Air gun use up amid ammo shortage

The ammunition industry’s inability to keep .22 Long Rifle shells on the shelves has been a boon for air guns, whose pellets are cheap and easy to find.

Pennsylvania bans the use of air-powered guns for hunting, but their use in legal target shooting is increasing.

A recent survey tracked the correlation of .22 ammo scarcity and the air-rifle’s rapid ascendancy.

Southwick Associates, a Florida-based market research firm specializing in hunting, shooting, sport fishing and outdoor recreation, reported that 17 percent of sportsmen said they were unable to purchase all of the .22 shells they wanted, and 33 percent said they’d have bought more of the ammo had it been available.

During the same period, 40 percent of shooters surveyed said they had shot an air rifle in the previous 12 months.

But the parallel stopped there — 75 percent said the scarcity of .22 ammunition had no impact on their use of air rifles.

“It would appear the recent shortage of .22-caliber ammunition has some impact on increased air rifle use, but maybe not as much as some people would expect,” said company president Rob Southwick.

Family fishing

Thinking about taking a kid fishing, but not quite sure what to do?

Children and adults can learn all the basics at two free events, sponsored by the state Fish and Boat Commission.

“Family Fishing Festivals are a convenient way to introduce friends and family to the sport of fishing at no cost,” said Carl Richardson, an education manager with Fish and Boat. “These are educational events designed for families with little or no fishing experience. Participants will learn basic fishing skills and have an opportunity to practice those skills while fishing during the program.”

No fishing license required. All equipment provided.

May 9. The region’s big Family Fishing Festival will be held at Burrell Lake Park near Lower Burrell. Families work together at several stations to learn fishing basics before mentored fishing. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kids have to bring an adult.

May 17. Lessons in knot tying, casting, baiting the hook and taking a fish off the hook are available at a Family Fishing Program 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Deer Lakes Park, Veteran's Pavilion, near Tarentum.

Members of the TriCounty Trout Club will assist at both events. Pre-register at www.fishandboat. Calendar of Events.