Are CO2 guns lethal? Discover the precautions to take.

The world of sports and recreational shooting has witnessed an explosion in the popularity of CO2-powered guns.

As we saw earlier in the article “CO2 Pistol: Why Have One in Your Collection”, the high power and versatility make them the preferred choice of many enthusiasts. However, as is the case with any tool or device that fires projectiles, safety must be paramount.

One of the questions that frequently arises is: “Are CO2 guns lethal after all?” While many may initially dismiss this notion as a myth, in this article, we will delve into this topic and uncover the importance of handling these guns with the respect and necessary precautions.

CO2 Guns: Lethal or Not?

While it might be easy to dismiss CO2 guns as mere “toys” due to their association with recreational activities and the absence of gunpowder, this assessment is far from true.

The short answer is: yes, CO2 guns can indeed cause harm, and in extreme cases, they can be lethal. A quick search in scientific publications will yield dozens of cases where, unfortunately, the use of a CO2 gun resulted in death.

The high power and firing velocity of a CO2 pistol (typically ranging from 120 to 138 m/s) are significantly higher than the speed required for penetrating the skin (45 m/s) and even bones (107 m/s). And although the kinetic energy released from firing a CO2 pistol is not comparable to that of a conventional firearm, it has similar capabilities to penetrate the body.

While one might think that air compressed guns could be lethal only in rare cases where there is a more direct impact with the eyes or even the brain, these guns can be equally lethal if the projectile pierces an artery.

In the end, the answer is clear: since CO2 guns are lethal, they must always be treated as such.

Determining Factors of Impact Severity

CO2 guns, like other compressed air weapons, come in a range of power levels, often measured by the firing velocity (the speed at which the projectile exits the gun).

The ability of a CO2 gun to cause injuries is partially determined by this velocity. Generally, the higher the velocity, the greater the potential for causing injuries.

Furthermore, CO2 guns can fire a variety of ammunition with different shapes. Pointed ammunition can penetrate the skin more easily than rounded ones, increasing the potential for injury.

Lastly, distance also plays an important role: the closer the target, the greater the energy and impact force of the projectile.

CO2 Gun Safety Precautions

Just like other air pressure guns, CO2 guns should never be considered toys.

When handling CO2 guns, it’s essential to always treat them as if they are loaded, even if you believe they are not. This fundamental practice ensures that you never inadvertently point the gun at someone and that you are constantly aware of where the barrel is pointing.

Being aware of your surroundings is another essential guideline. Make sure there is a backstop capable of stopping projectiles that miss the target, and always be mindful of potential ricochets.

It’s also important to ensure the use of proper protective equipment, especially shooting glasses.. Eyes are particularly vulnerable, and a stray bullet can cause irreversible damage.

It’s also advisable to consider the storage of your CO2 gun. Keeping it out of the reach of children and individuals unfamiliar with its operation can prevent accidental discharges. Storing the ammunition separately further reduces risks.

Lastly, like any equipment, regular maintenance of CO2 pistols can prevent unexpected malfunctions. Over time, seals can wear out or the CO2 cylinders May not function as intended. By addressing these issues promptly, you can ensure that the gun operates safely and predictably.

Conclusion

CO2 guns, while highly attractive to enthusiasts, must be treated with the respect and caution they demand.

Although their potential for harm is generally lower than that of conventional firearms, it remains significant and potentially lethal. Safety should always be the number one priority in the practice of shooting with a CO2 pistol or revolver.

There’s nothing like being properly informed. To better understand the potential dangers and safety precautions of your CO2 gun, speak with the team of experts at Mundilar.

In our online store, you will find all the details to consider in the selection and analysis of different CO2 guns from various brands, so that you can head to the shooting range with complete peace of mind.