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shooting-sports/airgun-competition
Airgun Competition
Competitive airgun shooting ranges from Olympic 10-meter precision events to field target and silhouette. Air rifles and pistols fire pellets using compressed air or CO2, making them ideal for indoor ranges and youth programs.
airgun competition
air rifle shooting
air pistol competition
10m air rifle
olympic airgun
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01 // LEARN
#01
What is Airgun Competition?
Understanding this shooting discipline
Competitive airgun shooting ranges from Olympic 10-meter precision events to field target and silhouette. Air rifles and pistols fire pellets using compressed air or CO2, making them ideal for indoor ranges and youth programs.
10-meter Olympic shooting is one of the most precise shooting sports. Competitors use highly specialized rifles or pistols to shoot at targets where the 10-ring is 0.5mm for rifle. Field target adds outdoor challenges with knock-down targets at varying ranges.
Types & Variations
10m Air Rifle (Olympic precision)
10m Air Pistol (Olympic precision)
Field Target (outdoor knock-down targets)
Air Gun Silhouette
Benchrest Air Rifle
02 // START
#02
Getting Started with Airgun
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into airgun doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
1Air rifle or pistol appropriate for your discipline
2Quality pellets (match grade for precision)
3Shooting jacket and pants (precision events)
4Shooting glasses
5Pellet trap for home practice
6Eye protection
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
110m events: standing position, 60 shots in qualification
2Maximum rifle weight: 5.5kg for Olympic
3Field target: variable ranges, knock-down targets
4No ear protection typically required
5Junior programs often available
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Start with a quality entry-level target rifle or pistol
Indoor ranges (basements, garages) allow year-round practice
Focus on trigger control and breathing
Match-grade pellets make a measurable difference
Many clubs have loaner equipment for beginners
What Does Airgun Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$200-600
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
$1,000-3,500
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$10-25 entry, 60-100 pellets
Ammo per session:$5-15 (match pellets ~$15-25/500)
Hidden costs to consider: Extremely affordable to shoot regularly. Home practice capability eliminates range fees for most training.
Airgun Types
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| 10m Precision Purpose-built PCP target rifles/pistols. Extreme accuracy at short range. | Olympic-style competition, serious precision work |
| Field Target Scoped PCP rifles, 8-55 yard ranges. Knockdown targets with kill zones. | Outdoor shooters wanting varied challenges |
| Sporter/Entry Spring or entry PCP rifles. Good for learning and recreational shooting. | Beginners and youth programs |
03 // ASK
#03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about airgun
New to airgun? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about airgun competition. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Spring-piston rifles cock for each shot. PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifles use a reservoir of compressed air for many shots. PCP is required for serious competition but spring rifles work for learning.
Yes, with proper backstop. 10 meters is about 33 feet. Many serious competitors have home ranges. Use appropriate pellet traps and ensure a safe backstop.
Entry-level target rifles start around $500. Mid-range competition rifles run $1,000-2,000. Top Olympic-grade rifles exceed $3,000.
Excellent. Low noise, no recoil, and indoor capability make airgun ideal for teaching fundamentals. Many Olympic shooters started as juniors in airgun programs.
For competition, use match-grade wadcutter pellets from brands like RWS, H&N, or JSB. Test several types in your rifle; different guns prefer different pellets.
04 // FIND
#04
Upcoming Events
Find airgun events near you
No Upcoming Events
There are no airgun events scheduled at this time. Check back soon or browse all events.
Browse All Events05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline