How To Load Break Barrel Air Rifles Safely

Now that Christmas has passed, many new air rifle owners are outside with their airguns. Many of them are learning to shoot for the first time. And, of course, many of these new air rifles are break barrel models.

But often the people who use them do not understand how to load these guns safely. They can be very dangerous if this is done incorrectly. Yet really it’s quite simple to load break barrel air rifles safely.

The four key steps are:

1. Keep your finger AWAY from the trigger at all times until you are aiming and ready to fire.

2. Brace the butt of the gun firmly against your hip.

3. NEVER let go of the barrel during the cocking and loading process.

4. Always pull the barrel right down until it latches into place.

HAM Publisher Stephen Archer demonstrates how to load break barrel air rifles safely in the photographs below. For more details and explanation, read HAM’s permanent instructions on how to load break barrel air rifles safely.

Load the pellet into the rear of the barrel using the hand that’s NOT holding the barrel. Now swing the barrel up firmly until it latches correctly into place.

YOUR AIR RIFLE IS NOW LOADED AND READY TO FIRE!

If you still have doubts, or if you have other questions, don’t take chances. Contact the dealer from which you purchased the gun for specific advice.

Have fun but shoot safe!