Updated on March 27, 2025
Air rifles for hunting have become a popular choice for hunting enthusiasts. Hunting with an air rifle is a very challenging task because you cannot shoot as far as you can with a gun or firearm. Therefore, you need to shoot from the near, and shooting without disturbing the animals is challenging and enjoyable if you love thrills.
Air rifles cannot be used for big game, but they are convenient for small and medium game. Air rifles with different powers and calibers can be used for hunting different predators, animals, and birds.
1. Barra Air Guns Sportsman 900 – My Hands-On Experience
I remember the first time I got my hands on the Barra Air Guns Sportsman 900—it was a budget-friendly multi-pump air rifle that promised a solid 800 FPS punch. I was looking for something versatile—something I could use for both backyard plinking and small-game hunting. A rifle that could handle pellets and BBs sounded like a great deal, so I decided to test it out.
Right out of the box, it felt lightweight—a little over 3 lbs, making it easy to handle. The first thing I noticed? The plastic build. It wasn’t cheap-feeling, but it also wasn’t the most premium rifle I’ve held. That said, I was more interested in performance than looks.
The real test came when I took it out for a backyard shooting session. I loaded up some .177 pellets, pumped it six times, and took aim at a target 15 yards away. The included 4×15 scope? Let’s just say… not great. I struggled a bit to get a clear shot, but once I adjusted, I landed consistent 1-inch groupings.
For fun, I switched to BBs. While they worked fine at short distances (10 yards or less), they started losing accuracy fast beyond that. I’d definitely stick to pellets for any real shooting.
A few weeks later, I decided to test it on small game. After pumping it eight times, I spotted a squirrel about 20 yards away. I lined up my shot, squeezed the trigger, and… thwack! A clean hit, dropping it instantly. The rifled barrel really made a difference—pellets flew straight and true.
But here’s the catch… pumping this rifle multiple times gets tiring. By the time I took a few more shots, my arms were definitely feeling the burn. If you’re planning an all-day hunt, be ready for some serious forearm workout.
After weeks of testing, I figured out a few hacks to get the best performance:
✔ Stick to 6-8 pumps for a balance between power and effort
✔ Swap out the scope—I replaced it with a 3-9x32mm scope, and accuracy improved big time
✔ Use domed pellets for hunting—Crosman Premier or JSB Diabolo work great
✔ If you’re shooting for hours, take breaks—pumping gets exhausting
Overall, the Sportsman 900 is surprisingly good for the price, but it’s not without flaws. Let’s break them down.
Pros
- Budget-Friendly Power – For under $100, you’re getting an 800 FPS rifle that can hunt small game
- Accurate with Pellets – The rifled barrel makes a difference; good for small game & target shooting
- Lightweight & Easy to Handle – Great for younger shooters or those who prefer a light rifle
- Dual Ammo Compatibility – You can shoot BBs for fun, pellets for precision
- Reliable Safety Features – Manual cross-bolt safety helps prevent accidental firing
Cons
- Pumping Gets Tiring – After 8+ pumps, your arms feel it
- Scope is Weak – The included 4×15 scope is barely usable—upgrade ASAP
- BB Accuracy is Unreliable – Beyond 10 yards, BBs start veering off target
- Plastic Construction – While durable enough, it lacks the premium feel
If you’re a beginner, budget hunter, or someone looking for a backyard plinker, the Barra Sportsman 900 is a great choice. It’s accurate (with pellets), powerful, and versatile, but you’ll need patience for pumping and a better scope for serious shooting.
2. Gamo Varmint .177 – My Go-To Air Rifle for Small Game Hunting
I’ve used many air rifles over the years, but when I first picked up the Gamo Varmint .177 break barrel, I knew this one was different. If you’re a hunter or backyard shooter looking for power, accuracy, and reliability without spending a fortune, this rifle might just be what you need.
When I first unboxed it, the Gamo Varmint felt solid—not too heavy but definitely not cheap plastic either. The synthetic stock was built to last, and I immediately noticed its textured grip, which I knew would come in handy for those cold, damp hunting mornings. It also comes with a 4×32 scope, but if I’ve learned anything about bundled scopes… they’re usually not the best.
But the real deal-maker? The break barrel action. No more multi-pumping, no CO₂ cartridges—just one break, one shot, and you’re ready to go again.
I took it out for a first test session in my backyard with some Crosman Premier Hollow Point pellets. My target? A soda can at 25 yards. One clean shot—boom! The can flew off, leaving a satisfying clean hole in the metal.
At 1300 FPS (with alloy pellets), this rifle has serious power. But FPS alone doesn’t mean much—it’s about accuracy and consistency. So, I lined up five shots at a paper target from 30 yards. The result? A tight 1-inch grouping, which is amazing for a sub-$150 air rifle.
Next up, I took it on a small game hunt. With a well-placed shot at 35 yards, I dropped a squirrel instantly. The impact was clean, thanks to the powerful piston system. This rifle is perfect for pest control and small game hunting, but I wouldn’t use it for anything bigger than rabbits.
What I Loved & What Needed Fixing
✔ The break barrel design is super convenient—no need to carry extra air sources or pumps
✔ Hard-hitting at long distances—squirrels, rabbits, and pests don’t stand a chance
✔ The synthetic stock is weather-resistant—no worries about rain or scratches
✔ The included scope? Meh. Let’s just say, if you’re serious about accuracy, you’ll want to swap it out ASAP.
Pros
- Super Powerful – At 1300 FPS, it delivers a serious punch for a budget air rifle
- Great Accuracy – Consistent 1-inch groupings at 30 yards
- No Air Tanks or Pumps Needed – Break-barrel design makes it simple to reload
- Tough & Durable – All-weather synthetic stock is perfect for outdoor use
- Lightweight & Easy to Handle – At just 5.5 lbs, it’s great for long hunting trips
Cons
- Scope is Disappointing – The 4×32 scope is mediocre—upgrade it for better results
- Recoil is Strong – The spring-piston system has a noticeable kick, so beginners might take time to adjust
- Loud for a .177 – Not as quiet as some other air rifles; might not be ideal for backyard shooting
If you want a budget-friendly, hard-hitting air rifle that can take down small game with ease, the Gamo Varmint .177 is a fantastic option. Just be ready to upgrade the scope, and brace yourself for some recoil.
✔ Best for small game hunters & pest control
✔ Not ideal for casual backyard plinking due to noise
✔ An excellent first break-barrel air rifle
3. Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .22 – The Hard-Hitting Multi-Shot Beast
When I first picked up the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i in .22 caliber, I knew this wasn’t just another air rifle—it was a game-changer. If you’ve used break-barrel air rifles before, you know the usual drill: load a pellet, break the barrel, fire, repeat. But with Gamo’s 10-shot magazine system, I was able to fire 10 shots without reloading, and trust me, that’s a huge advantage when hunting or plinking.
With a monstrous 1,300 FPS velocity, this air rifle packs enough punch to take down small to medium game, making it one of the most powerful break barrels I’ve ever used. But raw power means nothing without accuracy and reliability—so let’s dive into my experience.
The first thing I noticed? This rifle is a beast. At 6.8 lbs, it’s solidly built, featuring a synthetic stock that feels rugged and weather-resistant. The thumbhole design made it comfortable to grip, and I could immediately tell this was designed for serious shooters.
Another standout feature is the GEN3i Inertia-Fed Magazine System, which automatically advances the pellet with every break—no fumbling with loose pellets in the field. It felt like a bolt-action hunting rifle, except I didn’t have to reload after every shot.
The included 3-9×40 scope was actually decent—a rare thing for bundled optics! It wasn’t top-tier, but definitely usable out of the box.
I set up a steel target at 50 yards and loaded up some .22 caliber H&N Baracuda Hunter pellets. First shot? Clang! Second shot? Clang! Third shot? Clang!
Within minutes, I was hitting a tight 1-inch grouping at 50 yards, which is phenomenal for a break-barrel air rifle.
Next, I wanted to see how well it handled small game. One evening, I spotted a raccoon about 40 yards away. I lined up my shot, fired, and—down it went. The .22 pellet hit with serious stopping power, dropping the raccoon instantly.
Later that weekend, I took it out for a rabbit hunt, and once again, one clean shot at 35 yards was enough. The gas-piston system delivers consistent power, meaning every shot hits hard and penetrates deep.
What I Loved & What Needed Improvement
✔ Multi-Shot Magic – The 10-shot inertia-fed magazine makes this one of the fastest break-barrels to use
✔ Insane Power for a Break-Barrel – At 1,300 FPS, this thing hits like a truck
✔ Superb Accuracy – Tight 1-inch groupings at 50 yards make it hunting-ready
✔ Gas Piston System – No spring twang—just smooth, consistent power
✔ Better-Than-Average Scope – Unlike most bundled scopes, the 3-9×40 is actually usable
But no rifle is perfect, and the Swarm Magnum has a few quirks:
- Heavier Than Standard Break-Barrels – At 6.8 lbs, it’s not light, but the weight helps with recoil stability
- Strong Recoil for an Air Rifle – This thing kicks harder than most break-barrels, so new shooters might need time to adjust
- Loading the Magazine Can Be Tricky – While reloading the 10-shot mag is simple, seating it perfectly every time takes practice
Pros
- 10-Shot Magazine – No more single-shot reloading after every break
- Unmatched Power in a Break-Barrel – 1,300 FPS in .22 caliber is brutal for small game
- Great Accuracy – 1-inch groupings at 50 yards with the right pellets
- Gas-Piston Smoothness – No spring twang, just clean and powerful shots
- Durable & Weather-Resistant – Synthetic stock holds up in rain, mud, and tough conditions
Cons
- Heavier Than Most Break-Barrels – 6.8 lbs might feel heavy for younger shooters
- Takes Practice to Master the Magazine – Loading and seating the mag correctly requires some getting used to
- Recoil is Noticeable – Not a deal-breaker, but expect a bit of a kick
If you’re looking for a hard-hitting, accurate, and fast-shooting break-barrel air rifle, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is one of the best options out there.
✔ Perfect for small to medium game hunting
✔ A dream for airgun enthusiasts who want rapid follow-up shots
✔ Not for ultra-lightweight shooters—this is a serious rifle
For the power, accuracy, and 10-shot convenience, this rifle is worth every penny.
4. Gamo Swarm Whisper .22 – My Quiet & Deadly Hunting Partner
When I first got my hands on the Gamo Swarm Whisper .22, I was looking for a powerful break-barrel air rifle that wouldn’t scare away every animal in the woods. With its 10-shot magazine, Whisper sound suppression, and solid .22 caliber power, this rifle quickly became one of my favorite small-game hunting tools.
Right out of the box, the Swarm Whisper felt lightweight yet sturdy. The synthetic stock was rugged and weather-resistant, perfect for long outdoor use. But what really stood out was Gamo’s 10X Quick-Shot magazine system, allowing me to fire 10 rounds without manually loading each pellet. If you’ve ever used a single-shot break-barrel, you’ll know how big of a game-changer this is.
I took the Swarm Whisper out for some range testing at 30 yards. Using Crosman Premier Hollow Points, I was able to maintain tight 1-inch groupings consistently. The gas-piston system provided smooth and reliable power, and there was minimal recoil, making follow-up shots easier.
On my first hunting trip, I lined up a rabbit at 35 yards and took the shot. The pellet hit hard and clean, taking it down instantly. The Whisper noise dampening tech really made a difference—unlike my other air rifles, this one didn’t create a loud “crack” that would send every nearby animal running.
Pros
- 10-Shot Magazine System – No need to reload after every shot
- Quiet for Its Power – The Whisper noise suppression system helps keep things discreet
- Great Accuracy – 1-inch groupings at 30 yards with quality pellets
- Lightweight & Easy to Carry – At just 5.64 lbs, it’s great for long hunting trips
- Smooth Gas-Piston System – No spring twang, just consistent shots
Cons
- Scope Needs an Upgrade – The 4×32 scope is usable but not great
- Magazine Requires Practice – Loading and seating the 10X mag correctly takes some getting used to
- Not Ideal for Big Game – Powerful enough for small game, but not for coyotes or raccoons
If you’re a small-game hunter looking for a quiet, accurate, and fast-shooting air rifle, the Gamo Swarm Whisper .22 is one of the best budget-friendly choices out there.
✔ Great for backyard pest control & hunting rabbits, squirrels, and birds
✔ Not ideal for larger game due to power limitations
✔ A fantastic entry-level 10-shot break-barrel rifle
5. Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock – The Silent Sniper of the PCP World
When I first got my hands on the Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock, I knew I was stepping into serious airgun territory. Unlike break-barrel or CO₂-powered air rifles, this PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) beast is built for accuracy, power, and whisper-quiet performance. If you’re into small to medium game hunting or long-range precision shooting, the Marauder is one of the best PCP rifles on the market.
Right out of the box, I loved how lightweight yet durable the synthetic stock felt. At just 7.1 lbs, it was easier to carry than most other high-power PCP rifles, making it great for field use. The adjustable two-stage trigger and bolt-action mechanism gave it a rifle-like feel, which I loved.
I filled the Marauder’s air reservoir to 3,000 PSI and loaded some JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy pellets in the 10-round rotary magazine. With a few adjustments, I was consistently hitting sub-1-inch groupings at 50 yards—this thing is a laser beam!
For those who want even more accuracy in hunting, using a rangefinder with laser beam technology can make a big difference. Check out this guide on the best rangefinders for hunting.
For hunting, I took it out for a squirrel and rabbit test. At 60 yards, I took a clean shot on a rabbit, and it dropped instantly. The .22 caliber pellets hit hard and deep, making this rifle perfect for pest control and small-game hunting.
What really stood out was how quiet this rifle is. The fully shrouded barrel makes it one of the quietest high-power PCP rifles I’ve ever used—perfect for discreet shooting.
Pros
- Incredible Accuracy – Consistently sub-1-inch groups at 50+ yards
- PCP Power Without Recoil – No spring twang, just smooth, high-power shots
- Silent Killer – Fully shrouded barrel makes it whisper-quiet
- 10-Round Rotary Mag – No need to reload after every shot
- Adjustable Trigger & Stock – Can be tuned for personal preference
Cons
- Needs a High-Pressure Air Source – You’ll need a hand pump, scuba tank, or compressor to refill it
- A Bit Pricey for Beginners – PCP rifles aren’t cheap, but this one’s worth every penny
- Not Super Lightweight – At 7.1 lbs, it’s not heavy but not ultralight either
If you’re a serious airgun hunter or precision shooter, the Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock is a top-tier PCP rifle.
✔ Perfect for hunting squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and even coyotes
✔ Ultra-quiet performance for stealth shooting
✔ Not for beginners due to PCP refilling requirements
6. Hatsan 95 Air Rifle – The Hard-Hitting Spring-Piston Classic
I’ve shot plenty of break-barrel rifles, but the first time I picked up the Hatsan 95 Air Rifle, I knew this wasn’t your average spring-piston gun. The walnut stock alone made it stand out—it felt like a real hunting rifle, not just an airgun. If you love old-school power with modern accuracy, this one’s worth a serious look.
At 8.4 lbs, it’s heavier than most break-barrels, but that weight actually helps reduce recoil. The shock absorber system (SAS) also makes shooting much smoother than other spring-powered rifles I’ve used. This rifle isn’t just for plinking—it’s built for serious hunting.
I tested it using .22 caliber H&N Field Target Trophy pellets at 30 yards, and the results were impressive. The rifled steel barrel and adjustable two-stage trigger made it easy to keep 1-inch groupings, which is rare for a springer.
For hunting, I took it out for squirrel and rabbit control. At 40 yards, I dropped a rabbit with one well-placed shot—this rifle packs serious stopping power. With up to 800 FPS (in .22), it’s powerful enough for small game and pest control.
The included 3-9×32 scope is better than most factory optics, but for serious hunting, I’d recommend upgrading.
Pros
- Beautiful Walnut Stock – High-quality wood finish gives it a premium feel
- Accurate for a Springer – 1-inch groupings at 30 yards with good pellets
- Serious Hunting Power – 800 FPS in .22 caliber is enough for rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons
- Shock Absorber System (SAS) – Reduces recoil & vibrations for smoother shooting
- Adjustable Trigger – Fine-tune it to your preference
Cons
- Heavy for Some Shooters – At 8.4 lbs, it’s not a lightweight air rifle
- Scope is Decent, Not Amazing – Works fine, but serious hunters will want an upgrade
- Takes Strength to Cock – The spring-piston system requires effort, so not ideal for younger shooters
If you’re looking for a powerful, accurate, and beautifully built spring-piston rifle, the Hatsan 95 is a fantastic choice.
✔ Great for small game hunting & pest control
✔ Not for casual backyard plinking—this is a serious hunting rifle
✔ Perfect for shooters who appreciate a real wood stock & quality craftsmanship
7. Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 – The Magnum Powerhouse for Serious Hunters
The first time I shot the Benjamin Trail NP XL, I knew this wasn’t just another air rifle—it was a beast. If you’re looking for raw power, deadly accuracy, and a smoother shot cycle than traditional springers, this nitro-piston magnum rifle is built for serious hunters.
The first thing that stood out? Its size. This rifle is big and heavy, with a hardwood stock that feels like a real hunting rifle. At 9.7 lbs, it’s not for the faint of heart, but that weight helps stabilize recoil. The break-barrel cocking action requires some muscle, but once loaded, it delivers devastating power.
I took it out for some range testing at 40 yards, loaded with .22 caliber JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy pellets. The Nitro Piston XL technology gives this rifle a smooth but powerful shot cycle, and I was able to maintain tight 1-inch groupings.
But let’s talk about power. This rifle cranks out up to 1,100 FPS with alloy pellets, making it one of the most powerful break-barrels I’ve ever used. It hits hard—perfect for taking down raccoons, rabbits, and even coyotes at close range.
For hunting, I tested it on a raccoon at 45 yards—one well-placed shot, and it was game over. The energy transfer is no joke, making this one of the best break-barrel options for serious hunters.
The included 3-9x40mm scope is decent but struggles to handle the rifle’s power over time. I’d recommend upgrading to something more durable.
Pros
- Serious Hunting Power – 1,100 FPS in .22 means it can take down medium-sized game
- Smooth Nitro Piston Action – Less recoil and noise than traditional spring guns
- Accurate for a Magnum Rifle – 1-inch groupings at 40+ yards
- Hardwood Stock Feels Premium – Solid, durable, and great for hunting
- No Spring Torque – Smoother cocking and shooting than a spring-piston rifle
Cons
- Heavy & Long – At 9.7 lbs, this isn’t for younger or smaller shooters
- Scope Could Be Better – The stock scope works, but it’s not built for long-term use
- Hard to Cock – Magnum power means a stronger cocking effort, so be ready for it
If you’re a serious hunter looking for an ultra-powerful break-barrel air rifle, the Benjamin Trail NP XL is one of the best options out there.
✔ Ideal for raccoons, possums, coyotes, and other tough small-to-medium game
✔ Not for casual plinkers—this is a heavy-duty hunting rifle
✔ Great for those who want magnum power without the recoil of a springer
8. Ruger Blackhawk .177 – A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse for Backyard Shooters
I got my hands on the Ruger Blackhawk .177 because I wanted an affordable, accurate, and reliable air rifle that could handle target shooting and pest control. This rifle, designed by Umarex, is a spring-piston break-barrel that promises 1,000 FPS (with lead pellets) and 1,200 FPS (with alloy pellets).
The first thing I noticed? It looks and feels like a real hunting rifle. The synthetic stock is lightweight yet rugged enough to handle rough outdoor use. I also liked the rubber recoil pad, which made handling more comfortable, especially for longer shooting sessions. The included 4×32 scope? Not great, but usable if you take the time to sight it in properly.
Right out of the box, I tested it at 25 yards using Crosman Premier Domed Pellets. The break-barrel action was smooth, and after a short break-in period, I was able to get 1-inch groupings consistently. The fiber-optic iron sights are a great backup if you’re not a fan of the scope.
For pest control, I used it to take down a couple of pigeons and a squirrel at 30 yards—the impact was clean, and the .177 caliber pellet had no problem getting the job done. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for anything larger than squirrels.
The spring-piston system gives it a noticeable recoil, but nothing unmanageable. Cock it once, fire, and repeat—simple and effective.
Pros
- Great Value for the Price – Solid power and accuracy for under $150
- Lightweight & Durable – The synthetic stock is weather-resistant and easy to handle
- Accurate with the Right Pellets – 1-inch groupings at 25+ yards
- Fiber-Optic Sights Included – A great backup if you don’t want to use the scope
- Easy to Use & Maintain – No CO₂, no air pumps—just break, load, and shoot
Cons
- Scope Needs an Upgrade – The included 4×32 scope is basic and may not hold zero well
- Spring Recoil Takes Getting Used To – Unlike gas-piston rifles, this one has a bit of a kick
- Best for Small Game Only – Not enough stopping power for anything bigger than a squirrel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly break-barrel air rifle that’s great for backyard plinking and small-game hunting, the Ruger Blackhawk .177 is a fantastic entry-level choice.
✔ Perfect for beginners, target shooters, and pest control
✔ Not ideal for larger game due to limited stopping power
✔ Best for those who want an affordable rifle without needing CO₂ or an air pump
9. Gamo Wildcat Whisper .177 – The Silent Backyard Sniper
When I first picked up the Gamo Wildcat Whisper .177, I was looking for a quiet, lightweight, and affordable break-barrel air rifle that could handle backyard plinking and small-game hunting. Since Gamo is known for making some of the best break-barrel rifles, I had high expectations for this one.
Right out of the box, the Wildcat Whisper felt light and easy to handle, thanks to its synthetic all-weather stock. It’s designed to be comfortable for extended shooting sessions, with a rubberized grip and a smooth cocking action. The Whisper noise suppression system was the big selling point for me—I wanted something that wouldn’t disturb the whole neighborhood.
I set up a target at 30 yards and loaded some Gamo Red Fire pellets. The first shot? A clean, accurate hit. After adjusting the included 4×32 scope, I was able to get sub-1-inch groupings consistently.
For small-game hunting, I tested it on a squirrel at 35 yards, and the 1,300 FPS velocity (with alloy pellets) had no trouble taking it down cleanly. The IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas-piston system provides consistent power without the twang of a springer, making the rifle smoother and quieter than traditional break-barrel rifles.
Pros
- Super Quiet Shooting – The Whisper noise dampening tech works great
- Lightweight & Easy to Handle – At 5.64 lbs, it’s great for extended use
- Accurate at 30+ Yards – Sub-1-inch groupings with quality pellets
- No Spring Twang – The gas-piston system makes it smoother and more reliable
- All-Weather Synthetic Stock – Durable and low maintenance
Cons
- Scope is Basic – The 4×32 scope works, but an upgrade is recommended for serious shooting
- Not Ideal for Bigger Game – Great for squirrels and birds, but not enough stopping power for raccoons or coyotes
- Cocking Effort Can Be Tough for Beginners – Not extreme, but takes some strength
If you’re looking for a quiet, lightweight, and accurate air rifle for pest control, small-game hunting, or target shooting, the Gamo Wildcat Whisper .177 is a solid choice.
✔ Great for beginners and backyard shooters
✔ Perfect for quiet shooting sessions without disturbing neighbors
✔ Not meant for larger game or extreme long-range shooting
10. Hatsan Mod 125 Sniper Camo Vortex QE – The Hard-Hitting .25 Caliber Beast
When I first got my hands on the Hatsan Mod 125 Sniper Camo Vortex QE, I knew right away that this was no ordinary break-barrel air rifle. This thing is an absolute powerhouse—a gas-piston, .25 caliber monster built for serious hunting. If you need an air rifle that can drop raccoons, possums, and even coyotes, this is it.
At 10.3 lbs, the Mod 125 Sniper isn’t light, but it feels rock-solid and well-balanced in the hands. The camo synthetic stock is rugged and weather-resistant, and the adjustable cheekpiece makes it easy to get a comfortable shooting position.
The Vortex gas-piston system is a huge upgrade over traditional springers—it’s smoother, quieter, and more durable. The QuietEnergy (QE) suppressor also helps keep shots quieter than most other magnum air rifles, though this isn’t a backyard plinker—it’s built for hunting.
I loaded up some H&N Barracuda 30.86 grain pellets and set up targets at 40 yards. Right away, I noticed the immense stopping power—this thing slams targets like a small firearm. Once I got the included 3-9×32 scope dialed in, I was hitting 1-inch groupings consistently at 40 yards.
For hunting, I tested it on a raccoon at 50 yards. One well-placed shot, and it dropped instantly. The .25 caliber rounds carry serious energy, making this rifle perfect for taking down tough game.
Pros
- Insane Power – The .25 caliber rounds hit like a truck
- Accurate at 50+ Yards – 1-inch groupings with the right pellets
- Gas Piston is Smoother & More Durable – Less recoil, longer lifespan than springers
- QuietEnergy (QE) Suppressor – Quieter than most magnum rifles
- Tough & Weather-Resistant Camo Stock – Built to withstand rough hunting conditions
Cons
- Heavy at 10.3 lbs – Not ideal for younger shooters or long hunting treks
- Strong Cocking Effort – Magnum power means cocking takes serious muscle
- Scope is Just Okay – Usable, but serious shooters will want an upgrade
If you need a powerful, accurate, and durable hunting air rifle, the Hatsan Mod 125 Sniper Vortex QE is one of the best .25 caliber break-barrels available.
✔ Ideal for hunting raccoons, possums, coyotes, and other medium-sized game
✔ Not a backyard plinker—this rifle is built for serious shooting
✔ Best for experienced shooters who don’t mind the weight and cocking effort
Different Caliber Air Rifles & Their Uses
.22 Caliber Air Rifles
Often considered the most versatile all-around caliber, .22 air rifles provide a balance of velocity, accuracy, and stopping power. They are commonly used for target shooting, small-game hunting (rabbits, squirrels), and pest control.
Is a .22 Air Rifle Considered a Firearm?
The classification of a .22 caliber air rifle as a firearm depends on the laws of each country/jurisdiction:
- United States: No (Not classified as a firearm under federal law)
- United Kingdom: No (If muzzle energy is under 12 foot-pounds), Yes (If over 12 foot-pounds)
- Canada: No (If muzzle velocity is under 500 FPS and muzzle energy is under 4.2 foot-pounds), Yes (If exceeding these limits)
- Australia: Yes (Considered a firearm and subject to firearm regulations and licensing)
.25 Caliber Air Rifles
Designed for medium-game hunting, .25 caliber air rifles are ideal for taking down predators and larger pests due to their higher energy and stopping power.
.35 Caliber Air Rifles
A high-powered option, .35 caliber air rifles are used for hunting larger game, such as deer, where greater penetration and energy transfer are needed.
.177 Caliber Air Rifles
The only caliber approved for formal target competitions, .177 air rifles are highly accurate and used in field target shooting and Olympic air rifle events. They are also commonly used for pest control, though they lack the stopping power of larger calibers.
CO₂ Air Rifles
CO₂-powered air rifles are favored for small-game hunting, including rabbits, squirrels, and birds, due to their quieter operation and consistent shot velocity. They offer adequate power and precision without excessive force, making them ideal for short-range shooting.
Popular Types of Air Rifles
- Spring-Piston: Utilizes a coiled spring and piston mechanism.
- Gas Piston (Gas Ram/Nitro Piston): Replaces the spring with a gas-filled cylinder for smoother operation.
- Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP): Uses a pre-filled high-pressure air reservoir for consistent power.
- CO₂-Powered: Employs CO₂ cartridges for propulsion.
- Variable Pump (Pneumatic): Requires manual pumping to pressurize air before each shot.
Top Air Rifle Brands
- Daystate
- Brocock
- Hatsan
- AirForce
- Weihrauch
- Gamo
- Air Arms
- Air Venturi
Popular Air Rifle Models
- Brocock Sniper XR
- Brocock Commander
- Brocock Ghost Plus PCP Air Rifle
- AirForce Texan
- Gamo Hornet Air Rifle
Final Verdict
Air rifles for hunting are the perfect choice for hunters who prefer small to medium game. As seen in the expert reviews above, the best air rifles offer a range of powerful calibers—some even strong enough for larger game.
Each rifle reviewed here has been tested and analyzed by experts, providing real-world insights into their accuracy, power, handling, and overall performance. Our team at Gunners’ Review has gathered these detailed, hands-on reviews and compiled them into this guide to help you make the best choice based on your hunting needs.
FAQs
What is an air rifle?
An air rifle is defined as having a long barrel for firing and being powered by air pressure, a spring piston, or compressed gas. An air rifle uses air for shooting, and its power is less than that of other rifles that use powder for firing.
What makes an air rifle a sniper?
A sniper air rifle is built for long-range accuracy, featuring a high-powered scope, a stable firing position, and often a bipod for support. Unlike standard air rifles, it has higher velocity, larger calibers (.22 or .25), and uses PCP or gas-piston systems for consistent power and low recoil. With an adjustable stock and a heavy barrel for stability, it’s ideal for precision shooting, pest control, and small-game hunting where stealth and accuracy matter.
Is an airgun considered a firearm?
Air guns use air or gas for shooting, so they don’t fall under the firearms category. Unlike other types of weapons that use exploding powder, these guns are generally less powerful, but high-velocity models can still cause serious injury or death. Therefore, they don’t require licensing and state permits (vary by state). But you must follow hunting regulations while hunting with an air gun for the security of different species of animals and birds.
Is an air rifle considered a firearm?
Air rifles cannot be considered firearms because firearms use exploding powder for firing while air rifle uses air or compressed gas. But in the USA some states do have the same laws of firearms to acquire an air rifle. Even on some conditions you also need a firearm license to acquire an air rifle.
Waht are the uses of airguns for hunting?
They can be used for small and medium game hunting but can’t be used for big game hunting. They can also be used in shooting competitions. People use 22,25 and 30-caliber air guns for long-range competitions because they can shoot in long-range as compared to other air guns.
What purpose air rifles are mostly used?
Air rifles are mainly used for recreational activities, including target shooting, pest control, and small-game hunting. They are also popular as beginner-friendly guns for training and are sometimes used as toys for kids with low-powered models.
What is the best air gun for self defense?
The LTL Alfa 1.50 is a reliable air gun for self-defense, offering dual functionality—it can shoot paper balls for security and rubber balls for training. While air guns are generally not recommended as primary self-defense weapons, this model provides a non-lethal option for personal protection.
What is the most powerful air gun?
The AEA Zeus .72 caliber is the most powerful commercially available air gun, capable of delivering extreme stopping power. However, for long-range shooting and competition, calibers like .22, .25, and .30 are preferred due to their better accuracy and range compared to larger bore air rifles.
What is the difference between air rifles and air guns?
Air guns and air rifles both use compressed air or gas to propel projectiles. An air rifle is a type of air gun, characterized by its long barrel and higher velocity, making it suitable for target shooting, hunting, and pest control. In contrast, air pistols are smaller, more compact, and typically used for short-range shooting and training.
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