Best air guns for self-defense
When it comes to self-defense, the air gun is gradually gaining traction. Previously, the air gun was considered a recreational toy, with its main real purpose being the extermination of nuisance varmints. However, the advancement carried out on previous air gun versions has made it more powerful and efficient, warranting consideration for serious purposes such as self-defense.
There is also a variety of options out there each with different capabilities that’s why in this article we explore the best air guns you can buy on the market.
Benefits of using Air Guns for Self-Defense
When it comes to self-defense, air guns offer a range of benefits that make them a viable option for personal safety. Firstly, air guns are non-lethal weapons, which means they can incapacitate an attacker without causing fatal injuries. This is particularly important for individuals who want to protect themselves without resorting to lethal force.
Additionally, air guns are more affordable than traditional firearms. The cost of purchasing and maintaining an air gun is significantly lower, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals. This affordability also extends to ammunition, as air gun pellets are relatively inexpensive compared to traditional bullets.
Furthermore, air guns are generally easier to use and require less training than firearms. They have simpler mechanisms and do not produce the same recoil as firearms, making them more manageable for beginners. This makes air guns a suitable option for individuals who may not have extensive experience with firearms but still want an effective means of self-defense.
Types of Air Guns for Self-Defense
When it comes to choosing an air gun for self-defense, there are several types to consider. The two main categories are CO2-powered air guns and spring-piston air guns.
CO2-powered air guns
Use carbon dioxide cartridges to propel the pellets. The cartridges are replenished as a whole and cannot be refilled. These guns are popular for their ease of use and consistency in performance. They offer semi-automatic or automatic firing capabilities, allowing for rapid shots in quick succession. CO2-powered air guns are known for their reliability and it’s one of the options mostly preferred for self-defense.
Spring-Piston air guns
These rely on a spring mechanism to compress air and propel the pellets. These guns require manual cocking before each shot and offer a single-shot firing mechanism. While they may not have the same rapid-fire capability as CO2-powered air guns, spring-piston air guns are known for their power and accuracy.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic air guns (PCP).
The PCP are filled with compressed air from an external compressor. These types of air guns are very powerful although not a popular option for self-defense because they aren’t considered convenient for their size and also the need for an external air source.
OUR TOP PICKS |
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Gamo Swarm Maxxim
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Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber
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SIG SAUER P320 CO2 Semi-Auto
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Daisy Outdoor Products Model 1938 Red Ryder
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Umarex SA10 .177 Caliber Pellet
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Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit
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DPMS Full Auto SBR
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Crosman CCP8B2 Vigilante
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Crosman Bushmaster BMPWX Full Auto
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Best Air-Guns for Self Defense
1. Gamo Swarm Maxxim Air Rifle
The Gamo Swarm comes in two caliber configurations a .177 and a.22 both great at delivering powerful and accurate shots. One of its biggest advantages is the ability to deliver multiple shots using a 10-round rotary-style magazine. This ability makes it very reliable when it comes to self-defense because it allows for repetitive shooting which might save the victim in critical situations.
Additionally, the gas technology used ensures that there is consistent delivery of power, and it is also silent, thanks to a sound suppression technique that reduces noise and vibration. Moreover, the rifle is designed to ensure the maximum reduction of recoil similar to what’s used in high-power air rifles. It comes paired with a scope that adds value, and while the scope is not the most advanced, it provides excellent accuracy, particularly when aiming at close targets.
Features
- Two-stage independently adjustable CAT (Custom Action Trigger)
- Gamo 3-9×40 scope included
- Non-slip texture design on grip and forearm
- Automotive grade glass-filled nylon all-weather, Magazine Compartment
- .177 0r .22 caliber with up to 1,000 feet per second (fps) using Alloy Pellets
- Recoil Reducing Rail that helps reduce the recoil and maximizes the scope lifespan
- Uses a patented Whisper technology that leads the air rifle industry in sound suppression
- Quick-shot technology enables you to shoot up to ten pellets without reloading.
2. Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol
This is a popular option, and for good reason. It stands out for its smaller size when compared to a standard handgun, which is a significant advantage when it comes to self-defense because it can be readily concealed and only drawn out when there is a threat.
Despite being small, the Umarex Glock 19 packs a powerful punch, capable of firing at 410FPS when using good-grade steel BBs. It is powered by a 12-gram CO2 capsule located in the grip. To prevent mishaps, the trigger includes a push button safety. Overall, this is a wonderful alternative that has been tried and tested. With small dimensions and a modest weight that allows for covert carry, yet comes with decent power.
Features
- Shoots .177 Caliber Steel BB at Up To 410 FPS
- CO2 Allen Key is integrated into the backstrap
- Fixed Glock style sights
- Push button safety inside the trigger
- Integrated Weaver Rail for mounting accessories
- Compact weight (1.6lbs) and dimensions for easy carry
3. SIG SAUER P320 CO2 Semi-Auto
This CO2-powered air gun imitates a real SIG P320 firearm which is known for built reliability and a great design. It features a full metal blowback slide and a steel rifled barrel, and the CO2 is chambered in a 12-gram cartridge that’s easy to install and replace.
It’s accurate like a real weapon, and you’ll get steady power throughout the cartridge. The cartridge and magazine, which store up to 30 pellets, are both discreetly hidden inside the grip. Furthermore, you receive a realistic trigger similar to a real P320, and manual safety that effectively prevents accidental fire.
In general, this is the best option for a shooter looking for something that has the size, weight, and general feel of a real handgun for self-defense. It accomplishes this flawlessly, providing the shooter with both accuracy and power.
Features
- Shoots 0.177 caliber steel BB
- 380 ft/sec shot velocity
- Imitates the real P320 firearm
- Semi-auto 30-round rotary magazine
4. Daisy Outdoor Products Model 1938 Red Ryder
Most shooters will recognize this BB gun even from a distance this is because of its unique appearance featuring a Stained solid wood stock and forearm. Another of its characteristics is a blade and ramp front and an adjustable rear sight that allows the shooter to adjust for windage and elevation.
The rifle has been in service since the 1940s and has always shown to be effective. The gun is cocked via a lever placed behind the trigger, which presses a spring to power the BB pellets. It can produce accurate shots, but only if the shooter has the skills that are needed. The magazine is parallel to the barrel and holds up to 650 pellets, each of which can be shot at a maximum velocity of 350 fps.
The daisy can come in handy in self-defense for its easy reloading mechanism as well as its round capacity that allows for repeated shots to ward off the intruder. Moreover, it can shoot at a longer distance (195 yards) compared to most handguns
Features
- 350 fps round velocity
- 650-round capacity
- 177 Cal BB gun rifle with steel smooth bore barrel
- Spring-cocking lever mechanism
5. Umarex SA10 .177 Caliber Pellet Air Gun
The dual ammo SA 10 fires either BBs or pellets up to 420 feet per second with extreme accuracy due to its rifled barrel. The accuracy can be improved further using the necessary accessories. Because it comes fitted with an accessory rail that makes it possible to attach a scope, as well as tactical sights.
Additionally, the air gun makes shooting realistic because it includes a blowback barrel, that has a blowback action with every shot. The SA10 is a perfect option for self-defense because it’s semi-automatic and can fire multiple shots without the need to cock. This is helped by the fact that it uses a C02 cartridge and has a cartridge for 8 rounds
Features
- Shoots either .177 caliber steel BBs or .177 caliber pellets
- 420 FPS effective force on a target
- C02 powered cartridge with 8 rounds
- Features an integrated accessory rail and tactical sights
- Has a Realistic blowback action
6. Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit
This is one of the most powerful prepositions able to shoot a 177 cal. BB at 500FPS. A built-in magazine can hold 21 BB pellets making it very reliable when it comes to self-defense. The air gun also adds value to the shooter because with every purchase you get a pair of sunglasses, a BB tube, and 3 C02 cylinders.
Overall, this is an easy-to-use alternative where you just need to Just load BBs into the built-in magazine, and insert a CO2 cartridge into the grip. It’s well-built with characteristics like a smooth bore steel barrel and a solid grip. Moreover, it packs a decent amount of power into every shot and provides great value with all the accessories included in the bundle.
Features
- Smooth bore steel barrel
- Package includes shooting glasses, targets, 350 ct. BB tube and three CO2 cylinders
- 500 FPS maximum velocity
- C02 powered with a cartridge for 21 BB pellets.
7. DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2-Powered BB Air Rifle
If you need something more intense for self-defense then nothing beats a full-auto air gun. This DPMS SBR is one such full auto option that can fire at 430 FPS velocity and up to 1400 BB rounds per second. The power and speed are fueled by 2 12-gram BB cartridges housed inside a 25-round magazine.
The rifle has the feel of a real AR firearm, with features such as a 6-point adjustable rear stock, a moveable angled foregrip, realistic weight, and a quad rail. It also incorporates a thumb-selector style safety to prevent accidents, as well as a retractable pop-up sight and adjustable rear sight for ensuring accurate shots.
Features
- Full size, real feel, with a durable synthetic design
- 25-round drop-out magazine
- 6 position adjustable stock
- Removeable pop-up sight and adjustable rear sight for accuracy
- Uses two 12-gram co2 cartridges good for 430fps
- Fires up to 1400 rounds per minute
8. Crosman CCP8B2 Vigilante Air Guns
If you like revolvers, the Vigilante is a double-action, semi-automatic revolver that fires both pellets and BBs. Each purchase includes a 10-shot pellet clip and a 6-shot BB clip. The air gun is fueled by CO2 and can provide a maximum force of 465 FPS, which is a very decent force to deter any threat.
A lot has been done to make it feel like a regular firearm, including the use of a full-metal frame to give it a comparable weight. additionally, it comes with a fixed blade front blade and an adjustable rear sight to ensure accuracy, which is vital in critical self-defense situations. Moreover, it includes a dual accessory rail, which may be used for additional equipment like sights or a flashlight.
Features
- Full metal frame with single or double-action
- Works with .177-caliber pellets for a maximum force of 465fps
- Fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight for accuracy
- Includes a dual accessory rail for additional accessories
- Fueled by a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge
9. Crosman Bushmaster BMPWX Full Auto Air Rifle
A great design that mimics a tactical rifle scope designed exactly like an AR even with a mock suppressor, a red dot mounted on top, and a stock adjustable in 6-positions. It uses .177 BB pellets and the drop magazine can hold up to 25 pellets. Additionally, it is powered by a CO2 cartridge and can fire steel pellets at a velocity of up to 430 FPS and 1400 rounds per minute in full auto.
Overall, this rifle takes care of a shooter who fancies an AR type of weapon for self-defense. The effort to mimic the real gun in terms of weight and appearance gives you a feeling that you are working with the real thing which might play to your advantage in times of danger.
Features
- Synthetic design with a mock suppressor to mimic the actual AR
- stock with 6 adjustable positions
- Powered by a single C02 cartridge, and capable of 430fps.
- 25-round drop-out magazine
- A rail-mounted red dot sight
- AR-compatible pistol grip
- Full auto capable of 1400 rounds per minute
Factors to Consider When Buying Air Guns for Self-Defense
When selecting an air gun for self-defense, there are several factors to consider these are;
Power
Look for an air gun that offers sufficient velocity to incapacitate an attacker effectively. The higher the velocity, the more force the pellet will have upon impact.
Accuracy
If possible, a self-defense air gun should have sights to aid with accuracy, especially in high-stress situations. Look for models with adjustable sights and a rifled barrel for improved accuracy.
Ergonomics and ease of use
The air gun should feel comfortable in your hands and have easily accessible controls. Pay attention to the grip, weight distribution, and overall design to ensure a comfortable shooting experience.
Capacity of the air gun
Depending on the intended use, you may prefer a gun with a larger magazine capacity for more shots before reloading. However, keep in mind that larger capacities may result in more weight.
Availability and cost of ammunition.
Ensure that the air gun you choose has readily available and affordable pellets or BBs. This will ensure that you can practice regularly and maintain proficiency with your chosen self-defense weapon.
Conclusion
After going through the article, you are now perfectly equipped with knowledge of the best air guns for self-defense. Carefully go through the options and pick one depending on its viability to you. To get the best experience, enhance the effectiveness of your self-defense air gun with accessories like red dot sights, flashlight attachments, and suppressors. Remember to prioritize safety and seek proper training to ensure no accidents happen when handling the gun.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with the legalities and regulations surrounding air guns for self-defense in your jurisdiction to avoid any legal complications.
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