The .22 air rifle caliber is one of the most versatile and popular choices for shooting enthusiasts. It is known for its power, precision, and ability to deliver a punch in various activities, from target shooting and backyard plinking to pest control and small game hunting. This guide highlights the best .22 air rifles available today.
Unlike their .177 counterparts, often chosen for target practice due to their high velocity and flatter trajectory, .22 air rifles offer a heavier pellet that carries more energy on impact. This makes them a top choice for avid hunters and anyone requiring more stopping power.
Modern .22 air rifles combine advanced technology, durability, and user-friendly features that make them a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. These rifles come in various types, including pre-charged pneumatic (PCP), break barrel, and CO2-powered models, each offering unique benefits depending on the user’s needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or someone new to the world of air rifles, this guide explores the top models in various categories, breaking down key features like power output, accuracy, and overall build quality to help you find the perfect air rifle for your needs. Let’s take a look.
Best .22 Air Rifles
1) Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Air Rifle
Specifications
- Velocity: 1300 fps
- Action: 10X GEN2 Quick- Shot Technology
- Cocking System: Single Cocking
- Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 Inert Gas Technology gas piston (33 mm cylinder)
- Trigger: Two Stage Independently Adjustable CAT (Custom Action Trigger)
- Safety: Manual and Automatic
The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel Air Rifle is the best .22 air rifle. It is built with advanced features and comes with a 3-9x40mm scope to enhance your aiming at long-range targets.
The selling point of this air rifle is its innovative 10X GEN3i technology. It features a 10-round rotary magazine that eliminates the need for manual reloading after every shot, significantly improving shooting speed and convenience. Furthermore, the inertia-fed mechanism ensures smooth, reliable cycling, and reduces the chances of jams.
Another stand-out feature of the rifle is its impressive power. It is capable of firing alloy pellets at speeds up to 1,300 fps, making it suitable for small game hunting and pest control, as well as target shooting.
Besides, the Whisper Fusion noise-dampening technology keeps shots quieter for such a powerful break barrel, while the Recoil Reducing Rail system helps absorb recoil, maintaining accuracy and reducing shooter fatigue.
Ergonomically, the Gamo Swarm Magnum is built for comfort and precision. It comes with a synthetic all-weather stock that provides a solid, comfortable grip, while the adjustable two-stage CAT (Custom Action Trigger) system offers a crisp, consistent pull. On top of that, the rifle is relatively lightweight for its size, making it easy to handle in the field.
Pros
- 10X GEN3i Inertia-Fed magazine for quick follow-up shots
- High velocity up to 1300 fps with alloy pellets
- Whisper Fusion technology for quieter shooting
- Gas-piston power plant for consistent performance
- Excellent knockdown power for small-game hunting
Cons
- Heavy cocking effort (41 lbs)
2) Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle
Specifications
- Ammo: Pellet
- Capacity: 7 Rounds
- Action: Side Lever
- Tank Capacity: 3,625 psi
- Velocity: 825 fps
- FT-LBS: 13
- Cocking Effort: 18 lbs
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
The Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun is a powerful and versatile air rifle that balances performance, affordability, and ease of use. It brings power and precision together in a compact, lightweight package that is easy to carry from one location to the other.
With its pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) system, this air rifle delivers consistent and accurate shots. This makes it ideal for both target shooting and small-game hunting.
The .22 caliber pellets offer plenty of knockdown power, while the rifle’s regulated air system ensures consistent velocity with each shot, enhancing its accuracy and reliability.
Furthermore, the air rifle features an integrated moderator, which significantly reduces noise. In terms of ergonomics, the Notos Carbine is well-designed for comfortable shooting.
Its lightweight build combined with an adjustable stock makes it easy to handle for shooters of all sizes. The rifle also includes a 7-round rotary magazine, offering a smooth and efficient shooting experience without frequent reloading.
Pros
- Unmatched shooting accuracy
- Lightweight, ergonomic design
- Smooth and efficient shooting experience without frequent reloading
- Easy to handle for shooters of all sizes
Cons
- No scope included
3) Benjamin Armada Air Rifle
Specifications
- Ammo: Pellet
- Capacity: 10 Rounds
- Action: Reversible Bolt Action
- Power Type: PCP
- Velocity: 1000fps
- Barrel Material Type: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 9.55 Pounds
The Benjamin Armada Air Rifle is a high-performance, pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle designed for serious shooters who demand precision, power, and versatility. It features a high velocity of 1000 FPS and a 10-shot rotary magazine for quick follow-up shots.
One of its standout features is the integrated Picatinny rail system that comes in handy when you need to mount scopes, bipods, and other accessories. The craftsmanship is impressive, with a rugged and tactical look, featuring a synthetic stock and a durable metal receiver. The rifle also offers an adjustable comb for better cheek weld and a reversible bolt for left-handed shooters.
To complement the outstanding craftsmanship, the Benjamin Armada excels in accuracy and consistency. This is thanks to the precision rifled barrel and regulated air pressure system that delivers a tight shot groups even at long ranges. Its trigger is crisp and adjustable, providing a smooth and predictable pull for increased accuracy.
To top it all off, the large air reservoir offers up to 30 consistent shots per fill, ensuring extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent recharging.
Pros
- High accuracy for long-range shooting
- Customizable with AR-style accessories and Picatinny rails
- Powerful performance with 1000 FPS velocity
- Quiet shooting with an integrated sound suppression system
- Multi-shot repeater for quick follow-up shots
- High shot capacity per charge
Cons
- Heavy when fully accessorized
4) Air Venturi Avenger Caliber Regulated PCP Air Rifle
Specifications
- Power Type:PCP
- Max Velocity: 930 fps
- Max power: 34 fpe
- Trigger: 2 Stage Adjustable Trigger
- Max Fill Pressure: 4,351 psi (300 bar)
- Magazine Capacity: 10rd (.177 & .22), 8rd (.25)
- Barrel Length: 22.75″
- Overall Length: 42.75″
- Weight: 6.4 lbs.
Air Venturi Avenger is at the top of many wish lists for avid hunters and gun enthusiasts. It is engineered and designed to give you a combination of versatility, quality, and affordability, which makes it the entry-level rifle to beat.
Accuracy is the highlight of this air rifle. It goes toe-toe in accuracy against premium guns that cost 5 times as much. Furthermore, it has an externally adjustable regulator and an adjustable hammer spring so you can tune it to almost any way you want, from a lower power hand pump setup to a high power compressor setup.
There are two gauges for your convenience, one for reg pressure on the right side and one for fill pressure on the left side. On top of that, the air rifle features a crisp 2-stage adjustable trigger and a male quick disconnect fitting at the end of the air cylinder makes for easy fills.
Rounding out the features is a silky smooth side-lever that operates one of the two included auto-indexing magazines, giving you more time shooting with less time reloading. The airgun with many setup options also has 2 holes for swivel studs and a Picatinny forearm rail for stock accessories like lasers, bipods, and lights.
Pros
- Adjustable regulator for precision tuning
- Powerful, accurate, and versatile
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Quieter shooting experience due to shrouded barrel
- Smooth side-lever action
Cons
- Regulator adjustment can be complex for beginners
- Less premium stock material
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5) Hatsan 95 Air Rifle
Specifications
- Velocity: 800 fps
- Ammo Type: Pellets
- Action: Break Barrel
- Weight: 7.80 Pounds
- Length: 44.30
- Safety: Automatic
As one of the best .22 air rifles, the Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo with a walnut stock is an impressive gun that stands out for its robust build quality, accuracy, and aesthetic appeal. It comes with fiber optic sights for quick target acquisition, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.
The craftsmanship is evident in its beautiful Turkish walnut stock, which offers a classic, elegant appearance while providing an ergonomic grip for comfortable handling. Moreover, the rifle features a precision-rifled steel barrel that ensures consistent accuracy and a Quattro Trigger, a two-stage adjustable match trigger system that delivers smooth and crisp trigger pulls.
Regarding power, this air rifle is also powered by a Vortex gas piston, which reduces recoil and allows for smoother cocking compared to traditional spring-piston air rifles. The result is a more comfortable shooting experience with minimal vibration, which enhances accuracy.
Performance-wise, the Hatsan 95 excels in delivering powerful shots with great precision. The included 3-9×32 scope is a decent addition, providing clear optics for medium-range shooting. Besides, this combination of power and accuracy is enhanced by its SAS (Shock Absorber System), which minimizes recoil.
Pros
- Attractive walnut stock design
- High velocity
- Smooth break-barrel mechanism
- Adjustable trigger for a customizable shooting experience
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors, leading to potential fatigue
6) Diana Stormrider Gen2 Multi-Shot PCP Air Rifle
Specifications
- Velocity: 900 fps
- Ammo Type: Pellets
- Action: Bolt-action
- Weight: 5 Pounds
- Length: 40.50″
- Barrel Length: 19.00″
- Safety: Manual
Here is another lightweight air rifle that is built with ease of use in mind. It harbors an array of quality features that make it a remarkable upgrade in the world of pre-charged pneumatic rifles.
This air rifle boasts a sleek synthetic stock that enhances durability while keeping the weight manageable for easy handling. The 10-shot rotary magazine system is a standout feature, allowing for quick follow-up shots without the need for frequent reloading. Moreover, the adjustable two-stage trigger provides a smooth shooting experience.
Another selling point of the Stormrider Gen2 air rifle is its quiet operation. The integrated suppressor significantly reduces noise, making it a great choice for backyard shooting or quiet hunts.
Performance-wise, the air rifle shines with its impressive accuracy and consistent velocity up to 1,000 FPS. The adjustable power setting allows shooters to fine-tune their experience, optimizing for either greater power or extended shot counts. Additionally, the rifle’s lightweight design, combined with a smooth bolt-action mechanism, ensures comfortable handling for extended shooting sessions.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Adjustable power setting
- Quiet shooting
- Large 10-shot rotary magazine system for quick follow-up shots
- Smooth bolt-action mechanism
Cons
- The fill pressure requires careful monitoring to maintain optimal performance
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7) Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle
Specifications
- Velocity: 800 fps
- Ammo Type: Pellets
- Action: Underlever
- Weight: 9.90 Pounds
- Length: 45.60″
- Barrel Length: 18.90″
- Safety: Manual
Lastly, on our list of the best .22 air rifles, we have the Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle. It is a remarkable blend of classic design and modern functionality to offer an impressive shooting experience.
What truly sets the Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle apart is its thoughtful design elements that cater to both novice and experienced shooters.
The integrated Picatinny rail enables easy mounting of optics, enhancing accuracy for those who prefer a scoped setup. Additionally, the rifle’s ergonomic grip and balance contribute to its comfort, making it easy to handle in various shooting positions.
The extendable underlever mechanism is smooth and intuitive, allowing for quick cocking and loading of pellets. Additionally, the rifle boasts a sturdy synthetic stock, providing durability and a lightweight feel that makes it suitable for prolonged shooting sessions.
With a muzzle velocity of up to 800 feet per second, the M1A delivers solid power for its class, and its adjustable rear sight allows for easy customization to suit various shooting distances. Besides, the precision rifled barrel ensures consistent accuracy, making it an excellent choice for both target practice and small-game hunting.
Above all, this air rifle features a reliable single-shot loading system that promotes a disciplined approach to shooting while minimizing the risk of jams.
Pros
- Ambidextrous design
- Extendable underlever for added leverage while cocking
- Durable construction with a lightweight feel
- Adjustable rear sight and fiber optic front sight for enhanced accuracy
- Comfortable ergonomic stock for better handling
Cons
- The underlever mechanism can be cumbersome for some users
Next Read: 7 Best 22 Air Rifles for Raccoons
Advantages of Using a .22 Air Rifle
- Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including target shooting and hunting
- Quiet Operation: Generally quieter than firearms, making them ideal for urban settings
- Cost-Effective: Lower operating costs compared to firearms; pellets are less expensive than cartridges
- Lower Recoil: Easier to handle for beginners and younger shooters
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best .22 Air Rifles
When selecting the best .22 air rifle, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find a model that meets your needs. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Purpose
.22 air rifles are known for their versatility. However, different purposes require different features. Determine what you plan to use the air rifle for, such as target shooting, small game hunting, or pest control.
For target shooting, look for a rifle with high accuracy and a good trigger mechanism. On the other hand, a lightweight and easy-to-handle rifle is the best for plinking while small game hunting requires a more powerful model that can deliver higher velocity and energy.
Type of Action
Spring-Piston: Utilizes a spring and piston mechanism. These rifles are reliable and easy to maintain but can have a heavier recoil.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP): These rifles use compressed air stored in a cylinder. They offer higher accuracy, lower recoil, and are generally more powerful, but they require a pump or tank for filling.
CO2: Uses CO2 cartridges to power the rifle. These are easy to use but can be less powerful and require frequent cartridge changes.
Weight and Size
The next thing to consider is the weight and size of the air rifle. The best .22 air rifles are compact and lightweight for comfortable handling. A light model is not only easy to carry but also effective at scattering recoil.
Accuracy
Look for rifles known for their accuracy. Check reviews and user experiences to find models with good precision. Most .22 air rifles come with a scope included to enhance precision, especially at long ranges.
Range
Consider the effective shooting range for your intended use. Some rifles are better suited for short-range shooting, while others can handle longer distances.
Noise Level
If you need to shoot quietly (e.g., for pest control), consider a model with a suppressor or quieter action. With a quiet operation, you won’t have to worry about causing noise disturbance or spooking game.
Build Quality and Material
The best .22 air rifles are built to last. Look for a gun that is crafted with durable materials that can withstand regular use. Consider the quality of the stock and barrel.
Price
The price of the best .22 air rifles varies from one gun to the other. Determine your budget, keeping in mind that higher-quality models may come at a higher price but can offer better performance and longevity.
How to Maintain a .22 Air Rifle?
Proper care and maintenance of rifles leads to longevity and consistent smooth operation and .22 air rifles are not any different. To maintain your rifle, use these tips.
- Barrel Cleaning: Clean the barrel regularly to remove any debris or lead buildup
- Inspecting Seals: Check and replace any worn seals to maintain optimal performance
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and damage
- Lubrication: Use appropriate lubricants as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure smooth operation
Final Words
Hopefully, this buying guide has given you insights into the best .22 air rifles. Keep in mind that your shooting needs and intended purpose will dictate the air rifle that you get. So, look at the attributes and features that make each air rifle a good purchase and choose accordingly.
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