Airgunning is more than a gateway to the wider shooting world; it is a well-practised discipline in its own right. Across the UK, air rifles are used by hundreds of thousands of people for target shooting, pest control and training, making them one of the most accessible and fastest-growing areas of shooting.
Clare Young16 June 2025
BASC is proud to stand at the forefront of this growth, helping build the future of airgunning through education, advocacy and expert support. As interest in airguns continues to rise, so does the need for responsible guidance. That’s why BASC has invested in a comprehensive programme of training courses, developed and delivered by leading specialists to ensure every shooter has the opportunity to learn, improve and shoot with confidence.
From first-time shooters to experienced air rifle hunters, our training pathway offers something for everyone, whether it’s the practical foundation of Firearms Awareness Training, the progression of the Advanced Airgun Hunter course, or the leadership skills taught on our Airgun Instructor programme. These courses are not only about safe shooting, they’re about shaping capable, knowledgeable ambassadors for the sport and building a stronger future for the airgunning community.
BASC’s commitment goes far beyond the training ground. Every member benefits from specialist insurance tailored to airgunning, access to technical and legal advice when it matters most, and the backing of a team continually working to protect and promote air rifle shooting at every level, from local clubs to Westminster.
We are also fighting hard to defend the continued use of lead in air rifle ammunition, standing firm against disproportionate restrictions that would have serious consequences for air rifle shooters. We believe in policy built on robust scientific evidence and ensuring the voice of airgunning is heard loud and clear.
BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 31937
In this video, squirrel ranger Mick Garvey demonstrates the importance of controlling grey squirrels in order to conserve the native reds.
By Clare Young
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