Hombre, I think your idea that its a very British Class thing is baloney.
There is some milage in that airguns are a boys first gun for plinking about. Historically true that poachers were known to use air rifles. And that working man's clubs had Bell Target leagues. But the rest is rubbish. Airgun shooting is as tricky as any of the shooting sports.
Sure there is the Real Tree wearers over Tweeds, but in truth thats all baloney now too. There are those that still persist the "them and us", and both sides are appalling with there outdated attitudes.
I don't care who I shoot with, or beat with, or share a target with, or compete against, we are there because we love shooting. Good manners, good conduct, top safety, good sportsmanship, are the things that matter. It should be fun and for all to enjoy.

Yes, there are big egos, but frankly I wish they were left at home. I'm out to enjoy myself with fellow shooting enthusiasts, or people who want to learn. Its a great sport, loads of different disciplines, and all there to enjoy. Killjoys can bugger off.

Be safe, have fun.