BB Gun Capable of Causing Death

Question
Is a BB Gun, such as a Daisy Red Ryder or 25B (shoots at around 275ft/sec.), capable of causing death to a human such that it might fall under the definition of a dangerous weapon under some state laws?  Other than catching someone in the eye at close range (e.g. BB entering the brain through the eye), it's hard for me to imagine that these guns could actually kill someone.  Am I wrong?

Answer
James,

Most states, including Arizona consider a BB gun to be a 'firearm' and as such, they are subject to the same legal restrictions as other firearms.  Many municipalities also prohibit the shooting of a BB gun within their city limits due to the potential for injury or property damage hazards.

While it would be difficult for a BB gun to inflict a fatal injury on a human, other serious injury could result depending on where someone was shot.

Pellet guns, while technically an "air gun" can develop muzzle velocities between 650 and 800 fps, which is approaching the velocity of some pistol rounds.  Since they are .177 caliber they can be dangerous to human targets.

While a BB gun may not be 'lethal' in the classic sense of the word, I would treat them with the same respect that any normal firearm would deserve.

Hope this helps you out.

Doug Little