Airgun 411: Secure the Shot: Why Airgun Storage Is Critical

Introduction

We recognize that airguns—whether pellet, BB, CO₂, or PCP—offer accessible and enjoyable shooting experiences. However, we also understand the imperative of safe storage. Even though airguns often seem harmless, they carry real risks and failing to secure them properly can lead to serious consequences.

This year’s Gun Storage Check Week®, led by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and running September 1–7, 2025, reinforces that message with a national call to action: “Make Sure It’s Secure®.” The campaign encourages every owner to review storage habits and ensure firearms and airguns are locked, unloaded, and inaccessible to unauthorized users.

By joining this effort, we strengthen a year-round culture of responsibility, ensuring airguns remain both enjoyable and safe. Below, we outline best practices—backed by expert guidelines and credible sources—to ensure responsible air gun ownership.

Understanding the Stakes

Not Toys—Serious Tools

Airguns are commonly mistaken for toys, yet they are capable of causing significant injury. Our own safety guidance stresses that airguns must be treated with respect and caution. They demand careful handling and responsible storage just like traditional firearms.

Accidental Injuries Are Real

Although rare, accidents can occur if airguns are left unsecured. Safety experts emphasize that mechanical safeties should never replace common sense. Misuse or accidental discharge—especially with high-powered PCP rifles—can be harmful.

This reinforces why correct storage is not optional—it’s essential.

Storage as the Keystone of Safety

Prevent Unauthorized Access

Safe storage begins with keeping airguns unloaded and locked away from unauthorized users. We recommend storing them in a safe place, separate from ammunition and power sources, to ensure they cannot be used by anyone without authorization.

Legal and Ethical Imperatives

While many regions do not regulate airguns as strictly as firearms, responsible ownership demands secure storage to prevent accidents, theft, and unauthorized access, especially by children.

In some jurisdictions, failure to secure an air rifle can even result in legal consequences if minors gain access, so be sure to know the laws and ordinances that govern you.

Choosing the Right Storage Method

Gun Safe: Maximum Security

Gun safes offer robust protection against theft, unauthorized access, and environmental damage. Though an investment, they provide the highest standard of security for airgun owners.

Gun Cabinet: Accessible and Practical

A gun cabinet provides a reliable middle ground, offering secure storage without the higher cost of a full safe. Lockable cabinets are suitable for households where multiple firearms or airguns need containment.

Hard Case with Lock or Chain

Hard, lockable cases secured with chains can be an effective and affordable way to demonstrate that “reasonable precautions” have been taken, particularly in shared households.

Supplementary Locking Devices

Trigger locks and cable locks provide additional layers of safety. They should be used alongside secure storage solutions rather than as substitutes. Be mindful that cable locks might not work with your airgun.

Rifle Bags or Stands—Not for Long-Term Storage

Bags and cases may be useful for transport or temporary placement, but they do not protect against unauthorized use or environmental damage. If using a hard case, be sure to select one that has locks or the provision to accept locks. Moisture can accumulate in soft cases, while stands leave airguns exposed to dust, humidity, and accidental handling. Once again, save the soft case for transporting your airgun to the range. 

Environmental Protection: Beyond Safety

Airgun storage also preserves the investment in the equipment itself:

• Moisture causes corrosion, threatening seals, barrels, and O-rings.

• Dehumidifiers and protective sleeves keep the internal mechanisms reliable.

• Routine maintenance and oiling before storage protect performance and accuracy.

By combining secure storage with preventive care, owners extend the life of their airguns.

Gun Safety Training: Culture Matters

Storage is only one part of the safety culture. The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) emphasizes training as critical to safe ownership:

“Everyone who completes marksmanship and safety training learns how to be safe while handling any type of air rifle or firearm”

Thanks to such structured training, youth air rifle marksmanship ranks among the safest organized sports in the United States. This outcome stems from a combination of education, structured programs like the Student Air Rifle program, and an unwavering commitment to safety.

Summary of Best Practices

Conclusion

We prioritize safety—not just as a legal or ethical obligation, but as a commitment to preserving trust, equipment, and human life. Airguns demand the same respect as traditional firearms. By storing them unloaded, locked, and maintained, we safeguard against accidents, theft, and damage.

Let us lead by example: secure our airguns, teach safe practices, and uphold the highest standards. Together, we ensure that responsible ownership and shooting fun go hand in hand.