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Dangers of BB Gun

Dangers of BB Gun

The Dangers of BB Guns: A Comprehensive Guide

BB guns have been a staple of childhood play for generations. They offer the thrill of shooting a gun without the danger or cost associated with real guns. However, many people do not realize the potential danger these items can pose. In this article, we will explore the dangers of BB guns, the injuries they can cause, and the regulations surrounding their use.

What Are BB Guns?

BB guns, also known as airguns, are guns that use compressed air to fire small projectiles called BBs. BB guns can come in many different styles, from pistols to rifles, and can be used for a variety of purposes. Some people use BB guns for hunting or pest control, while others use them for target practice or backyard games.

BB guns are typically smaller and lighter than traditional firearms, but they can still pack a punch. BBs are made from metal and can be shot at high speeds, often exceeding 500 feet per second. This can cause serious injury or even death if misused.

The Dangers of BB Guns

Although BB guns may seem like harmless toys, they can actually be quite dangerous. The most common danger associated with BB guns is eye injury. BBs can easily penetrate the skin and can cause serious damage to the eye. Even if the BB does not penetrate the eye, it can cause significant damage by causing a corneal abrasion or retinal detachment.

In addition to eye injuries, BB guns can also cause serious injuries to the body. BBs can penetrate the skin and cause injury to internal organs. They can also cause bone fractures and other types of trauma.

BB guns can also be dangerous if they are not handled properly. Accidental discharge of a BB gun can cause injury to the shooter or others in the area. Children should never be allowed to handle BB guns without adult supervision. Even adults should follow strict safety protocols when handling BB guns to prevent accidents.

The Regulations Surrounding BB Guns

In order to prevent the dangers associated with BB guns, there are regulations surrounding their use. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is responsible for regulating BB guns and other airguns. According to CPSC regulations, BB guns must meet certain safety standards in order to be sold in the United States.

One of the most important regulations surrounding BB guns is the requirement for a safety mechanism. BB guns must be equipped with a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge. The safety mechanism must be easy to operate and must prevent the gun from firing unless the trigger is intentionally pulled.

In addition to safety mechanisms, BB guns must also meet certain standards for velocity and accuracy. BB guns must not be capable of firing a BB faster than 600 feet per second. This limits the potential for serious injury and ensures that BB guns are not used for hunting or other purposes that require more power.

Finally, there are age restrictions surrounding the use and purchase of BB guns. In most states, children under the age of 18 are not allowed to purchase BB guns without adult supervision. Some states have even stricter regulations, requiring children to be at least 14 years old before they can purchase or use a BB gun.

The Risks of Misusing BB Guns

Despite the regulations surrounding BB guns, there are still many people who misuse them. BB guns are often used in backyard games or for shooting at cans and other targets. While this can be a fun activity, it is important to understand the risks associated with misusing BB guns.

One of the biggest risks associated with misusing BB guns is accidental discharge. BB guns should always be treated as if they are loaded, even if they are not. This means that the gun should never be pointed at someone or something that could be damaged or injured if it were to accidentally discharge.

Another risk associated with misusing BB guns is the potential for serious injury or death. BB guns can cause significant harm if they are not used properly. This means that children should never be allowed to handle BB guns without adult supervision and that adults should always follow strict safety protocols when handling BB guns.

Finally, misusing BB guns can lead to legal trouble. In many states, it is illegal to use BB guns for hunting or other purposes that require more power than is allowed by CPSC regulations. Additionally, children who are caught misusing BB guns can face criminal charges, including assault and battery.

Conclusion

BB guns may seem like harmless toys, but they can actually be quite dangerous. The most common danger associated with BB guns is eye injury, but they can also cause serious injuries to the body. To prevent these dangers, there are regulations surrounding the use and sale of BB guns. Children should never be allowed to handle BB guns without adult supervision, and adults should always follow strict safety protocols when handling BB guns.

While BB guns can be a fun activity, it is important to understand the risks associated with using them. By following proper safety protocols and using BB guns responsibly, you can ensure that you and those around you are safe from harm.


What are BB guns?

BB guns are designated as a type of air gun that shoots projectiles, known as BBs.  A BB is a ball bearing or “bullet ball”, if made of plastic.  It was first introduced in 1938 and became a popular toy.  It is currently used in both recreational and military/law enforcement training.

What is the difference between a BB gun and an Airsoft gun?

An airsoft gun is technically designated as a BB gun.  The difference between them is in the diameter of the “pellet” used in firing and the velocity which the “pellet” travels.  BB guns have a range of velocity that varies from 300 ft/s to 1000 ft/s whereas airsoft guns range in velocity from 65 ft/s to 350 ft/s.  The significant difference between the two is the size of the BB that is fired.  In BB guns the BB is about 4.5 mm in diameter whereas the BB from an airsoft gun can be 6 mm in diameter.

What is the legality of BB guns?

Every state has different laws concerning BB guns.  The state of California criminalizes the sale or transfer of airsoft guns but not BBs.  The law specifically states that a weapon that expels a projectile not exceeding 6mm caliber is considered a BB device.  Many airsoft guns are designed to be imitations of popular and classic firearms.  For that reason the federal government requires that there be a 6 inch orange band wrapped around the tip at sale so that the gun can be recognized as an imitation and not an actual lethal weapon.  Because traditional BB guns are not developed to be imitations this law is inapplicable.

The state of Massachusetts has instituted a ban on the use of BB guns, of any type, by individuals under the age of 18.  Violation of the law results in a $100 misdemeanor fine.  Michigan requires owners of BB guns to register the BB gun in the same way one would register a firearm.

What if I own a BB gun?

BB guns are inherently dangerous objects.  If you possess a BB gun it is your responsibility to use the utmost caution in operating the object.  If you do operate the BB gun in a manner that results in injury to another you could face criminal charges for assault, and depending on the caliber and velocity of the BB shot it could be upgraded to assault with a deadly weapon.

If you have been charged with unauthorized possession of a BB gun, criminal assault or civil action due to an injury or if you have been the victim of an accident involving a BB gun it is in your best interest to consult a criminal or personal injury attorney at your nearest convenience.