Hunting small game with a pellet gun can be both challenging and rewarding. It’s a great way to sharpen your skills and enjoy the outdoors without the noise and expense of firearms. Choosing the right pellet gun is key, though, as you need enough power and accuracy to ethically harvest your quarry. I’ve spent years tinkering with different airguns, so I know what to look for. This guide will break down some top picks to help you find the best pellet gun for your small game hunting adventures.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Gamo Swarm Maxxim .22: Multi-shot break barrel, great for follow-up shots.
- Benjamin Marauder .25: Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) with high power and accuracy.
- Crosman Shockwave .22: Affordable break barrel with decent power for the price.
- Umarex Gauntlet .22: Regulated PCP for consistent shots and high shot count.
- AirForce Condor SS .25: Highly customizable PCP with extreme power potential.
Top 5 Best Pellet Guns for Hunting Small Game
1. Gamo Swarm Maxxim .22
The Gamo Swarm Maxxim .22 is a multi-shot break barrel pellet gun that allows for quick follow-up shots. Its 10-shot rotary magazine is a game-changer, especially when hunting fast-moving small game. It’s relatively quiet thanks to the noise dampener, and the accuracy is good enough for ethical shots at reasonable distances.
Pros:
- ✅ Multi-shot capability for fast follow-up shots
- ✅ Relatively quiet operation with noise dampener
- ✅ Good accuracy for small game hunting
Cons:
- ❌ Break barrel design can be tiring after many shots
- ❌ Scope may need upgrading for optimal performance
- ❌ Trigger can be a bit heavy for some users
Verdict: The Gamo Swarm Maxxim .22 is a solid choice for hunters who value quick follow-up shots and ease of use. It’s a good all-around option for various small game species.
2. Benjamin Marauder .25
The Benjamin Marauder .25 is a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle known for its power and accuracy. It’s a favorite among serious airgun hunters due to its consistent performance and ability to take down larger small game at longer ranges. Plus, it’s quiet, which is always a plus in the woods.
Pros:
- ✅ High power for taking down larger small game
- ✅ Excellent accuracy for precise shots
- ✅ Quiet operation for stealth hunting
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a separate air source (hand pump or compressor)
- ❌ Higher price point compared to break barrel models
- ❌ Can be heavy, especially with a scope mounted
Verdict: The Benjamin Marauder .25 is a top-tier PCP air rifle ideal for experienced hunters seeking maximum power and accuracy. It’s an investment, but one that pays off in performance.
3. Crosman Shockwave .22
The Crosman Shockwave .22 is a budget-friendly break barrel air rifle that offers decent power and accuracy for its price. It’s a good entry-level option for those just getting into airgun hunting or who don’t want to spend a lot of money. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it gets the job done.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Decent power for small game hunting
- ✅ Simple and easy to use
Cons:
- ❌ Accuracy may not be as consistent as more expensive models
- ❌ Can be louder than other options
- ❌ Build quality may not be as durable
Verdict: The Crosman Shockwave .22 is a great option for beginners or hunters on a budget. It provides a good balance of power and affordability.
4. Umarex Gauntlet .22
The Umarex Gauntlet .22 is a regulated PCP air rifle that provides consistent shots and a high shot count per fill. The regulator ensures that each shot has the same power, leading to better accuracy and predictability. This is particularly important when hunting, where shot placement is crucial.
Pros:
- ✅ Regulated for consistent shot power
- ✅ High shot count per fill
- ✅ Good accuracy for hunting
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a separate air source
- ❌ Can be bulky and heavy
- ❌ Filling can be tedious without the right adapter
Verdict: The Umarex Gauntlet .22 is a good choice for hunters who want consistent performance and a high shot count without breaking the bank. The regulator makes a noticeable difference in accuracy.
5. AirForce Condor SS .25
The AirForce Condor SS .25 is a highly customizable PCP air rifle known for its extreme power potential. It’s a favorite among experienced airgunners who like to tinker and adjust their rifles for specific purposes. With the right setup, it can take down even larger small game at impressive distances.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly customizable for different power levels and applications
- ✅ Extreme power potential
- ✅ Accurate with the right setup
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a separate air source
- ❌ Expensive compared to other options
- ❌ Steep learning curve for adjusting and tuning
Verdict: The AirForce Condor SS .25 is a top-of-the-line PCP air rifle for serious airgun hunters and enthusiasts who want maximum power and customization. It’s not for beginners, but it’s a powerhouse in the right hands.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pellet gun for hunting small game involves several factors. Here are some things to consider:
- Power: Make sure the pellet gun has enough power to ethically harvest the game you’re hunting. Different species require different power levels. Consult your local regulations for minimum power requirements.
- Accuracy: Accuracy is crucial for humane hunting. Look for a pellet gun with good accuracy at the ranges you’ll be shooting. Test different pellets to find what your gun shoots best.
- Type: Break barrel, PCP, and CO2 are the main types of pellet guns. Break barrels are simple and affordable, PCPs offer high power and accuracy, and CO2 guns are good for plinking and target shooting.
- Caliber: .177, .22, and .25 are common calibers. .177 is good for target shooting and small pests, while .22 and .25 are better for hunting small game.
- Noise Level: A quieter pellet gun is less likely to spook game. Look for models with noise dampeners or suppressors.
- Budget: Pellet guns range in price from under $100 to over $1000. Set a budget and find the best gun you can afford within that range.
- Intended Quarry: Consider the size and toughness of the animals you’ll be hunting. Squirrels need less power than rabbits, for example. Choose a caliber and power level appropriate for your target.
- Optics: A good scope can significantly improve your accuracy. Consider a scope with adjustable magnification and a clear reticle.
FAQs
What is the best caliber for hunting squirrels?
A .22 caliber pellet gun is generally considered the best for hunting squirrels. It offers a good balance of power and accuracy for taking down squirrels humanely.
Do I need a license to hunt with a pellet gun?
Regulations vary by state and locality. Check your local hunting regulations to see if a license is required for hunting with a pellet gun.
How far can I accurately shoot a pellet gun?
Accuracy depends on the pellet gun, the shooter, and the conditions. Generally, you can expect to accurately shoot small game at distances of 20-50 yards with a good pellet gun and proper technique.
What is the difference between a break barrel and a PCP pellet gun?
A break barrel pellet gun is powered by compressing a spring or gas piston by “breaking” the barrel. A PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) pellet gun is powered by compressed air stored in a reservoir. PCPs generally offer more power and accuracy but require a separate air source.
What kind of pellets should I use for hunting?
Use hunting pellets designed for expansion and penetration. Hollow point and pointed pellets are good choices for small game hunting. Experiment with different brands and types to see what your gun shoots best.
Conclusion
Finding the best pellet gun for hunting small game depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of game you’ll be hunting, and the features that are most important to you. Whether you choose a break barrel, PCP, or CO2 model, make sure to practice safe gun handling and follow all local hunting regulations. With the right pellet gun and a bit of practice, you can enjoy a challenging and rewarding hunting experience.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
