The National Cadet Corps (NCC) of India emphasizes discipline, leadership and marksmanship as part of its training. Air rifles play a crucial role in teaching cadets the fundamentals of shooting, safety protocols, and precision before they advance to higher-caliber firearms.  

Types of Air Rifles Used in NCC:

1. Precision Air Rifles (0.177 Caliber) 
   - Most commonly used for training and competitions.  
   - Single-stroke pneumatic or spring-piston mechanisms.  
   - Used in 10-meter shooting events (similar to Olympic standards).  
   - Examples:  
     - Indian Ordnance Factories (IOF) Air Rifles
     - SDB Artemis (popular in NCC training)  
     - G Smith & Co. Air Rifles

2. Spring-Piston Air Rifles 
   - Simple, durable, and low-maintenance.  
   - Used for basic target practice.  

3. CO₂-Powered Air Rifles
   - Sometimes used in advanced training.  
   - Provides consistent power without manual cocking.  

Features of NCC Air Rifles:
- Caliber: 0.177 (4.5 mm) – Standard for precision shooting.  
- Weight: Around 3.5–4.5 kg (similar to standard rifles for realistic handling).  
- Sights: Adjustable diopter sights for accuracy.  
- Power: Limited to below 20 Joules (as per safety norms).  

Shooting Training in NCC:
- Initial Training: Safety handling, posture, breathing control.  
- Position Shooting: Standing, kneeling, prone positions.  
- Competitions: NCC conducts inter-unit and national-level shooting championships.  

Importance of Air Rifle Training in NCC: 
- Develops focus, discipline, and patience.
- Prepares cadets for advanced firearms training (like .22 rifles).  
- Encourages participation in national and international shooting sports.

Parts

1. Barrel 
   - The rifled barrel guides the pellet and provides accuracy.  
   - Made of steel for durability.  

2. Breach (Loading Mechanism) 
   - The break-barrel or fixed breach where the pellet is loaded.  
   - Some models have a spring-loaded or PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) system.  

3. Trigger & Trigger Guard
   - The trigger releases the firing mechanism.  
   - The trigger guard prevents accidental firing.  

4. Stock (Butt & Forestock)
   - Usually made of wood or synthetic material.  
   - Provides stability and grip while aiming.  

5. Sights (Iron Sights or Optical Scope) 
   - Front sight (post or hooded).  
   - Rear sight (adjustable for windage and elevation).  
   - Some advanced models may have a scope for precision shooting.  

6. Safety Mechanism
   - A manual safety switch to prevent accidental discharge.  

7. Powerplant (Spring-Piston, CO₂, or PCP) 
   - Most NCC air rifles are spring-piston type.  
   - Some may use CO₂ cartridges or PCP systems for higher-end training.  

8. Pellet (Ammunition)
   - .177 caliber diabolo pellets (lead or alloy).  
   - Designed for accuracy and minimal air resistance.  

NCC Air Rifle Training Includes:
- Safety handling of air rifles.  
- Stance, grip, and aiming techniques.  
- Target practice (10m range).  
- Competitions at unit, state, and national levels.