what is airgun

An airgun, also known as an air rifle or air pistol, is a type of gun that uses compressed air or other gases as a propellant to fire projectiles such as pellets or BBs. The compressed air is stored in the gun until the trigger is pulled, releasing the gas behind the projectile and propelling it down the barrel. Air guns come in both long gun (air rifle) and handgun (air pistol) forms, and can be used for small game hunting, pest control, recreational shooting, and competitive sports such as the Olympic 10m Air Rifle and 10m Air Pistol events. Some air guns can also fire arrows. Air guns can be regulated or unregulated, and all types have an onboard cylinder that holds compressed air. While air guns are often used for recreational purposes, they can pose a serious threat to the pediatric population and their potential for serious injury must be recognized.