Air Gun Suppressor UK Buying Guide: What Actually Matters
Air rifles are straightforward to own and enjoy in the UK, but you quickly realise the rifle itself is only part of the picture. The right accessories can make your shooting calmer, more consistent, far easier to manage and a whole lot more fun.
Whether you’ve just bought your first air rifle or you’ve been shooting for years, choosing the right kit makes a real difference. This guide helps you focus on what actually improves your setup, spend your money wisely, and avoid buying accessories that don’t suit your rifle or your shooting style. The aim is simple: make sure every addition works for you, not against you.
Air rifle law in the UK: the essentials explained
In England and Wales, most sub-12 ft-lb air rifles can be owned without a firearms certificate. However, once power levels increase (or the way you use, transport, or modify the rifle changes), different rules may apply, including regulations that affect how certain accessories are purchased, stored or transported.
Scotland and Northern Ireland have stricter rules than England and Wales, so it’s essential to understand what applies before you buy or travel with your air rifle.
In Scotland, most air rifle owners must hold an Air Weapon Certificate (AWC). This applies to low-powered air rifles as well as higher-powered models. You’ll need to apply through Police Scotland, pass background checks, and show you have secure storage in place. There are limited exemptions, but in general, owning an air rifle in Scotland without the proper certificate is an offence.
In Northern Ireland, air rifles are treated much more like traditional firearms. You must hold a Firearm Certificate (FAC) for virtually all air rifles, regardless of power level. The licensing process is more detailed and includes police checks, secure storage requirements, and a genuine reason for ownership.
Because of these differences, the safest approach is to understand the law in your part of the UK before you spend money or travel across borders with your air rifle.
If you’re unsure, speak to a knowledgeable local dealer, check out our article on Air Rifle Laws or read official guidance from BASC or the Home Office, which explains power limits, licensing requirements and transport rules in detail. It’s always easier to get it right from the start.
Moderators, Silencers and Suppressors: Clearing Up the Terms
You’ll often see “silencer, “" suppressor", and “moderator” used interchangeably online. In UK airgun terms, “moderator” is the common name for the front-end device that reduces muzzle noise on air rifles - particularly sub-12 ft-lb models, though the term is widely used for similar devices on FAC (higher-power) air rifles too.
Historically, sound moderators for sub-12 ft-lb air rifles (non-FAC/legal limit in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) have never been subject to firearms licensing controls, unlike those for Section 1 firearms. Moderators for FAC air rifles (over 12 ft-lb) previously required inclusion on a firearms certificate (FAC).
In June 2025, following a Home Office consultation and longstanding campaigns (including by BASC), the Government announced it would remove sound moderators from firearms licensing controls under the Firearms Act 1968 - meaning they no longer need to be listed on FACs for lawful possession with a firearm certificate. This change aims to reduce police administrative burdens without impacting public safety, with implementation via primary legislation progressing (e.g., amendments in the Crime and Policing Bill). Sub-12 ft-lb airgun moderators were already exempt and remain freely available without paperwork.
Organisations such as BASC regularly publish updates on these developments, so it’s worth checking their guidance for the latest status, especially as full enactment may depend on parliamentary timelines. Note that Scotland has separate air weapon licensing rules, where sound moderators for airguns remain controlled.
How to choose: the three questions that stop bad purchases
Before you fill a cart, ask three questions. What are you doing (plinking, targets, hunting)? What is your budget? What is the one problem you are trying to fix (comfort, stability, noise, organisation)?
If you cannot answer those, you will end up buying too many products, then spending your evenings taking off added parts and added extras that do not work. Keep it fairly simple while you learn, then add upgrades with a clear point.
When testing new accessories, note any differences in noise, accuracy, or handling to determine whether the product meets your needs. In the shooting world, the best kit is the kit you actually use, whether you shoot at a club line with other people live or you’re on your own. Across the world, the same rule applies: buy for the job, not the hype.
The buying order that works for most airguns
This order keeps you focused and prevents “upgrade chaos”. It also makes it easier to test changes, because you only add one thing at a time.
- Sighting products (scope, mounts, levels)
- Stability products (bags, sticks, bipod)
- Front-end products (moderator, adapter, thread protection)
- Carry and protection (case, sling, storage)
- Basic care (wipe-down, tools, simple clean routine)
If you started with a bundle, treat it as a baseline and improve one area at a time. That approach makes troubleshooting easier and stops you from buying duplicates.
Sighting products: scopes, mounts, and repeatable results
For most airguns, the biggest gains come from reliable mounts and a scope that holds zero. This is true across springers and PCP air rifles. If your groups move, do not assume the rifle is the problem. Look at the mounts, the rail, and your head position first.
Once you have a stable setup, print a simple zero card and keep it in your case. Add the date and your chosen pellet. Print a second copy for your range bag, and print a third if you keep notes at home. If you later share results in posts, include your setup details so the feedback is useful. That small habit saves a session and stops you from chasing problems that do not exist.
A final practical tip: if you change anything (mounts, rings, rail, or stock height), treat it like a reset and re-zero from scratch.
Stability products: bags, sticks, and building skill faster
A support bag or sticks will make your shooting easier, because you can focus on trigger control instead of fighting wobble. For airguns, that stability often makes the biggest difference fastest. For bench targets, front and rear bags are often better than a bipod because they reduce bounce and help the rifle return to the same point.
In the field, sticks can be quicker than a bipod. Choose one method, practise it, and keep notes on what works in real wind and awkward angles. Most shooters improve faster by repeating the same position than by changing positions every session.
Moderator, silencers, and suppressors: what they actually do
A moderator reduces muzzle blast by slowing and dispersing compressed air as it exits the barrel. It does not make a rifle silent. Mechanical noise, pellet impact, and surroundings still contribute to the overall sound.
For most UK air rifles under 12 ft-lb, moderators are legal and widely used. They are most effective on PCP air rifles, where the majority of noise comes from compressed air release rather than mechanical movement.
How a Moderator Reduces Noise
- Inside a moderator are chambers and baffles that slow and redirect expanding air. By reducing the speed and turbulence of that air, the sharp “crack” at the muzzle becomes a softer report.
- Noise reduction is usually noticeable rather than dramatic. Expect a calmer shooting experience, not silence.
- Backstops and surroundings still matter. Steel targets will always be louder than pellet traps or soft ground.
PCP vs Spring: Where It Makes a Difference
On PCP rifles, a moderator can make a clear difference. On spring-powered rifles, mechanical noise limits the benefit.
That’s why PCP owners often see more value in the front-end kit. The design of the rifle determines how effective a moderator will be.
Can a Moderator Affect Accuracy?
It can – positively or negatively.
A well-aligned moderator can slightly stabilise airflow at the muzzle and reduce turbulence, sometimes improving shot-to-shot consistency and practical accuracy. A poorly aligned one can cause clipping, where the pellet contacts the internal baffles. If your groups change after fitting one, remove it and test again. Treat alignment as the first check, not the last guess.
Accuracy and the “clip” problem
If your groups open up after you fit a moderator, stop and test. Take it off, shoot a small set, then refit and test again. If the problem follows the moderator, you may have an alignment problem or the wrong adapter.
Many modern airguns are consistent enough that a small alignment error becomes obvious quickly. Treat that as useful feedback, not a mystery.
Threads, adapter fit, and the bore end
Most UK airguns use a 1/2” UNF thread standard (also known as 1/2×20 UNF or 20 UNF), which is the common standard for attaching moderators and suppressors to airguns. However, not every barrel is factory-threaded. A correctly sized adapter provides a standard thread, ensuring a moderator fits correctly and stays centred. Some moderators may require the removal or replacement of the front sight post to ensure proper fitment and alignment.
Air Arms sells model-specific moderator adaptor parts for certain rifles, designed to provide a 1/2” UNF fitment for popular moderators. That kind of part is often a cleaner solution than a universal clamp-on adapter, because it is designed around the front-end profile.
When you are choosing an adapter, do not guess. Confirm whether your barrel is factory-threaded and whether the muzzle needs a protector or an extension. Some air gun suppressor options include built-in suppressor designs or stock shroud modifications for seamless integration.
How to install the front-end kit without damage
Start by measuring. Adapter size matters; incorrect dimensions can mark the barrel or sit crooked. When you begin the installation, keep everything square, tighten by hand, and avoid forcing threads.
To attach the air gun suppressor or moderator, simply screw it onto the thread or adapter by hand until it is snug. If you encounter resistance or need to adjust components such as the front sight, seek professional help rather than risking damage.
After installation, look for alignment. A quick look through the bore (with the rifle safe and unloaded) should show a clear path. If anything looks off, take the parts off and start again rather than hoping it will “wear in”.
If you ever need to remove stuck parts, avoid gripping finished surfaces with pliers. Use the right tool, or ask a competent shop to help.
Carry and protection products: cases, slings, and storage
A good case protects your kit and keeps small products organised. A sling helps you carry the rifle safely, especially on longer walks or during hunting, where you may need both hands for gates and gear.
Choose a case with enough length for your scope and a fitted moderator. If you change stocks or add a cheek riser, confirm the case still matches before you buy. This is where “measure twice” saves real money.
Stock fit: comfort, consistency, and fewer bad shots
Stock fit matters more than many people expect. If your stock puts your head in the wrong place, you will shift your cheek weld, and your eye alignment will move. That makes your zero feel inconsistent even when the rifle is fine.
- If you need an adjustment, add a simple riser or butt pad rather than bolting on five extra products. The best stock upgrades are the ones you forget about because they simply work.
- A good stock setup also reduces fatigue, which keeps your groups tighter when you’re taking lots of shots.
- Some shooters also choose to modify or replace the stock shroud to better integrate suppressor components, improving both the appearance and function of their air rifle.
Maintenance products: keep it clean, keep it reliable
Most airguns do not need constant bore scrubbing, but they do need routine care. If you own multiple airguns, keep the routine the same for each one. Wipe down after use, especially if you have been out in wet weather, and keep metalwork dry. A clean exterior prevents corrosion and helps screws stay seated.
Use a pull-through made for airguns, and keep your cleaning simple. Over-cleaning can be a problem in its own right, because it changes consistency. If you want a checklist, print it and keep it in your case: wipe down, confirm screws, confirm optic mounts.
Budget bands: starter, mid-range, and premium (without regrets)
A smart budget is not about buying everything. It is about choosing the right products first and adding the rest over the session.
- Starter: buy dependable mounts, one support option, and a basic case. For those considering a suppressor, the cost can be a significant factor—some explore 3D printing for custom air gun suppressors with expansion chambers and baffles for noise reduction, though always ensure safety and compliance.
- Mid-range: improve glass, add better support, and add a good moderator and the correct adapter. Premium: invest in repeatability—tools, spares, and products that remove friction. At every level, the goal is the same: fewer surprises, fewer repeated fixes, and more time shooting. That makes practice feel smoother and progress more obvious.
Buying checks before you hit “buy now”
Compatibility is the biggest trap. Confirm rail type, thread type, adapter dimensions, and total length. Read the listing carefully and look for clear specs. If the listing is vague, find a better retailer.
Be sceptical of “tested” claims with no detail. Real tested kit shows consistent machining, good materials, and feedback from people who have used it over several sessions, not just one weekend. The performance of airgun moderators and suppressors can vary significantly based on their design and construction materials, so it is important to prove their effectiveness through real testing and data, not just subjective impressions.
Read a mix of reviews and posts, and compare what those posts say with what you see in the manufacturer data. When choosing airgun accessories, also consider the company's reputation and track record, as established companies often offer higher quality and better support.
- Also, confirm the retailer’s returns policy. If you buy the wrong adapter, a good shop will help you swap it quickly.
When you’re buying online, it helps to treat the product page like a checklist: look at the features, confirm what the part is designed for, and read a few independent posts from shooters who have used it. If you’re unsure, add the item to your cart, review the cart, then take a moment to decide if it really belongs in your setup. That pause prevents impulse buying and keeps your cart focused on the products you actually need.
Some retailers are also selling bundle deals that look good on the surface but include low-grade extras. If you’re comparing options, set a budget, pick the core products first, and do not be shy about asking what the manufacturer recommends for your barrel and muzzle thread.
What to buy by shooting style (and what to leave in the shop)
Plinking: keep it light—simple optic, one rest, and a moderator if noise is a concern. Experimenting with different air gun suppressors and moderators can also be a fun part of the airgun hobby, especially for those who enjoy testing and customising their setup. Sometimes, trying out new suppressors can lead to surprises in their performance, with certain models unexpectedly exceeding or falling short of expectations.
- Targets: spend on repeatability - good mounts, bags, and printed notes you can refer to.
- Hunting: choose a robust carry kit, a practical optic, and keep added weight to a minimum and avoid added clutter.
A useful habit is to write down every new product you add, then note whether it made a measurable difference. If it did not, take it off and keep the setup lean. That kind of thinking saves money.
Air Arms notes: matching parts to your rifle
Here at Air Arms, we’re known for strong build quality, but even great rifles can be let down by poor match. Where possible, choose parts designed for your model so the front end stays aligned and consistent.
If you are buying online, use the retailer’s website filters and double-confirm compatibility. If you are unsure, phone the shop and ask what belongs on your specific rifle. It is quicker than returning the wrong adapter.
Because Air Arms products are widely supported, you can usually find a correct mount, correct moderator, and correct stock solution designed to work together without bodging. Please visit our moderator page to browse our products.
Safety note (short, but important)
Treat every airgun as a weapon. The same handling standards apply to airguns and firearms. Keep it pointed in a safe direction, know what is beyond your targets, and do not shoot if you cannot guarantee a safe backstop. If you move into higher-power air rifles, remember that firearms rules can apply to those air rifles, and storage requirements get stricter.
Quick FAQs
Most owners do not. If you want less noise, start with a good moderator and a correct match.
No. They reduce muzzle noise, but action noise and impact noise remain, especially on steel targets. That is true of suppressors on any airgun.
The common problem is alignment or loose screws. Take the last thing you added off, test again, then re-install carefully.
Some products carry over (bags, cases, tools), but air pistols have different sights, holsters, and handling needs, so choose specifically for the platform.
keep the end goal in mind
Choose your style, choose your budget, and choose fewer products, but choose them well. If you’re building an online order, keep your cart tidy: add what you need, remove what you don’t, then review the cart once more before you pay. Install carefully, confirm match, and keep notes so you can repeat what works.
Most importantly, spend your session shooting rather than endlessly changing gear. That is the best way to improve with air rifles.
