Air pistols are a type of firearm that uses compressed air or gas to propel a projectile. They are less powerful than pistols and are typically used for target shooting, pest control or hunting small game. Most are designed to fire BBs (lead or a lead alloy), but some models may be capable of firing steel pellets.
Originally, most air guns were powered by some sort of spring that, when cocked, pushed back a piston against which a BB could be loaded. The BB was then pushed forward by the spring to compress the air behind it in the barrel or bore. This pushed the BB out the end of the gun, creating a projectile. This type of gun is still available, though not in very high-powered versions. These low-powered spring guns are usually prone to vibration, a problem that can be addressed by the use of close-fitting piston guides or by the addition of high-viscosity tenacious grease to the spring which both lubricates and dampens the vibration. Despite their limited power, these types of air guns are still widely utilized in ISSF 10 meter air pistol and rifle shooting sports events and for recreational target shooting or pop can punching.
More recent pistols are powered by precharged pneumatic air (PCP) systems. These guns use an air tank or reservoir that is filled with pressurized air, which is then transferred to the gun by the action of a filling valve. PCP airguns can offer a greater range of power, and some can shoot as many as 100 shots per charge depending on the size of the reservoir or tank. air pistols