There are many ways you can use a high-quality air gun, including for pest control. If you have small animals causing a nuisance on your property, you may be able to use your air gun to help with this problem. However, it’s important to be aware of the laws that apply in your area and to also be mindful of safety and ethics if you choose to use an air gun for pest control.
Pest Control vs Hunting
Pest control and hunting with air guns have some similarities. In both cases, you are using your air gun to eliminate an animal. Hunting is for the purposes of food or sport. When it comes to pest control, you are typically targeting an animal because it is causing a problem on your property. In both cases, ensuring a humane dispatch is essential. You need to be sure you have a clear shot to the head or chest from a suitable distance to ensure a quick kill.
Legally, some jurisdictions distinguish between hunting and pest control and have different regulations. This may be impacted by the location where you are shooting, as hunting may often be on someone else’s or public land whereas pest control is typically on your own property. There may also be a distinction based on the type of animal, especially in regions with invasive species.
The Legality of Air Guns for Pest Control
Whether pest control is legally the same as hunting or is defined separately where you live, it’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations that apply. You may need to use a specific caliber air gun or restrict which types of animals you target. In some areas, using an air gun for pest control on your own property is relatively unregulated whereas in others, it could be completely forbidden.
Air Gun Safety and Etiquette
One of the reasons air guns are a great choice for pest control is that they are often safer than other options. Unlike a firearm, you can use them around livestock with minimal issues. Unlike poison or traps, air guns can be used more selectively without putting your pets at risk. However, there are still important safety considerations that you need to keep in mind, as well as etiquette if you live close to neighbors.
Always follow the four rules of gun safety. Even though air guns are different from firearms, it’s best to treat them with the same respect you would use for a firearm.
The four rules of gun safety are:
- Treat all guns as though they are loaded.
- Don’t point your gun at anything you don’t want to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- Know your target and what is beyond it. (What will you hit if you miss, or if the projectile travels through the animal/object you shoot?)
If you’re shooting in an area with neighbors close by, the good news is that air guns are significantly quieter than firearms, especially if you use a moderator. Still, you should be mindful of your noise level.
Shop Pest Control Air Guns
At AirFire Tactical, we stock a wide range of high-quality air guns that are suitable for a variety of purposes. You can find guns for hunting, competition shooting, backyard plinking, and pest control. We offer the best air guns on the market and are committed to superior quality and service.
