Hunting With Handguns

Our man across the pond, Jim Chapman, explains why hunting with pistols in the UK is a definite ‘no no’, whilst in the USA it is becoming increasingly popular

I’ve been asked by British airgunners about hunting with handguns and know the conventional wisdom is, ‘Don’t do it!’ so I guess from that perspective, I’m approaching a controversial topic with a response that goes against the grain, but please, before you come after me with pitchforks and torches let me explain my reasoning.

I’ll start off by saying that I have in the past, and sometimes still do, hunt with handheld airguns. However, I also agree with the experts telling you never to hunt with an air pistol. Why the conflicting statements? What it boils down to is that in the States we are not limited to the power our airguns generate, whether pistol or rifle, and that is a major difference. Also, we have a long history of hunting with powder-burning handguns, and as a matter of fact, many are designed specifically for hunting applications. The transition from firearms to airguns is the same for both rifle and handgun hunters. You need to question your individual capabilities, consider how you will shoot in the field, and decide where to set your personal boundaries.