This best air rifle for squirrels guide looks at the best on the market taking into consideration reliability, brand, caliber, and noise suppression/dampening.
Squirrel hunting squirrels can be both challenging and rewarding and choosing the best air rifle is very important in ensuring a humane and efficient experience.
Squirrels are often considered pests in certain areas, causing damage to crops, gardens, and homes. As such, responsible squirrel hunting can help manage their population and mitigate potential ecological imbalances.
When choosing an air rifle for squirrel hunting, several factors come into play. The ideal rifle should strike a balance between power, accuracy, and noise reduction. Additionally, factors such as the rifle’s weight, handling, and optics compatibility play crucial roles in enhancing the overall hunting experience.
One of the key considerations in selecting the best air rifle for squirrels is the caliber. .22 caliber air rifles are often preferred for their balance between power and accuracy, delivering sufficient force to ensure a humane kill while maintaining precision for accurate shot placement.
Squirrels are known for their keen senses. Rifles equipped with advanced sound-dampening technology, such as suppressors or shrouded barrels, contribute to a stealthier approach, minimizing the chances of alerting nearby wildlife.
Another important aspect is the rifle’s scope compatibility, as a clear and reliable scope aids in targeting these small, agile creatures with greater accuracy, especially when shooting from a distance.
Best Air Rifles for Squirrels
1) Barra Airguns 1100z PCP Pellet Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .22
- Velocity: 975 fps
- Barrel: Rifled
- Powerplant: Pre-charged pneumatic
- Action: Repeater
- Shot capacity: 2x 10 shot rotary magazine & 2x Single shot tray
- Trigger: Adjustable
- Safety: Manual
Pros
- Comfortable and secure shoulder placement
- Solid steel side lever and handle
- Ample power and velocity
- Standard Foster quick disconnect
- Reinforced polymer stock
- Ambidextrous comb height adjustment
- Features a rear sling attachment point
- Has a front Picatinny rail for accessory mounting
- Adjustable hammer spring and trigger
Cons
- None
The Barra Airguns 1100z PCP Pellet Rifle stands as one of the best rifles for squirrels, its capable of reaching velocities up to 1100 fps (.177) and 975 fps (.22), It is designed as an unregulated PCP gun, with a maximum fill pressure of 3000 PSI through the standard Foster quick disconnect, providing a seamless and efficient charging process.
The adjustable hammer spring empowers users to fine-tune power, noise, and shot count according to individual preferences, offering a versatile shooting experience.
The rifle’s trigger is adjustable and includes a manual safety feature, adding an extra layer of control and safety to the shooting experience. The breech and scope rail are machined from a single block of metal, ensuring maximum durability and accuracy.
The solid steel side lever and handle contribute to an exceptionally light cocking effort and swift reloading, enhancing the overall efficiency of the rifle.
Innovative engineering is evident in the smooth bolt, which seals securely in the breech without the complication of a dual O-ring setup often found in other air rifles.
The rifled barrel incorporates an aluminum air stripper with 1/2-20 threads, maintaining perfect centering in the shroud. The shroud, equipped with 1/2-20 threads under a knurled thread protector, provides additional noise suppression. Secured in place with a barrel band that screws into the stock, the shroud is precisely aligned with the action.
The reinforced polymer stock offers not only durability but also practicality. With ambidextrous comb height adjustment, shooters can achieve perfect alignment with their scope.
The rubber butt-pad ensures a comfortable and secure shoulder placement, preventing slipping during use. The foregrip, designed to swell for easy carrying, also adapts well to bagging.
Adding to its versatility, the stock incorporates a rear sling attachment point and a front Picatinny rail for accessory mounting. The Barra Airguns 1100z PCP Pellet Rifle comes complete with two 12-shot rotary magazines, two single-shot trays, hex keys for tuning and maintenance, a degassing rod, and a spare breech O-ring, making it a comprehensive package for the serious airgun enthusiast.
2) Hatsan BullBoss Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .177,.22 and .25
- Velocity: 1350,1220 and 1000 FPS
- Air cylinder tube (230cc)
- 40 shots before refill
- Ventilated rubber butt pad
- 2 mounted picatinny rails
- 49-ft.-lb of energy
- Manual & Automatic Safety
- Quattro Trigger
Pros
- Precision-rifled German steel barrel choked for accuracy
- Built-in pressure gauge
- Bullpup PCP with side-lever action
- Metal trigger & synthetic trigger guard
- Ventilated rubber butt pad
- Automatic loading with every cycle of the action
- Patented anti-knock system to prevent gas wastage when the rifle is knocked or bounced
Cons
- Heavy
This Hatsan BullBoss Air Rifle is known for combining power, accuracy, and versatility in a compact and stylish package for an unparalleled shooting experience that will elevate your airgun adventures to new heights.
Available in .177 (4.5mm), .22 (5.5mm), and .25 (6.35mm) calibers, this air rifle redefines the shooting experience with its innovative design and cutting-edge technology.
The BullBoss’s side-lever action ensures smooth and reliable operation, contributing to an overall shooting experience that is both intuitive and efficient. The QuietEnergy fully shrouded barrel, coupled with an integrated sound moderator, delivers a stealthy shooting performance, making it an excellent choice for those who value discretion.
Crafted with a tactical synthetic ambidextrous stock, the BullBoss offers ergonomic comfort and control. The checkering on the grip and forearm enhances stability, ensuring a secure hold even in challenging conditions. Two mounted Picatinny rails provide versatility for accessory attachments, allowing users to customize their setup to meet individual preferences.
The elevation adjustable cheek comb adds a layer of personalization, ensuring the perfect alignment for optimal accuracy. The precision-rifled German steel barrel, choked for accuracy, exemplifies Hatsan’s commitment to delivering top-notch performance.
Practicality is further highlighted with the inclusion of two detachable rotary magazines, streamlining the reloading process for uninterrupted shooting.
The detachable 230cc air cylinder tube, with spare cylinders available, guarantees extended shooting sessions without compromising on power. The built-in pressure gauge, coupled with the quick-fill nozzle and air cylinder discharging cap, adds convenience to the maintenance routine.
The overall blued finish and black anodized receiver contribute to a sleek and durable exterior, reflecting the quality craftsmanship synonymous with the Hatsan brand. The manual and automatic safety features ensure a secure shooting experience, emphasizing user safety.
The BullBoss goes beyond the ordinary with its anti-double pellet feed mechanism, preventing the loading of more than one pellet into the barrel. Additionally, the patented anti-knock system safeguards against gas wastage in case of accidental knocks or bumps, showcasing Hatsan’s dedication to efficiency and innovation.
3) Umarex Ruger Blackhawk Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .177
- Velocity: 1000/ 1200 fps (lead/alloy pellets)
- Barrel: Rifled
- Cocking effort: 30 lbs
- Trigger pull: 3.3 lb
- Safety: Automatic
- Length: 44.8”
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Perfect for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting.
- All-weather composite polymer black stock
- Powerful with a velocity of up to 1200fps
- Quick target acquisition and shooter accuracy thanks to the available scope
Cons
- Available in .177 cal only
The Umarex Ruger Blackhawk Air Rifle is one of the best air rifles for squirrels, it features thumping power to take down small game hunting such as squirrels, pest control, and precision target shooting.
This air rifle boasts a spring piston single-stroke break barrel mechanism that delivers impressive power with each shot. The all-weather composite polymer stock in a sleek black finish is durable and resilient to handle the outdoors.
Designed with both left- and right-handed shooters in mind, the ambidextrous stock features checkered grip areas on the pistol grip and forearm, providing a comfortable and secure hold for users of all preferences.
One of the standout features of the Blackhawk is its ability to propel pellets at an impressive velocity of 1000 to 1200 feet per second with lead and alloy pellets respectively.
To further enhance its capabilities, the Ruger Blackhawk comes equipped with a 4×32 scope and mount.
4) Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .177 and .22
- Velocity: 1300/975 fps
- Barrel: Fluted polymer jacketed rifled steel
- Cocking effort: 30 lbs
- Trigger pull: 3.83 lb
- Safety: Manual and Automatic
- Length: 44.5”
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Features both Manual safety and automatic cocking safety system
- Incredibly quiet with Whisper Noise Dampening Technology
- Comes with a shockproof and fog-proof scope
- Adjustable Trigger
- Lightweight
- Tough all-weather ambidextrous Stock
Cons
- None
The GAMO WildCat Whisper air rifle is the best air rifle for squirrels, It is available in both .177 and .22 cal and is very quiet meaning you won’t spook squirrels when hunting.
It is powered by the innovative IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston for higher velocity, reduced vibration, and an extended lifespan compared to traditional spring-powered airguns.
With Whisper noise-dampening technology sound levels are minimized to incredible levels, this technology ensures a quieter shooting experience without compromising on power. Noise suppression is further enhanced by its fluted polymer jacketed steel barrel.
Capable of achieving speeds of up to 1,300 fps with Gamo PBA Platinum pellets, the WildCat Whisper is a force to be reckoned with in terms of power and precision.
The single cocking break barrel design, coupled with an automatic cocking safety system and manual trigger safety, ensures a user-friendly and safe shooting experience.
The rifle features a standard trigger with an adjustable second stage, allowing shooters to customize their preferences for a more personalized feel. Adding to its versatility is the inclusion of a 4×32 shockproof scope with mounts, enhancing accuracy and targeting capabilities.
5) Benjamin Armada Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 and .25
- Velocity: 1000/900 fps
- Barrel: Rifled/Shrouded
- Cocking effort: 32 lbs
- Safety: Lever
- Action: Bolt Action
- Powerplant: PCP
- Length: 42.8”
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Powerful with velocities of 1000 fps (.22) or 900 fps (.25)
- Rapid follow-up shots with a 10-round magazine
- Backward compatible with Mil-Spec AR-15 stocks and grips
- 30+ consistent shots per fill
- Noise reduction with an integrated resonance dampener
- Machined Picatinny rail for accessories
Cons
- Sling mounts not included
The Benjamin Armada Air Rifle is the best air rifle for squirrels if you are looking for a powerful and versatile PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifle. This air rifle has velocities of 1000 fps in .22-caliber and 900 fps in .25-caliber making it ideal for hunting small game, target shooting, and backyard plinking.
With this rifle, you can shoot 30 consistent shots per fill. The inclusion of a 10-shot magazine allows for rapid follow-up shots, making it an ideal companion for dynamic shooting scenarios.
The rifle’s modular design adds to its versatility, and it is backward compatible with Mil-Spec AR-15 stocks and grips, allowing users to customize their shooting experience. The reversible bolt accommodates left-handed shooters, enhancing accessibility for a broader range of users.
Equipped with a choked, shrouded, and rifled barrel, the Armada ensures both accuracy and reduced noise levels during operation. The integrated resonance dampener provides full suppression, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a quiet shooting experience.
The Armada features a crisp two-stage trigger, contributing to precise and controlled shooting. Additionally, an onboard gauge allows for convenient air pressure monitoring, ensuring users have real-time information about the rifle’s air supply.
To enhance customization options, the rifle comes with a machined receiver that provides 5 inches of Picatinny rail space. This allows users to easily attach their preferred accessories, such as optics, lights, or bipods, further tailoring the Armada to individual preferences and shooting needs.
6) CrosmanOptimus Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .22
- Velocity: 950 fps
- Barrel: Rifled
- Cocking effort: 35 lbs
- Safety: Lever
- Action: Break Barrel
- Powerplant: Spring
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Power with up to 950 fps with alloy pellets
- Rifled steel barrel
- Durable hardwood stock
- Comes with a 4×32 scope for target acquisition
- Powerful and elegant
Cons
- No Sling Mounts Included
- No Noise suppression
The Crosman Optimus Air Rifle features a classic break barrel design which is not only powerful but also exudes elegance with its ambidextrous hardwood stock which caters to both left and right-handed shooters.
The relatively light cocking force ensures ease of use, making the Optimus a versatile option for a range of users. The two-stage adjustable trigger enhances the shooter’s control, allowing for a customized shooting experience.
Capable of achieving velocities of up to 950 fps with alloy pellets, the Optimus is designed to deliver impressive performance. Its rifled steel barrel contributes to accuracy, ensuring that shots hit their mark with precision.
The barrel incorporates a micro-adjustable rear sight and a fiber optic front sight, providing a clear and easily adjustable sight picture. Additionally, the inclusion of a CenterPoint 4x32mm precision scope further enhances target acquisition, allowing users to optimize their shooting accuracy at various distances.
Specifically designed as a .22 caliber break barrel air rifle, the Optimus boasts a durable construction that includes a hardwood stock and foregrip. This combination of materials not only adds to the rifle’s longevity but also contributes to its overall elegant appearance.
For added versatility, the Optimus is equipped with a dovetail mounting rail, providing the option for users to easily mount accessories such as optics or other shooting aids to enhance their shooting experience.
7) Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle
Specifications
- Caliber: .22
- Velocity: 1100 fps
- Barrel: Rifled Steel
- Cocking effort: 32 lbs
- Safety: Manual and Automatic
- Action: Single cocking system
- Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 Inert Gas Technology gas piston (33 mm cylinder)
- Warranty: 5 Year
Pros
- Features a recoil pad able to absorb 74% of recoil
- Manual safety and automatic cocking safety systems
- Quiet operation with Whisper Fusion Nose Dampening
- Powerful and accurate
- Ideal for hunting and pest control
Cons
- None
The Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle features the Whisper Fusion sound-dampening technology, an exclusive innovation patented by Gamo. Designed to be the quietest noise reduction technology available, Whisper Fusion employs a dual-chamber system that compresses and prevents noise expansion as the pellet travels through two distinct chambers. This results in an air rifle that is not only powerful but also exceptionally quiet, providing a stealthy shooting experience.
Equipped with a Gamo 3-9×40 scope, the Whisper Fusion Mach 1 ensures precise targeting and enhanced accuracy at various distances. The synthetic stock, featuring an ambidextrous cheekpiece, is designed for comfort and versatility, catering to both left and right-handed shooters.
The Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 also incorporates the Custom Action Trigger (CAT), allowing users to customize the 1st and 2nd stages of the trigger to suit their preferences. Furthermore, the Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) absorbs recoil, reducing stress on the scope by nearly 100 percent, ensuring durability and longevity.
Backed by a 5-year warranty, the Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle stands as a testament to Gamo’s commitment to quality and innovation, offering air rifle enthusiasts a powerful, quiet, and accurate option for their shooting pursuits.
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How to Choose the Best Air Rifle for Squirrels
Choosing the best air rifle for squirrels requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure a humane, effective, and satisfying hunting experience
Caliber
The .22 caliber is the best for squirrel hunting, it has the best combination of power and accuracy providing enough energy to ensure a clean kill while offering sufficient precision for accurate shot placement.
Noise Dampening
For squirrel hunting choose a quiet air rifle: Squirrels are alert and skittish creatures, easily spooked by loud noises. Look for air rifles with sound-dampening features such as suppressors or shrouded barrels. A quieter rifle allows for more stealthy approaches, reducing the risk of scaring away potential targets.
Optics
A reliable scope is essential for accurate shot placement, especially when dealing with small and agile targets like squirrels. Select an air rifle that is compatible with a quality scope, preferably with clear optics and a reticle suitable for small game hunting.
Power and Velocity:
Consider power and velocity: While a .22 caliber is generally suitable, ensure that the air rifle has sufficient power and velocity to deliver an effective shot. Look for rifles with consistent performance, achieving velocities that are humane for squirrel hunting (around 700-900 fps).
Trigger Mechanism
Look for a quality trigger: A smooth and predictable trigger is crucial for accurate shooting. Some air rifles come with adjustable triggers that allow you to customize the trigger pull according to your preferences, contributing to better shot control.
Safety Features:
Ensure the air rifle has reliable safety features, such as an automatic safety mechanism, to prevent accidental discharges. Safety is paramount when handling any firearm.
Is .177 or .22 better for squirrel hunting?
Many squirrel hunters prefer the .22 caliber for its combination of good accuracy, ample energy, and effective penetration. The larger pellet size can help ensure a humane and clean kill, especially when dealing with the smaller and agile bodies of squirrels.
FAQs on the Best Air Rifle for Squirrels
What type of air rifle is recommended for small game hunting?
Selecting a PCP air rifle is advisable for small game hunting, especially when aiming for accurate shots over longer distances. PCP guns typically feature repeaters and exhibit flatter trajectories, particularly with larger calibers. This makes PCP airguns the preferred choice for dedicated small-game hunters.
What features should I look for in a scope for squirrel hunting?
Opt for a scope with clear optics, a reticle suitable for small game hunting, and sufficient magnification for accurate shot placement. A 3-9x40mm scope is a common and versatile choice for squirrel hunting, providing a good balance between field of view and magnification.
Are air rifles effective for squirrel hunting?
Modern air rifles possess the ideal attributes for squirrel hunting, including low noise levels, accuracy, power, and ease of maneuverability in wooded environments. These characteristics collectively make air rifles a highly suitable choice for those seeking an effective squirrel hunting firearm.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the best air rifle for squirrels will majorly be determined by the caliber choice, noise level (choose noise dampening), optics, weight, and handling. Both .22 and .177 calibers have their merits, but the 22 cal is the favorite for ethical and humane kills.