Air Rifles and Suppressors
Air rifle moderators are one of the most commonly discussed accessories in the UK shooting world. New shooters often assume they work like firearm silencers, while experienced owners want to know whether they genuinely reduce noise or simply change how a rifle sounds. This article explains how moderators work on air rifles, what they actually do, and whether they are worth fitting to your setup.
In this article, we’ll cover legality, performance, design, installation, and common misconceptions so you can decide whether a moderator is the right addition for your airgun use.
What Is an Air Rifle Moderator?
A moderator is a device fitted to the muzzle of an air rifle to reduce the sound produced when a shot is fired. In the UK airgun world, the term moderator is more accurate than silencer, although both are commonly used.
Unlike firearms, air rifles do not produce noise from burning powder. Most of the sound comes from compressed air exiting the barrel. A moderator works by controlling and slowing that air before it meets the outside world. Airgun suppressors generally use sound-absorbing materials like felt, foam, or plastic since they handle cold air rather than hot combustion gases. Key features of air rifle moderators include baffles, expansion chambers, and a threaded end that serves as the connection point for attachments and ensures compatibility and optimal performance. Air gun moderators come in various designs and sizes to accommodate different air rifle calibres.
Are Air Rifle Moderators the Same as Firearm Suppressors?
No, and this is an important distinction. Firearms produce noise from an explosion, while air rifles rely on stored air or gas. That means an air gun suppressor deals with airflow rather than combustion.
Because of this difference, moderators designed for air rifles are not suitable for firearms and are treated very differently under UK law. Confusing the two is a common issue, especially for beginners.
Where Does the Noise From Air Rifles Come From?
Understanding noise helps explain what moderators can and cannot do. On most air rifles, sound comes from three main sources:
- Air escaping the muzzle
- Mechanical action inside the gun
- The pellet striking the target
A moderator only affects muzzle noise. It will not silence mechanical action or eliminate sound downrange, especially when shooting steel targets.
How Does a Moderator Actually Work?
Inside a moderator are a series of chambers and baffles. These slow, cool, and redirect air as it leaves the barrel. By spreading the air release over time, the sharp crack of a shot becomes a softer thud.
This design is simple but effective. Well-designed moderators are tested to balance airflow reduction without affecting pellet stability or accuracy.
Do Moderators Reduce Noise or Just Change It?
This is a key point many shooters miss. Moderators rarely make an air rifle “silent.” Instead, they reduce the sharpness of the sound.
The noise becomes duller and less noticeable, particularly at a distance. In a garden or club range setting, this can make a significant difference to how acceptable the sound is to others nearby.
Are Air Rifle Moderators Legal in the UK?
Yes. In the UK, moderators (also known as sound moderators or silencers) designed specifically for air rifles are legal to own, buy, fit, and sell without any firearms licensing requirement in most cases.
The rules vary slightly by nation due to devolved powers:
- England, Wales, and Northern Ireland: Moderators for sub-12 ft-lb air rifles (the non-FAC/legal limit) have always been unregulated accessories; no certificate, paperwork, or age restrictions beyond general sales rules (typically 18+). You can purchase them freely from airgun shops or online.
As mentioned in our Air Rifle Accessories Article, in June 2025, following a Home Office consultation and campaigns by organisations like BASC, the Government announced it would remove sound moderators from the firearms licensing controls under the Firearms Act 1968 (by deleting the reference in section 57(1)(d)). This change, which is progressing through primary legislation (e.g., via amendments in the Crime and Policing Bill), means moderators no longer need to be listed on a firearms certificate (FAC) even for higher-power Section 1 firearms or FAC air rifles (over 12 ft-lb). Sub-12 ft-lb airgun moderators remain exempt as before - no change to their already free status. The reform aims to cut police admin burdens without affecting public safety.
- Scotland: Air weapons (including those over ~0.74 ft-lb) require an Air Weapon Certificate under the Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015, and sound moderators are explicitly included in the definition of an "air weapon." This means moderators for air rifles still need to be declared and licensed via Police Scotland, even after the England/Wales changes take full effect. The Scottish Government is reviewing its position in light of the UK-wide firearms reforms, but no changes have been implemented yet—creating a different regime north of the border.
Key practical notes:
- Always buy moderators designed specifically for airguns from reputable UK manufacturers or retailers (e.g., those sold for sub-12 ft-lb or FAC air rifles).
- Fitting a moderator intended for a Section 1 firearm (e.g., a centrefire rifle suppressor) to an air rifle, or modifying one, is illegal and unsafe.
- For the latest details, check trusted sources like BASC (who publish regular updates), GOV.UK, or your local police firearms licensing department, especially in Scotland, where rules differ.
Can You Use the Same Moderator on Different Airguns?
Sometimes, but not always. Fit depends on the muzzle thread, barrel diameter, and clearance. Airgun moderators are designed to reduce noise and are easy to install, with many models allowing you to simply screw them onto the muzzle of the barrel.
Taking the moderator and attaching it to the muzzle is usually a straightforward process, but some airgun suppressors require the removal of the stock front sight for installation. Adapters are available to extend the barrels of certain air rifles to allow for the installation of a moderator. Many airguns use standard thread sizes, but adapters are often required.
Using the wrong adapter or a poorly fitted moderator can cause clipping, accuracy issues, or damage. Always check compatibility before installing.
Does a Moderator Affect Accuracy?
A properly designed and fitted moderator should not reduce accuracy. In some cases, shooters report improved consistency due to smoother airflow at the muzzle.
Problems arise when moderators are poorly aligned or incorrectly installed. This is why fit and quality matter more than price alone.
Fixed vs Removable Moderators
Some air rifles come with factory-fitted moderators that are part of the barrel assembly. Others allow removable moderators that screw on.
Fixed systems are designed as part of the rifle and usually work very efficiently. Removable options give flexibility but rely more on correct installation and maintenance.
FAQs
Some air rifles come with factory-fitted moderators that are part of the barrel assembly. Others allow removable moderators that screw on.
Fixed systems are designed as part of the rifle and usually work very efficiently. Removable options give flexibility but rely more on correct installation and maintenance.
Yes, particularly on indoor or semi-enclosed ranges. Reducing noise helps with concentration and makes shooting more comfortable for everyone present.
While noise reduction won’t improve your score directly, it can improve the shooting environment, which matters over long sessions.
For hunting, moderators reduce disturbance in the surrounding area. This can help avoid spooking other quarry and reduce attention from nearby landowners or livestock.
They do not make a shot inaudible, but they do make it less intrusive, which is often the goal.
PCP air rifles benefit the most from moderators because most of their noise comes from escaping air. Spring-powered airguns produce more mechanical noise, so the effect is less dramatic.
That said, even on springers, a moderator can still reduce muzzle blast and improve overall sound quality.
Yes, although not frequently. Over time, dirt and moisture can build up inside the moderator.
Some designs can be taken apart for cleaning, while others are sealed. Keeping the muzzle and threads clean helps maintain performance and prevents long-term issues.
Most screw-on moderators can be removed by hand. This allows shooters to swap accessories or clean components.
Always remove the moderator carefully and check threads for wear or damage before refitting.
Yes. Shorter barrels release air more abruptly, making moderators more noticeable in their effect. Longer barrels often allow air pressure to drop naturally before exit.
This is why compact airguns often rely heavily on effective moderation, and a larger way (volume) is often necessary for optimal suppression performance.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Moderator?
Key things to check when you choose an air gun suppressor include:
- Thread compatibility
- Internal clearance
- Build quality
- Weight and balance
There are many products available, and you can find a wide range of options to suit your needs. High-quality airgun moderators are made from durable materials and are precision-engineered for optimal performance.
Some air gun moderators feature specific threading, such as 1/2×20 UNF, for compatibility with various air rifles. Moderators can also be made from durable materials and are precision-engineered for optimal performance.
Avoid choosing purely on size or appearance. Performance and fit matter far more than looks.
Browse our moderators page to find the perfect option for you.
Common Myths About Air Rifle Moderators
A common myth is that moderators turn airguns into silent weapons. While airguns are often called weapons, moderators do not make them completely silent. Another thing people get wrong is thinking all moderators work the same, which is also untrue.
A well-designed moderator not only reduces noise but also visually belongs on the airgun, complementing its overall look and function. The explanation here is fairly straightforward, but it's important to note that a lot of thinking goes into the design, materials, and fit, all of which affect how well a moderator performs.
Are Moderators Worth the Money?
For most shooters, yes. Whether for garden practice, range use, or hunting, a good moderator improves shooting comfort and reduces unnecessary noise.
They are one of the few accessories that offer a clear, practical benefit without changing how the rifle handles or shoots.
Alternatively, you can print a custom air gun suppressor using 3D printing, but be aware that the print process can take a long time and may be costly.
So, Do Air Rifle Moderators Work?
Moderators work exactly as intended when used correctly. They reduce muzzle noise, improve shooting comfort, and make airgun use more considerate in shared environments.
They are not magic, but they are effective, legal, and widely used across the UK air rifle world. As with all accessories, choosing the right product and fitting it properly is the key to getting the best results.
For more information on air gun suppressor products, you can check our moderators page.
