Are Airguns Essential Backup Tools for Preppers?

The term “prepper” might evoke images of rugged individuals with vast caches of conventional firearms and ammunition. However, the scope of prepping goes beyond just dealing with immediate combat threats. For those who consider themselves preppers, it is not just about readiness for immediate threats but also about having a backup plan for scenarios where conventional firearms may not be viable. One such overlooked tool is the airgun.

Why Preppers Might Consider Airguns

Firstly, let’s break down why airguns might be a practical addition to a prepper’s arsenal. Airguns, also known as pneumatic guns or spring-loaded guns, do not require gunpowder and can be stored with minimal ammunition. In many countries, they are treated more as toys or hunting tools rather than weapons. This classification can offer some legal and logistical advantages, especially in scenarios where conventional firearms might be illicit or too bulky to carry.

Here are some key reasons why preppers might include airguns in their plans:

1. Absence of Gunpowder

Airguns operate on compressed air, meaning they pose no risk of accidental ignition or residue. This makes them a safer option for environments where gunpowder might be a concern, such as in confined spaces or areas with flammable materials.

2. Space and Storage Efficiency

Airguns require significantly less space to store both the gun and ammunition compared to traditional firearms. This compactness is a huge advantage when space is at a premium, such as in small bug-out bags or tactical vehicles.

3. Cost-Effective Storage

Ammunition for airguns is often cheaper and more easily obtainable than that for conventional firearms. This can lead to substantial cost savings over time, making airguns a more sustainable long-term solution.

Moreover, airguns often come with high adaptability and are not just limited to target shooting or hunting. Some models, such as pellet guns, can be used for pest control, which is useful in prepping scenarios where controlling vermin or small game can be necessary.

Beyond Just Backing Up Conventional Firearms

Of course, prepping is not just about having a backup. Instead, it is about ensuring comprehensive readiness in a wide range of potential scenarios. An airgun can serve multiple purposes, making it a versatile tool in survival situations:

1. Self-Defense

Airguns can be effective for short-range self-defense. They can stop an attacker and still leave them in a condition where help can be called. Additionally, airguns are quieter and less likely to attract unwanted attention, making them a stealthy weapon choice.

2. Hunting and Gathering

Pellet guns and BB guns are excellent for hunting small game or pests, providing food and reducing vermin in harsh environments. These airguns can also be used for practicing marksmanship and honing survival skills.

3. Economic Utility

Most preppers aim for self-sufficiency. Airguns can play a part in this by enabling the harvest of small game and pests, reducing reliance on commercial food sources. This is particularly useful in post-disaster scenarios where traditional grocery stores might be out of reach.

Using Airguns in a Prepping Strategy

Given their advantages, how should preppers incorporate airguns into their overall strategy? Here are a few tips:

1. Diversify the Arsenal

Investing in a couple of airguns and a substantial stockpile of pellets (a million pieces, as some preppers suggest) can diversify a prepper’s arsenal. This diversification can ensure that no single tool fails when it is needed most.

2. Practice and Skill Development

To maximize the utility of airguns, preppers should practice with them regularly. Skills like marksmanship, aiming, and reload techniques can be honed with airguns and then transferred to more serious firearms when needed.

3. Understand Legal and Safety Implications

While some airguns are legally classified as toys, it’s important to be aware of local regulations. Preppers should familiarize themselves with the laws in their area to ensure they can use their airguns legally and safely.

Additionally, proper safety measures, like wearing eye and ear protection, must be taken during practice sessions to prevent injuries.

Conclusion

Prepping is about being prepared for a wide range of situations. Airguns, while often overlooked, can be a valuable addition to any prepper’s plan. Their compact size, cost-effectiveness, and versatility make them a smart investment. But perhaps most importantly, they can serve as a backup plan when conventional firearms may not be the best option.

So, to answer the question, yes, preppers should seriously consider including airguns in their survival strategies. Just as the motto of prepping emphasizes always having a backup plan, airguns offer a practical and versatile solution for many prepping scenarios.