When you’re shopping for an air rifle, you’ll often see the term “foot-pounds” or “ft-lbs” mentioned in the specs. But what are foot pounds, and why do they matter? Understanding this simple measurement can help you choose the best airgun for your needs—whether you’re target shooting, plinking in the backyard, or hunting small game.
What Are Foot Pounds?
Foot pounds (ft-lbs) are a way to measure energy. In airgun terms, it tells you how much force a pellet delivers when it hits a target. One foot pound means the pellet can move one pound of weight one foot in distance. The higher the foot pounds, the more powerful the shot.
This measurement combines the pellet’s speed (measured in feet per second, or FPS) and its weight (measured in grains). Together, they give you a good idea of the impact energy your airgun can produce.
Why Foot Pounds Matter
Foot pounds are important because they help determine what your air rifle can do. If you’re just shooting cans, you don’t need a lot of power—maybe 6 to 12 ft-lbs. But if you’re hunting rabbits or squirrels, you’ll want at least 12 to 20 ft-lbs to ensure a clean, ethical shot. The right amount of energy helps avoid injury to the animal and ensures a quick, humane result.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Plinking/Target Shooting: 6–12 ft-lbs
- Pest Control/Small Game Hunting: 12–30 ft-lbs
- Larger Game (within legal limits): 30+ ft-lbs
More isn’t always better, though. Higher foot pounds can mean louder shots and more recoil. You’ll also go through air faster, especially with pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles. That’s why it’s important to match the power level to your specific use.
How to Calculate Foot Pounds
While many airguns list foot pounds in the specs, you can also calculate it yourself using this formula:
(Pellet weight in grains × velocity in FPS²) ÷ 450,240 = ft-lbs
For example, a 14.3 grain pellet traveling at 800 FPS would have:
(14.3 × 800²) ÷ 450,240 = about 20.3 ft-lbs
This formula is helpful if you’re tuning your rifle or switching pellet types and want to see how your energy output changes.
Choosing the Right Air Rifle
Understanding foot pounds helps you choose the right airgun for your needs. Brands like Aselkon offer a wide range of options, from lower-powered models for target practice to high-powered rifles built for hunting. Their air rifles combine quality, precision, and the energy output you need—whatever your goal may be.
Unlocking Airgun Power with Aselkon
Now that you know what foot pounds are and why they matter, you’re better equipped to make a smart choice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, having the right power level makes all the difference. Aselkon air rifles deliver accuracy, control, and the ft-lbs to get the job done. With a variety of models to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for your shooting style and goals.
