Bb gun

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

BB gun A BB gun is a type of air gun designed to shoot metallic ball projectiles called BBs, which are approximately the same size as BB-size lead birdshot used in shotgun shells. Modern BB guns usually have a smoothbore barrel with a caliber of 4.5 mm (0.177 in) and are available in many varieties, including spring-piston, pneumatic, and CO2-powered models.

History[edit | edit source]

The term "BB" originated from the size of the shot used in a shotgun. The first BB guns were introduced in the early 20th century by the Daisy Manufacturing Company, which remains one of the most well-known manufacturers of BB guns today. The original BB guns were designed to be used as a safer alternative to firearms for training and recreational shooting.

Types of BB Guns[edit | edit source]

BB guns can be categorized based on their power source:

  • Spring-piston BB guns: These guns use a spring and piston mechanism to compress air and propel the BB. They are typically single-shot and require the user to manually cock the gun before each shot.
  • Pneumatic BB guns: These guns use compressed air or gas to propel the BB. They can be either single-stroke or multi-stroke, with the latter allowing the user to pump the gun multiple times to increase the pressure and power of the shot.
  • CO2 BB guns: These guns use carbon dioxide gas stored in small cartridges to propel the BB. They are often semi-automatic, allowing for rapid firing without the need to manually cock the gun between shots.

Safety and Usage[edit | edit source]

BB guns are often used for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. While they are generally considered less dangerous than firearms, they can still cause serious injury if not used properly. It is important to follow all safety guidelines, including wearing eye protection and ensuring that the shooting area is clear of people and animals.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

Template:Air-gun-stub

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD