PCP's: How Do They Work?
PCP stands for "pre-charged pneumatic" and these high power air rifles offer much simpler and higher-energy firing than some other types of guns.
A pcp air rifle works on a very simple principle of air pressure differential. The user pumps up the gun or uses some type of air charger to create a huge amount of air pressure in the tank. The pressure may reach up to 3,000 psi or about 200 times standard air pressure. When the trigger is pulled, the sudden "burst" of air comes from the changing difference between the pressure in the tank and the outside pressure equalizing. This happens nearly instantly and propels the projectile with great force, creating one of the most powerful air rifles available.
The pressure in the tank is slightly depleted each time the gun is used. As the air volume decreases in the tank, some of the pressure is also reduced, so eventually the air gun will no longer work and must be pumped up again. In most cases, this is done by pumping up the air chamber with some type of hand-operated lever. However, in higher-end models, it may be as simple as touching a button.
In order to charge your PCP air rifle, you will need at least one of a number of pcp accessories, including:
- Probes. These threaded units attach to an air source such as a hand pump or carbon fiber tank and are pushed into the charging port to recharge the air chamber. These are usually included with the purchase of the gun.
- Collars. These units lock in place after the gun is charged to keep the air in. They are included with the gun itself.
- Twist Caps or Collars. If your gun uses a twist cap, it is screwed onto the air source hose and pushed into the gun's air tank, then locked into place. This is a quick and easy-to-use method for recharging.
- Adapters for Detachable Bottles. If your gun comes with a detachable air bottle or tank, you may need an adapter, which is purchased separately.
- Quick-Fill Adapters. If you own more than one PCP, you may want to invest in a quick connect system that is adaptable to all types of guns.
