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New Air Rifles
New Air Rifles for Hunting and Target Shooting
At R. Macleod & Son, we stock a selection of new air rifles from trusted manufacturers, offering reliable and accurate options for target shooting, pest control, and recreational use. Our current range includes several highly regarded Weihrauch models, combining robust construction, proven designs, and excellent shooting characteristics.
Whether you're looking for your first air rifle or upgrading an existing setup, our range provides practical options for shooters with different requirements and preferences.
How Air Rifles Differ from Traditional Firearms
Air rifles use compressed air or gas to propel a pellet rather than the conventional propellant used in traditional firearms. This generally results in lower noise and recoil, although performance varies between individual rifles and their legal classifications.
These characteristics can influence the way an air rifle is used. For suitable and lawful hunting applications, shooters may work at closer ranges and place greater emphasis on careful stalking, concealment, range estimation, and precise shot placement. This can create a more deliberate style of shooting where fieldcraft is just as important as the equipment itself.
Weihrauch Air Rifles
Weihrauch is well known for producing high-quality air rifles with a reputation for dependable construction and accuracy. The HW97 series is particularly popular among shooters looking for a stable and precision-focused airgun, making it suitable for both target shooting and appropriate pest-control applications.
1. Weihrauch HW97K Blue Laminate .177
The Weihrauch HW97K Blue Laminate .177 combines the established HW97 platform with an attractive blue laminate stock. The .177 calibre is popular among target shooters due to its flatter trajectory, whilst the stable stock design provides a solid platform for consistent shooting.
2. Weihrauch HW97KT .22
The Weihrauch HW97KT .22 offers the familiar HW97 platform in .22 calibre. Its heavier pellet characteristics make .22 a popular choice for shooters who prefer this calibre for appropriate field applications, whilst the rifle remains equally at home on the target range.
3. Weihrauch HW97K .22 Air Rifle
The Weihrauch HW97K .22 provides another dependable option for those looking for a traditional HW97 configuration in .22. Combining Weihrauch's robust construction with the established characteristics of the HW97 platform, it is well suited to shooters seeking a reliable rifle for regular use.
Choosing Between .177 and .22
Both .177 and .22 are popular airgun calibres, but they offer different characteristics. The lighter .177 pellet generally provides a flatter trajectory, whilst .22 pellets are heavier and often preferred for suitable hunting applications.
Your choice should ultimately depend on your intended use, shooting distance, rifle specification, and personal preference. Our team can help you compare the available options before making your decision.
Air Rifles for Pest Control
Where lawful and appropriate, air rifles can provide a practical option for certain types of pest control. Their relatively quiet operation and manageable size can make them useful where a discreet approach is beneficial. As with any hunting application, shooters must consider quarry, range, backstop, rifle capability, and relevant legislation to ensure their equipment and approach are suitable.
Air Rifles for Target Shooting
Air rifles are also an excellent choice for target shooting and developing fundamental shooting skills. Their relatively low recoil allows shooters to concentrate on consistent positioning, trigger control, breathing, and follow-through. The HW97 range is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a stable, precision-oriented shooting platform for regular practice.
Expert Advice from R. Macleod & Son
Choosing the right air rifle depends on your intended use, preferred calibre, experience, and shooting style. Our knowledgeable team can help you compare the available Weihrauch models and discuss suitable accessories for your setup. If you're unsure which model is right for you, get in touch and we'll be happy to offer straightforward, practical advice.
Explore Our New Air Rifles
At R. Macleod & Son, we offer quality air rifles designed to provide dependable performance for target shooting, recreational use, and appropriate field applications. Browse our current selection online or contact us for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I buy a genuine Weihrauch air rifle in the UK?
Genuine Weihrauch air rifles are available through established UK gun shops and shooting retailers, including R. Macleod & Son. Buying from a reputable retailer helps ensure you receive a genuine product with appropriate manufacturer support and expert advice. A specialist retailer can also help you choose a suitable model based on your intended use and shooting requirements.
2. Weihrauch HW95K vs HW97K: how do they compare?
The Weihrauch HW95K and HW97K are both popular spring-powered air rifles, but they are designed with different shooting styles in mind. The HW95K is a lighter, more traditional break-barrel rifle that offers flexibility and portability. The HW97K uses an underlever design, which provides a fixed barrel and is popular among target shooters who value stability and consistency. The right choice depends on whether you prioritise handling, portability or a more target-focused setup.
3. What is the legal air rifle power limit in the UK?
In England and Wales, air rifles that produce more than 12 ft-lb of muzzle energy are classed as firearms and require the appropriate licensing. Air rifles below this limit can generally be owned without a firearms certificate, although other laws and restrictions still apply. Scotland has additional requirements for air weapons, including licensing rules for many airguns.
4. Spring vs PCP air rifle: how do they differ?
Spring-powered and PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifles operate differently. Spring rifles use a spring or gas ram mechanism to compress air and propel a pellet, making them self-contained and straightforward to use. PCP rifles use compressed air stored in a cylinder, often providing smoother shooting, less recoil and faster follow-up shots. The best option depends on your shooting style, budget and intended use.
5. Do UK air weapon laws in Scotland differ from those in the UK?
Yes, Scotland has different air weapon laws compared with England and Wales. Most air rifles and air pistols in Scotland require an Air Weapon Certificate or another valid exemption, regardless of whether they fall below the power limit used elsewhere in the UK. Shooters should check the current Scottish regulations before purchasing, owning or using an air weapon in Scotland.
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