AFTE Store - PCP Airguns: A Not-So-New Technology

Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) airguns date back to the late 1700s and exist today in many forms and calibers.
These airguns can shoot lead pellets, lead spheres and lead bullets specifically designed for use in these guns.
The velocities achievable in PCP airguns are capable of inflicting serious to fatal injuries. This raises the clear possibility
that one of these uncommon guns, or their fired projectiles will be involved in some incident and come to the attention of the
firearms examiner despite the fact that they are not firearms in the operative sense nor by legal definition under U.S. federal
law. This article should provide a sufficient understanding of the design and capabilities of these guns as well as the ability
to recognize their various fired projectiles.