Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles are becoming more and more popular among airgun enthusiasts due to their high levels of consistency, power, and accuracy. But, they do have some disadvantages, just like any other technology. Prior to purchasing one, it is important to be aware of the PCP air rifle’s limitations and drawbacks. Cost, the requirement for additional equipment, the constrained number of shots, regular maintenance needs, and safety issues are a few of the potential drawbacks. We will go through these disadvantages of PCP air rifles in more detail in this post to assist you in determining whether a PCP air rifle is the best option for you.
What are PCP air rifles? – An Overview
PCP stands for (pre-charged pneumatic). The pellets or we can say bullets of PCP rifles get their power from compressed air. The compressed air is stored inside a reservoir which is located under the barrel of the rifle.
This reservoir can be filled with compressed air with the help of either of these 3 equipments – a hand pump, a scuba tank, or a high-pressure compressor.
Due to this stored high-pressure air, PCP rifles are able to provide consistent and accurate shots.PCP air rifles are known for their high accuracy, low recoil, and quiet operation.
Majorly, PCP rifles are used in target shooting, hunting small game, and pest control. They are great rifles for long-range shooting. However, they also have some disadvantages of PCP air rifles that should be considered before purchasing one.
What are the disadvantages of PCP air rifles?
1. Premium Cost
PCP rifles are one of the most expensive categories of air rifles when compared to other types of power sources like spring-piston, gas ram, and CO2. Because of their superior technology and components, PCP air guns typically cost more than other varieties of air rifles.
To ensure accuracy and dependability, they necessitate precision manufacture and premium materials, which can increase the rifle’s price.
You will have to invest in extra equipment like high-pressure air tanks or pumps which also increases the overall cost. There is also a high chance that you have to invest in logistic services as well in order to transport the PCP rifle and its additional equipment to the shooting location.
PCP rifles come in various types of brands, models, and features which will increase or decrease the cost of rifles accordingly. The budget-friendly PCP rifles can start from $300 and go up to $500 whereas some high-end PCP air rifles can cost thousands of dollars. For example, the most widely used long-range PCP rifle FX Impact starts from $2000 dollars.
Also keep in mind that just like any premium car, a PCP rifle too has after-purchase maintenance costs and you might have to upgrade your equipment as per your shooting needs. Therefore, it’s important to keep the maintenance cost as well in mind while the budget of your PCP rifle.
2. Need for additional equipment
Since PCP rifles have an air chamber, they require additional equipment like a high-pressure air tank or pump, unlike other types of air rifles. The rifle’s gas reservoir needs a constant supply of high-pressure air throughout your shooting journey and for that, either a high-pressure hand pump, a scuba tank, or a high-pressure air compressor can be used.
The cheapest option would be a high-pressure hand pump but the disadvantage with it is that it required a significant amount of strokes in order to fill the air reservoir to the required pressure.
The most widely used are Scuba tanks. Scuba tanks are a popular choice since they are generally accessible, but they need to be filled frequently. Scuba tanks are at a higher price.
The most pricey yet the most effective option is High-pressure air compressors because they have the ability to fill air reservoir fast with the least effort.
In addition to air sources, in order to enhance the accuracy and overall shooting experience, you might have to invest in other accessories for example a high-quality scope, a bipod or shooting sticks, and additional magazines or pellets.
3. Limited shot count
The low shot count of PCP rifles is one of their main flaws. Since the air reservoir can only store a limited volume of compressed gas which is the main source of power in PCP rifles, the number of shots per fill of air also reduces.
The number of shots a PCP air gun can fire before needing to be refilled varies greatly depending on the reservoir’s capacity and the rifle’s power. Some models have the capacity only be able to shoot a dozen or so bullets before needing a refill. While others might be able to fire dozens or even hundreds of shots before running out of ammunition.
It can be very frustrating in case the rifle runs out of compressed air during shooting. The rifle can also get damaged if fired without sufficient pressure.
To extend the shot count, some PCP air rifles feature adjustable power settings or multiple power levels, allowing the shooter to conserve air by shooting at lower power levels when appropriate.
Therefore, it is very important to keep in mind the shot count limitations of a PCP air rifle before finally purchasing it. You might have to plan your shooting sessions accordingly and make sure you have an adequate compressed air source.
4. High Maintenance
Just like any other regular machine, a PCP rifle too requires regular maintenance which will ultimately increase its life and efficiency.
Since PCP rifles solely rely on a compressed air reservoir to power the gun, you need to make sure that the reservoir is filled with compressed air with the help of a high-pressure air pump or tank. This is a continuous process that you have to do until the rifle is not retired.
Like other air rifles, PCP air rifles require routine barrel cleaning to maintain accuracy. To clean the barrel, you can either use a cleaning rod and patches or a bore snake for simplicity.
PCP rifles also need frequent lubrication since they are equipped with a number of internal components and equipment, for smooth working and preventing rusting.
Your PCP air rifle may give years of accurate and reliable shooting if you’re prepared to invest the time and effort into maintaining it properly.
5. Requires hefty physical work
PCP rifles work with the help of compressed air which is stored at high pressure. To fill the air inside, either a compressor or a special pump is used.
The catch is, the air inside the reservoir is stored at a pressure of around 2,000-3,000 psi and it requires a large number of strokes to fill the reservoir up to that pressure level which can be an exhausting process.
Once the reservoir is filled, you can easily shoot up to 25-30 shots before the air reservoir required a refill. Since PCP sustains on compressed air, you have to carry the air pump everywhere in order to fill the reservoir.
6. Safety concerns
You have to be very cautious while dealing with a PCP gun during its storing as well as while using it since it deals with high-pressure air to propel the pellets. Just in case, if the air container of the rifle is damaged or ruptured, it can cause serious health issues and may cause death.
PCP air guns have powerful firepower and can be deadly if used improperly. It’s important to shoot sensibly and with the right ammo. Never attempt to shoot at improper targets or in dangerous locations since it could result in harm.
The most important thing to deal with is the storage and transportation of the rifle. It is important to follow proper procedures before transporting or storing the rifle.
There should be no ammo in the rifle while transporting/storing and to prevent accidental leakage the tank should be secured or removed. Also, make sure that the rifle stays away from unauthorized people.
Overall, it is very important to use the rifle with caution and to handle it safely by following the correct safety procedures.
Advantages of PCP rifles
Since we have already discussed the disadvantages of PCP air rifles in good detail, let’s quickly look at some of the advantages of these rifles:-
- Accuracy: PCP rifles are known for their accuracy which is very crucial during hunting, target shooting, and other applications where precision is important. The credit for the exceptional accuracy of PCP rifles goes to their consistent power output and minimal recoil which allows for precise and repeatable shots.
- Power: PCP rifles have the ability to generate high muzzle velocity due to this reason they can shoot with more force and accuracy at longer ranges. Due to their high power, PCP rifles are widely used in game hunting.
- Consistency: Consistency means the ability to deliver the same level of power and accuracy with each shot.PCP rifles provide amazing consistency and lack of recoil as they rely on a compressed air reservoir rather than a spring or other power source.
- Quiet: When compared to other types of rifles which use different power sources, PCP rifles are very quiet. Due to this reason, you can use PCP rifles in areas with noise restrictions and without disturbing neighbors or wildlife.
- Ease of use: The cocking effort needed for break-barrel or spring-piston rifles is not needed for PCP rifles. Moreover, PCP guns usually include power levels that can be adjusted, making it simpler to fine-tune the rifle for various shooting scenarios or environmental factors.
Should you get a PCP rifle (despite the disadvantages) ?
Ultimately, whether or not you should get a PCP air rifle depends on your specific needs and preferences as a shooter.
Because of their absence of recoil and simple cocking mechanism, they are frequently easier to shoot than other types of air rifles.
PCP air rifles do have certain drawbacks, though, like the requirements for extra gear, a lower shot count, and a greater price. However, they require more maintenance than other kinds of air rifles, and working with high-pressure air tanks raises safety issues.
It’s crucial to think about your intended use, budget, and level of air gun skill before investing in a PCP air rifle.
If accuracy, power, and consistency are important to you, and you are willing to invest in the necessary equipment and take the time to understand and manage the limitations of PCP air rifles, then they may be a good choice for you.
However, if you prioritize simplicity, low cost, or other factors, then other types of air rifles may be a better fit for your needs such as a spring-piston rifle or CO2 air rifle.
If you are serious about your shooting journey and are into long-range target shooting or competition shooting, then PCP rifles will ultimately be your go-to partner.
Conclusion
Here we are at the end of our article which highlighted some of the disadvantages of PCP air rifles.PCP rifles are a must-try rifle if you are really into shooting/hunting. I hope you have found this article helpful. Feel free to leave your suggestions or feedback in the comment section. Thanks for visiting leanoutdoor.com.