Air guns, or airsoft guns, are a fun way to test marksmanship for a number of people. There is no doubt that on a Saturday afternoon you can have fun with some shooting practice. They are also quite safe to use if you have the right rules in place.
Just remember what they really are. These are still guns. These guns differ from others in that they use high-powered air to project a pellet or other forms of ammunition. There’s nothing quite like the experience of using them. However, doing so safely really will make a difference in your ability to enjoy them.
These guns are safer than using a traditional gun. Yet injuries can still happen. The good news is that you can often prevent those risks with the help of a few tips and strategies. Let’s explore the risks and your rights.
Air Gun Statistics and Gun Safety Statistics
It is critical to understand all gun safety statistics. A Pew Research Study found that 48,830 people die in the US, on average, each year due to gun-related injuries. This includes murders and suicides, as well as gun accidents. About 54% of these are suicides.
Airsoft and air gun safety risks are far, far lower. It is important to know that, depending on the air gun itself, there are risks associated with them. A high-velocity BB gun, for example, can launch a projectile 350 feet per second, and that is risky. It can cause injuries to others. Keep in mind that these air guns cause about 4 deaths per year, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Nearly all injuries and risks associated with air guns can be prevented with proper safety measures put into place.
Air Gun Safety Starts At Home
Whether using them to hunt or for target practice, there are several very effective strategies to reduce safety risks. Consider the following air gun safety measures that apply to anyone using them.
- Storing guns: Always store air guns without any ammunition in them. When pulling them out of storage, double-check them immediately to ensure there is nothing in it.
- Ammunition type: Verify the type of ammunition necessary for the gun with the manufacturer. Do not use any type of ammunition other than what is allowable. If you are using the wrong ammunition, you can cause a misfire that leads to injuries.
- Protective gear: Always wear eye and ear protection when using air guns. This is very important since these are some of the most common serious injuries from accidents.
- Dress properly: Wearing shorts and t-shirts is not recommended for air gun use. There is too much risk to the skin. Instead, always dress with protective clothing that will offer some layer of safety for being hit. Additionally, if you will be in an area where others could be hunting, wear bright clothing so everyone can see you.
- Avoid sharing areas: When hunting, avoid being with other groups within the same area. It becomes too hard to know where every person is, and that creates a high risk of injury.
- Load it after use: Always unload the air gun and inspect it after use. It is critical that you place it into a safe container that will protect its function for the next time. Store it in a locked safety or storage cabinet.
Additional Safety Steps to Put Into Place
If you are not familiar with air guns, learn how to use them, how they work, and what details your child needs to use them safely (this is dependent on the type of gun but also your child’s age and abilities). Consider the following safety precautions and procedures.
Mechanical safety
The mechanical safety on the air gun will stop it from firing by locking the trigger into place. When this is engaged, it is not possible to fire the gun. Use this feature to minimize risks. Some air guns have a red line that indicates the safety feature is off, and that means they are ready to fire. If you see that, you know the tool is ready to use (and therefore should be handled properly).
Safety enhancers
There are a variety of safety-enhancing devices available that could help you to add more protection to them. That includes:
- Empty chamber indicators
- Open bolt indicators
- Safety rods
These allow you to manage their overall risk of use and, most of the time, reduce the risk of accidental or negligent discharges. Choose an enhancer right for the type of air gun you are using.
Talking To Kids About Air Gun Safety
Since many air guns are marketed to children, they can seem like a toys. They are anything but toys, and as a parent, it is critical that you work closely with your child to ensure they know what the rules are. Consider these steps to protect your child’s air gun knowledge and safety:
- Keep everything simple and age-appropriate. Be clear when discussing air gun usage with your child, including the rules of use, which include not using or accessing the gun when you are not available.
- Talk about air gun safety often. Refreshing their knowledge about the rules of use can help minimize risks later.
- Always focus on what can really happen. Depending on your child’s age, it helps to explain what could happen and what they can do to avoid it. Being honest like this can play a big role in the overall success of using these air guns.
Community Partnerships and Resources
Be an active member in the community when it comes to air guns and safety. Consider a few specific steps to ensure your children are actively a part of the community as well:
- Some community health departments have gun clubs. Find out if there is one within your area that they can join to learn safe handling and responsibility.
- Turn to local marksman groups and gun resource centers. Some local schools and vocational programs may offer these types of services as well.
Be active within your community by looking for organizations to be a part of that encourage not just air gun safety but also gun safety within the area. You may find online groups to help you start the conversation, depending on where you are located.
