Air rifles have come a long way over the years, with advancements in technology and design making them more powerful, accurate, and user-friendly than ever before.
They are used for a wide range of activities, from backyard plinking to small game hunting and even big game hunting in some cases.
With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to find the perfect air rifle to suit your needs.
In this comprehensive review, we will take a look at some of the best air rifles on the market and help you make an informed decision.
Here’s our top picks for the best air rifles in 2024:
- Best Overall: Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i
- Best Compact: Hatsan Jet PCP Pistol
- Best For Youth: Umarex NOTOS CRK
- Best Semi-Automatic: DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2
- Best for Small Game Hunting: Gamo Swarm Whisper
- Most Accurate: Black Ops Sniper S
- Best Budget Option: Air Venturi Avenger
- Best Budget For Big Bore: Umarex Hammer
- Best for Backyard Plinking: SIG MCX Air Rifle
The Best Air Rifles Reviews and Recommendations
Best Overall: BRK Ghost
Key Features:
- Powerful and accurate
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Adjustable power settings
- Whisper quiet operation
Pros:
- Excellent performance for the price
- Suitable for a variety of shooting applications
- Easy to handle and maneuver
- Quiet enough for backyard use
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a more traditional looking air rifle
Product Description:
The BRK Ghost is our top pick for the best overall air rifle due to its impressive combination of power, accuracy, and user-friendly features.
This PCP air rifle boasts adjustable power settings, allowing shooters to fine-tune their shooting experience.
Its lightweight and ergonomic design make it easy to handle and maneuver, while the whisper-quiet operation ensures that you won’t disturb your neighbors during backyard shooting sessions.
Best Compact: Hatsan Jet
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight design
- High power output
- Adjustable trigger
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros:
- Easy to carry and handle
- Suitable for various shooting applications
- Accurate and consistent performance
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger or more powerful game
Product Description:
The Hatsan Jet is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact air rifle with high power output.
Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and handle, while the adjustable trigger ensures a smooth and comfortable shooting experience.
The built-in pressure gauge allows for easy monitoring of the air pressure, ensuring consistent performance.
Best Youth: Umarex NOTOS CRK
Key Features:
- Designed specifically for younger shooters
- Easy-to-use break barrel action
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Adjustable rear sight
Pros:
- Perfect for teaching young shooters the basics
- Comfortable and easy to handle
- Accurate and reliable performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- May not be suitable for more experienced shooters
Product Description:
The Umarex NOTOS CRK is our top pick for the best youth air rifle, thanks to its user-friendly design and reliable performance.
This break barrel air rifle is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for teaching young shooters the basics of marksmanship.
The adjustable rear sight ensures accurate shooting, while the affordable price point makes it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Best Semi-Auto: Western Rattler .357
Key Features:
- Semi-automatic action
- Large caliber for increased power and versatility
- Adjustable power settings
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros:
- Fast follow-up shots
- Suitable for hunting larger game
- Easy to use and maintain
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Product Description:
The Western Rattler .357 is our top pick for the best semi-auto air rifle due to its impressive power and semi-automatic action.
This large caliber air rifle is perfect for hunting larger game, with adjustable power settings allowing for fine-tuning of your shooting experience.
The built-in pressure gauge ensures consistent performance, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
Best for Small Game Hunting: Brocock Commander
Key Features:
- High power output
- Adjustable trigger
- Built-in pressure gauge
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
Pros:
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Suitable for hunting small game
- Easy to handle and maneuver
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Product Description:
The Brocock Commander is our top pick for the best air rifle for small game hunting due to its impressive power output and excellent accuracy.
This PCP air rifle is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for hunting small game in various environments.
The adjustable trigger ensures a smooth and comfortable shooting experience, while the built-in pressure gauge allows for easy monitoring of air pressure.
Most Accurate: FX Impact
Key Features:
- Highly accurate barrel system
- Adjustable power settings
- Large air reservoir
- Multiple caliber options available
Pros:
- Unparalleled accuracy and consistency
- Suitable for various shooting applications
- Easy to use and maintain
- Customizable to your preferences
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Product Description:
The FX Impact is our top pick for the most accurate air rifle on the market. Its highly accurate barrel system, combined with adjustable power settings and a large air reservoir, ensures consistent performance and unparalleled accuracy.
This air rifle is available in multiple calibers, making it suitable for various shooting applications. While it is expensive compared to other options, the FX Impact offers an unmatched level of precision and customization.
Best Budget: Air Venturi Avenger
Key Features:
- Affordable price point
- Adjustable power settings
- Built-in pressure gauge
- Durable construction
Pros:
- Great value for the money
- Suitable for various shooting applications
- Easy to use and maintain
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- May not be as powerful or accurate as more expensive options
Product Description:
The Air Venturi Avenger is our top pick for the best budget air rifle due to its impressive performance and affordable price point.
This PCP air rifle offers adjustable power settings, ensuring that it is suitable for various shooting applications.
The built-in pressure gauge allows for easy monitoring of air pressure, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
Best Budget Big Bore: Umarex Hammer
Key Features:
- Large caliber for increased power and versatility
- Affordable price point
- Built-in pressure gauge
- Durable construction
Pros:
- Great value for a big bore air rifle
- Suitable for hunting larger game
- Easy to use and maintain
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- May not be as powerful as more expensive big bore options
Product Description:
The Umarex Hammer is our top pick for the best budget big bore air rifle due to its large caliber and affordable price point. This air rifle is perfect for hunting larger game, with the built-in pressure gauge ensuring consistent performance. The durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come, making it an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly big bore air rifle.
Best for Backyard Plinking: SIG MCX Air Rifle
Key Features:
- Semi-automatic action
- CO2 powered for easy use
- 30-round magazine
- Adjustable rear sight
Pros:
- Perfect for backyard plinking
- Fast follow-up shots
- Easy to use and maintain
- Accurate and reliable performance
Cons:
- Limited power compared to PCP options
Product Description:
The SIG MCX Air Rifle is our top pick for the best air rifle for backyard plinking due to its semi-automatic action and ease of use. This CO2 powered air rifle features a 30-round magazine, allowing for fast follow-up shots and plenty of shooting fun. The adjustable rear sight ensures accurate shooting, making this an excellent option for those looking to enjoy some backyard target practice.
More of the Best Air Rifles
The Best Predator Hunting Air Rifle: AirForce Texan .308 Caliber
Key Features:
- High power output
- Large caliber for increased versatility
- Adjustable power settings
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
Pros:
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Suitable for hunting predators and small game
- Easy to handle and maneuver
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Product Description:
The AirForce Texan .308 Caliber is our top pick for the best predator hunting air rifle due to its impressive power output and excellent accuracy. This PCP air rifle is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for hunting predators and small game in various environments. The adjustable power settings ensure a smooth and comfortable shooting experience, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
The Best Air Rifle for Predators and Big Game: AirForce Texan .357 Caliber
Key Features:
- High power output
- Large caliber for increased versatility
- Adjustable power settings
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
Pros:
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Suitable for hunting predators and big game
- Easy to handle and maneuver
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Product Description:
The AirForce Texan .357 Caliber is our top pick for the best air rifle for predators and big game due to its impressive power output and excellent accuracy. This PCP air rifle is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for hunting predators and big game in various environments. The adjustable power settings ensure a smooth and comfortable shooting experience, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
The Best Big Bore Rifle: Hatsan PileDriver
Key Features:
- Extremely powerful big bore air rifle
- Large caliber for increased versatility
- Adjustable power settings
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros:
- Suitable for hunting large game
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Easy to use and maintain
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Not suitable for beginners or backyard plinking
Product Description:
The Hatsan PileDriver is our top pick for the best big bore air rifle due to its extreme power and versatility. This large caliber air rifle is perfect for hunting large game, with adjustable power settings allowing for fine-tuning of your shooting experience. The built-in pressure gauge ensures consistent performance, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
Best Compact Air Rifle: Ranger XR
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight design
- High power output
- Adjustable trigger
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros:
- Easy to carry and handle
- Suitable for various shooting applications
- Accurate and consistent performance
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger or more powerful game
Product Description:
The Ranger XR is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact air rifle with high power output. Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and handle, while the adjustable trigger ensures a smooth and comfortable shooting experience. The built-in pressure gauge allows for easy monitoring of the air pressure, ensuring consistent performance.
Most Powerful Production Air Rifle: AEA Zeus
Key Features:
- Extremely powerful air rifle
- Large caliber for increased versatility
- Adjustable power settings
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros:
- Suitable for hunting large game
- Excellent accuracy and consistency
- Easy to use and maintain
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Not suitable for beginners or backyard plinking
Product Description:
The AEA Zeus is our top pick for the most powerful production air rifle on the market. Its extreme power and large caliber make it suitable for hunting large game, while the adjustable power settings allow for fine-tuning of your shooting experience. The built-in pressure gauge ensures consistent performance, while the durable construction ensures that this air rifle will last for years to come.
How to Choose a PCP Air Rifle
A pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle is a popular choice among shooting enthusiasts due to its power, accuracy, and versatility.
Choosing the right PCP air rifle can be a daunting task, especially with the wide range of options available on the market.
In this section, we will guide you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect PCP air rifle to suit your needs.
What is a PCP Air Rifle?
A PCP air rifle uses compressed air to propel pellets or BBs, rather than relying on a spring or gas piston like other types of air rifles. The compressed air is stored in a reservoir, usually built into the rifle, and released when the trigger is pulled.
Advantages of PCP Air Rifles
- Power: PCP air rifles are known for their high power output, making them suitable for various shooting activities, such as hunting, pest control, and target shooting.
- Accuracy: Due to the lack of recoil and consistent air pressure, PCP air rifles offer superior accuracy compared to other types of air guns.
- Multi-shot capability: Many PCP air rifles come with a multi-shot magazine, allowing you to shoot multiple pellets without the need to reload manually.
Now that you have a basic understanding of what a PCP air rifle is and its advantages, let’s dive into the factors you should consider when choosing one.
Determine Your Purpose
Hunting and Pest Control
If you plan to use your PCP air rifle for hunting or pest control, consider the following factors:
- Caliber: Choose an appropriate caliber for the game you intend to hunt. Common calibers for hunting include .22, .25, and .30. Larger calibers provide more stopping power but may be louder and require more air per shot.
- Power output: Look for an air rifle with sufficient power (measured in foot-pounds of energy, or FPE) to humanely dispatch your intended quarry. As a general rule, 12-20 FPE is suitable for small game and pests, while 30-50 FPE is adequate for medium-sized game.
- Noise level: Consider the noise level of the air rifle, especially if you need to be discreet when hunting or controlling pests. Some PCP air rifles come with integrated silencers or moderators to reduce noise.
Target Shooting and Plinking
For target shooting and plinking, prioritize the following factors:
- Accuracy: Look for an air rifle with a reputation for accuracy, as this is crucial for target shooting. A good-quality barrel, adjustable sights, and a consistent air pressure system will contribute to improved accuracy.
- Adjustability: Choose an air rifle with adjustable power settings, allowing you to fine-tune the velocity and trajectory of your pellets for different distances and shooting conditions.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable and well-balanced air rifle will make it easier to maintain a stable shooting position, improving your overall performance.
Selecting the Right Caliber
PCP air rifles are available in various calibers, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
.177 Caliber
- Pros: Fastest pellet velocity, flat trajectory, less wind drift, and lower air consumption.
- Cons: Less stopping power, not ideal for hunting larger game.
- Best for: Target shooting, plinking, and hunting small game and pests.
.22 Caliber
- Pros: More stopping power, better energy transfer, and suitable for a wider range of game.
- Cons: Slower pellet velocity and more air consumption per shot.
- Best for: Hunting small to medium-sized game, pest control, and target shooting.
.25 Caliber and Larger
- Pros: Maximum stopping power, suitable for hunting medium to large game, and more resistant to wind drift.
- Cons: Heaviest pellets, slowest velocity, and highest air consumption per shot.
- Best for: Hunting larger game and long-range shooting.
Air Reservoir Capacity and Shot Count
The air reservoir capacity determines how many shots you can take before needing to refill the air rifle. Larger reservoirs provide more shots per fill, but may also result in a heavier and bulkier rifle. Consider your intended use and personal preferences when selecting an air rifle with the right balance between reservoir capacity and overall weight.
Budget and Price Range
PCP air rifles are available in a wide range of prices, from entry-level options to high-end models. Determine your budget and consider the following factors:
- Entry-level: Affordable PCP air rifles may have fewer features and lower build quality, but can still provide an enjoyable shooting experience. These options are ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Mid-range: Mid-range PCP air rifles offer a good balance between price and performance, often including additional features such as adjustable power settings, multi-shot magazines, and better build quality.
- High-end: High-end PCP air rifles are designed for serious shooters who demand the best performance and build quality. These models often include advanced features, such as precision barrels, electronic triggers, and advanced regulators.
Conclusion
Choosing the right PCP air rifle involves carefully considering your intended purpose, caliber, air reservoir capacity, and budget. By understanding these key factors and evaluating your specific needs, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect PCP air rifle that will provide years of enjoyment and satisfaction.
FAQs
Q: What distance should I zero my .22 air rifle?
A: It’s generally recommended to zero your .22 air rifle at a distance of 25 to 30 yards. This distance provides a good balance between accuracy and trajectory, making it suitable for most shooting applications.
Q: Which is better, a .22 or .177 air rifle?
A: The choice between a .22 or .177 air rifle depends on your intended use. A .22 air rifle is better for hunting small game and pests, as it offers more knockdown power and a larger pellet size. On the other hand, a .177 air rifle is more suitable for target shooting and plinking due to its flatter trajectory and higher velocity.
Q: How far can a .22 air rifle shoot?
A: A .22 air rifle can shoot accurately at distances up to 50 yards or more, depending on the quality of the rifle and the skill of the shooter. However, the effective range for hunting small game is typically around 30 to 40 yards.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are many great air rifles available on the market, each with its own unique set of features and capabilities.
The key to finding the perfect air rifle for your needs is to carefully consider your intended use, budget, and personal preferences.
By doing so, you can ensure that you choose an air rifle that will provide years of enjoyment and reliable performance.
