When people first get into airgun shooting, it’s common to assume that more power equals better performance. Higher feet-per-second figures and bigger numbers on the box can look impressive, but experienced shooters know that raw power alone does not guarantee accuracy.
Consistency is far more important than power when it comes to hitting your target reliably.
Accuracy Is Built on Repeatability
Accuracy in airgun shooting is about one thing above all else: repeatability. A pellet that leaves the barrel at the same speed, with the same air pressure and barrel harmonics every time, will group far tighter than a more powerful airgun that delivers inconsistent shots.
Even small variations in 22 air rifle velocity can cause pellets to strike higher or lower on the target, especially at longer distances. That’s why competitive shooters prioritise stable platforms over maximum output.
UK Power Limits Reinforce the Point
In the UK, non-FAC air rifles are legally limited to 12 ft-lb. Within this boundary, pushing an airgun to the absolute limit often introduces instability rather than improved accuracy.
Air guns that are tuned sensibly – operating comfortably below the limit – tend to deliver:
- Smoother firing cycles
- Reduced recoil and vibration
- More predictable pellet trajectories
This makes them easier to shoot accurately, particularly for follow-up shots and longer sessions.
Consistent Air Delivery Makes the Difference
Whether spring-powered, PCP, or CO₂, airguns rely on controlled air delivery. When pressure, seals, and components are consistent, each shot behaves the same as the last.
In contrast, chasing power can lead to:
- Harsh recoil in springers
- Air wastage in PCPs
- Greater pellet sensitivity
All these factors reduce practical accuracy, even if the airgun is technically more powerful.
Pellet Choice and Consistency Go Hand in Hand
Pellets play a huge role in consistency. A well-matched pellet that fits the barrel correctly will outperform a faster pellet that doesn’t suit the rifle.
Consistent rifles allow shooters to:
- Find a pellet that groups reliably
- Maintain zero over time
- Develop confidence in their setup
This is far more valuable than a few extra feet per second.
Why Experienced Shooters Choose Balance Over Brute Force
Seasoned shooters understand that an airgun should feel predictable. A calm firing cycle, consistent point of impact, and repeatable performance build confidence – and confidence improves accuracy more than power ever will.
This philosophy is reflected in the way reputable manufacturers and distributors approach product selection and support. Companies such as Solware focus on supplying airguns that prioritise build quality, reliability, and consistency, ensuring shooters get dependable performance rather than headline-grabbing numbers.
Wrapping Up
Power has its place, but accuracy is earned through consistency. A well-set-up airgun that performs the same shot after shot will always outperform a more powerful but unpredictable alternative.
For anyone serious about improving their shooting – whether for target practice, club shooting, or field use – focusing on consistency is the smartest step forward.
Why Consistency Matters More Than Power in Airgun Accuracy
