Squirrels can be a real headache, especially when they start raiding your bird feeders or vegetable garden. For those times when you need to take more serious action, a good air rifle with the right pellets can be effective. Choosing the best .177 pellets for squirrels involves balancing accuracy, impact, and ethical considerations. This guide will help you find the right ammo for your needs and ensure humane dispatch when necessary.
Here’s a quick look at some of the top .177 pellets for dealing with squirrels:
- Gamo Rocket Pellets: Great all-around pellet with good accuracy and impact.
- Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets: Affordable and effective for short-range hunting.
- H&N Sport Baracuda Hunter Extreme Pellets: Designed for maximum expansion and stopping power.
- JSB Exact Jumbo Diabolo Pellets: Known for their exceptional accuracy and consistent performance.
- RWS Meisterkugeln Professional Line Pellets: Top choice for target practice and improving accuracy.
Top 5 Best .177 Pellets for Squirrels
1. Gamo Rocket Pellets
Gamo Rocket pellets are a popular choice for small game hunting due to their combination of accuracy and impact. These pellets feature a lead core with a brass tip, which helps with penetration and expansion upon impact. If you’re looking for a reliable pellet that delivers a good balance of speed and stopping power, the Gamo Rockets are worth considering.
Pros:
- ✅ Enhanced penetration with the brass tip.
- ✅ Good accuracy at medium ranges.
- ✅ Provides a significant impact on small game.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- ❌ Brass tip may sometimes separate upon impact.
- ❌ Not ideal for long-range shooting due to potential accuracy loss.
Verdict: The Gamo Rocket pellets are a solid choice for hunters who prioritize penetration and impact. Best for medium-range use where accuracy is still important.
2. Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets
Crosman Premier Hollow Point pellets are a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise too much on performance. These pellets are designed to expand upon impact, delivering more energy to the target. They are widely available and a great option for those just starting out or who need a cost-effective solution for pest control.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable and widely available.
- ✅ Hollow point design ensures good expansion.
- ✅ Effective for short-range pest control.
Cons:
- ❌ Accuracy can be inconsistent at longer ranges.
- ❌ May not penetrate as deeply as other pellets.
- ❌ Quality control can sometimes be an issue.
Verdict: The Crosman Premier Hollow Point pellets are a good choice for those on a budget who need a reliable short-range pellet for pest control.
3. H&N Sport Baracuda Hunter Extreme Pellets
H&N Sport Baracuda Hunter Extreme pellets are engineered for maximum impact and stopping power. These heavy, hollow-point pellets are designed to expand rapidly upon impact, transferring a lot of energy to the target. If you need a pellet that delivers a decisive blow, especially in situations where a quick, humane dispatch is crucial, these are a great option.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional stopping power due to rapid expansion.
- ✅ Heavyweight design for increased energy transfer.
- ✅ High-quality construction ensures consistency.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other pellets.
- ❌ May not be suitable for lower-powered air rifles.
- ❌ Trajectory can drop significantly at longer distances due to weight.
Verdict: The H&N Sport Baracuda Hunter Extreme pellets are ideal for hunters who need maximum stopping power and are using a higher-powered air rifle.
4. JSB Exact Jumbo Diabolo Pellets
JSB Exact Jumbo Diabolo pellets are renowned for their exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. These pellets are a favorite among competitive shooters and hunters alike because of their precise manufacturing and uniform shape. If your priority is hitting your target with pinpoint accuracy, especially at longer ranges, these pellets are an excellent choice.
Pros:
- ✅ Outstanding accuracy at various distances.
- ✅ Consistent performance due to high-quality manufacturing.
- ✅ Preferred by competitive shooters.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive compared to standard pellets.
- ❌ May not offer as much expansion as hollow-point pellets.
- ❌ Requires a well-tuned air rifle to achieve optimal accuracy.
Verdict: The JSB Exact Jumbo Diabolo pellets are best for shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency, particularly at longer ranges. Great for target practice and precision hunting.
5. RWS Meisterkugeln Professional Line Pellets
RWS Meisterkugeln Professional Line pellets are designed for precision target shooting and training. These pellets are manufactured to extremely tight tolerances, ensuring consistent weight and shape. If you’re looking to improve your shooting skills and need a reliable pellet for practice, the RWS Meisterkugeln are a top contender.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional consistency in weight and shape.
- ✅ High accuracy for target shooting.
- ✅ Ideal for training and improving shooting skills.
Cons:
- ❌ Not specifically designed for hunting or pest control.
- ❌ More expensive than basic target pellets.
- ❌ May not be the best choice for high-powered air rifles.
Verdict: The RWS Meisterkugeln Professional Line pellets are perfect for shooters who focus on target practice and want to enhance their accuracy. Not ideal for hunting.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right .177 pellets for squirrels depends on a few key factors. Here’s what to consider:
- Accuracy: Look for pellets known for their consistent shape and weight. Dome-shaped pellets generally offer better accuracy at longer ranges.
- Impact: Hollow-point and pointed pellets tend to deliver more impact and expansion upon hitting the target.
- Range: Consider the distance you’ll typically be shooting. Heavier pellets are less affected by wind and can maintain accuracy at longer ranges, but they also require more powerful air rifles.
- Air Rifle Power: Match the pellet weight to your air rifle’s power. Lighter pellets are suitable for lower-powered rifles, while heavier pellets require more power to achieve optimal velocity and accuracy.
- Ethical Considerations: Always prioritize a quick and humane dispatch. Choose pellets that deliver sufficient energy to the target to ensure a clean kill.
- Local Regulations: Be aware of and comply with all local laws and regulations regarding air rifle use and hunting.
FAQs
Q: What type of .177 pellet is best for squirrels?
A: Hollow-point or pointed pellets generally work best for squirrels because they expand upon impact, delivering more energy and ensuring a quicker, more humane dispatch.
Q: How far can a .177 pellet accurately shoot?
A: Accuracy depends on the pellet type, air rifle power, and environmental conditions. Generally, you can expect accurate shots up to 30-40 yards with a good quality .177 pellet and a suitable air rifle.
Q: Are heavier pellets better for squirrels?
A: Heavier pellets can be more effective if your air rifle has enough power to propel them at a sufficient velocity. They tend to retain energy better over longer distances and are less affected by wind.
Q: Can I use target pellets for hunting squirrels?
A: While target pellets can be accurate, they are not designed for hunting. They typically lack the expansion properties needed to ensure a quick and humane dispatch. It’s best to use pellets specifically designed for hunting or pest control.
Q: How important is pellet quality?
A: Pellet quality is very important. High-quality pellets are more consistent in weight and shape, which leads to better accuracy and more reliable performance. Investing in good quality pellets can significantly improve your shooting experience.
Conclusion
Selecting the right .177 pellets for squirrels involves considering factors like accuracy, impact, and ethical hunting practices. Whether you prioritize budget-friendliness, maximum stopping power, or pinpoint accuracy, there’s a pellet option that suits your needs. Gamo Rockets, Crosman Premier Hollow Points, H&N Baracuda Hunter Extremes, JSB Exact Jumbo Diabolos, and RWS Meisterkugeln each offer unique advantages. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations when using air rifles for pest control or hunting.
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