In recent years, big bore airguns have carved out a unique space in the shooting world, offering power and performance that rival traditional firearms while maintaining the flexibility and accessibility air rifles are known for. These airguns, typically classified as those larger than .30 caliber, have gained significant popularity among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. With technological advancements and a growing community of users, big bore airguns are now powerful enough for large game hunting while still being a thrilling choice for recreational target shooting.
We’ll explore what makes these airguns so special, why they’re gaining popularity, and how they stack up against other options in the shooting world.
What Makes Big Bore Airguns Unique?
The term “big bore” refers to the diameter of the airgun’s barrel, with calibers starting at .30 and reaching up to .50 or more. This caliber size, paired with the pressurized air power systems in precharged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles, produces impressive force and muzzle energy.
Unlike standard air rifles, big bore models are designed to achieve energy levels upwards of 500 foot-pounds (fpe) or more, rivaling the ballistic power of many firearms. One of the most iconic examples of this is the AirForce Texan, a big bore airgun capable of producing over 800 fpe in its .50 caliber variant. Such power is more than enough to humanely take down large game, such as deer, hogs, or even bison, depending on the caliber and projectile selection​.
Big Bore Airguns in Hunting
The rise of big bore airguns has revolutionized hunting for air rifle enthusiasts. The quiet operation and lack of gunpowder make these air rifles ideal for stealthy hunting, especially in areas where traditional firearms are restricted or heavily regulated. States across the U.S. are gradually allowing big bore airguns for hunting large game, making them a compelling option for hunters looking for a new challenge.
AirForce’s Texan models in calibers like .357 and .457 have proven their effectiveness in big game hunting. For example, hunters have successfully taken down whitetail deer, hogs, and even elk using these high-caliber airguns. With appropriate shot placement, these airguns offer enough stopping power while producing less noise than a typical firearm, allowing for a more controlled and less intrusive hunting experience​.
However, it’s crucial to note that hunting with big bore airguns requires precision. Because these airguns rely on compressed air rather than chemical explosions, the shot-to-shot consistency and accuracy are more affected by factors like pellet weight, air pressure, and barrel length. As a result, hunters should practice frequently and choose their projectiles carefully to maximize performance.
Advantages of Big Bore Airguns Over Firearms
When comparing big bore airguns to traditional firearms, several unique advantages come to light:
- Silent Operation: Big bore airguns operate without the loud crack of a gunshot, making them ideal for scenarios where noise reduction is critical. With integrated sound moderators, models like the TexanSS provide powerful shots with minimal noise—perfect for pest control or hunting without scaring off nearby game​.
- Less Regulation: In many regions, airguns are subject to fewer regulations than firearms. This means you can often use these airguns in areas where shooting traditional guns might be prohibited. Additionally, there’s no need for expensive ammunition, as pellets or slugs for airguns are generally cheaper and easier to obtain.
- Versatility: These airguns are versatile tools that can be used for everything from small game hunting to big game, depending on the caliber and setup. Air rifles like the AirForce Condor SS offer adjustable power levels, enabling shooters to tweak their airgun’s performance based on the task at hand, whether it’s target shooting or hunting​.
- Environmental and Safety Benefits: Airguns don’t rely on gunpowder or produce as much toxic residue, making them more environmentally friendly. Also, their projectiles don’t travel as far as bullets, which can improve safety in certain hunting environments, such as densely wooded areas or places near residential zones.
Why Are Big Bore Airguns Gaining Popularity?
The growth of big bore airguns can be attributed to technological advancements, community support, and evolving regulations that allow their use in hunting. The AirForce Texan, for instance, is a benchmark in the industry, known for its rugged build, impressive power, and customization options. Enthusiasts can tailor their big bore airgun with different calibers, power adjustments, and scopes to match their specific needs​.
Moreover, there’s a growing community of big bore airgun enthusiasts who actively share tips, reviews, and modifications. This exchange of information has allowed newcomers to easily learn how to fine-tune their airguns, explore custom parts, and maximize performance.
Big bore airguns have truly expanded the possibilities for airgun enthusiasts, bringing more power, accuracy, and versatility to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking to try something new or a target shooter wanting to push the boundaries of your skill set, big bore airguns like those offered by AirForce provide a unique blend of performance and excitement. With careful practice and the right setup, these air rifles can deliver results comparable to firearms while offering the distinct advantages that come with air-powered technology.