What is a primary indicator that an air rifle is ready for use?

The primary indicator that an air rifle is ready for use is that the muzzle is pointed downrange. This practice is critical because it ensures that if the rifle were to accidentally discharge, the projectile would travel in a safe direction, minimizing the risk of injury or damage. Pointing the muzzle downrange is a fundamental safety rule in handling firearms, including air rifles, as it establishes a safe environment for shooters and bystanders.

Other factors, such as whether the air tank is full, the safety being disengaged, or the rifle having been cleaned recently, are important for the operational readiness and maintenance of the rifle, but they do not directly address the immediate safety surrounding the handling of the firearm. For instance, even if an air tank is full, if the rifle is not pointed downrange, it could pose a significant risk. Similarly, disengaging the safety should only occur when the shooter is prepared to fire and knows the rifle is directed safely. Thus, ensuring the muzzle is pointed downrange is paramount and the first check a shooter should perform before using the air rifle.