Why Every Shooter Needs a Throw Lever on Their Rifle Scope

Two yellow firearm accessory clamps designed for securing components with a 45mm diameter.

Why Every Shooter Needs a Throw Lever on Their Rifle Scope

In the world of precision shooting, speed and control are everything. Whether you’re competing in a fast-paced match, carrying out tactical drills, or out in the field on a hunt, the ability to adjust your rifle scope’s magnification quickly and reliably can mean the difference between a clean shot and a missed opportunity.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by adding a throw lever—a small but powerful accessory designed to make scope adjustments faster, smoother, and more consistent.

At BOGEYMAN.co.uk, we’ve developed the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp, a rugged, clamp-on solution designed for shooters who demand reliability under pressure. This article will explain what a throw lever is, why it’s essential, and how the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp offers an advantage over other solutions.


What Exactly Is a Throw Lever?

A throw lever, sometimes known as a cat tail or power throw lever, is a small attachment fitted to your scope’s magnification ring. Its purpose is simple: it gives you more leverage when rotating the ring, allowing you to change magnification levels more quickly and with greater precision.

Without a lever, many shooters find themselves twisting the magnification ring awkwardly, often breaking their shooting position, especially when wearing gloves or operating in adverse weather. A throw lever solves this problem by turning a fiddly adjustment into a fast, controlled motion.


Why Magnification Adjustments Matter

Magnification settings on a scope are rarely static. You may need low magnification for scanning and situational awareness, then instantly switch to higher power for a precise long-range shot.

For example:

  • Hunters often switch between wide field-of-view scanning at 3–4x and longer-range zoom at 10–12x.
  • Competitive shooters in PRS (Precision Rifle Series) or 3-Gun need to move through multiple targets at varying distances within seconds.
  • Tactical shooters may require rapid adjustments in high-pressure scenarios where speed and accuracy are mission-critical.

In each of these cases, a throw lever makes those adjustments second nature.


The Benefits of Using a Throw Lever

1. Speed When It Counts

Time is often the deciding factor in shooting sports and tactical applications. A throw lever allows you to go from minimum to maximum magnification in one quick movement.

2. Improved Grip in All Conditions

Cold weather, rain, mud, and gloves can make fine adjustments nearly impossible. The extra surface area and leverage of a throw lever ensure you always stay in control.

3. Consistency and Accuracy

Because you can make smoother adjustments, you’re less likely to overshoot your magnification setting. Consistency leads to better accuracy over time.

4. Maintain Shooting Position

One of the biggest frustrations without a lever is the need to break cheek weld or adjust your shooting stance. With a throw lever, you can adjust magnification while keeping your rifle perfectly in place.

5. Affordable, High-Impact Upgrade

Compared to other shooting accessories, a throw lever is relatively inexpensive but offers a dramatic improvement in usability.


Introducing the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp

At BOGEYMAN.co.uk, we’ve engineered the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp specifically for shooters who want reliability and speed without compromise.

Unlike many cheaper alternatives that require permanent modifications or are made from brittle materials, the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp is:

  • Clamp-On & Universal Fit – Easy to install, designed to fit a wide range of rifle scopes.
  • Built Tough – Constructed for durability in demanding conditions.
  • Lightweight & Low-Profile – Strong without adding unnecessary bulk.
  • Quick to Install & Remove – No need for specialist tools or scope alterations.

This makes it the ideal solution for hunters, tactical operators, and competitive marksmen alike.


Installation Guide: Fitting Your Alligator Throw Lever Clamp

Installing the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp is quick and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Prepare the Scope – Ensure your rifle is unloaded and placed safely on a rest or bipod. Clean the magnification ring to remove dirt or oil.
  2. Position the Clamp – Open the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp and align it with the magnification ring. Position the lever where it feels most natural for your shooting hand.
  3. Secure the Clamp – Tighten the clamp evenly, ensuring it sits snugly without overtightening.
  4. Test the Fit – Rotate the magnification ring to confirm smooth movement and ensure the lever does not obstruct bolt action, turrets, or mounts.
  5. Field Test – Take it to the range or field and familiarise yourself with rapid adjustments.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

The Alligator Throw Lever Clamp is designed to withstand demanding use, but with a little care you can extend its life even further:

  • Regular Cleaning – After shooting in wet or muddy conditions, wipe down the lever to prevent grit build-up.
  • Check Tightness – Occasionally check the clamp’s tension to ensure it remains secure.
  • Avoid Over-Torque – Tighten firmly, but don’t overdo it—this ensures longevity of both the lever and your scope.

Applications in Tactical Shooting

Throw levers are particularly popular in tactical environments because they eliminate wasted movement and time. In situations where shooters may need to switch from close-quarters optics settings to longer-range precision instantly, the throw lever allows seamless adjustment while maintaining full situational awareness.

Tactical shooters also value reliability. In high-stress scenarios, fine motor skills diminish—gross motor movements (like flicking a lever) are far easier to execute quickly. This is where the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp shines: it provides a reliable, intuitive solution under pressure.


Competitive Shooting Advantages

In sports such as PRS (Precision Rifle Series) or 3-Gun, speed and efficiency are paramount. Targets at different distances require fast magnification changes, and seconds can make the difference between winning and losing.

The Alligator Throw Lever Clamp allows competitive shooters to:

  • Transition between magnification levels without hesitation.
  • Save valuable seconds in time-restricted matches.
  • Maintain perfect cheek weld while adjusting.

Hunting in the Field

For hunters, opportunities are often fleeting. A deer, boar, or fox may appear for only a few seconds. Scanning on low magnification is useful, but when it’s time to take the shot, you may need extra zoom immediately.

With the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp, you can quickly dial in the magnification you need without fumbling or breaking position—making the difference between a successful shot and a missed opportunity.


Why Choose the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp Over Alternatives?

While there are other throw levers on the market, many come with compromises. Some require permanent modifications, some don’t fit properly, and others are made of plastics that become brittle over time.

The Alligator Throw Lever Clamp from BOGEYMAN stands out because it’s:

  • Durable – Made to withstand heavy use.
  • Universal Fit – Designed for compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
  • UK-Made – Designed and supplied by a trusted British veteran-owned business.
  • Affordable – High performance without a high price tag.

To make sure shooters can find the right solution, here are some common terms people search for:

  • Alligator Throw Lever Clamp
  • rifle scope throw lever UK
  • tactical throw lever clamp
  • fast magnification adjustment lever
  • BOGEYMAN rifle accessories
  • cat tail scope lever UK

Final Thoughts

For hunters, competitors, and tactical shooters, the ability to adjust scope magnification swiftly and reliably can’t be underestimated. A throw lever transforms a fiddly adjustment into a smooth, intuitive action that saves time, improves accuracy, and enhances your overall shooting experience.

If you’re looking for a solution that combines rugged build quality, universal fit, and UK design, look no further than the Alligator Throw Lever Clamp from BOGEYMAN.

This small accessory makes a big difference—once you try it, you won’t want to shoot without it.


The Rise of 3D-Printed Firearms: Technology, Threats and the Law

A 3D printed firearm frame with a black grip and a white body.

🔫 The Rise of 3D-Printed Firearms: Technology, Threats and the Law

Over the past decade, 3D printing has revolutionised manufacturing, design and prototyping across countless industries — from aerospace and automotive, to healthcare and fashion. But one of the most controversial developments to emerge from this technology is the rise of 3D-printed firearms.

In this post, we explore what 3D-printed guns are, how they’re made, what the law says (particularly in the UK), and why security experts are raising concerns. We’ll also link to authoritative sources so you can dive deeper into the topic.


🧰 What Exactly Are 3D-Printed Firearms?

A 3D-printed firearm is a gun (or component of a gun) manufactured using additive manufacturing, typically using plastic filament such as PLA, ABS or nylon. These weapons are created using CAD files and 3D printers — sometimes entirely printed, sometimes hybrid models using both printed parts and metal components.

Some of the most well-known 3D-printed guns include:

  • The Liberator – the first fully 3D-printed handgun, released by Defence Distributed in 2013.
  • The FGC-9 – a hybrid 9 mm semi-automatic carbine developed in Europe, designed to be built without regulated parts.

Below are some images showing common designs and builds of 3D-printed firearms:


⚙️ How Are 3D-Printed Guns Made?

To manufacture a 3D-printed gun, the user typically follows these steps:

  1. Download a design file (usually a .STL or .STEP file) from an online repository or peer-to-peer network.
  2. Slice the model using software such as Cura or PrusaSlicer.
  3. Print the parts using a consumer-grade 3D printer.
  4. Assemble the weapon, sometimes with metal barrels, springs and firing pins.

Many designs now use DIY rifled barrels or electrochemical machining (ECM) to bypass regulated firearm parts. For an in-depth technical analysis, see The Firearm Blog’s overview of the FGC-9 and 3D Gun Builder’s FGC-9 guide.


In short: no — 3D-printed firearms are illegal in the United Kingdom.

Under the Firearms Act 1968, it is an offence to manufacture, possess or distribute a firearm without a valid licence. This includes guns made with 3D printers, even if they are never fired.

Possessing a 3D-printed gun can lead to:

  • Imprisonment (up to life sentence)
  • Unlimited fines
  • Criminal record

Even possessing CAD files or blueprints of a firearm can lead to prosecution under anti-terror and firearms legislation.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has issued repeated warnings about the risks of 3D-printed guns. For example, this NCA press release from 2022 outlines a seizure in London where a working printed gun was recovered.


🔍 Why Are 3D-Printed Guns a Security Concern?

There are several reasons why 3D-printed guns are considered a major security and policing challenge:

  • 🔒 Untraceable – often called “ghost guns”, they have no serial number or registration.
  • 📦 Easy to distribute – blueprints can be shared anonymously online.
  • 🧪 Rapidly evolving – designs are improving in durability and accuracy.
  • 💰 Low cost – a basic printer and materials can cost under £500.

This makes them attractive to criminal groups or extremists, and difficult for authorities to track. According to a 2023 report by the Small Arms Survey, the number of arrests involving 3D-printed guns has risen sharply across Europe.


🔗 Further Reading & External Resources

For readers who want to go deeper into the world of 3D-printed firearms, here are some high-quality blog posts and articles:

All of these sources help to illustrate just how quickly this technology is moving — and why it’s being taken so seriously.


🛑 Final Thoughts: Innovation vs Regulation

3D printing is a remarkable innovation — one that has the power to transform industries for the better. However, when used to manufacture firearms, it creates serious challenges for law enforcement, lawmakers and society at large.

While some advocates argue for digital freedom and the right to bear arms, the reality in the UK is clear: 3D-printed guns are illegal and carry severe penalties. As the technology advances, it’s vital to balance innovation with public safety.


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Why the Starlink Mini Is a Game-Changer for Campervan Travellers

3D rendering of a firearms accessories mounting plate with multiple attachment points.
  • Campervan Tech
  • Starlink
  • Vanlife Tips tags:
  • Starlink Mini
  • Campervan Wi-Fi
  • Satellite Internet UK
  • Vanlife Internet
  • Off-Grid Connectivity featured_image: /wp-content/uploads/starlink-mini-camper.jpg

If you love the freedom of van life but struggle with unreliable internet, the new Starlink Mini could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Designed to provide fast, stable internet in remote areas, this compact satellite dish is perfect for campervan adventures across the UK and beyond.

The Starlink Mini is a smaller, more portable version of SpaceX’s original Starlink satellite dish. It delivers high-speed internet through a low-orbit satellite network, even in areas with little to no mobile signal. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots, Starlink doesn’t rely on terrestrial infrastructure, making it ideal for off-grid locations.

Why It’s Perfect for Campervans

Travelling by camper offers the ultimate sense of freedom – but staying connected can be a challenge, especially when you’re parked up in rural locations or national parks. Here’s why the Starlink Mini is perfect for life on the road:

1. Portability and Ease of Use

Weighing just a few kilos and small enough to store in a cupboard or under a bench seat, the Starlink Mini is designed with mobility in mind. Setup is simple – just mount the dish outside your van, plug it in, and it connects automatically to the satellite network.

2. Reliable Internet Anywhere

Whether you’re working remotely, streaming Netflix in the Highlands, or uploading photos from the Cornish coast, the Starlink Mini ensures you have a dependable internet connection wherever you go. This is a massive upgrade over patchy 4G signals and limited campsite Wi-Fi.

3. Great for Digital Nomads

For remote workers and digital nomads living in a van, fast upload and download speeds are non-negotiable. Starlink Mini can deliver speeds of over 100 Mbps, enough for Zoom meetings, cloud storage, and online collaboration without a hitch.

4. Cost-Effective for Long-Term Travel

While the initial hardware cost isn’t cheap, the monthly subscription is competitive – especially when you consider the performance and coverage you get. There’s also no contract, which means you can pause or cancel the service when you’re not on the road.

The Starlink Mini runs on 100-240V AC, but many vanlifers use a 12V to 240V inverter to power it from their leisure battery. You’ll want to ensure you have enough battery capacity or solar power to support its energy consumption, which averages around 50–75 watts.

Things to Consider

  • Clear Sky View: The dish needs a clear view of the sky to maintain a strong signal. Parking near tall trees or buildings can reduce performance.
  • Mounting Options: You can mount the dish on a tripod, roof rack, or even use magnetic bases for quick deployment.
  • Data Caps: Some Starlink plans may have soft data limits depending on your location. Check the terms before committing.

Final Thoughts

The Starlink Mini is a revolutionary product for campervan travellers who value connectivity on the road. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or living full-time in your van, having fast, stable internet can transform your travel experience.

As vanlife continues to grow in popularity across the UK and Europe, the demand for mobile internet will only increase – and the Starlink Mini is leading the charge.


You can find the latest Starlink Mini kit and accessories here:

👉 Buy the Starlink Mini on the official Starlink website

👉 Browse campervan-friendly Starlink accessories on Amazon UK

Have you tried the Starlink Mini in your camper? Share your experience in the comments below!

The Rise of 3D Printed Silencers in the Air Rifle Industry

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The Rise of 3D Printed Silencers in the Air Rifle Industry

Introduction

The air rifle industry has undergone a rapid transformation in recent years, driven by technological advancements, changes in consumer demand, and the growing accessibility of customisation tools. One of the most significant innovations reshaping this sector is the emergence of 3D printed silencers. What once required expensive machining and specialist fabrication is now being designed and produced by enthusiasts and small manufacturers using affordable desktop 3D printers.

This blog explores how 3D printing is revolutionising the design, production, and availability of air rifle silencers (also referred to as moderators or suppressors), the benefits and challenges they present, legal considerations, and how this trend could shape the future of airgun accessories.


What Is a Silencer for an Air Rifle?

Before diving into the technology, it’s important to understand the role of a silencer in air rifle shooting. Unlike firearms, air rifles operate using compressed air or gas to propel pellets, and while they are quieter than traditional guns, they still produce a noticeable “crack” or muzzle noise. Silencers help reduce this sound, making shooting less disruptive—especially in residential areas, farms, or ranges with noise restrictions.

Traditionally, silencers were made from aluminium or steel, using baffles and expansion chambers to slow and cool the escaping air. These devices were often expensive, bulky, and required either a factory fit or professional gunsmithing.


The 3D Printing Revolution

The rise of affordable, high-quality 3D printers has opened new doors for airgun enthusiasts. No longer limited to industrial applications, 3D printing allows individuals to design, test, and manufacture complex objects from home. Air rifle silencers are among the most popular components to be developed this way.

Accessibility

Perhaps the most transformative aspect is accessibility. With a modest investment in a 3D printer and some design software (or free access to platforms like Thingiverse or Printables), hobbyists can produce highly effective silencers tailored to specific rifle models. This democratisation of design puts power directly into the hands of users.

Innovation

Innovation thrives where creativity is unrestricted. 3D printing encourages experimentation with baffle shapes, sound-dampening patterns, and external aesthetics. Where CNC machining might limit a design to linear or symmetrical patterns, 3D printing allows the creation of helix baffles, multi-chambered cores, and even adaptive sound traps.

Speed and Prototyping

In the traditional manufacturing process, prototyping a silencer could take weeks. Now, a new design can be printed, tested, and iterated within a matter of hours. This rapid development cycle has accelerated innovation in the air rifle space, particularly among small-scale developers and independent brands.


Benefits of 3D Printed Silencers

3D printed silencers offer numerous advantages that explain their surge in popularity within the airgun community.

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Traditional silencers can cost anywhere from £30 to over £150, depending on the brand and material. In contrast, a 3D printed version may cost just a few pounds in filament, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters.

2. Customisation

Custom-fit silencers tailored to the exact dimensions of your barrel, calibre, or shooting preferences are easily achievable. Whether it’s an M10x1 thread or a push-fit mount, 3D printing allows shooters to match their gear perfectly.

3. Aesthetics

3D printing also allows greater creativity in visual design. Shooters can add logos, textures, and patterns—such as camouflage, hexagonal scales, or even patriotic symbols—enhancing the appearance of their rifles.

4. Weight Reduction

Using lightweight materials like PLA+, PETG, or carbon-infused filaments can dramatically reduce the overall weight of a silencer, improving rifle handling and reducing fatigue during long shooting sessions.

5. Sound Performance

Despite early concerns, many 3D printed silencers offer comparable performance to their metal counterparts, particularly when tuned for specific rifles. The combination of modern filament materials and innovative internal design has helped bridge the gap in effectiveness.


Is it legal to 3D print a silencer for an air rifle in the UK?

The short answer is yes—but with conditions. Under UK firearms law, air rifles under 12 ft-lb of muzzle energy are not classified as firearms and may be used without a firearms certificate (FAC). Silencers for these rifles are generally legal to purchase, own, and use.

However:

  • It is illegal to use or manufacture a silencer intended for a firearm without the appropriate licence.
  • Silencers must only be used on sub-12 ft-lb air rifles unless the user holds an FAC.
  • Distribution or sale of silencers, including 3D printed ones, may attract scrutiny if they could potentially be adapted for use on firearms.

In essence, hobbyists designing and printing silencers for personal use on legal air rifles are typically in the clear. But selling or distributing these parts without legal advice and due diligence could lead to serious consequences.

Always check the latest legislation or consult with a firearms solicitor if in doubt.


Several designs have become popular within the airgun community, thanks to their efficiency, ease of printing, and performance:

• Monocore Designs

These silencers feature a single solid internal core with airflow channels. Easy to print and clean, they offer moderate sound reduction.

• Stacked Baffle Designs

Individual baffle segments can be printed separately and stacked inside a tube. This design mimics traditional silencers and offers excellent modularity.

• Spiral/Honeycomb Baffles

Using complex internal geometry, these designs trap and redirect airflow more effectively, significantly reducing muzzle noise.

• Modular Systems

Some designers are experimenting with modular silencers, where users can add or remove segments depending on their needs, allowing a mix of performance and portability.


Challenges and Limitations

Despite the advantages, 3D printed silencers are not without drawbacks.

1. Material Durability

PLA, one of the most common printing filaments, is not ideal for prolonged use due to heat sensitivity and fragility. Upgrading to PETG, ABS, or carbon-infused nylon can enhance strength, but increases print complexity.

2. Heat and Pressure Tolerance

Although air rifles generate much less heat and pressure than firearms, repeated use can cause deformation or wear in lower-grade filaments. Users should inspect their silencers regularly for signs of damage or failure.

3. Precision Fit

Achieving a perfect fit requires accurate measurement and calibration. Poorly fitted silencers may affect accuracy or even damage the rifle.

4. Acoustic Performance

Not all 3D printed silencers perform equally. Some may merely dampen sound rather than truly suppress it. The effectiveness often depends on baffle design, barrel length, and calibre.


The Role of Online Communities

The rapid rise of 3D printed silencers has been fuelled in part by online communities and open-source collaboration. Platforms like Reddit’s /r/airguns, Airgun Nation forums, and 3D file sharing websites have made it easier than ever for enthusiasts to exchange ideas, share designs, and provide feedback.

Popular repositories include:

  • Printables.com – A growing hub for printable airgun accessories.
  • Thingiverse – Still home to many legacy and user-tested models.
  • Cults3D – Features paid and free premium designs for those seeking high-end options.

The Future of Airgun Moderation

With filament materials evolving (including carbon fibre, polycarbonate, and even metal-infused blends), and the advent of resin-based SLA printers, we can expect even more refined and high-performance 3D printed silencers in the coming years.

Moreover, as AI-powered generative design and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) tools become more accessible, we may see silencers optimised for airflow and acoustic suppression far beyond the capabilities of traditional manufacturers.


Final Thoughts

The rise of 3D printed silencers in the air rifle industry represents a profound shift in how shooters approach customisation, affordability, and innovation. What once required deep pockets and industry contacts is now available to anyone with a printer and some ingenuity.

Whether you’re a casual backyard plinker, a competitive target shooter, or a pest control professional, 3D printed silencers offer a compelling combination of form, function, and freedom.

As always, with great power comes great responsibility. Be mindful of legal implications, print and use responsibly, and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this exciting new era of airgun technology.