Which pneumatics without a license are suitable for hunting, examples of rifles

Pneumatic weapons are increasingly being used as hunting weapons. The popularity of pneumatics is due to its undeniable advantages:

• relatively small weight;
• no need to obtain a license;
• low noise level;
• low cost.

But the legislative aspects of hunting should be considered separately, since in theory and practice there are so many disagreements that the topic of hunting with an air rifle without a license is perhaps the most discussed in interested circles. And if you can choose a pneumatic to hunt legally, then what parameters should you pay attention to?

Features of hunting with air guns

First of all, it should be noted that hunting with pneumatics has a number of beneficial advantages that directly arise from the qualities of this type of weapon.

• The shot of a firearm is so loud that it can sometimes be heard for several kilometers, and this can scare away the animal.
• When hunting for small game, it is convenient to carry a pneumatic gun due to its light weight.
• Servicing an air gun involves its partial disassembly and cleaning, but this is done much less frequently than when servicing firearms.
• Despite the impact force, which in some models reaches high values, pneumatics are considered safer.
• Relatively low costs for purchasing the weapon itself, as well as ammunition.

It is traditionally believed that targeted shooting from a pneumatic weapon is possible only at a distance of up to one hundred meters, since the energy of the shot is far from the energy of a real hunting rifle. But some samples of heavy-duty pneumatics are even suitable for hunting large animals.

Finally, the most attractive thing about air rifle hunting is the fact that many types of weapons can be used without a license or permit. However, the very concept of hunting and pneumatic weapons somehow do not get along in the law. It is necessary to further understand the nuances of Russian legislation. Otherwise, confusion can bring a law-abiding citizen under the criminal law.

We encounter the first paradox in terms. First, the law on weapons tells us that hunting with pneumatic guns is prohibited in Russia. Between the lines we read the principle of humanity, because often an animal wounded by a pneumatic bullet is doomed to a painful death.

But already in the classification of pneumatic weapons it is indicated that specimens with muzzle energy up to 7.5 Joules are sports or hunting weapons. In this case, shooting stray animals is considered the responsibility of the hunter. The law does not prohibit hunting crows, small rodents, dogs and foxes during officially announced shooting.

Features of 9 mm pneumatics

Pneumatics differ from firearms in the principle of firing. Unlike gunpowder in firearms, compressed air or gas propels the bullet. Thus, the power of the shot is significantly reduced. Small-caliber air rifles are used mainly for entertainment and sport: to shoot at cans in the country, in competitions for accuracy and speed of hitting targets. They will require an appropriate license.

But a pneumatic gun with 9 mm bullets is a full-fledged hunting tool. Such weapons require a special hunting license, and for their use outside hunting grounds and forestry there is a considerable fine.

The main advantage of pneumatics for hunting is not power, but accuracy. It is largely determined by the mass and shape of the bullets. It is better to choose ones like Diana Rastat, and for long-range shooting bullets from RWS, H&H or Walther are suitable.

Airguns and license

At the moment, you can purchase pneumatic weapons without a license if its muzzle energy does not exceed 7.5 J and the caliber is 4.5 mm. But when it comes to specimens with energy up to 3 J, even the law does not consider such devices to be weapons, therefore, with such muzzle energy, calibers of 5.5 mm and 6.35 mm are allowed. No one bothers you to hunt small animals using sporting weapons, so in the segment up to 7.5 J there are no questions.

Hunters with real passion cannot be content with shooting crows, so they dream of buying powerful pneumatics, which by law must be accompanied by mandatory licensing.

However, among the forum visitors there are users who claim that it is possible to legally use powerful guns without any license. Do their words not correspond to reality or are there certain nuances in the legislation that allow you to interpret the text of the articles in your own way?

First of all, pneumatic manufacturers resort to certain tricks. Since the law does not define a ban on technical additions and improvements, when purchasing in a store they can offer a spare, more powerful spring, after replacing which the value of the muzzle energy takes the weapon beyond the limit that allows it to be used without special permission.

The standard approach of the manufacturer is to reduce the power of the gun, while leaving the possibility of modifying it.

• Pistons with holes are often found. Low compression does not allow the bullet to develop high speed. However, replacing the piston already turns such a weapon, often called a “toy”, into a real hunting rifle.
• Another option to reduce the performance of a weapon is to reduce the bypass hole. As a result, the amount of gases penetrating into the piston is reduced. All the owner needs to do is drill a hole and assemble the rifle or carbine.

It is necessary to make a small digression. Such actions can, if desired, be regarded as criminal. Statistics show that this method of taking possession of powerful pneumatics without permission is quite real, but each owner must make his own decision about compliance with the law. The manufacturer will not be held liable if changes in the design are detected, since a copy was sold that corresponded to the passport specifications.

If the hunter comes to the attention of the police, then the latter will not be able to determine the alteration, but they have the right to send the weapon for examination. This is where all the cards will be revealed. So the advice is not the best in terms of legality, but many hunters follow it with complete impunity.

How to choose a sound moderator for an air rifle

DIY pneumatic targets

It is believed that the best sound moderators are produced by the British. An example is the products of the BSA Guns company, which places the main emphasis on strict control of production technology. All mufflers of this brand are distinguished by durability, quality and reliability.

Hatsan sound moderators are also popular, mainly due to their affordable cost. This Turkish brand cannot boast of a half-century history, but it regularly introduces innovative solutions and actively pushes out competitors in the niche of muffler production. Hatsan products are distinguished by their stylishness, thoughtful design and high technology.

When choosing a silencer for an air rifle, it is necessary to take into account the design features of the weapon. Here are some examples:

• Benjamin Discovery. The barrel diameter (outer) floats, so before purchasing a suppressor you need to take careful measurements with a caliper.
• Diana-350. The rifle is distinguished by the loud impact of the piston, blocking all other sounds. Once you install a moderator, you may think there is no difference. In fact, the operation of the muffler can be heard at a distance of 15-20 meters - and no less.
• RSR. Hunting rifles of this type are characterized by supersonic speeds and high overshoot. By adjusting these parameters, you can effectively suppress the sound of a shot.

In general, when choosing a moderator, you will have to be guided by the following criteria:

1. caliber;
2. make/model of weapon;
3. fit on the trunk (desired length);
4. overall muffler length;
5. presence of thread.

Separation of pneumatics according to operating principle

The ability to use air guns without OLRR permission remains a fundamental factor when choosing a suitable model, but is far from the only one. Therefore, let's look at some types of weapons classification.

The first classification is based on the principle of operation of the device. All blowguns boil down to the fact that the bullet in it acquires energy due to the expansion of the gas. The types of pneumatics are determined by the principle of compression of this gas.

• Compression pneumatics are characterized by the fact that gas is contained in a special tank under pressure; it is supplied through the operation of a lever mechanism or compressor. One pump is enough for dozens of shots. With one shot, a special dispenser releases a portion of gas, which is enough to disperse the bullet in the barrel. The advantage of such a device is that it does not need to be reloaded after each shot. The disadvantage manifests itself when charging (pumping) the tank. Often it is necessary to have special equipment. Some models use muscle force to operate the pump.
• The operation of the spring-piston system is based on the action of the elastic force of a compressed spring. Under the influence of this force, the piston in the cylinder begins to move, pumping air, which subsequently pushes the bullet out. The advantage of this type of weapon is its relative simplicity and low cost. It is thanks to these indicators that spring-piston pneumatics have earned popularity. It can be purchased inexpensively not only at a gun store, but also at a sporting goods store. The disadvantages include large dimensions. Due to the length of the barrel, which in pistols reaches 22 cm, such weapons are inconvenient to use for self-defense. In addition, you have to reload the weapon after each shot. A distinctive feature of the spring-piston system is the bend in the barrel for charging the spring.
• Gas-cylinder devices use carbon dioxide, which is contained in compressed form in special tanks. Such a reservoir is inserted into the pistol handle. At the same time, the capsule breaks through the protective partition and the gas in the cylinder is able to escape, but is retained by the dispenser. Such devices are used to make dummies of real firearms. Its caliber can reach 9 mm, but due to its low energy, such pneumatic weapons can be freely purchased without a license. The disadvantage is that if the partition is broken, the gun can only go on for a limited time without firing, because the gas gradually leaves the cylinder.

Principle of operation

To understand the principle of operation of the sound moderator, it is necessary to clearly imagine the picture of a pneumatic shot. The sound of a rifle shot (pneumatic) consists of four components:

1. The piston hits the compressor wall (this happens after the spring is decompressed). The sound of the impact disappears 20 meters from the barrel.
2. Air cotton. The bullet is pushed out of the rifle barrel, and then a popping sound is heard. This occurs due to a sharp pressure drop. The sound of the pop can be heard far away, so it is better to get rid of it.
3. The hiss of a bullet. It is heard during the flight of a bullet and is explained by air turbulence at its edges.
4. The sound of a hit. Occurs when a bullet hits a target.

It is impossible to eliminate all these side effects, but a high-quality sound moderator allows you to minimize the second point.

Separation by barrel type

Air guns can be divided by loading method or barrel type.

• The first group includes guns with a breaking barrel when the spring is cocked.
• The second group includes weapons in which the barrel remains solid, and the spring is cocked with a special lever.

It is traditionally believed that specimens with a fractured barrel are less durable due to wear of the hinge joints.

How to make a muffler with your own hands

If you cannot afford to buy a sound moderator, and you still want to muffle the sound of a shot from your favorite rifle, then we suggest that you take advantage of the opportunity to make a “silencer” at home. Just follow the instructions below:

1. Step 1 - determine the diameter. The diameter should be the same as that of the trunk.
2. Step 2 – purchase a muzzle guard. Sold in almost any gun store.
3. Step 3 - make partitions. You can use washers or lids for this purpose.
4. Step 4 – grind the holes. We smooth the washers and place them inside the cylinder.
5. Step 5 – glue the tubes. The inner surface of the muzzle must be covered with rubber.

After this, all that remains is to screw the “silencer” to the barrel and fire a few test shots. If the noise level remains high, it is recommended to add several additional baffles to the muzzle.

Division by internal diameter of the trunk

Nowadays it is not a problem to buy pneumatics in an online store. We have already described the lengths to which sellers go in order to sell their goods. Therefore, do not be surprised if in the catalog you come across pneumatics with a caliber that, in theory, should be prohibited from free sale, but the commentary states that a license is not required.

This means that, according to the passport, the muzzle energy of such a specimen does not exceed 3 J. All pneumatics for hunting, which can be purchased without a license, are divided into groups by caliber.

• The most common caliber is 4.5 mm. If no design changes have been made to the weapon, then such models have a maximum energy of 7.5 J. With such weapons you can only hunt small rodents.
• The 5.5 mm caliber already makes it possible to increase destructive power and aimed firing range. Pneumatic weapons are quite suitable for hunting due to their high accuracy. The lack of recoil has a positive effect on the accuracy of the shot. Shotguns with a caliber of 5.5 mm are used in hunting hare or field game. Please note that weapons with legal characteristics, for which all permits have been issued, cannot be used for hunting.
• Rifles with a caliber of 6.35 mm are capable of killing an average animal. No wonder this caliber is called “fox”.
• 9mm rifles are used in hunting large or ungulate game.

Best options

On average, prices for 9 mm air rifles start at 95 thousand rubles. Among domestic models, the optimal combination of price and quality can be found in the Ataman M2R “Carbine SL” 9 mm. Suitable for small game hunting or sport shooting. Belongs to the PCP type.

If you enter the middle price segment, then the HORHE-JAGER (JAGER) XP “Goliath” 9 mm deserves attention. This is the most powerful serial air rifle in Russia. Optimal for hunting small and medium game. The weight is reduced due to the hollow stock, and the accuracy is hardly inferior to competitive firearms. The price starts from 119 thousand rubles.

Frankly expensive pneumatic models, such as EVANIX MAX (SHB, WALNUT) cal. 9 mm, have an improved PCP system and a shortened barrel. The signs of the Bullpup system are obvious. All important elements have been transferred to weapons of this type in such a way as to make the design as light as possible, without losing accuracy and firing power. The cost of the model starts from 150 thousand rubles.

Review of popular models

Let's start presenting some models with the most affordable ones. The leading place is occupied by the Czech rifle CZ-200T(S). It is considered single-shot with PCP cocking. At a low cost, such a rifle has high quality and excellent performance.

"Jager" 5.5 SP NEW is a domestic product. It's gratifying that he was among the leaders. In general, domestic air weapons look quite good compared to world leaders.

Hatsan 125 TH is a Turkish rifle of 4.5 mm caliber. Moreover, its muzzle energy is 7.5 J. That is, this specimen is “clean” in relation to the law and can be used for hunting without a license.

Crosman Benjamin Titan XS rifle (4×32 scope) spring-piston type. The presence of a muzzle brake reduces the resulting recoil, which increases the accuracy and convenience of shooting. According to its parameters, it fits into the list of those permitted for free sale.

Another representative of pneumatics is the German Diana 460 F rifle. It is distinguished for its finishing features. Some elements are made of natural wood. Naturally, this model surpasses its analogues in price.

As we found out, there is no clear distinction for powerful pneumatics. In Russia there are no rules for hunting with air guns, since hunting is prohibited. Weapons that do not require a permit have rather low stopping power, which is not to the liking of a real hunter.

Powerful pneumatics with energy exceeding 25 J are capable of hitting large living targets. With such rifles, the huntsman can let the hunter into the area, or he can refuse, having every legal right to do so. In the event of a meeting with law enforcement agencies, only the owner of the weapon will be punished. It must be added that this punishment is quite serious and is qualified under several articles of the administrative and criminal code.

No. 3. Stalker SPM

A powerful air pistol that attracts attention at a low price. Replica of the widely used PM (Makarov Pistol). It has virtually no differences with its combat counterparts - both in terms of size characteristics and taking into account external data. Balls (4.5 millimeters) are used as ammunition, and the clip is designed for 20 rounds.

The store is located in the handle. The bullets are delivered into the barrel using a metal spring. The cylinder with the gas mixture is placed in the handle. The can is secured with a hidden screw located at the bottom of the handle.

The design of the pistol has no moving mechanisms, so pneumatics are considered a reliable weapon and will last a long time without losing their original characteristics. The likelihood of breakdowns and malfunctions is reduced to a minimum.

The initial speed of the bullet is approximately 120 m/s. If you additionally connect an imitation muffler, this parameter is significantly improved.

The barrel is smoothbore, so it does not need to be serviced frequently. The semi-automatic mode of operation and the double-type trigger mechanism greatly simplify operation.

The Stalker SPM design includes a fuse - a mechanical flag-type switch. The rear sight and front sight cannot be adjusted.

A Russian-made air pistol, made of aluminum alloy and weapons-grade steel. The handle has plastic cheeks that improve the similarity of the Stalker SPM with a real PM. The body is made in black, and the total weight due to the use of aluminum alloy was only 0.31 kg.

Daystate Wolverine 2

This PCP-type air rifle has been constantly upgraded since its release in 2013. Spectacular design with wooden elements on the stock (Turkish walnut), working parts made of steel. There is a very capacious 480 ml tank, a pressure indicator, and the magazine can hold up to 10 bullets. Calibers from 4.5 mm to 6.35 mm (for Hi-Lite) and up to 7.62 mm (for HP). Pros of the rifle:

• mechanical trigger of two stages;
• bolt platoon;
• rifled barrel;
• all working elements are conveniently located and work clearly;
• optics included;
• weight 3400 gr. (Hi-Lite) and 3800 gr. (NR);
• pressure up to 250 atm;
• HP model with 7.62 mm caliber in the magazine 5 bullets;
• shots on one charge - Hi-Lite up to 100 (40 J), HP up to 18 (135 J).

The price of this rifle is high - from 230,000 rubles, but the reviews are only positive - excellent accuracy, good bullet speed and accuracy. The Daystate brand produces several series of air rifles, which are constantly being improved with innovative new products. Replacement of individual parts is possible.

Nuances of psychology

Most people mistakenly think that demonstrating the presence of a weapon may be enough to resolve a conflict situation.

Despite the fact that pneumatics will be very similar to military weapons, there is no guarantee that an attacker will not reveal the trick. For a person who at least somehow understands weapons, it is not difficult to find the differences between a pneumatic replica and a combat analogue:

• pneumatics implies the presence of a gas cartridge pressure screw. On some models it is very noticeable.
• The muzzle opening of military weapons is significantly larger than that of pneumatic analogues.

If a bully has even a slight understanding of air guns, he may be able to quickly spot the deception. Surely, this will only complicate the situation - the degree of aggression will increase. Naturally, this pistol can scare an unknowing person or in low light. But in the end, everything will fall into place as soon as you fire the first shot.

Advantages and disadvantages of use

Now let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of a muffler for pneumatics. The sound moderator's cat cried a lot of cons:

1. price;
2. complexity of manufacturing (although there are simple solutions);
3. problems with legality (it is problematic to draw the line between a silencer and a sound moderator).

Why do many hunters strive to equip their pneumatic guns with similar toys? Rifles equipped with sound moderators benefit from balance, maneuverability and ergonomics. There are other advantages:

1. noticeable absorption of noise from a shot;
2. DTK (muzzle brake-compensator) function;
3. increasing the safety margin of the barrel;
4. aesthetics (pneumatics with a muffler look more impressive).

The extreme ease of operation of this rifle makes it indispensable for learning to shoot. We advise you to familiarize yourself with other features of the Smersh air rifle, the device and the available models. Advantages and disadvantages of this weapon. A brief overview of the Crosman 1077 air rifle can be found here. Description and characteristics of the rifle.

Responsibility for the use of pneumatics

If you plan to use a pneumatic weapon with a muzzle energy of more than 7.5 J, a license must be issued for it. According to the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, storage and operation of such air pistols and rifles without a license entails administrative liability. The pneumatic gun will be confiscated and a fine will be imposed. For an individual it ranges from 3-5 thousand rubles. It is possible to replace the fine with administrative imprisonment for a period of 5-15 days.

According to Federal Law 150 “On Weapons”, the use of a pneumatic replica in self-defense is prohibited. Shooting within a populated area will result in an administrative fine of about 1,000 rubles, and pneumatic weapons and ammunition will be confiscated.

It is possible to receive a sentence depending on the severity of the injuries inflicted. According to Article 114 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, intentional infliction of grievous harm to health as a result of exceeding the norms of self-defense is punishable by restriction of freedom for up to 12 months.

Of course, there may be a situation in which air guns can protect you, but it is important to understand their low effectiveness.
Unexpected consequences can arise if the attacker is under the influence of prohibited substances or is simply inadequate. In this case, air guns can only cause more aggression. May 21, 2022