An air pistol (air gun or air rifle) is a rifle or shotgun in which projectiles are fired by the use of compressed air or other gas. An air pistol is not like a firearm which burns a propellant. Most air pistols use projectiles which are metallic as ammunition. Air pistols that use projectiles which are plastic are known as airsoft guns. Today's modern air pistols are low-powered because of
Read more.... legal restrictions. The oldest known air pistol was known as an air gun way back in 1580 and is currently living in the Livrustkammaren Museum in Stockholm. In the 17th century, air pistols were used in calibers .30 - .51 to hung deer and wild boar. The way these air rifles were charged was by using a pump to fill the air reservoir. In fact, back in the day, they gave the military a distinct advantage. Air pistols appear throughout many periods of history. During the 18902 air pistols were used for competitive target shooting. Back in 1899 over 4,000 air pistol clubs existed across Britain. Today, people use air pistols for hunting and recreational shooting as well as pest control. Some people also like to compete in the Olympic 10 m Air Rifle and 10 m Air Pistol events.