The best air rifles for rats are designed to deliver the accuracy needed to target such small game, while also offering sufficient velocity to ensure quick, ethical kills.
When it comes to eliminating rats efficiently and humanely, the right air rifle can make all the difference. These small yet destructive pests often inhabit tight spaces like attics, barns, and backyards, requiring a combination of precision, power, and ease of use to handle them effectively.
Whether you’re dealing with a minor infestation or keeping your property consistently pest-free, choosing a well-suited air rifle can significantly improve your pest control efforts.
Let’s look at the best on the market.
Best Air Rifles for Rats
1) Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle
The Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle is the best air rifle for rats, This air rifle comes in a .177 caliber which shoots PBA Platinum pellets at 1250 fps and has a spring-piston powerplant with a break barrel single cocking system. Other features include: two-stage adjustable trigger, tough all-weather synthetic Monte Carlo stock with ambidextrous cheekpieces, fluted steel with polymer jacket barrel, and manual safety & anti-beartrap mechanism.
At the heart of its performance is the ability to launch a .177 caliber PBA Platinum alloy pellet at an impressive 1250 feet per second (fps). This level of power ensures clean, humane takedowns of rats and other small pests.
The single-shot, break barrel cocking mechanism is simple yet reliable, and it pairs well with Gamo’s two-stage adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to fine-tune their shot for maximum accuracy.
The Gamo Varmint Air Rifle is also built with comfort and durability in mind. Its synthetic Monte Carlo stock is made from tough, all-weather glass-filled nylon, resilient enough for rough use and lightweight for easy handling.
The stock features dual raised cheekpieces for both right- and left-handed shooters and a non-slip texture on the grip and forearm for secure handling. A rubber recoil pad helps absorb shock and improves overall stability during shooting.
A standout feature for rat hunting is the included 4x32mm shockproof scope, which mounts easily and provides clear magnification for spotting and targeting small critters at a distance. Combined with a fluted steel barrel wrapped in a polymer jacket, the rifle ensures consistent accuracy and long-lasting durability.
Safety has not been overlooked either. The Gamo Varmint includes both a manual safety and an anti-beartrap mechanism, giving you peace of mind during cocking and handling. Plus, Gamo’s Proshot ID System helps buyers identify the rifle’s ideal usage, clearly designating this model for pest control, small game, and target shooting.
Key Features
- Caliber: .177
- Velocity: Up to 1250 fps with PBA Platinum pellets
- Powerplant: Spring-piston, break barrel single cocking system
- Trigger: Two-stage adjustable
- Scope Included: 4x32mm shockproof scope and mount
- Stock: Tough all-weather synthetic Monte Carlo with ambidextrous cheekpieces
- Barrel: Fluted steel with polymer jacket
- Safety: Manual safety & anti-beartrap mechanism
- Gamo Proshot ID System: Color-coded guidance for selecting the right model and ammo
Pros
- High velocity for effective rat and small pest control
- Lightweight, rugged, all-weather synthetic stock
- Accurate and reliable with an included 4×32 scope
- Ambidextrous design with comfortable cheek weld
- Manual safety and anti-beartrap feature for added protection
- Affordable and easy to maintain
Cons
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The scope is functional but may need upgrading for precision shooting
2) Hatsan 95 Air Rifle
The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle earns its spot as one of the best air rifles for rats by combining power, precision, and craftsmanship, all at a very reasonable price point. Known for its performance in small game hunting and pest control, the Model 95 is not only effective but also beautifully designed, boasting a genuine Turkish walnut stock that brings an elegant, high-quality feel to the rifle.
Performance-wise, this spring-piston, break-barrel air rifle is more than capable of taking down rats with ease. Depending on your caliber of choice, it can reach velocities of up to 1300 fps with .177 alloy pellets, plenty of punch for clean and humane pest elimination.
For best results in rat control, the .177 or .22 caliber with lead pellets offers the ideal balance of accuracy and knockdown power.
The Quattro two-stage adjustable match trigger is a standout feature. It allows you to customize the pull weight, travel length, and both trigger stages for a smooth, controlled shot, critical for landing accurate hits on small, fast-moving targets.
Additionally, the rifle features SAS (Shock Absorber System) to significantly reduce felt recoil, helping you stay on target and enjoy more comfortable shooting sessions.
The ergonomics of the Hatsan 95 are just as impressive. The ambidextrous walnut stock is both durable and beautifully finished, with checkering on the pistol grip and forearm to improve grip. A rubber recoil pad at the rear of the stock helps absorb shock, making follow-up shots easier and more comfortable.
For aiming, you get a solid set of TruGlo fiber optic sights—a red front sight and fully adjustable green rear sight—as well as an 11mm dovetail rail for mounting optics.
Hatsan also includes a 3-9×32 Optima scope, adding precision and versatility right out of the box.
Key Features
- Caliber Options: .177, .22, .25
- Velocity: Up to 1300 fps (.177 alloy), 1100 fps (.177 lead)
- Powerplant: Spring-piston, break barrel
- Trigger: Quattro two-stage adjustable match trigger
- Scope Included: 3-9×32 Optima scope
- Stock: Ambidextrous Turkish walnut with checkered grip
- Recoil Management: SAS (Shock Absorber System) + rubber recoil pad
- Sights: Fiber optic front (red) & adjustable rear (green)
- Safety: Automatic + anti-beartrap mechanism
- Rail: 11mm dovetail for optics mounting
Pros
- Powerful and accurate—ideal for rat and small pest control
- High-end Turkish walnut stock gives it a premium feel
- The SAS system reduces recoil for better shot stability
- Adjustable match-grade trigger for precision shooting
- Comes with fiber optic sights and a 3-9×32 scope included
- Excellent value for its build quality and performance
Cons
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Slightly heavier than polymer-stocked rifles (7.8 lbs)
3) Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifle
When it comes to rat hunting, stealth, accuracy, and reliability are key and the Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifle delivers on all fronts. Designed with pest control in mind, this lightweight and modern break-barrel rifle combines Gamo’s patented Whisper noise dampening technology with their high-performance IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas piston, creating a quiet, smooth-shooting powerhouse ideal for small game and nuisance animals like rats.
One of the most important features of this air rifle is the IGT gas piston, which replaces the traditional coiled spring. This upgrade results in more consistent power, reduced recoil, and less vibration, all of which contribute to improved accuracy. With velocities reaching up to 1300 fps in .177 caliber using alloy pellets, the Wildcat Whisper offers more than enough punch to handle rat-sized targets with ease and humane effectiveness.
Another incredible feature is the Whisper noise suppression system, integrated directly into the barrel design. This technology significantly reduces the muzzle report, making it a smart choice for suburban pest control or discreet backyard shooting. You’ll enjoy confident, quiet shots that won’t alarm the neighborhood or the next rat on the run.
The Wildcat Whisper sports a glass-filled all-weather synthetic stock with an ambidextrous Monte Carlo design, offering both comfort and control for left- and right-handed shooters alike.
Lightweight at just 5.64 pounds, it’s easy to carry during longer sessions or while navigating tight spaces like barns, sheds, or crawl spaces. A rubber buttpad helps absorb any remaining recoil, and the manual safety ensures secure handling.
To help with precision, the rifle includes a 4x32mm shockproof scope, which mounts securely to the integrated rail. This allows you to take full advantage of the rifle’s accuracy, especially when targeting small pests like rats at medium range. Paired with a steel-jacketed rifled barrel, your shots stay true, even in challenging environments.
Crafted in Barcelona, Spain, the Gamo Wildcat Whisper benefits from decades of European airgun innovation and quality control. It’s a durable, high-performance option that meets the demands of today’s pest hunters.
Key Features
- Caliber: .177 and 0.22
- Powerplant: IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas piston
- Velocity: Up to 1300 fps with Gamo PBA Platinum pellets
- Noise Suppression: Whisper Technology reduces noise by up to 52%
- Action: Break barrel, single-shot
- Barrel: 19.1″ rifled, fluted, steel jacketed
- Stock: Glass-filled, all-weather synthetic Monte Carlo stock
- Scope: 4x32mm shockproof scope included
- Trigger: Standard with adjustable second stage
- Safety: Manual and automatic cocking safety
Pros
- Quiet operation with patented Whisper noise reduction
- Smooth and consistent power from IGT gas piston
- Lightweight and durable for easy field carry
- Includes a quality shockproof scope
- Accurate and powerful enough for humane rat control
- All-weather ambidextrous stock with ergonomic grip
- Manufactured to a high European quality standard
Cons
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The scope is basic and may need upgrading for precision shooters
4) Umarex Ruger Blackhawk Air Rifle
The Umarex Ruger Blackhawk Air Rifle is one of the best air rifles for rats , it is a powerful and affordable solution for rat control, small game hunting, and precision target shooting. Built to deliver consistent performance in all weather conditions, this rifle combines durable construction, ergonomic comfort, and effective power, all in a sleek, tactical design.
At the core of the Ruger Blackhawk is its spring-piston powerplant, capable of launching .177 caliber pellets at up to 1000 fps with lead and an impressive 1200 fps with alloy pellets. This kind of velocity ensures a quick and humane dispatch of rats and other small pests. The single-shot, break-barrel action provides simplicity and reliability, while the rifled steel barrel enhances accuracy for precision shooting.
The rifle comes equipped with fiber optic front and rear sights, offering bright, visible aiming points for quick target acquisition even in lower light. The rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, helping you fine-tune your shot.
Additionally, the Ruger Blackhawk includes a 4x32mm scope with mounting rings, giving you a ready-to-use optics package right out of the box for enhanced accuracy at longer distances.
Comfort and control are key, and the ambidextrous composite stock features a checkered pistol grip and forearm, ensuring a secure hold for both right- and left-handed shooters.
The 14.5-inch length of pull and ergonomic cheek rest promote proper shooting form, and the 30 lbs cocking effort is manageable without being fatiguing. This rifle is also built for all-weather use, thanks to its durable synthetic construction that resists moisture and wear.
Whether you’re setting up for pest control around the house or heading out for a day of backyard plinking, the Umarex Ruger Blackhawk delivers reliable performance and rugged durability at a very attractive price point.
Key Features
- Caliber: .177
- Velocity: Up to 1200 fps (alloy), 1000 fps (lead)
- Powerplant: Spring-piston
- Action: Break barrel, single-shot
- Barrel: Rifled steel
- Scope: 4x32mm scope with rings included
- Stock: Ambidextrous all-weather composite
- Trigger Pull: 3.3 lbs
- Cocking Effort: 30 lbs
- Length: 44.8 inches overall; 14.5” length of pull
Pros
- High velocity for effective rat and small game control
- Includes both fiber optic sights and a scope for versatile aiming options
- Durable, all-weather stock with ergonomic comfort
- Affordable price with great value features
- Easy to handle and well-balanced for target practice or pest dispatching
Cons
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Moderate cocking effort may be tiring over extended sessions
5) Daisy Powerline 880 Air Rifle
The Daisy Powerline 880 Air Rifle stands as a true classic in the world of airguns, and for good reason. As one of the most trusted multi-pump pneumatic rifles on the market, it’s earned its spot as one of the best air rifles for rats, small game control, and backyard target shooting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, the 880’s balance of power, accuracy, and versatility delivers dependable results time after time.
Capable of firing both .177 caliber pellets and BBs at velocities up to 800 feet per second, the Powerline 880 provides enough power to take down small pests like rats quickly and humanely. Its multi-pump pneumatic design allows users to control power levels based on the number of pumps, making it just as suitable for close-range pest dispatch as it is for extended target sessions.
When fully pumped, the rifle can reach out to distances as far as 291 yards, although optimal accuracy is achieved within closer practical ranges.
What sets the Powerline 880 apart is its rifled steel barrel, which offers better pellet stability and improved accuracy compared to smoothbore BB rifles. The molded stock features checkering and a woodgrain finish, giving it a traditional look while maintaining modern durability and a comfortable grip.
Weighing just 4.75 lbs and with a 13.5-inch length of pull, it’s lightweight and easy to shoulder, even during longer shooting sessions.
In terms of features, the Daisy 880 doesn’t skimp. It includes a 50-round BB reservoir for convenience, iron sights with a blade and ramp front, and an adjustable rear sight for precise aiming.
A standard rail allows for optics if you choose to upgrade. Safety is also a priority, with a reliable crossbolt trigger-block safety to help prevent accidental discharge.
All in all, the Daisy Powerline 880 is a flexible, user-friendly, and effective air rifle that continues to impress as a top pick for pest control and beyond.
Key Features
- Caliber: .177 (pellets or BBs)
- Velocity: Up to 800 fps
- Action: Multi-pump pneumatic
- Powerplant: Pneumatic (variable power with multiple pumps)
- Barrel: Rifled steel for enhanced accuracy
- Shooting Distance: Up to 291 yards
- Stock: Molded synthetic with woodgrain finish and checkering
- Sights: Blade and ramp front, adjustable rear
- BB Capacity: 50-round BB reservoir
- Rail: Standard mounting rail for optics
- Safety: Crossbolt trigger-block
- Weight: 4.75 lbs
- Length: 37.6 inches
Pros
- Dual ammo capability (.177 pellets and BBs) adds versatility
- Variable power levels with multi-pump design
- Lightweight and easy to handle for extended use
- Accurate rifled barrel ideal for pellet shooting
- Adjustable rear sight and optics rail included
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
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Scope not included; iron sights only
Next Read: 7 Best Air Rifles for Pest Control
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Air Rifles for Rats
When choosing the best air rifle for rats, several key factors should guide your decision to ensure humane, effective, and accurate pest control. Here are the most essential factors to consider, each explained in detail:
Caliber and Ammunition Type
The caliber of an air rifle determines its power and penetration, which is crucial when targeting small pests like rats. The .177 caliber is a common and effective choice due to its high velocity and flat trajectory, which make it well-suited for small targets.
Additionally, some air rifles can shoot both pellets and BBs, offering versatility. However, pellets are generally preferred for hunting due to their superior accuracy and stopping power compared to BBs.
Power and Velocity
The velocity at which a pellet or BB is fired affects both the impact force and range of the air rifle. For rats, a velocity of around 600–1000 feet per second is typically sufficient to ensure a clean, humane kill. Too low a velocity may result in ineffective shots, while excessive speed without proper accuracy can reduce control. The power source, whether spring-piston, gas-piston, or pneumatic, also plays a role in determining consistent velocity and overall performance.
Accuracy and Barrel Design
Accuracy is critical when targeting small, fast-moving pests. A rifled barrel helps spin the pellet for greater stability and precision during flight. This feature is especially important when using pellets rather than BBs.
Consistent shot placement ensures quick kills and minimizes suffering, making accurate air rifles the better choice for ethical pest control. Adjustable sights or scopes further enhance accuracy by allowing for precise targeting in various conditions.
Ease of Use and Cocking Effort
Depending on the shooter’s strength and experience, the method and difficulty of cocking or pumping the rifle can impact usability. Break-barrel rifles require a single cocking motion but can demand considerable force, often around 30 pounds.
Multi-pump pneumatic models allow users to adjust power levels but may be more time-consuming to prepare between shots. Choosing an air rifle with manageable cocking effort ensures comfort and quick follow-up shots, which can be crucial in a pest control situation.
Weight and Ergonomics
Lightweight rifles with well-balanced designs are easier to carry, shoulder, and maneuver, especially during extended use or in tight spaces like attics, basements, or gardens.
Features such as checkered grips, ergonomic stocks, and contoured cheek rests improve handling and shooting stability. An ambidextrous stock is also a plus, allowing both right- and left-handed shooters to use the rifle comfortably.
Sights and Optics Compatibility
Clear, reliable aiming systems are essential for hitting small targets like rats. Basic iron sights, particularly those with fiber optic inserts, work well for quick target acquisition.
However, the ability to mount a scope can significantly enhance long-range accuracy and low-light performance. Look for air rifles that include adjustable rear sights and standard rails to allow upgrades to optics as needed.
Safety Features
Safety mechanisms such as crossbolt trigger-block safeties help prevent accidental discharges, especially when handling the air rifle around children or in shared environments.
A clearly marked and easy-to-engage safety switch provides peace of mind during transport, cocking, and while preparing to fire. Responsible pest control includes careful handling, making this an essential consideration.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Pest control often requires shooting in outdoor conditions or dusty, damp areas where pests tend to hide. Choosing an air rifle with an all-weather synthetic stock and corrosion-resistant metal parts ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
Durable rifles hold up better under frequent use and reduce the risk of mechanical failure or environmental damage during critical moments.
Best Air Rifles for Rats FAQs
What caliber is best for shooting rats with an air rifle?
The most commonly recommended caliber for shooting rats is .177. It offers high velocity and a flat trajectory, making it ideal for small targets like rats. While .22 caliber rifles provide more knockdown power, .177 tends to offer better accuracy at shorter ranges, making it more suitable for rat control, especially in confined spaces like barns, attics, or backyards.
How much FPS (feet per second) is needed to humanely kill a rat?
To humanely and effectively kill a rat, an air rifle should shoot at a minimum velocity of 600 FPS with pellets. However, 700–1000 FPS is ideal to ensure clean, quick kills. Higher FPS provides greater penetration and accuracy, both of which are critical when targeting small, fast-moving pests.
Can I use a scope with an air rifle for rat control?
Yes, using a scope can significantly improve accuracy, especially when shooting at small targets like rats from a distance or in low light. Many air rifles come with an included scope or at least a mounting rail for one. A 4×32 scope is common and suitable for rat hunting, offering enough magnification to spot and hit targets precisely while maintaining a wide enough field of view for tracking movement.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best air rifle for rat control involves more than just picking a powerful model; it’s about balancing performance, comfort, and practicality.
With the right caliber, appropriate velocity, reliable sights or scope, and a user-friendly design, you can confidently and responsibly manage rodent problems.
Air rifles that offer consistency, durability, and user safety stand out as excellent tools for this purpose.