BB gun: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|Air gun that uses metallic ball projectiles called BBs}} |
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{{Redirect|Bee-bee|other uses|Beebee (disambiguation){{!}}Beebee}} |
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{{More citations needed|date=April 2012}} |
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A '''BB gun''' is a type of [[air gun]] designed to shoot metallic [[round shot|spherical projectile]]s called '''BBs''' (not to be confused with similar-looking [[Ball (bearing)|bearing balls]]), which are approximately the same size as [[shot (pellet)#Lead shot comparison chart|BB-size]] [[lead]] [[birdshot]] used in [[shotgun]]s ({{cvt|0.180|inch|mm|disp=or|lk=on}} in diameter). Modern BB guns usually have a [[smoothbore]] [[gun barrel|barrel]] with a {{cvt|0.177|in|order=flip}} [[caliber]], and use [[steel]] balls that measure {{cvt|0.171|-|0.173|in|order=flip}} in diameter and {{cvt|5.1|-|5.4|gr|g|order=flip|lk=on}} in weight, usually [[zinc]]- or [[copper]]-[[plating|plated]] for [[corrosion resistance]]. Some manufacturers still make the slightly larger traditional [[lead]] balls that weigh around {{cvt|7.4|-|7.7|gr|g|order=flip}}, which are generally intended for use in [[rifling|rifled]] barrels (because lead is more [[malleability|malleable]] and exerts less [[wear]] on riflings). |
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The term "BB gun" is frequently used colloquially to describe [[airsoft gun]]s, which shoot [[airsoft pellet|plastic pellet]]s (also often referred to as "BBs") that are larger (usually {{cvt|6|mm|in|disp=or}} in diameter) but much less [[dense]] than metal BBs,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Laurence|title=BB Guns vs Airsoft Whats the Difference?|url=https://www.socomtactical.net/bb-guns-vs-airsoft-whats-the-difference/|access-date=2020-11-24|website=Socom Tactical Airsoft|date=31 March 2020|language=en-US}}</ref> and have significantly lower [[ballistics|ballistic performance]]. The term is also sometimes used to describe a [[pellet gun]], which shoots [[diabolo]]-shaped (not spherical) [[pellet (air gun)|lead projectile]]s at higher power and velocity. Although some BB guns can also shoot pellets, the reverse situation is not true: steel BB balls have greater [[stiffness]] and are not meant to be shot from pellet guns, whose barrels are typically rifled and thus can get stuck (similar to a [[squib load]] in [[firearm]]s) and lead to a damage or mechanical failure within the pellet gun. |
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'''BB guns''' are a type of [[air gun]] designed to shoot projectiles named BBs after the [[Shotgun shell#Birdshot|birdshot]] pellet of approximately the same size. These projectiles are usually spherical but can also be pointed; those are usually used for bird hunting. Modern day BB guns usually have a [[smoothbore]] [[gun barrel|barrel]], with a bore diameter and caliber of 0.177 inches (4.5 mm). BB for modern day BB guns are usually [[steel]], plated either with [[zinc]] or [[copper]] to resist corrosion, and measure 0.171 to 0.173 inches (4.34 mm to 4.39 mm) in diameter. Some manufacturers also still make [[lead]] balls of slightly larger diameter and which are generally intended for use in [[rifling|rifled]] BB gun barrels, as were formerly used in BB guns. Some Asian companies make plastic BBs for recreation. |
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One of the most famous BB guns is the [[Red Ryder BB Gun]] by [[Daisy Outdoor Products]], modeled after the western Winchester rifle. First introduced in 1938, the BB gun became an iconic American toy, and is still in production today. |
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{{Unreferenced section|date=March 2020}} |
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The term ''BB'' originated from the nomenclature of the size of lead shots used in a [[smoothbore]] [[shotgun]]. Size "BB" shots were nominally {{convert|0.180|in|mm|abbr=on}}, but tended to vary considerably in size because of the loose tolerances in [[shotshell]]s. The largest shotgun pellet commonly used was named ''00'' or ''double ought'' and was used for hunting deer and thus called ''buckshot'', while the smaller BB-sized shot was typically used to shoot small/medium-sized [[game bird]]s and called ''birdshot''. |
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In 1886, the Markham Air Rifle Company in [[Plymouth, Michigan]] produced the first wooden-construct spring-piston air rifle design as a youth training gun, and used the BB-size birdshot as the chosen ammunition. Two years later, the neighbouring Plymouth Air Rifle Company (later renamed [[Daisy Outdoor Products|Daisy Manufacturing Company]] in 1895) introduced the first full-metal airgun that also fired BB shots – the Daisy BB Gun, which became a very popular [[brand awareness|household name]] because of successful marketing. Around 1900, Daisy changed their BB-size bore diameter to {{convert|0.175|in|mm|abbr=on}}, and began to market precision-made lead shot specifically for their BB guns. They called these "[[round shot]]s", but the ''BB'' name was already well established, and consequently most users continued calling their guns ''BB guns'', and the projectiles as ''BB shots'' or just ''BBs''. |
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[[Airsoft guns]] are also commonly referred to as BB guns or pellet guns, as they also launch spherical projectiles (typically through a smoothbore barrel). Common airsoft "BBs" are 6 mm in diameter (0.24 inches), and are generally made of [[plastic]] or other non-metallic materials specifically designed to impart low target damage (however, such can still be dangerous if carelessly or improperly used). Airsoft projectiles are often employed for wargames similar to [[paintball]]. |
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Subsequently, the term ''BB'' became generic, and is used loosely referring to any small spherical [[projectile]]s of various calibers and materials. This includes [[ball (bearing)|bearing ball]]s often utilized by [[anti-personnel mines]], [[.177 caliber]] lead/steel [[shot (pellet)|shot]]s used by [[air gun]]s, plastic round balls (such as the [[airsoft pellet|pellet]]s used by [[airsoft gun]]s), small [[marbles]] and many others. It has become ubiquitous to refer to any steel ball, such as a BB, as a "''ball bearing''". However, BBs should not be confused with a [[ball bearing]], which is a [[bearing (mechanical)|mechanical component]] using [[rolling-element bearing|small internal rolling balls]] to reduce [[friction]] between [[moving part]]s of [[machine]]s. |
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==Safety== |
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Most commercial BB firing airguns guns can shoot beyond {{convert|200|ft/s|m/s|abbr=on}}. The toy gun fires about {{convert|280|ft/s|m/s|abbr=on}}; typical adult airguns are generally in the 300–450 ft/s range. |
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Some commercial airguns (including BB and/or pellet guns) have the ability to fire considerably faster, even beyond {{convert|550|ft/s|m/s|abbr=on}}. Although claims are often exaggerated, a few airguns can actually fire a standard 0.177 lead pellet faster than 1000 ft/s (about 680 miles per hour), but these are generally not BB firing guns. |
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[[Airsoft guns]] are a subclass of BB guns, which are usually considerably lower energy and possess far less damage potential to humans and property (though they are subject to similar safety issues). Airsoft guns were developed for several reasons, one of which was to create a safer method of indoor target shooting. Most early Airsoft guns were single action (single pull of the slide, single shot) type that came with "sticky targets" where the plastic BB stuck to the target long enough to determine the accuracy of the shot, then slid down into a catch tray as later shots hit the target. This also facilitated easy reuse of the plastic BBs as they were originally not as easy to find. Airsoft guns were then quickly adopted into paintball type sports as they hurt less than a paintball. Airsoft guns are also available in far more shapes, sizes, and models than paintball. Proper safety gear including a full face mask are recommended when engaging in Airsoft shooting sports. |
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As with rocks, bricks, keys and other items, vandals have sometimes misused BB guns for the wrongful damage of property. The pellets can break windows, or leave distinctive round damage.<ref>[http://omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10537787 Omaha World-Herald January 14, 2009 BB-gun spree damages vehicles]</ref> |
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The major manufacturers are Crossman and Daisy which are known for their quality. Most pellet gun manufacturing companies have a wide variety although some aren't as popular. Even though people use these pellet guns to play games and sports, it is still dangerous and may cause permanent or serious injuries, including death.<ref>{{cite journal| last = Jackson| first = Carl-Christian| coauthors = Munyikwa, Mudiwa; Bacha, Emile; Statter, Mindy; Starr, Joanne| year = 2007| month = 10| title = Cardiac BB gun injury with missile embolus to the lung| journal = Journal of Trauma-Injury Infection & Critical Care| volume = 63| issue = 4| pages = E100-104| location = United States| issn = 1529-8809| accessdate = 2009-12-05}}</ref> |
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While it is often stated that the term "BB" originated from "[[ball bearing]]" or "bullet ball" (if it's made of plastic), this is not the case.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pyramydair.com/site/articles/bb-history/ |title=A short history of the BB |author=Tom Gaylord}}</ref> The original BB guns used the BB-sized [[lead shot]] for [[shotgun]]s, midway between B and BBB size. BB shot was nominally 0.180 inches (4.57 mm), but tended to vary considerably in size due to the high allowable tolerances for [[shotgun shell]] use. Around 1900, [[Daisy Outdoor Products|Daisy]], one of the earliest makers of BB guns, changed their BB gun bore diameter to .175 inches (4.45 mm), and began to market precision-made lead shot specifically for their BB guns. They called this "air rifle shot", but the "BB" name was already well established, and everyone continued calling the guns "BB guns" and the shot "BB shot" or just "BBs". |
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In the 1920s, Daisy began to receive reports of BB gun users salvaging scrap steel ball bearings for use in their guns; a number of guns came in for repair with split barrels, from oversized steel balls being forced down the barrel. The bearing manufacturer, American Ball Company, quickly seized on this as a marketing opportunity, and started to market 0.171 to {{convert|0.173|in|mm|sing=on}} diameter steel air rifle shot specifically for BB guns with a bore diameter and caliber of {{convert|0.177|in|mm}}. This quickly led to an exclusive marketing agreement with Daisy, as precision ground steel BBs were cheaper to make than precision lead BBs. The lighter steel BBs also provided higher velocities than lead BBs, which made new BB guns shoot flatter and more accurately at the short ranges where they were effective. By 1939, Daisy had acquired American Ball Company, which it used to produce its own steel BBs. Since Daisy was the dominant player in the BB gun market, other makers followed suit, matching Daisy's bore diameter and switching to steel BBs in 0.177 caliber (4.5 mm) measuring 0.171 to {{convert|0.173|in|mm}} in diameter. |
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Subsequently, the term "BB" became more generic, referring to round shot (and sometimes non-round shot) of various calibers and materials. This included (and still includes) bearing balls, plastic round shot (such as used in airsoft), 0.177 caliber lead and steel shot, marbles, and many others. It should also be noted that the ubiquitous usage of the term "ball bearing" for any steel ball is technically incorrect. A [[ball bearing]] is a [[Bearing (mechanical)|mechanical bearing]] constructed with a multitude of [[Ball (bearing)|bearing balls]]. |
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==Operation== |
==Operation== |
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[[Image:BB copper and nickel plated.jpg|right|thumb|Steel BBs |
[[Image:BB copper and nickel plated.jpg|right|thumb|Steel BBs with [[copper]] or [[zinc]] [[total metal jacket|jackets]]]] |
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BB guns can use any of the operating mechanisms used for |
BB guns can use any of the operating mechanisms used for air guns. However, because the projectile inherently has limited accuracy and short effective range, only the simpler and less expensive mechanisms are generally used for guns designed to fire only BBs.{{Citation needed|date=March 2020}} |
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Because the strength of the steel BB does not allow it to be [[swage]]d with the low propelling force used to accelerate it through the barrel, BBs are slightly smaller ({{convert|0.171|to|0.173|in|mm|abbr=on|order=flip}}) than the internal diameter of the barrel ({{convert|0.177|in|mm|abbr=on|order=flip}}). This limits accuracy because little spin is imparted on the BB. It also limits range, because some of the [[pressurized gas]] used to accelerate the BB leaks around it and reduces the overall [[energy conversion efficiency|efficiency]]. Since a BB will easily roll unhindered down the barrel, it is common to find guns that use a [[magnet]] in the loading mechanism to hold the BB at the rear of the barrel until it is fired.{{Citation needed|date=March 2020}} |
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Since nearly all BBs used today are steel, it is common to find BB guns that use [[magnet]]s in their loading mechanisms. Since the BB is too hard to be [[swage]]d to the bore size, magnets are often used to hold the BB at the rear of the barrel—otherwise, the BB would simply roll out of the barrel if it were held at a downward angle. |
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The traditional |
The traditional and still most common powerplant for BB guns is the spring-piston pump, usually patterned after a [[lever-action]] rifle or a [[pump-action]] shotgun. The lever-action rifle was the first type of BB gun, and still dominates the inexpensive youth BB gun market. The [[Daisy Model 25]], modeled after a pump-action shotgun with a trombone pump-action mechanism, dominated the low-price, higher-performance market for over 50 years (1914{{ndash}}1978). Lever-action models generally have very low velocities, around {{convert|275|ft/s|m/s|abbr=on|order=flip}}, a result of the weak springs used to keep cocking efforts low for use by youths. The Daisy Model 25 typically achieved the highest velocities of its day, ranging from {{convert|375|to|475|ft/s|m/s|abbr=on|order=flip}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.daisy.com/node/48|title=Model 25 Pump Gun {{!}} Daisy Outdoor Products|website=www.daisy.com|access-date=2017-01-12}}</ref> |
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Multiple-pump pneumatic guns are also common. Many pneumatic pellet guns provide the ability to use BBs as a cheaper alternative to lead shot. Some of these guns have rifled barrels, but the slightly undersized BBs do not [[swage]] in the barrel, so the rifling does not impart a significant spin. These are the types of guns that will benefit most from using precision lead BB shot. Pneumatic BB guns can also attain higher velocities than traditional spring-piston types.{{Citation needed|date=March 2020}} |
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The last common type of power for BB guns is |
The last common type of power for BB guns is [[compressed gas]], most commonly the [[Powerlet]] cartridges. The powerlet is a disposable metal [[gas cylinder]] containing {{convert|12|g|gr|0}} of compressed [[carbon dioxide]], with a self-contained valve to release the CO<sub>2</sub> which expands to propel the BB. These are primarily used in BB [[pistol]]s, and are capable of rapid firing unlike spring-piston or pneumatic types. A typical CO<sub>2</sub> BB pistol uses a spring-loaded magazine to feed BBs, and a [[trigger (firearms)#Double-action|double-action trigger]] mechanism to chamber a BB and cock the [[hammer (firearm)|hammer]]. However some guns (either to stay true to the original gun or to make the trigger pull easier) do have a [[trigger (firearms)#Single-action|single-action trigger]]. Either type of gun may also have [[blowback (firearms)|blowback]] action, where CO<sub>2</sub> will push the slide back in addition to firing a BB. When firing, the hammer strikes an internal valve linked to the CO<sub>2</sub> source, which releases a measured amount of CO<sub>2</sub> gas to fire the BB; this also gives it realistic recoil and muzzle report features. Many CO<sub>2</sub> BB guns are patterned after popular [[firearm]]s such as the [[Colt M1911]], and can be used for training as well as recreation.{{Citation needed|date=March 2020}} |
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Some gas-powered BB guns use a larger source of gas, and provide [[machine gun]]-like fire. These types are commonly found at [[carnival]]s |
Some gas-powered BB guns use a larger source of gas, and provide [[machine gun]]-like fire. These types, most notably the [[Shooting Star Tommy Gun]] (originally known as the Feltman) are commonly found at [[carnival]]s. The MacGlashan BB Gun was used to train [[antiaircraft]] gunners in the [[United States Army Air Corps]] and [[United States Navy]] during [[World War II]]. A popular commercial model was the Larc M-19, which used 1 pound (454 g) canisters of [[Dichlorodifluoromethane|Freon-12]] refrigerant. These types have very simple operating mechanisms, based on a [[venturi pump]]. The gas is released in a constant stream, and this is used to suck the BBs up into the barrel at rates as high as 3600 rounds per minute.<ref>{{cite book |title=Death in a Lonely Land: More Hunting, Fishing, and Shooting on Five Continents |author=Peter Hathaway Capstick |publisher=Macmillan |year=1990 |isbn=978-0-312-03810-6 |pages=11–19}}</ref> |
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==Safety== |
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[[Image:BB Copper plated.jpg|right|thumb|Close-up of a Copper plated BB]] |
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[[File:Steel BB in hand - X-ray.jpg|160px|thumb|BB gun injury showing a 4.5 mm steel BB that penetrated the middle finger on the left hand]] |
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BB guns can shoot faster than {{convert|60|m/s|abbr=on}}, but are often less powerful than a conventional pellet airgun. Pellet airguns have the ability to fire considerably faster, even beyond {{convert|170|m/s|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Faster isn't always better|url=https://www.airgundepot.com/faster-isnt-better.html|website=Air gun Depot}}</ref><ref>Pike, T.(2021, March 12). The 13 Best Air Rifles Reviewed & Revealed (Hands-on 2021 Airgun Guide). Outdoor Empire. https://outdoorempire.com/find-best-air-gun-reviews/.</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mogni |first1=Benjamin |last2=Maines |first2=Sarah |title=Homicide Using an Air Weapon |journal=Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine |date=2019-07-22 |volume=3 |issue=3 |pages=289–294 |doi=10.5811/cpcem.2019.6.42982 |pmid=31404301 |pmc=6682219 }}</ref> Although claims are often exaggerated, a few airguns can actually fire a standard 0.177 caliber lead pellet faster than {{convert|320|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}, but these are generally not BB-firing guns. |
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| ⚫ | A BB with a velocity of only {{convert|45|m/s|abbr=on}} has skin-piercing capability, and a velocity reaching {{convert|60|m/s|abbr=on}} can fracture bone.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Tsui |first1=Cl |last2=Tsui |first2=Kl |last3=Tang |first3=Yh |title=Ball Bearing (BB) Gun Injuries |journal=Hong Kong Journal of Emergency Medicine |date=November 2010 |volume=17 |issue=5 |pages=488–491 |doi=10.1177/102490791001700510 |citeseerx=10.1.1.1088.5686 |s2cid=9643574 }}</ref> This is potentially lethal, and this potential increases with velocity, but also rapidly decreases with distance. The effective penetrating range of a BB gun with a muzzle velocity of {{convert|120|to|180|m/s|abbr=on}} is approximately {{convert|60|ft|m|abbr=on|order=flip}}. A person wearing jeans at this distance would not sustain serious injury. However, even at this distance a BB still might penetrate bare skin, and even if not, could leave a severe and painful bruise. The maximum range of a BB gun in the {{convert|120|to|180|m/s|abbr=on}} range is 100–200 metres approximately,<ref>{{cite web|last=Mori|first=Edoardo|title=Balistica esterna|url=https://www.earmi.it/balistica/balest.htm|access-date=2023-09-27|website=Enciclopedia Delle Armi|language=it}}</ref> provided the muzzle is elevated to the optimum angle. |
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In addition to the traditional steel or lead BBs, there are a number of types of specialty ammunition that can be used. In appropriate types of BB guns, general breech loading models with tip-up barrels. |
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| ⚫ | Steel BBs are prone to [[ricochet]] off hard surfaces such as brick, concrete, metal, or wood [[end grain]]. Unlike lead pellets which usually flatten and absorb energy upon impact, a BB bouncing off a hard surface can retain a large portion of its initial energy, and could easily cause serious eye damage. Wearing [[eye protection]] is essential when shooting BBs at these materials, more so than when shooting lead pellets. |
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Air gun pellets of the correct diameter, .177 caliber, (4.5 mm), can be loaded into many BB guns. |
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Another type of ammunition used in smooth bore air guns is the dart, which consists of a small, pointed metal body with a string tassel on the end. Darts are used only in low-powered guns for indoor target practice, and can be used in place of hand-thrown darts in a game of [[darts]]. The original air gun darts were used in very accurate, handmade, target guns used in formal competition in late 19th and early 20th Century Germany. Modern darts come in an additional form, the ''bolt'' (after [[crossbow]] bolts), which uses plastic fins in place of the tassels. |
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| ⚫ | The [[U.S. Army]] trained recruits in [[Point shooting#Rifle Quick Kill|Quick Kill]] techniques using [[Daisy Outdoor Products|Daisy Model 99]] BB guns to improve soldiers using their weapons in the [[Vietnam War]] from 1967 to 1973. The technique was developed for the Army by [[Bobby Lamar "Lucky" McDaniel]] and Mike Jennings.<ref>{{cite magazine| url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,899618,00.html?iid=chix-sphere | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071106171955/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,899618,00.html?iid=chix-sphere | url-status=dead | archive-date=November 6, 2007 | magazine=Time | title=Armed Forces: Quick Skill | date=July 14, 1967 | access-date=April 26, 2010}}</ref> |
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Copper and/or Zinc coated steel .177 caliber BBs usually weigh between 0.33-0.45 grams (about 1/3 of a gram); this weight depends partly on type; the typical values of common varieties are 0.33g or 0.36g (nominal) for standard weight to 0.45g for heavy variants. (Note: 0.177-inch diam: 0.450 cm: (0.0151*PI) cm^3 times 7.8 g/cm^3 for steel = ~0.372 g). A lead air gun pellet weighs about 7.9 gr (about 1/2 of a gram.[http://www.lmpenterprises.co.uk ]) |
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BB guns are often regulated as a typical air gun.{{citation needed|date=June 2021}} [[Air gun laws]] vary widely by local jurisdiction. |
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==Competition use== |
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It is possible to shoot competitively with a BB gun. The [[National Rifle Association]] youth shooting program has classifications for smoothbore BB guns, open from ages 8 to 15, and these classes are popular with youth groups such as [[Boy Scouts of America]] and [[4H]]. |
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| ⚫ | The [[U.S. Army]] trained recruits in [[Point shooting#Quick Kill|Quick Kill]] techniques using Daisy Model 99 BB guns to improve soldiers using their weapons in the [[Vietnam War]] from 1967 |
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The technique was developed for the Army by [[Bobby Lamar "Lucky" McDaniel]] and Mike Jennings. The sights were removed from the BB guns for this training. |
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==Skirmish fighting== |
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{{Main|Airsoft}}BB and pellet guns have long been used in a way similar to airsoft or paintball weapons, particularly in rural areas.<ref>[http://everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=942510 BB gun fights - everything2.com] (warning: potentially offensive content)</ref> This seems to have become less prevalent with the introduction of these newer options. |
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BB guns are regulated in the same manner as air guns. In countries where there is a maximum velocity or muzzle energy at which point an air gun is treated like a firearm (such as in [[Canada]], [[France]], [[Germany]] or the [[United Kingdom]]), BB guns are often not powerful enough to be considered firearms. See the [[Air gun#Legal issues|legal issues]] section of the air gun article for more information. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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*[[ |
* [[Airsoft gun]] |
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*[[ |
* [[Paintball marker]] |
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*[[ |
* [[List of air guns]] |
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* [[Pellet (air gun)]] |
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*[[Gun safety#Toy and sport gun safety|Toy and sport gun safety]] |
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== References == |
== References == |
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{{Reflist}} |
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{{No footnotes|date=December 2007}} |
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<references/> |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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*[http://www.daisymuseum.com/html/home.htm The Daisy Museum], with an in-depth history of the Daisy BB gun |
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*[http://www.airgundepot.com BB Guns], Classic and Modern BB Guns. |
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*[http://www.pyramydair.com/site/articles/bb-history/ History of BB guns] |
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*[http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/question649.htm How do BB guns work] |
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*[http://www.nrahq.org/compete/airgun.asp How to Get Started, Airgun Competition] page from NRA site, covering air gun and BB gun competitions |
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*[http://www.taylorgunsmithing.net/a7/Ten-Shooting-Safety-Rules/article_info.html?osCsid=f8e49359add4c4a00490d55732d90698 BB Gun Safety Tips] Some basic tips for parents and new BB gun shooters |
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* US Army Quick Kill training http://www.i-kirk.info/misc/quickkill/qwikill.htm |
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* [http://www.crosman-air-pistol-owners-forum.com/ A forum dedicated to Crosman Air pistols] |
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[[Category:Pneumatic weapons]] |
[[Category:Pneumatic weapons]] |
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[[Category:Hunting]] |
[[Category:Hunting equipment]] |
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[[Category:Rifles]] |
[[Category:Rifles]] |
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[[Category:Recreational weapons]] |
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[[nl:Airsoft#Verschillende soorten replica's]] |
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Latest revision as of 14:20, 21 December 2024
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2012) |
A BB gun is a type of air gun designed to shoot metallic spherical projectiles called BBs (not to be confused with similar-looking bearing balls), which are approximately the same size as BB-size lead birdshot used in shotguns (0.180 in or 4.6 mm in diameter). Modern BB guns usually have a smoothbore barrel with a 4.5 mm (0.177 in) caliber, and use steel balls that measure 4.3–4.4 mm (0.171–0.173 in) in diameter and 0.33–0.35 g (5.1–5.4 gr) in weight, usually zinc- or copper-plated for corrosion resistance. Some manufacturers still make the slightly larger traditional lead balls that weigh around 0.48–0.50 g (7.4–7.7 gr), which are generally intended for use in rifled barrels (because lead is more malleable and exerts less wear on riflings).
The term "BB gun" is frequently used colloquially to describe airsoft guns, which shoot plastic pellets (also often referred to as "BBs") that are larger (usually 6 mm or 0.24 in in diameter) but much less dense than metal BBs,[1] and have significantly lower ballistic performance. The term is also sometimes used to describe a pellet gun, which shoots diabolo-shaped (not spherical) lead projectiles at higher power and velocity. Although some BB guns can also shoot pellets, the reverse situation is not true: steel BB balls have greater stiffness and are not meant to be shot from pellet guns, whose barrels are typically rifled and thus can get stuck (similar to a squib load in firearms) and lead to a damage or mechanical failure within the pellet gun.
History
[edit] |
The term BB originated from the nomenclature of the size of lead shots used in a smoothbore shotgun. Size "BB" shots were nominally 0.180 in (4.6 mm), but tended to vary considerably in size because of the loose tolerances in shotshells. The largest shotgun pellet commonly used was named 00 or double ought and was used for hunting deer and thus called buckshot, while the smaller BB-sized shot was typically used to shoot small/medium-sized game birds and called birdshot.
In 1886, the Markham Air Rifle Company in Plymouth, Michigan produced the first wooden-construct spring-piston air rifle design as a youth training gun, and used the BB-size birdshot as the chosen ammunition. Two years later, the neighbouring Plymouth Air Rifle Company (later renamed Daisy Manufacturing Company in 1895) introduced the first full-metal airgun that also fired BB shots – the Daisy BB Gun, which became a very popular household name because of successful marketing. Around 1900, Daisy changed their BB-size bore diameter to 0.175 in (4.4 mm), and began to market precision-made lead shot specifically for their BB guns. They called these "round shots", but the BB name was already well established, and consequently most users continued calling their guns BB guns, and the projectiles as BB shots or just BBs.
Subsequently, the term BB became generic, and is used loosely referring to any small spherical projectiles of various calibers and materials. This includes bearing balls often utilized by anti-personnel mines, .177 caliber lead/steel shots used by air guns, plastic round balls (such as the pellets used by airsoft guns), small marbles and many others. It has become ubiquitous to refer to any steel ball, such as a BB, as a "ball bearing". However, BBs should not be confused with a ball bearing, which is a mechanical component using small internal rolling balls to reduce friction between moving parts of machines.
Operation
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BB guns can use any of the operating mechanisms used for air guns. However, because the projectile inherently has limited accuracy and short effective range, only the simpler and less expensive mechanisms are generally used for guns designed to fire only BBs.[citation needed]
Because the strength of the steel BB does not allow it to be swaged with the low propelling force used to accelerate it through the barrel, BBs are slightly smaller (4.3 to 4.4 mm (0.171 to 0.173 in)) than the internal diameter of the barrel (4.5 mm (0.177 in)). This limits accuracy because little spin is imparted on the BB. It also limits range, because some of the pressurized gas used to accelerate the BB leaks around it and reduces the overall efficiency. Since a BB will easily roll unhindered down the barrel, it is common to find guns that use a magnet in the loading mechanism to hold the BB at the rear of the barrel until it is fired.[citation needed]
The traditional and still most common powerplant for BB guns is the spring-piston pump, usually patterned after a lever-action rifle or a pump-action shotgun. The lever-action rifle was the first type of BB gun, and still dominates the inexpensive youth BB gun market. The Daisy Model 25, modeled after a pump-action shotgun with a trombone pump-action mechanism, dominated the low-price, higher-performance market for over 50 years (1914–1978). Lever-action models generally have very low velocities, around 84 m/s (275 ft/s), a result of the weak springs used to keep cocking efforts low for use by youths. The Daisy Model 25 typically achieved the highest velocities of its day, ranging from 114 to 145 m/s (375 to 475 ft/s).[2]
Multiple-pump pneumatic guns are also common. Many pneumatic pellet guns provide the ability to use BBs as a cheaper alternative to lead shot. Some of these guns have rifled barrels, but the slightly undersized BBs do not swage in the barrel, so the rifling does not impart a significant spin. These are the types of guns that will benefit most from using precision lead BB shot. Pneumatic BB guns can also attain higher velocities than traditional spring-piston types.[citation needed]
The last common type of power for BB guns is compressed gas, most commonly the Powerlet cartridges. The powerlet is a disposable metal gas cylinder containing 12 grams (185 gr) of compressed carbon dioxide, with a self-contained valve to release the CO2 which expands to propel the BB. These are primarily used in BB pistols, and are capable of rapid firing unlike spring-piston or pneumatic types. A typical CO2 BB pistol uses a spring-loaded magazine to feed BBs, and a double-action trigger mechanism to chamber a BB and cock the hammer. However some guns (either to stay true to the original gun or to make the trigger pull easier) do have a single-action trigger. Either type of gun may also have blowback action, where CO2 will push the slide back in addition to firing a BB. When firing, the hammer strikes an internal valve linked to the CO2 source, which releases a measured amount of CO2 gas to fire the BB; this also gives it realistic recoil and muzzle report features. Many CO2 BB guns are patterned after popular firearms such as the Colt M1911, and can be used for training as well as recreation.[citation needed]
Some gas-powered BB guns use a larger source of gas, and provide machine gun-like fire. These types, most notably the Shooting Star Tommy Gun (originally known as the Feltman) are commonly found at carnivals. The MacGlashan BB Gun was used to train antiaircraft gunners in the United States Army Air Corps and United States Navy during World War II. A popular commercial model was the Larc M-19, which used 1 pound (454 g) canisters of Freon-12 refrigerant. These types have very simple operating mechanisms, based on a venturi pump. The gas is released in a constant stream, and this is used to suck the BBs up into the barrel at rates as high as 3600 rounds per minute.[3]
Safety
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BB guns can shoot faster than 60 m/s (200 ft/s), but are often less powerful than a conventional pellet airgun. Pellet airguns have the ability to fire considerably faster, even beyond 170 m/s (560 ft/s).[4][5][6] Although claims are often exaggerated, a few airguns can actually fire a standard 0.177 caliber lead pellet faster than 320 m/s (1,000 ft/s), but these are generally not BB-firing guns.
A BB with a velocity of only 45 m/s (150 ft/s) has skin-piercing capability, and a velocity reaching 60 m/s (200 ft/s) can fracture bone.[7] This is potentially lethal, and this potential increases with velocity, but also rapidly decreases with distance. The effective penetrating range of a BB gun with a muzzle velocity of 120 to 180 m/s (390 to 590 ft/s) is approximately 18 m (60 ft). A person wearing jeans at this distance would not sustain serious injury. However, even at this distance a BB still might penetrate bare skin, and even if not, could leave a severe and painful bruise. The maximum range of a BB gun in the 120 to 180 m/s (390 to 590 ft/s) range is 100–200 metres approximately,[8] provided the muzzle is elevated to the optimum angle.
Steel BBs are prone to ricochet off hard surfaces such as brick, concrete, metal, or wood end grain. Unlike lead pellets which usually flatten and absorb energy upon impact, a BB bouncing off a hard surface can retain a large portion of its initial energy, and could easily cause serious eye damage. Wearing eye protection is essential when shooting BBs at these materials, more so than when shooting lead pellets.
Quick Kill training
[edit]The U.S. Army trained recruits in Quick Kill techniques using Daisy Model 99 BB guns to improve soldiers using their weapons in the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1973. The technique was developed for the Army by Bobby Lamar "Lucky" McDaniel and Mike Jennings.[9]
Legal status
[edit]BB guns are often regulated as a typical air gun.[citation needed] Air gun laws vary widely by local jurisdiction.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Laurence (31 March 2020). "BB Guns vs Airsoft Whats the Difference?". Socom Tactical Airsoft. Retrieved 2020-11-24.
- ^ "Model 25 Pump Gun | Daisy Outdoor Products". www.daisy.com. Retrieved 2017-01-12.
- ^ Peter Hathaway Capstick (1990). Death in a Lonely Land: More Hunting, Fishing, and Shooting on Five Continents. Macmillan. pp. 11–19. ISBN 978-0-312-03810-6.
- ^ "Faster isn't always better". Air gun Depot.
- ^ Pike, T.(2021, March 12). The 13 Best Air Rifles Reviewed & Revealed (Hands-on 2021 Airgun Guide). Outdoor Empire. https://outdoorempire.com/find-best-air-gun-reviews/.
- ^ Mogni, Benjamin; Maines, Sarah (2019-07-22). "Homicide Using an Air Weapon". Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine. 3 (3): 289–294. doi:10.5811/cpcem.2019.6.42982. PMC 6682219. PMID 31404301.
- ^ Tsui, Cl; Tsui, Kl; Tang, Yh (November 2010). "Ball Bearing (BB) Gun Injuries". Hong Kong Journal of Emergency Medicine. 17 (5): 488–491. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.1088.5686. doi:10.1177/102490791001700510. S2CID 9643574.
- ^ Mori, Edoardo. "Balistica esterna". Enciclopedia Delle Armi (in Italian). Retrieved 2023-09-27.
- ^ "Armed Forces: Quick Skill". Time. July 14, 1967. Archived from the original on November 6, 2007. Retrieved April 26, 2010.