I don't normally get involved in these sorts of discussions, but always read with interest. However, just wanted to mention, Ava and my brother-in-law both own airguns and use them to keep vermin under control on a local farm, (means we always have plenty of rabbits in the freezer!) The weapons are used responsibly and safely. I do not know any facts or figures on air rifle owners or crimes, but I do feel that it is the small number of idiots that use them as toys and get a kick out of shooting domestic pets, people or property that give the responsible air rifle owners a bad name, a few spoiling it for the masses. I shall now close the door on my way out, my own little rant over. ;D