The best high powered air rifles for Hunting offer the perfect blend of accuracy, power, and consistency, key elements every serious hunter depends on in the field.
Whether you’re targeting small game like rabbits and squirrels or going after larger prey such as raccoons and coyotes, a high-powered air rifle gives you the edge in precision and performance.
With advancements in airgun technology, modern models now deliver incredible muzzle energy, multi-shot capabilities, and ergonomic designs, all while maintaining quieter shooting for stealthier hunts.
Choosing the right one comes down to understanding your hunting needs and the features that matter most in the wild.
- Let’s get to it!
Best High Powered Air Rifles for Hunting
1) Benjamin Bulldog Hunting Rifle
Benjamin Bulldog Hunting Rifle is one of the best high powered air rifles for hunting. It is available in .257, .357, and .457 calibers with 900 fps,1135 fps, and 760 fps velocities, respectively. Other features include Sidelever Action, Rifled barrel, Repeater Fire Mode, Pre-charged pneumatic, and Weaver/Picatinny Rails.
If you’re ready to leave garden pests behind and take on predators, wild hogs, whitetail deer, or even African plains game, the Benjamin Bulldog is built to make it happen. This big-bore, pre-charged pneumatic air rifle brings serious firepower in a sleek, compact bullpup design.
It’s available in three hard-hitting calibers: .257, .357, and .457, giving you options depending on your game of choice. With velocities reaching up to 1,135 fps in .357, and up to 900 fps and 760 fps in .257 and .457, respectively, the Bulldog delivers more than enough energy to take down medium to large game with ease, ethically.
One of the best features of the Bulldog is its short 36-inch overall length, thanks to its bullpup configuration, which shifts the action to the rifle’s rear. This makes it incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces like brush, blinds, or thick timber.
Despite its compact size, it boasts a full 28-inch rifled barrel (28.5” in the .457) for improved accuracy. Weighing in at 7.70 lbs.. (.257/.357) and 8.75 lbs. (.457), it’s portable enough for all-day treks without sacrificing stability when it’s time to take the shot.
The Bulldog comes equipped with a 26-inch Picatinny rail, giving you ample room to mount optics or other accessories. Its sidelever action is smooth and reversible for left or right-handed use, and the magazine system is practical, featuring a 5-round auto-indexing rotary clip in .357 and .257, and a 3-round gravity-fed tray in .457.
The gun includes a two-stage non-adjustable trigger, rated at 2 lbs. for the first stage and 3 lbs.. for the second, delivering a crisp pull for precise shots.
Benjamin’s SoundTrap baffle-less trapezoid-shaped sound suppression system keeps noise to a minimum despite the rifle’s high power, helping you remain discreet during your hunt.
The manual safety, ambidextrous synthetic stock, rubber recoil pad, and reversible bolt enhance usability and comfort. With a 440cc air cylinder and max fill pressure of 3,000 psi, the Bulldog delivers 5 shots per fill in .357, 3 in. .457, and up to 8 in .257, giving you enough firepower for follow-up shots or multiple targets.
If you’re looking for a tough, reliable, and surprisingly quiet big-bore air rifle, the Benjamin Bulldog lives up to its name.
Pros
- Serious stopping power for medium to large game
- Compact and portable bullpup design
- High velocity, especially in .357 caliber
- Excellent sound suppression with SoundTrap tech
- Reversible sidelever bolt for ambidextrous use
- Long Picatinny rail for mounting scopes and accessories
- Multiple caliber options for varied hunting needs
Cons
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Limited shot count, especially in .457 caliber
2) Gamo Swarm Magnum Pro Gen3i Multi-Shot Air Rifle
The Gamo Swarm Magnum Pro 10X GEN3i takes the breakbarrel air rifle platform to the next level, offering hunters a powerful, reliable, and technologically advanced solution for small game hunting and target shooting. Chambered in .22 caliber and delivering velocities up to 1300 fps, this rifle offers serious knockdown power while maintaining accuracy and consistency through Gamo’s proprietary IGT Mach 1 gas piston system.
A major highlight is the 10X GEN3i inertia-fed magazine, a revolutionary upgrade that uses recoil energy to automatically index the 10-round rotary magazine. This allows for lightning-fast follow-up shots without manual indexing or reloading, an edge few breakbarrel rifles can claim.
The magazine’s horizontal design also keeps the profile compact and improves handling. Combined with the 21.3-inch rifled barrel, this system enhances both accuracy and ease of use in the field.
The rifle is housed in a redesigned, automotive-grade glass-filled nylon stock, offering exceptional weather resistance and a comfortable, traditional hunting rifle feel. Gamo has added a non-slip texture to the grip, forearm, and cheekpiece for better control, even in wet conditions. A Shock Wave Absorber (SWA) recoil pad helps tame the punch of this high-powered airgun, reducing felt recoil by up to 75%, making for a more comfortable shooting experience.
In terms of sound management, the Whisper Fusion technology is Gamo’s most advanced noise suppression system. It ensures quieter shots, a crucial feature when hunting skittish game.
The rifle also includes a Custom Action Trigger (CAT), fully adjustable in two stages, offering a crisp and predictable break to help maximize shot precision.
To complete the package, the Swarm Magnum Pro includes a Gamo 3-9×40 scope mounted to an 11mm dovetail Recoil Reducing Rail, which cushions the optic against recoil. This thoughtful addition ensures your scope stays zeroed for longer, providing hunters a consistent aiming platform.
Pros
- Inertia-fed 10-round magazine for rapid follow-up shots
- High velocity for effective small game hunting
- Durable, weather-resistant synthetic stock
- Excellent recoil and noise suppression
- Two-stage adjustable trigger for better control
- Includes a 3-9×40 scope and recoil-reducing mount
- Gas piston provides smoother shooting and better cold-weather performance
Cons
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Scope is basic—may need an upgrade for more precise long-range shooting
Also Consider: Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Air Rifle
3) Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle
The Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle in .25 caliber is one of the best high powered air rifles for hunting, it delivers velocities up to 900 fps and up to 45 foot-pounds of energy, this air rifle brings real stopping power for small game hunting and pest control. Lightweight, modular, and incredibly customizable, the Avenger is a top-tier option for those who want to fine-tune their rifle to suit their shooting style.
What truly sets the Avenger apart is its externally adjustable regulator and easily accessible hammer spring adjustment screw. These features allow shooters to dial in the rifle’s performance on the fly without the need for disassembly, a rare feature in this price range.
With a max fill pressure of 4,351 psi (300 bar) and a 180cc air cylinder, you can expect around 24 high-power shots per fill in .25 caliber, making it an efficient and consistent hunting companion.
The rifle’s sidelever action is smooth and reliable, feeding from an 8-round rotary magazine (two included), with an optional single-shot tray for benchrest precision. It’s built around a 22.75-inch rifled barrel, which is fully shrouded to help reduce noise levels, keeping your shooting discreet and less disturbing to nearby game.
The lack of iron sights is compensated by a Weaver/11mm dovetail combo rail, providing versatile scope mounting options, along with a Picatinny section on the fore-end for bipods or lights.
Comfort and field use were clearly part of the design process, with a lightweight synthetic stock that includes holes at the front and rear for mounting sling swivel studs, making it easy to carry in rugged terrain.
A two-stage adjustable trigger and manual safety add to its user-friendly appeal, and the dual pressure gauges keep you informed of both regulator and fill pressure at a glance.
Pros
- Powerful and accurate with 45 FPE in .25 caliber
- Externally adjustable regulator and hammer spring
- Smooth sidelever action with 8-round rotary magazine
- Lightweight synthetic stock with sling-ready design
- Two-stage adjustable trigger for precision shooting
- Dual pressure gauges and easy degassing screw
- Includes two magazines and a single-shot tray
- Great value for a feature-packed PCP rifle
Cons
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No iron sights included
4) Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL Air Rifle
When smallbore air rifles aren’t cutting it, and you need serious power for hunting larger game or long-range pest control, the Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL steps up to the challenge. Chambered in .30 caliber, this Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifle delivers an impressive 860 fps velocity and up to 85 foot-pounds of energy, giving you real knockdown power in a refined and surprisingly quiet package.
Hatsan’s QuietEnergy technology, featuring an integrated sound moderator, reduces the report by up to 50%, making this a discreet yet deadly option for hunters.
One of the standout features of the Carnivore is its repeating sidelever action, which is smoother and faster than bolt-action designs. Equipped with a 7-round rotary magazine in .30 cal (two mags included), it allows for fast follow-up shots without breaking your shooting position.
The anti-double-feed system prevents accidental loading of multiple pellets, and the automatic safety engages each time the rifle is cocked, ideal for safety-conscious shooters in the field.
Built for rugged performance, the Carnivore sports an ambidextrous synthetic stock with a vertically adjustable comb for better cheek weld. The textured grip ensures a firm hold, and the gold-plated Quattro trigger is fully adjustable in two stages for a clean, predictable break.
A 255cc removable air reservoir provides up to 21 shots per fill, and its built-in manometer makes monitoring pressure a breeze. The anti-knock system helps retain air in case the rifle is dropped or jarred, which is a thoughtful addition for outdoor use.
As for mounting optics and accessories, the rifle includes an integrated scope rail compatible with Weaver and 11mm dovetail mounts, and a Picatinny accessory rail on the fore-end is perfect for bipods or tactical attachments.
While the rifle lacks open sights, its 23-inch rifled barrel ensures excellent accuracy when paired with the right scope. At 9.3 lbs and nearly 49 inches long, it’s a large rifle, but one built for big performance where it counts.
Pros
- Massive power output – up to 85 FPE in .30 cal
- Repeating action with smooth sidelever cocking
- QuietEnergy integrated silencer reduces noise by 50%
- Quattro trigger offers precise, match-grade adjustability
- Durable synthetic stock with adjustable comb and recoil pad
- Built-in pressure gauge and anti-knock system
- Includes 2 magazines, sling, and swivel studs
- 21 shots per fill in .30 caliber
Cons
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Requires high-pressure fill (2900 psi max)
5) Beeman PCP Underlever Air Rifle
The Beeman PCP Underlever Air Rifle in .25 caliber is a compact, powerful, and uniquely engineered air rifle that ranks among the best high-powered options for small game hunting. With a velocity of 780 fps in .25 caliber, and a repeating magazine that holds 9 rounds, this rifle combines impressive performance with sleek design and smart functionality.
Whether you’re tracking pests or heading out for a day of target shooting, this bullpup-style rifle delivers both precision and ease of handling.
One of the standout features of this rifle is its underlever cocking mechanism, tucked neatly into the forearm. Unlike traditional bolt or sidelever actions, this underlever system makes cocking smooth and efficient, just pull the lever down and back to cock, then push it back into place to load.
Its design makes it easy to operate for both left- and right-handed shooters, adding to its versatility in the field. Combined with the two-stage adjustable trigger, you get a crisp, controlled shooting experience every time.
Visually and structurally, the Beeman stands out with its European wood thumbhole stock—an attractive and durable design that’s also fully ambidextrous. Its bullpup configuration keeps the rifle compact and lightweight at just 7.4 pounds and a total length of 29.25 inches, making it far easier to carry on long treks or maneuver in dense brush. It’s a great blend of style, function, and portability.
For convenience, the rifle features a built-in pressure gauge, rubber buttpad for comfort, and a quick-disconnect fill port for easy refills up to 3000 psi. The shrouded barrel helps moderate the report, keeping noise levels manageable for both plinking and hunting scenarios.
The included Beeman 4×32 scope and rings, along with the Picatinny rail and two additional accessory rails, give you everything you need to mount optics and tactical gear like lasers or flashlights right out of the box.
Pros
- High power output in a compact bullpup design
- Unique and easy-to-use underlever cocking system
- Beautiful European wood ambidextrous stock
- Comes with scope and rings included
- Lightweight and well-balanced for field carry
- Repeater with 9-round magazine in .25 cal
- Three Picatinny rails for optics and accessories
- Shrouded barrel reduces noise
Cons
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Scope quality is basic
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Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best High Powered Air Rifles for Hunting
When choosing the best high powered air rifles for hunting, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you’re getting the right balance of performance, reliability, and usability in the field. Here are the most important factors, each explained in detail:
Caliber Selection
The caliber of an air rifle significantly affects its stopping power, penetration, and overall suitability for different types of game. Smaller calibers like .177 and .22 are ideal for small pests and target shooting, while larger calibers like .25, .30, and .357 are better suited for medium-sized game and longer distances. Choosing the right caliber depends on what you’re hunting—larger animals require heavier pellets and more energy for ethical and effective takedowns.
Muzzle Energy and Velocity
Muzzle energy, measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs), and pellet velocity, measured in feet per second (fps), determine the rifle’s effectiveness in hunting situations. Higher energy levels mean greater knockdown power, especially at longer ranges.
Velocity affects trajectory and accuracy, but must be paired with the appropriate pellet weight to avoid instability. A powerful air rifle should maintain a good balance between velocity and pellet weight to deliver reliable performance.
Action and Cocking Mechanism
The type of cocking mechanism; such as sidelever, underlever, or bolt-action—can influence how quickly and comfortably you can reload, especially during follow-up shots. Smooth and reliable cocking actions are essential for repeat shots and ease of use in the field. Repeater mechanisms are preferred for hunting as they allow faster target reacquisition without manually loading a pellet for each shot.
Air Reservoir and Shot Count
The capacity of the air reservoir, typically measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and the number of shots per fill are important for extended hunting sessions. A larger reservoir usually means more consistent shots before needing a refill, but may also add weight. Hunters should consider shot efficiency and whether the rifle’s air consumption suits their hunting style, especially if they’re out for long periods or away from refilling equipment.
Trigger Quality and Adjustability
A crisp, predictable trigger improves accuracy and shooter confidence. Two-stage adjustable triggers are common on higher-end air rifles, allowing users to fine-tune trigger pull weight and travel to suit their preferences. A quality trigger reduces the chance of jerking or flinching during the shot, which is crucial for hunting where precision is key.
Noise Suppression
Many high-powered air rifles incorporate shrouded barrels or integrated moderators to reduce report volume. Quiet operation is a major advantage when hunting, especially if you’re targeting skittish animals or shooting in areas where noise control is important. An effective sound suppression system helps you stay stealthy and take multiple shots without disturbing your surroundings.
Ergonomics and Stock Design
A well-designed stock affects comfort, handling, and accuracy. Ambidextrous stocks, adjustable cheek risers, and textured grips contribute to a better shooting experience, especially during long hunts. Bullpup designs, which place the action behind the trigger, help reduce overall rifle length without sacrificing barrel length or performance, making them ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Weight and Portability
The weight of the air rifle influences fatigue during long hunts and how easily it can be carried or maneuvered through terrain. While heavier rifles may offer more stability for bench shooting, a lighter rifle is more practical for stalking or hiking through rough areas. Portability becomes a key factor when your hunting involves frequent movement or quick target acquisition.
Optics Compatibility and Mounting Options
Most high-powered air rifles do not come with open sights and rely on scopes for accurate targeting. Compatibility with Weaver, Picatinny, or 11mm dovetail rails ensures flexibility in scope selection and mounting. Some rifles also include additional accessory rails for mounting bipods, lights, or lasers, enhancing functionality for different hunting conditions.
Build Quality and Reliability
Durability and reliability are essential in the field. A hunting rifle must withstand environmental stress such as moisture, dust, and rough handling. Features like anti-knock systems, solid construction, and reliable safety mechanisms ensure consistent performance over time. Quality materials in the stock and internals, as well as a reputation for dependable function, should weigh heavily in your decision.
Best High Powered Air Rifles for Hunting FAQs
What caliber is best for hunting with a high-powered air rifle?
The best caliber depends on the size of the game you’re hunting. .177 and .22 calibers are ideal for small game like squirrels and rabbits due to their flatter trajectories and adequate power. For larger small game like raccoons or groundhogs, a .25 caliber offers more knockdown power and energy retention.
If you’re after even bigger game, such as coyotes or hogs, stepping up to .30 caliber or larger may be necessary, as they deliver higher muzzle energy and heavier pellets for deeper penetration.
Are PCP air rifles better than spring or gas-piston rifles for hunting?
Yes, Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) air rifles are generally better suited for hunting due to their higher power, multi-shot capability, and consistent accuracy. Unlike spring-piston or gas-ram air rifles, PCPs offer minimal recoil, quieter shots, and a larger shot count per fill, making them excellent for extended hunting trips. They do require an external air source to refill, but the performance benefits often outweigh that drawback for serious hunters.
How far can you ethically hunt with a high-powered air rifle?
Ethical hunting distances with high-powered air rifles vary based on caliber, pellet choice, and shooter skill, but generally fall between 30 to 75 yards. Smaller calibers like .177 and .22 are effective up to 40–50 yards, while larger calibers like .25 or .30 can extend that range to 60–75 yards or more.
Regardless of distance, the key is accurate shot placement and sufficient energy to ensure a humane and ethical kill. Always practice at your intended range and know your rifle’s limits before heading out.
Final Thoughts
High-powered air rifles have transformed modern hunting by offering a reliable, versatile, and quieter alternative to traditional firearms. From superior accuracy and smooth trigger mechanisms to durable builds and enhanced shot counts, these rifles are tailored to meet the demands of hunters who value performance and precision.
Whether you’re venturing into dense woods or open fields, the right high-powered air rifle ensures you’re well-equipped for a successful hunt.
For the Best High Powered Air Rifles for Hunting, focus on the key factors like power, caliber, shot consistency, and ergonomics.