ilmakiväärien

Ilmakivääri is the Finnish term for an air rifle. An air rifle is a type of gun that uses compressed air or gas to launch a projectile, typically a pellet or BB. They are distinct from firearms in that they do not use combustion of gunpowder to propel the projectile. Air rifles vary widely in power, accuracy, and design, from simple, low-powered models for recreational shooting and pest control to highly accurate, powerful rifles used for competitive target shooting and hunting.

The mechanism for compressing air in an air rifle can be manual, such as a spring piston that is cocked by the shooter, or pneumatic, where a separate pump or a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) system is used to store compressed air. Spring-piston air rifles are common due to their simplicity and lack of reliance on external air sources. Pneumatic rifles, especially PCP models, generally offer higher power, greater shot consistency, and less recoil, making them popular for precision shooting.

In Finland, like in many other countries, the use and ownership of air rifles are subject to regulations. These regulations typically cover age restrictions, power limits, and permissible uses. Air rifles are often used for sport shooting disciplines, such as benchrest or field target, and for plinking or recreational shooting in appropriate areas. Their relatively lower noise and recoil compared to firearms make them accessible to a wider range of users, provided they adhere to safety guidelines and legal requirements.