Air rifle shooting is one of the most rewarding and accessible shooting sports you can try. Whether you're visiting our range in York for the first time or looking to improve your accuracy, this guide covers everything you need to know to hit the target consistently.
At Yorkshire Activity Centre, we've taught thousands of people how to shoot an air rifle, from complete beginners to those looking to sharpen their skills. Here's what our instructors teach every session.
1. Safety First
Before picking up any air rifle, safety is the absolute priority. At our York range, every session begins with a comprehensive safety briefing. Here are the golden rules:
- 1.Always treat the rifle as if it's loaded -- even when you know it isn't.
- 2.Never point the muzzle at anything you don't intend to shoot. Keep it pointed downrange at all times.
- 3.Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to take your shot.
- 4.Be aware of your target and what's beyond it. Always know where your pellet will go.
2. Get Your Stance Right
A solid stance is the foundation of accurate shooting. Your body position determines how stable and consistent your shots will be.
Standing Position
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, roughly perpendicular to the target. Your body should be at about a 45-degree angle to the firing line. Keep your weight evenly distributed or slightly forward. Stay relaxed -- tension is the enemy of accuracy.
Seated / Bench Rest
If shooting from a bench, sit squarely behind the rifle. Use the rest or sandbags to support the forend of the rifle, never the barrel. Keep your body aligned naturally towards the target so you don't have to twist or strain.
3. How to Hold the Rifle
Your grip should be firm but not tight. Think of holding a handshake -- confident but relaxed.
- --Trigger hand: Wrap your dominant hand around the pistol grip naturally. The pad of your index finger (not the joint) should rest on the trigger.
- --Support hand: Your non-dominant hand supports the forend of the rifle. Don't grip it tightly -- let the rifle rest in your palm.
- --Cheek weld: Press your cheek firmly against the stock in the same spot every time. This consistency is key for getting a clear, full picture through the scope.
- --Butt in the shoulder: Pull the stock firmly into the pocket of your shoulder. This keeps the rifle stable and reduces movement.
4. Aiming -- Using a Scope
All of our air rifles at Yorkshire Activity Centre are fitted with telescopic scopes, making it much easier to see and hit your target. Here's how to use a scope properly.
Using the Scope
When looking through the scope, you need to achieve a clear, full image with the crosshairs centred on your target.
- Position your eye at the correct distance behind the scope (known as "eye relief") so you see a full, clear circle with no black shadowing around the edges.
- If you see dark shadows or a crescent shape around the image, adjust your head position forwards or backwards until the picture is clear.
- Place the centre of the crosshairs directly on where you want the pellet to hit.
- Keep both eyes relaxed. Some shooters prefer to close one eye, others keep both open -- try both and see what feels natural.
Top tip: Consistent cheek weld is even more important with a scope. If your head position changes between shots, you'll see a different part of the scope image and your shots will drift. Our instructors at Yorkshire Activity Centre will help you find the perfect position.
5. Breathing Control
Your breathing moves your entire body, which moves the rifle. Learning to control it is one of the biggest improvements you can make.
The Breathing Technique
- Breathe in naturally.
- Breathe out halfway.
- Pause your breathing (this is called the "natural respiratory pause").
- Take your shot during this pause -- you have about 3-5 seconds of stability.
- If you run out of time, breathe again and restart the cycle. Never force the shot.
6. Trigger Control
This is where most beginners go wrong. A bad trigger pull can send an otherwise perfect shot wide of the mark.
- --Squeeze, don't pull. Apply slow, steady, rearward pressure on the trigger. The shot should almost "surprise" you when it breaks.
- --Use the pad of your finger. The fleshy part of your fingertip (not the joint) gives you the most control.
- --Don't snatch or jerk. If you anticipate the shot and flinch, you'll pull the rifle off target. Stay calm and let it happen naturally.
7. Follow Through
Many shooters make the mistake of immediately looking up to check where the pellet landed. This movement can actually affect your shot.
After the trigger breaks, keep everything still for a moment. Maintain your cheek weld, keep the crosshairs on target, and hold your position. Only after the pellet has hit the target should you relax. This discipline of "follow through" is what separates good shooters from great ones.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Gripping Too Tight
A death grip causes muscle fatigue and trembling. Keep your hold relaxed and natural.
Rushing the Shot
Take your time. A deliberate, controlled shot will always beat a rushed one.
Inconsistent Cheek Weld
If your cheek position changes between shots, your point of aim shifts. Find a comfortable spot and stick to it.
Flinching
Anticipating the shot causes you to tense up and pull the rifle off target. Focus on a smooth trigger squeeze.
Ready to Try It Yourself?
There's no substitute for hands-on experience. Our expert instructors at Yorkshire Activity Centre in York will guide you through every step, from loading the rifle to hitting bullseyes. Sessions are perfect for beginners and experienced shooters alike.