6 Best Co2 Air Rifles for Hunting,Pest Control,Squirrels

Looking for the Best Co2 air rifles? Read on as we comprehensively cover the best on the market.

A Co2 air rifle is an air rifle that uses carbon dioxide as the propellant or power source to propel pellets or BBs.They are used for target shooting, plinking, and small-game hunting.

Co2-powered rifles are powered by either the small 12g Co2 capsules or the larger 88g capsules, depending on the rifle type, and also come in a range of specifications to meet a range of preferences.

Co2 air rifles are ideal for pest control and target shooting because of their recoilless actions, and also because most of them have a bolt action loading which makes them enjoyable and quick to shoot.

Features of CO2 Air Rifles

• CO2 air rifles use CO2 Canisters or cartridges as the Power Source
• Operation is either semi-automatic or bolt-action, semi-automatic CO2 air rifles are great for rapid firing while the bolt-action mechanism may be great for target shooting since it requires manual cycling between shots.
• CO2 air rifles are available in  .177 and .22  calibers
• CO2 air rifles feature a moderate muzzle velocity
• Accurate at shorter distances
• Pellets or steel BB ammo
• Easy to maintain, clean the barrel, lubricate moving parts, and ensure proper storage of CO2 cartridges
• Automatic and Manual Safety
• Used for target shooting, plinking, and small-game hunting

Best Co2 Air Rifles

1) SIG Sauer MCX Virtus PCP Air Rifle Air Rifle 

 

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .22
• Velocity:600 fps
• Mag capacity: 30
• Action: Semi-Auto
• Operating System: PCP
• Accessory Rail: M1913

Pros

• Up to 600 fps velocity effective for hunting and target shooting
• Crisp trigger pull at 4.25 lbs
• Weighs 7.5 lbs enough to keep the rifle stable during shooting
  
• Compact overall length (37.25 in)
• Generous 30-round magazine capacity
• Good power balance with .22 cal
• Durable synthetic stock
• Easy to add attachments with the M1913 accessory rail

Cons

• Not SIG AIR Reflex Sight Ready

 

2) Umarex Legends M1A1 Automatic 177 Caliber BB Gun Air Rifle

 

 

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .177
• Velocity:435 fps
• Mag capacity: 30
• Action: Open bolt-style blowback action
• Ammo: Steel BB
• Barrel: Smooth Bore
• Safety: Manual

Pros

• Full metal frame construction for durability
• .177 caliber for accuracy and power
• Classic 1911 A1 Styling
• The magazine is user-friendly with a drop-free design
• 30-round magazine for extended shooting sessions

Cons

• Manual safety only

 

 

3) Crosman CFAR1B Full Auto R1 CO2-Powered BB Air Rifle

 

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .177
• Velocity:430 fps
• Mag capacity: 25
• Action: Full or Semi-auto
• Ammo: BB

Pros

• Full or Semi-Auto BB Air Rifle for versatility
• Powered by two 12-gram CO2 cartridges
• Powerful Velocity 430 fps
• 6-position adjustable stock and a Picatinny rail for customization
• Metal barrel material for durability

Cons

• CO2 not included

 

4) Crosman 1077 RepeatAir Semi-Automatic CO2 Air Gun

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .177
• Velocity: 625 fps/ 780 fps (Lead/alloy)
• Mag capacity: 12
• Action: Repeater
• Powerplant: CO2
• Barrel type: Rifled
• Mounting Rail: Dovetail
• Safety: Crossbolt

Pros

• Semi-auto repeater for fast shooting
• 12-shot capacity
• Velocities up to 780 fps
• Adjustable rear sight and fiber optic front sight
• Ideal for plinking, target shooting and skill development

Cons

• No Noise Suppression

 

5) Sig Sauer MPX .177 Cal CO2 Powered SIG20R

 

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .177
• Velocity:450 fps
• Mag capacity: 30
• Trigger Weight: 7 lb (31 N)
• CO2 Cylinder Size: 88gr, 90gr
• Accessory Rail: M1913
• Operating System: CO2

Pros

• Synthetic handguard
• Flip-up front and rear sights
• Tactical front grip
• 30rd Pellet Magazine

Cons

• Not SIG AIR Reflex Sight Ready

 

The Sig Sauer MPX .177 Cal CO2 Powered SIG20R  features a 90-gram CO2 system for consistent and reliable power able to shoot .177 caliber pellets at .450 fps making it one of the best CO2 air rifles for target shooting and training.

The synthetic handguard and Picatinny rail contribute to the rifle’s durability and customization capabilities. The Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of accessories such as optics, lights, or lasers.

The inclusion of a tactical front grip enhances stability and control during shooting sessions, allowing users to maintain a comfortable and secure grip on the rifle.

The flip-up front and rear sights provide users with versatile aiming options, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition. These sights contribute to the overall realism of the shooting experience.

The synthetic stock not only adds to the durability of the rifle but also provides a lightweight and weather-resistant option for various shooting scenarios.

 

6) Umarex HK Heckler & Koch MP5 K-PDW

 

Specifications

• Caliber: .177
• Velocity: 400 fps
• Ammo: Steel BBs
• Powered by 12-gram CO2 cartridges
• Action: semi-automatic action
• Mag capacity: 40-shot

Pros

• High velocity
• Drop-free magazine
• High quality construction
• High-capacity 40-shot clip
• Semi-Automatic repeater action

Cons

• CO2 NOT included

 

As one of the best Co2 air rifles on the market, this Umarex H&K MP5 K-PDW features high precision, velocity, and semi-automatic action. You get 400 fps.The rifle is lightweight and powerful, it’s powered by a single 12g CO2.

 

See Also

• 7 Quietest Break Barrel Air Rifles
• 6 Best Break Barrel Air Rifles
• 6 Best BB Guns for Squirrel Hunting
• 5 Best BB Guns for Training & Target Practice
• Best Scopes for Pellet Guns
• Best Pellet Rifles for Hunting
• 7 Best Pellet Guns for Pigeons

 

Factors to Consider when Selecting the Best Co2 Air Rifles

There are different CO2 air rifles available out there in the market and choosing the best can be difficult. Below are some of the important factors you need to consider to get the best Co2 air rifles that will meet your needs.

1. Calibers

Co2 air rifles are available in three main calibers: .22, .177, and .25. Out of these three, .22 and .177 are the best calibers. This is because they are quite affordable and most common. In addition, they have a greater velocity compared with the larger .25 round.

.177 caliber has a lower mass which means that they can be more affected by windy weather or get deflected easily by grass or twigs in flight. .177 Co2 air rifles tend to have higher velocities because it takes less effort for the rifle to propel the bullet. This gives it an advantage over the slow .22 caliber. Therefore, if target shooting is your main reason for buying a Co2 air rifle, consider the .177 caliber first.

The .22 caliber is larger in size and weight than the .177 giving it much more stopping and killing power and for this reason, it is normally the best choice for hunting small game and pest control. They are also good for general shooting but the pellets cost more than those of .177

The .25 pellet is the largest of the common 3 calibers, which lends itself to hunting larger pests. They are much more difficult to shoot at long range, therefore they are suitable for shooting around 50 yards or less.

2. Type of pellet

Air rifles fire pellets which are much safer than steel BBs since ricochets aren’t much of an issue. Pellets have the benefit of being more accurate and they carry more energy. The type of pellet that you select, should match the type of your air rifle. The four main pellet types available include:

Hollowpoint. Hollowpoint pellets are mostly used for hunting because they allow for maximum energy transfer and expand swiftly.

Wadcutter. These pellets have a flat nose. They are mostly used in target shooting activities because of their accuracy. They are also used in short-range hunting with low-velocity C o2 air rifles because they are only effective up to 25 yards.

Pointed. Pointed pellets are pointed at the tip. The pointed tip is ideal for hunting and pest control as it offers superior penetration.

Domed. The domed pellets are normally used for field targets, general shooting as well as hunting small game. They are great all-around pellets as they have the best aerodynamics.

3. Purpose

One other major thing to consider is the purpose of the air rifle. What will you be using it for? Are you looking for a Co2 air rifle to eliminate pests or hunt small game? Are you in the market looking for an air rifle mostly for target shooting use or something that can take down varmints or predators?

The answer to these questions will have a huge impact on the type of Co2 air rifle that you will buy. If you are looking for a Co2 air rifle to hunt predators or varmints, you will require a powerful rifle, such as a .177 or .22 caliber

4. Price

Co2 air rifles come with varying prices depending on the different features they have. If you want to save money, you can consider not buying an air rifle that requires a Co2 cartridge.

However, if you have the budget, you can purchase Co2-powered rifles which offer some added benefits such as semi-automatic features. Remember that replacing the cartridges can be costly and annoying if you keep on purchasing again and again.

For those purchasing an air rifle for the first time, you can go for a cheaper rifle.

It will help you learn and get comfortable with air rifles before you can purchase a costly one that offers more features compared with the cheap, basic Co2 air rifle. Some Co2 air rifles will cost less than a hundred dollars, while others will cost several hundred.

Depending on your budget, buy a Co2 air rifle that you can afford.

5. Accuracy and power

Accuracy is very important when aiming and shooting a fixed or mobile object.

If you intend on shooting for longer distances like 35-5- yards away, it is better to use a scope to make the target more visible. If the air rifle lacks accuracy, the user will easily get frustrated and may lose interest in using the rifle. An accurate C02 air rifle also saves on ammunition.

For taking out the small and medium-sized game, you will require a powerful air rifle. The Co2 air rifle is enough if your game target is from the 20-yard range.

What most shooters do is sneak on their target and get closer, before aiming and taking a shot.

6. Category

As stated earlier Co2 air rifles can be broken into 3 categories: historic replicas, Co2 replicas of modern firearms, and air rifles based n original designs. Replicas of modern rifles help you to master your shooting techniques without expensive ammunition.

The Co2 air rifle platform has produced hundreds of original designs from some of the top air rifle manufacturers such as Crosman, Beeman, and the Umarex steel storm.

Many of these air rifles are based on real-world firearms, though they focus on giving the shooter the most fun shooting experience. These air guns are suitable for fun backyard plinking and also for tactical training.

7. Longer barrels and types of magazines

The longer the barrel on your Co2 air rifle the better. However, this does not mean that you should get an obnoxiously long one. Longer barrels have a longer sight radius and are more accurate over long distances.  At the very least, a longer barrel will be necessary for hunting purposes.

When it comes to the type of magazine, the best Co2 rifles have magazines that hold multiple pellets in contrast to single-shot models which require you to load a single shot at a time. Rotary magazines which hold about 10 shots are the most popular.

How should I maintain my CO2 air rifle?

First, never leave CO2 in your air rifle. Leaving Co2 in your air rifle longer than 24-48 hours can affect the seals and create issues with the Co2 sealing in the future.

Ensure that you keep your air rifle in the shade on hot days as too hot temperatures can cause the valve to fail to fire. Do not store Co2 cartridges inside a hot car or any place where they can be overheated.

Too much heat can make the cartridges rapture and end up causing serious injuries. Lastly, always use Pell gun oil at the tip of your Co2 cartridges before putting them into your Co2 gun. This helps keep your seals in tip-top shape.

How far will my Co2 air rifle shoot?

These depend on so many variables such as the type of air rifle, how old it is, what type of pellet, and the weather among others.

The distance any caliber air rifle shoots relies on the rifle type, the weight, and shape of the pellet, and the velocity at which the pellet is fired from the rifle. Windy weather conditions slow down the speed of a pellet, therefore, it won’t travel as far compared to a calm day.

In addition, a pellet will travel further on a warmer day than it would on a cold and chilly day.

What ammunition is used in a Co2 air rifle?

There are 7 different types of pellets used in air rifles.

Which pellet type you decide to use depends on which shooting activity you are engaged in. They are wadcutter, pointed, domed, hollow point, hybrid, high velocity, and modified bullet pellets.

Do I need safety equipment when using a CO2 air rifle?

The only safety equipment you require when using a Co2 air rifle is safety glasses.  Safety glasses should be put on at all times as most injuries caused by air guns are to the unprotected eye.

Which is the best Co2 air rifle?

This depends on what you intend to use your air rifle for.

The Sig Sauer MCX Semi-Automatic rifle is a Co2-powered, .177 caliber air rifle that is reliable and made of quality materials. It is mostly used for plinking activities and is known to not be the best Co2 air rifle.

How many pellets will a 12g Co2 canister shoot?

This depends on the air rifle type. For instance, if it’s a blowback, it will be on the lower side but usually between 30-50 shots per 12g canister.

How many pellets will an 88 g Co2 canister shoot?

88g Co2 canister allows you to get through an average tin of pellets. This is usually about 250 but you should get a little over that. This number will go down if you keep your air rifle with the canister plugged in because they all leak just a bit.

Why does my air rifle leak CO2?

All Co2 air rifles tend to leak a bit. Nevertheless, if yours leaks much more than normal, there might be a problem with its seal. You can fix this problem by taping over each Co2 canister before inserting it to provide it with a better fit.

Advantages of Co2 Air Rifles

• Absence of recoil

Since there is no large inertia to be found in the spring rifle, when the trigger is pulled, the hammer travels about an inch forward to strike the valve. The absence of recoil helps keep the user aiming and hitting the target because the hand won’t be moved by this force.

• Silent

Most of the noise from a Co2 gun is caused by the Co2 gas and pellet moving from the barrel at a high velocity, therefore fitting a silencer can make these air rifles silent.

• No cocking required

All you need to do is load the projectiles to fire them and you can continue to fire them until the pressure runs out in the Co2. Additionally, Co2 canisters are small therefore they can be easily carried and used to replace one that runs out.

Disadvantages of Co2 Air Rifles

1. Affected by temperature

Co2 air rifles’ performance is greatly affected by temperature changes. The number of shots decreases on a cold day which can be a huge problem if you are out hunting or at a shooting competition. On the other hand, too-hot temperatures can cause the valve to fail to fire.

Conclusion

A Co2 air rifle represents one of the best air rifles on the market. The best CO2 Air rifles you select is your decision at the end of the day, CO2 air rifles are more suited towards smaller pest or vermin control and casual target shooting and not suited for large target hunting because of the fluctuations in power.