CO2 airguns have been around for decades. Today, we’ll look at some of the cool things you can do with a CO2 rifle. Let’s get started.
Capabilities
CO2 as a power source brings a lot to the table. CO2’s standing pressure is 900 PSI when in liquid form and at room temperature. Additionally, because it’s stored in liquid form and only converts to gas as it’s discharged, you get more efficiency and more shots. While not PCP levels of pressure and volume, you can do a lot with 900 PSI.
Having a standardized pressure allows for CO2 guns to be very consistent. It’s why some 10-meter precision airguns still run on CO2. It works! Additionally, having the extra volume in reserve allows shooters to enjoy multiple shots without the need to constantly refill, making it possible for CO2 airgunners to enjoy semi-auto and full-auto select fire on many models.
On the plus side, CO2 is stable, affordable, and provides many shots per cartridge.
Limitations
We’ve discussed the capabilities of CO2 Air Rifles, now let’s look at some of their limitations. The biggest limitation is going to be environmental. CO2 needs to be at room temperature for optimal performance. So if it’s too cold outside, you’re not going to get good results. Conversely, if it’s too hot, you may experience valve lock where the pressure is greater than the hammer spring, and the hammer can overcome it. Ideally, you want to be between 70 and 95 degrees. You can run CO2 airguns outside that envelope, but you’re going to get inconsistent results.
The other limitation of CO2 comes from rapid firing. As the CO2 converts from liquid to gas, it rapidly cools, reducing its efficiency and pressure. It’s super fun to shoot full auto, but one mag on full auto may cool the CO2 cartridge to the point that it won’t fire properly again until it warms up. Fortunately, many semi-automatic and fully-automatic CO2 rifles use magazines that also house the CO2. So swapping mags not only gives you more rounds to shoot but also a fresh supply of CO2 to keep the good times rolling. A good example would be the Hellraiser Hellboy BB Rifle.
Range
How far can you shoot a CO2 rifle? Well, that’s really a two-part question. Part one would be how far can it shoot, whereas part two would be, how far can it shoot accurately? As for part one. We’ve seen some CO2 rifles shoot out to 100 yards. There’s not much left in the tank at that range, but it “can” be done. As for accuracy, there’s a lot that goes into that question.
Practically speaking, most CO2 BB rifles are designed for 10 yards and closer. CO2 pellet rifles have more reach, some up to 50 yards under the right conditions. It all depends on the gun. A simple rule of thumb is that CO2 BB airguns are best suited for close range, and CO2 Pellet guns, depending on the model, can shoot much further while still being accurate.
Targets / Varmints
CO2 airguns don’t deliver nearly the same energy as a “normal” breakbarrel or PCP. When it comes to targets or varmints, CO2 airguns are best suited to target shooting. That’s not to say that you can’t use them on small game and pests, but you need to be spot-on with your shot placement.
If you plan to shoot pests with a CO2 rifle, consider the Umarex Fusion II. It’s a tack-driving .177 bolt-action rifle that can shoot dime groups at 25 yards. It’s also incredibly quiet and very fun to shoot.
More
What else can you do with a CO2 rifle? Well, that’s really up to your imagination. Now that you know their benefits and limitations, you can decide if one is right for you. Some good options would be creating a backyard shooting range or even an indoor range. (link articles) If you need help pulling together the right CO2 Airgun and accessories, then just give us a call. We are always here to help.
