Using a pellet rifle in the garden can be an enjoyable activity for lovers of sporting and precision shooting. However, it is vital to follow certain rules to ensure that the practice is safe and legal. In this article, we'll look at the legal aspects, safety measures and best practice for shooting pellet rifles in the garden.
Current legislation on pellet rifles
Legislation on the use of pellet rifles varies from country to country, and sometimes even from region to region. In France, for example, pellet rifles weighing less than 20 joules are freely available to adults, but their use must comply with local and national regulations.
Here are a few key points to check before shooting in your garden:
1. Make sure your garden is large enough to prevent any balls from accidentally flying out. You must install an effective stopper to stop pellets.
2. Inform your neighbours and make sure that noise and pellets do not represent a nuisance or a danger to them.
3. Check any municipal or prefectoral by-laws that may prohibit or restrict shooting in residential areas.
Safety measures for pellet rifle shooting in the garden
Here are a few recommendations for safe pellet rifle shooting in your garden:
- Installing a safe target: Use a suitable target and place it against a solid wall or a shooting stop. Stops should be designed to stop pellets and prevent ricochets.
- Marked-out shooting area: Clearly mark out the shooting area and prevent unauthorised access, particularly by children and pets.
- Wearing protective gear: Wear protective eyewear to avoid accidents.
Good shooting practice
In addition to safety measures, good shooting practice is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Check the condition of your rifle and accessories before each shooting session.
Maintain sufficient shooting distance to improve accuracy and safety.
Collect pellets after each shooting session to avoid pollution and keep your garden clean.
Conclusion
Shooting with a pellet rifle in the garden can be a very enjoyable pastime, provided you comply with the safety rules and legislation in force. By taking the necessary precautions and adopting good practice, you can enjoy your passion to the full while ensuring the safety of your surroundings.
Before you start, take the time to find out about the regulations specific to your locality and make sure you have installed all the necessary safety measures. With these precautions in place, pellet rifle shooting in your garden can be a fun and safe activity.