PCP Accessories: Pumps, Air Tanks, Compressors & Magazines

Start with your air rifle and how you intend to use it

If you are still comparing power systems, our air rifles category covers the main options. If you have decided on pre-charged pneumatic, explore our PCP air rifles and check what comes with each version before adding accessories.

A supplied fill probe, an extra magazine or an air source you already own can change your shopping list. Our guide to what you need to get started with a PCP air rifle will help you plan the complete setup.

Hand pump, charging cylinder or compressor: choosing a filling system

Your choice depends on reservoir capacity, required pressure, refill frequency and access to electricity or a cylinder filling service. Compare the cost of the complete system, including any connections and filtration equipment you need.

PCP hand pumps

PCP hand pumps let you top up without electricity and can serve as a primary filling system for occasional use or as a backup. How manageable the job feels depends on the reservoir and how much air you need to add: higher pressures require more effort. Check the operating instructions and moisture-control system for the specific model, as supplied accessories vary.

PCP compressors

To avoid manual pumping, compare our PCP compressors. Alongside maximum pressure, check the power supply, air delivery, required rest periods and consumables. A compressor designed to fill an air rifle reservoir directly should not automatically be considered suitable for filling an external charging cylinder.

Charging cylinders and diving cylinders for PCP air rifles

A charging cylinder stores compressed air for transfer to the rifle’s reservoir through a compatible filling assembly. It can provide several refills, but the number depends on the capacity and pressure of both vessels and the final pressure you need to reach.

A diving cylinder may also be suitable when its specifications, valve and transfer equipment meet the requirements. Before buying, confirm where you can have it refilled and what the filling service requires. Also distinguish an external charging cylinder from a replacement air reservoir for the rifle: they serve different purposes.

Fill probes, hoses and adaptors: check every connection

Accessories that look alike may use different threads, seals or couplings. Compatibility must be checked at both ends of the setup: the air source and the rifle.

• Fill probe: it must match the filling port of the specific model.
• Quick-release coupling: check the connection type, dimensions and working pressure. The name Foster alone does not establish compatibility across the whole setup.
• High-pressure hose: check its working pressure, end fittings and condition.
• Threaded adaptor: check the thread size, pitch and sealing method. BSP and NPT threads are not interchangeable; a description such as “1/8” is not enough to identify the connection. Never force incompatible threads together.
• Filling assembly: it must suit the cylinder valve and include appropriate pressure-monitoring and bleed components.

For more detail on filling systems, read our guide to filling a PCP air rifle alongside the manuals for your own equipment.

Filtration, seals and PCP equipment maintenance

Filters and desiccant materials must suit the air source and be maintained as instructed. Check compatibility, working pressure and replacement intervals. A liquid or oil separator does not necessarily perform the same function as an air-drying system.

Browse our cleaning and maintenance products and follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions. Replacement seals must have the correct dimensions and material; lubricants should only be applied where expressly specified.

Other accessories to complete your PCP setup

For general equipment such as gun bags, targets and optics, our airgun accessories category provides links to the relevant ranges. For magazines and single-shot loading trays, check the model, generation and calibre. For gun bags, allow for the dimensions of the assembled rifle; for scope mounts, check the rail type and scope tube diameter.

Frequently asked questions about PCP accessories

What filling equipment do I need for my first PCP air rifle?

You need access to a suitable high-pressure air source and a compatible connection. Before buying a fill probe or adaptor, check what comes with the rifle and which fitting is supplied with your chosen air source.

Are PCP accessories universal?

No. Some components work with several models, but you still need to verify the model, connection and working pressure. For magazines and certain spare parts, the calibre and version also matter.

How can I check whether a magazine fits my air rifle?

Compare the full model name, generation, calibre and manufacturer’s part number. Sharing a brand or calibre does not mean two rifles use the same magazine. Also check clearance beneath the scope where the magazine design requires it.

Do I need a hand pump, a charging cylinder and a compressor?

Not necessarily. You need a suitable way to replenish the air. You can use a hand pump, fill directly with a compatible compressor or use a charging cylinder that you take to a refill service. Combining systems can be useful, but it is not essential for getting started.

Does the calibre determine which fill probe I need?

Not on its own. The probe is chosen to match the filling port and the manufacturer’s specifications. Do not assume that two rifles use the same probe simply because they share a calibre.

Can any PCP compressor fill a charging cylinder?

No. The manufacturer must approve that use and the relevant filling volume. Reaching the required pressure is not enough to establish that the compressor can handle the workload of filling a cylinder.

Does a filling assembly always include a pressure regulator?

No. A shut-off valve, pressure gauge and bleed valve do not constitute a pressure regulator. Check which components are included and what each one does in the product specification.

Are 300 bar and 4,500 psi the same pressure?

No. 300 bar is approximately 4,350 psi, whereas 4,500 psi is approximately 310 bar. Do not treat these figures as interchangeable limits: use the fill pressure specified by your reservoir’s manufacturer.

Does a filter remove all moisture?

That cannot be assumed. Its function and effectiveness depend on the filter type, any desiccant material and maintenance. A particle filter or condensate separator does not automatically replace an air-drying system.

Will a valve or automatic shut-off prevent every overpressure situation?

Do not assume that guarantee. A shut-off valve is not a pressure regulator, and an automatic shut-off must be used according to the equipment manual. Neither permits you to exceed the pressure limits of the reservoir or filling components.

Will a filling system improve accuracy or the number of shots per fill?

Not by itself. Its purpose is to replenish the air. Shot consistency and the number of shots per fill depend on the rifle’s design and configuration, among other factors.