- Precharged Pneumatic: The precharged pneumatic (PCP) air gun uses high-pressurized air in the chamber as the propellant force to discharge the pellet.
- Variable Pump: The variable pump gun has a piston and a pressure cylinder in the chamber. When you cock the rifle, the air between the piston and cylinder is compressed.
- C02: CO2 powered air gun works the same way as a PCP air gun but it uses carbon dioxide cartridges (CO2) as the power source instead of the pressurized gas.
QUESTION: Are air guns suitable for beginners?
ANSWER: Yes, many air guns for beginners are lightweight, easy to use, and cost-effective. They are popular for teaching new shooters firearm safety and marksmanship skills before transitioning to live firearms.
QUESTION: Can air guns be used for hunting?
ANSWER: Absolutely. Many high-powered air rifles are designed for small game and varmint hunting, offering precision and humane knockdown power. Always check local regulations, as hunting laws for air guns can vary by state.
QUESTION: What is the difference between an air gun and an airsoft gun?
ANSWER: An air gun fires pellets or BBs designed for target shooting, training, or hunting, while airsoft guns use lightweight plastic BBs and are commonly used for recreational gameplay and tactical training.
QUESTION: Where can I find air guns for sale online?
ANSWER: You can shop a wide selection of air guns for sale from top brands like Crosman, Umarex, Gamo, and Daisy. At Ammunition Depot, we offer air rifles, air pistols, and airsoft guns at competitive prices, with options for every shooter.
QUESTION: Do air guns require special maintenance?
ANSWER: Yes, regular cleaning and proper storage are recommended. Using quality pellets or BBs, maintaining seals, and keeping the barrel clean will extend the life and accuracy of your air gun.
QUESTION: What are the Benefits of Air Guns?
ANSWER: Popular benefits include Versatility, Great for Learning / Great for Beginners, Cheap to own / Cheap to Shoot.
- Versatility: They are available in a variety of calibers and sizes appropriate for shooters of all ages and sizes, and many of them are quiet enough to shoot in a backyard.
- Great for Learning: Because Air Guns are quiet and don't produce much recoil, they allow those new to firearms the opportunity to master the fundamentals of shooting.
- Cheap to Shoot: You can spend as little or as much on an airgun as you want, but the ammo is usually very cheap.
QUESTION: Who can Purchase an Air Gun?
ANSWER: The minimum age for purchasing an Air Rifle or Air Pistol is eighteen 18 years old (in most states) and there are currently no federal laws that regulate air rifles, air pistols, BB guns or pellet guns in the United States. However, there are several states that DO regulate these firearms. *It is always recommended to research the regulations in your state before making a firearm purchase.