Not sure this is the right section for this, since it's a pretty random question.
Anyway, I've managed to scare up some ammo recently, but it's still not enough to shoot in any volume (especially vexing, since this was going to be the year that I got more serious about IDPA and started shooting 3-gun). Normally, I'd start shooting more .22 to keep in practice, but even that's disappeared recently.
So, I'm trying to come up with alternatives. I picked up an airsoft pistol to shoot in my garage in order to supplement my dry-fire practice, so I can run at least some drills to keep in shape for the few IDPA matches that my ammo supply will allow me to shoot. Now, I'm starting to think about doing the same for the other shooting disciplines as well. More specifically, I'm looking to supplement the practical pistol shooting I can do now, adding some rifle drills (ideally, both precision shooting and more dynamic "practical" carbine-type stuff); I'm assuming that shotgun is pretty much out of the question.
So, just looking for some general equipment recommendations. What's a good air rifle to practice with? Would I get better pistol training using something more elaborate than a cheap airsoft gun from Academy? Please chime in on logistical issues too - I'm assuming that I can buy or build a pellet trap to set up in my garage to practice at ranges out to 5-7 yards or so. I guess I have to a range to work at longer distances than that - I've never done that before, am I correct in assuming that most ranges are okay with that? Anything else I'm not thinking of?
Discuss.
Training with Air Guns
Moderator: carlson1
Re: Training with Air Guns
I recently got this Stoeger air rifle in .22 cal.:
http://usa.stoegerairguns.com/products/ ... airgun.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
It weighs and handles like a full size gun and is accurate enough that a sight is useful (but not the one that comes with it). Acceptably accurate at 25 yards. I think you are better off shooting at a range unless you are in the country because most municipalities code against pellet guns in the city.
I feel a little silly at the range breaking the barrel to pump for every shot, but it is good exercize. I got it as a deep backup in case .22 ammo is not available and I need to pop something edible or a nuisance or both.
http://usa.stoegerairguns.com/products/ ... airgun.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
It weighs and handles like a full size gun and is accurate enough that a sight is useful (but not the one that comes with it). Acceptably accurate at 25 yards. I think you are better off shooting at a range unless you are in the country because most municipalities code against pellet guns in the city.
I feel a little silly at the range breaking the barrel to pump for every shot, but it is good exercize. I got it as a deep backup in case .22 ammo is not available and I need to pop something edible or a nuisance or both.
Re: Training with Air Guns
I have one of these:
it's ergonomics exactly match my carry/comp gun, but it looks just different enough so Glock's lawyers don't harass the maker. it was a bit pricey, but it lets me do more realistic training in my garage or back yard. I can also try things out that I would be reluctant to try too many times in live fire, ie non-std shooting positions, shooting from retention, as fast as possible draw-to-shoot times. since it uses realistic size and weight mags, I can also do mag changes that are full simulations of the real thing. it's a bit of a pain, so I don't do it too often. but if I have buddies coming I can set up a shoot house in my own house using moving blankets as backstops.
as for practical rifle, Mr Haley here has some very interesting observations on the subject.
[youtube][/youtube]
it's ergonomics exactly match my carry/comp gun, but it looks just different enough so Glock's lawyers don't harass the maker. it was a bit pricey, but it lets me do more realistic training in my garage or back yard. I can also try things out that I would be reluctant to try too many times in live fire, ie non-std shooting positions, shooting from retention, as fast as possible draw-to-shoot times. since it uses realistic size and weight mags, I can also do mag changes that are full simulations of the real thing. it's a bit of a pain, so I don't do it too often. but if I have buddies coming I can set up a shoot house in my own house using moving blankets as backstops.
as for practical rifle, Mr Haley here has some very interesting observations on the subject.
[youtube][/youtube]
Re: Training with Air Guns
Make sure you check your local ordinances if you plan to do it outside. Shooting airsoft and even nerf guns is illegal in Pflugerville.