What is a common sign that an air rifle needs maintenance?

A common sign that an air rifle needs maintenance involves difficulty in cocking the action or experiencing inconsistent shot power. This indicates that there may be internal issues, such as wear and tear on the mechanism or problems with the seals, which can affect the rifle's performance. If the action feels stiff or requires excessive effort to operate, it suggests that components may need lubrication or repair. Additionally, inconsistent shot power can be a clear indicator that the air pressure or air seal is compromised, which directly impacts the reliability and accuracy of the rifle.

In contrast, signs like improved shooting accuracy or enhanced durability in the stock do not typically signify a need for maintenance but rather indicate the rifle is functioning well. An increased weight of the rifle is usually unrelated to its maintenance status and does not serve as a meaningful indicator for whether maintenance is needed.