Rifleman Q&A: Charging PCP Airguns

posted on February 1, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
air.jpg

Q: I purchased a large-bore pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) airgun recently and absolutely love shooting it. The only drawback is filling the air tank, especially since the larger caliber seems to drain air much faster. Given my age, using the manual pump is a bit of a chore, what can I do since I love shooting and hunting with the airgun? 

A: The first step is determining what options for compressed air are available to you, based on the make and model of your airgun. Also, your proximity to a certified air supplier (dive shop) falls into the equation. Do your homework on the gun to obtain the necessary information such as tank style and fitting types. Some places may not refill your tank, and likely an adapter will be needed by the refill station, so it’s best to call ahead. For additional support, the folks at pyramydair.com may help. They offer a great selection of parts, adapters, tanks and systems for your airgunning needs.

The purchase of a PCP airgun may best be accompanied by an additional, gun-specific air tank. Or, a high-capacity air cylinder for transferring air to the smaller, gun-mounted air supply may suit your needs. Hydrostatic retesting is required on all tanks and can be done by certified dive shops. There is no guarantee of passing, and note that composite air cylinders do have a predetermined shelf life. 

Crown markings on scuba-style tanks contain pertinent information such as manufacture location, serial number, tank construction and service pressure, to name a few. Valves mounted on the top of air tanks vary, as do the necessary adapters for your airgun. Two of the most common valve types are DIN and K. Appropriate, non-combustible lubricant rated for high pressure is also needed. Remember to always follow proper safety and handling procedures when dealing with high-pressure air.

Latest

Taurus Expedition Rifleman Review 1
Taurus Expedition Rifleman Review 1

Rifleman Review: Taurus Expedition

Taurus entered the bolt-action rifle market with its Expedition, a Remington 700-pattern design that's built to be versatile and affordable.

New For 2025: Charter Arms Pathfinder II

Charter Arms updated one of the oldest models in its lineup with the new Pathfinder II, which features a lightweight 7075 aluminum frame, making it more well-balanced and easier to carry.

Review: Kimber 2K11

The 2011-style pistol was designed to address the capacity limitations of the single-stack M1911 platform, and Kimber's approach to the concept is its 2K11, a competition-ready offering with several notable features.

Favorite Firearms: A High-Flying Hi-Standard “A-D”

Manufactured in New Haven, Conn., in late 1940, this Hi-Standard pistol was shipped as a Model “A,” but a heavier Model “D” barrel was installed later to replace the original, light barrel, leading one American Rifleman reader to call it a Model “A-D.”

Ruger Helps Families In Need Through The Kids & Clays Foundation

In the effort to help tens of thousands of critically ill children and their families across the nation through local Ronald McDonald Houses, Ruger is among some of the industry’s foremost Platinum-level sponsors of The Kids & Clays Foundation.

Unlocking The Future: Smith & Wesson's "No Lock" Revolvers

The future is shaping up to be a good one for fans of Smith & Wesson revolvers. The iconic American company had released 14 new models thus far in 2025 at the time this was written mid-year. And, with one exception, they have all shared a common feature—no internal lock.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.