How Long Do Air Rifles Last? Insights on Durability and Care

If you’re considering investing in an air rifle, you might be asking the question, ‘How long do air rifles last?’ The answer depends on many things, including the type of rifle, how you use it, and how well it’s maintained. Let’s explore the durability of different kinds of air rifles, factors affecting their lifespan, and tips for ensuring your airgun lasts as long as possible.

What’s the Average Lifespan of an Air Rifle?

The short answer is that a quality air rifle can last for decades with proper maintenance. Many shooters report using the same air rifle for 20-30 years or more. However, the exact lifespan depends on several factors.

One of the main determining factors is the type of rifle it is. Let’s look at how long you can expect different types of air rifles to last:

1. Spring Piston Air Rifles

Spring piston air rifles, or springers, are known for their simplicity and reliability. These guns use a powerful mainspring to compress air and propel the pellet.

What lifespan can you expect?

• Spring piston airguns like break barrels can last for tens of thousands of shots. 
• With proper care, a quality spring air rifle can easily provide 20-30 years of reliable service. 

The mainspring is usually the first component to wear out, but this is relatively inexpensive to replace.

2. PCP Air Rifles

PCP air rifles (pre-charged pneumatic rifles) are known for their consistency and power. They use compressed air stored in an air cylinder or tank to propel pellets.

What lifespan can you expect?

• PCPs typically have a longer lifespan than springers because they have fewer moving parts that are subject to wear and tear.
• A well-maintained PCP airgun can fire hundreds of thousands of shots over its lifetime.
• Many PCP air rifles from the 1980s and ‘90s are still shooting accurately today. 

The main components that may need replacing over time are seals and O-rings, which can deteriorate due to repeated pressure cycles.

3. CO2 Guns

CO2-powered air rifles use disposable CO2 cartridges as a power source. 

What lifespan can you expect?

• While convenient, these guns generally have a shorter lifespan than spring piston or PCP models. 
• The frequent pressure changes can cause seals to wear out more quickly.
• The guns are more susceptible to temperature fluctuations affecting performance.

However, a CO2 air rifle can still provide many years of use with proper maintenance.

What Affects an Air Rifle’s Lifespan?

Several key factors determine how long an air rifle will last:

1. Quality of Construction

An air rifle’s durability largely depends on its construction quality. High-end air rifles from reputable manufacturers are built with durable materials and precise engineering. These rifles are designed to withstand the rigours of regular use and can last for decades with proper care.

Examples of quality brands are:

• Air Arms
• BSA
• Weihrauch

On the other hand, lower-quality air rifles may use inferior materials or have less precise manufacturing processes, which can lead to faster wear and tear. While these guns can be more affordable upfront, they may not provide the same long-term value as a higher-quality rifle.

2. Power Output

More powerful air rifles generating higher muzzle energy (over 12 ft-lbs) tend to experience more wear and tear on internal components. Lower-powered air rifles often have longer lifespans.

3. Environmental Conditions

Exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, and dirt can accelerate wear on air rifles. Proper storage in a climate-controlled environment extends longevity.

4. Pellet Selection

Using high-quality, appropriately sized pellets is essential for maintaining the longevity of your air rifle. Poor-quality pellets can cause damage to the barrel and affect the gun’s accuracy. Always choose pellets the manufacturer recommends that suit your rifle’s calibre and power output.

5. Maintenance Habits

Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection are crucial for maximising an air rifle’s lifespan. Neglecting basic maintenance will lead to premature wear and failure.

How to Extend the Life of Your Airgun

With proper care, you can significantly extend the useful life of your air rifle. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

• Clean the barrel regularly: Use a proper calibre cleaning rod and patches to remove lead and debris from the barrel after every shooting session. This prevents accuracy loss and corrosion.
• Lubricate moving parts: Apply a small amount of airgun oil to the cocking mechanism, trigger assembly, and other moving parts. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt.
• Check and replace seals: Inspect O-rings and seals for signs of wear or damage. Replace as needed to maintain proper air pressure and prevent leaks.
• Store properly: Keep your air rifle in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Use a gun slip or hard case for protection.
• Handle with care: Avoid dropping or banging your air rifle, which can damage delicate components. Use a proper gun sling when in the field.
• Service regularly: Have your air rifle inspected and serviced by a qualified airgunsmith every few years, especially for more complex PCP models.
• Use quality pellets: Stick to high-quality airgun pellets matched to your rifle’s calibre.

Signs Your Air Rifle Needs Attention

Watch for these warning signs that your air rifle may need maintenance or repair:

• Loss of power or velocity
• Inconsistent accuracy
• Air leaks or hissing sounds
• Difficulty cocking or loading
• Trigger issues or misfires
• Visible damage to stock or metalwork

Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more serious damage and extend your air rifle’s lifespan.

The Wolfman’s Top-Quality Air Rifles for Maximum Longevity

With proper airgun maintenance and care, a quality air rifle can provide decades of accurate, reliable shooting. Whether you’re using a spring-piston airgun for plinking, a high-power PCP airgun for hunting vermin, or a target rifle for competitive shooting, regular maintenance and proper usage will help ensure your airgun lasts as long as possible.

At The Wolfman, we offer a wide range of high-quality air rifles and air pistols from top brands like Air Arms, BSA, Weihrauch, and Kral. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right gun for your needs and provide guidance on proper care and maintenance. 

Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, we have the expertise and products to help you enjoy the sport of shooting for years to come.  Give us a call to learn more, or explore our online selection to find the perfect air rifle for your needs.