Sports Authority Air Rifle Recall: Risk of Firing With Safety On

Consumer product safety officials are warning that air rifles sold at Sports Authority could fire while the safety is on, posing a potential injury risk for consumers and bystanders. 

A Swiss Arms air rifle recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on March 13, after it was determined the gun can fire with the safety feature engaged. No incidents or injuries have been reported at this time.

The recall affects about 2,400 Swiss Arms break barrel single-shot air rifles with model number 288719. The rifles have “XT32” and “Cal.4.5/.177” printed on the left side of the barrel hinge plate and near the rear sight. The rifles measure 34 inches long and have a 4×32 millimeter scope with two metal sights on the barrel and a mounting receiver for the scope. The rifles have a checkered etching on both sides and on the recoil pad at the butt of the gun for gripping. The recalled air rifles are “break-barrel” and loaded by tapping down the barrel to “break” the gun open and load the shot.

The recalled air rifles were manufactured in China and imported by Soft Air USA, of Grapevine, Texas and sold exclusively at Sports Authority stores in December 2012 for about $100.

The CPSC recommends consumers stop using the recalled air rifles immediately and return them to Sports Authority for a full refund. Consumers may also contact Soft Air USA for further inquiry at (866) 763-8247 or visit them online at www.softairusa.com and navigate to the “Customer Service” link for more information.