Best Air Rifles of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2025

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Air rifles are an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys shooting sports or wants to learn how to shoot. These firearms use compressed air to propel pellets or BBs at high speeds, making them both safe and accurate. Air rifles come in a variety of styles, including break-barrel, pneumatic, and CO2-powered, and are available in various calibers to suit different shooting needs. Some models are also designed for specific purposes, such as hunting or target shooting. With their ease of use, affordability, and versatility, air rifles are a great addition to any collection.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel Air Rifle Cover #TOP 1
Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel Air Rifle
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle Cover #TOP 2
Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle Cover #TOP 3
Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Air Rifles

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel Air Rifle

611003865554
Black
Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel Air Rifle Cover
Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel air Rifle. High Power 10-Shot Pellet air Gun. 1,300 fps Velocity.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel air Rifle is a powerful and accurate air rifle with a velocity of up to 1,300 FPS with alloy .22 Cal. Pellets. It features 10X GEN3i technology, a 10 shot Magazine, Whisper Fusion noise dampening technology, IGT Mach1 Gas Piston, CAT (Custom Action Trigger), RRR (Recoil Reducing Rail), and a 5 Year Warranty. It is suitable for small game hunting and is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and accurate air rifle.

What We Like
Great accuracy
Powerful performance
Dependable for small game
Easy to sight in
Quiet compared to .22 LR
What We Don't Like
Scope may not hold zero
Requires effort to cock
#TOP 2

Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle

6110017154
black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle Cover
Gamo Varmint Breakbarrel .177 Caliber Pellet Air Rifle

The Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle is a .177 Cal pellet single cocking break barrel with a long lasting spring piston able to deliver 1250 fps of muzzle velocity with Gamo PBA Platinum pellets. It features a fluted polymer jacketed rifled steel barrel, grooved cylinder rail, 4 x 32 Shockproof Scope, Gamo trigger with adjustable second stage, and a synthetic ambidextrous all-weather stock with a rubber recoil pad. This rifle is lightweight, powerful, and accurate, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.

What We Like
Excellent for backyard varmint control
Good value for the price
Accurate within 20 yards
Fun and cheap to operate
Solid build quality
What We Don't Like
Breaking barrel requires some effort
Kids may need assistance cocking
#TOP 3

Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle

611006875554
Black
.22 Caliber
Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle Cover
Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle, .22 Caliber,Black

The GAMO Swarm Whisper Air Rifle is a powerful and reliable air rifle that is perfect for small game hunting. It features the IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston that allows higher velocity, less vibration and a longer lifespan than traditional spring powered airguns. The Whisper Technology makes this gun really quiet, and the all-weather synthetic stock with black rubber inserts provides a comfortable grip. The included scope is suitable for shooting up to 25 yards, and the rotary magazine works as intended.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
High accuracy at 25 yards
Powerful shots with lead pellets
10-shot magazine for fast firing
Great for small game hunting
What We Don't Like
Not as quiet as advertised
No suppressor available

Crosman CLGY1000KT Legacy 1000 Single Shot Variable Pump Air Rifle

CLGY1000KT
Black
Crosman CLGY1000KT Legacy 1000 Single Shot Variable Pump Air Rifle Cover
Crosman CLGY1000KT Legacy Variable Pump .177-Caliber Pellet/BB Air Rifle With Scope

The Crosman CLGY1000KT Legacy 1000 is a single shot variable pump air rifle with a durable, waterproof synthetic design. It is compatible with .177-caliber pellets or traditional steel BBs and comes with a fiber-optic sight and 4x15mm scope for greater accuracy. Ideal for plinking, it has a Crossbolt safety to ensure proper and safe handling. With 17-round spring-loaded BB magazine, it can fire from 750 fps to 1000 fps.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Good accuracy
Affordable price
Fun to shoot
Usable scope
What We Don't Like
Plastic construction
Scope quality issues
#TOP 5

Gamo WildCat Whisper Air Rifle

6110067854
Multi
.177 Caliber
Gamo WildCat Whisper Air Rifle Cover
Gamo Wildcat Whisper air Rifle

The Gamo WildCat Whisper Air Rifle is a .177 caliber pellet single cocking break barrel with 1300 fps and PBA Platinum. It features the patented WHISPER noise reduction technology, a 4x32 Shockproof Scope, a synthetic ambidextrous all-weather stock, and a rubber recoil pad. This air rifle is lightweight and made in Spain, and comes with a 1-year warranty.

What We Like
High accuracy at various distances
Powerful for small game
Excellent customer service
Single pump ease of use
Good penetration with pellets
What We Don't Like
Scope quality may be lacking
Loading instructions unclear
#TOP 6

Bear River TPR 1300 Suppressed Hunting Air Rifle

B1769
Black TPR 1300 FPS
Standard
Bear River TPR 1300 Suppressed Hunting Air Rifle Cover
Barra Pellet Guns for Adults, Pellet Gun Air Rifle for Hunting with Scope, Fires Air Rifle .177 Caliber Pellets, Break Barrel Spring Piston, 1300 Air Rifles for Adults with an Integrated Suppressor

The Bear River TPR 1300 Air Rifle is a high powered pellet gun perfect for small game hunting or target shooting. With its break barrel action, reloading is easy and it offers long-range accuracy for precise shooting. The attached suppressor makes it extremely quiet, minimizing noise and avoiding spooking small game. You'll feel like a real sniper with the silencer! It uses .177 caliber pellets, providing plenty of power for target shooting and small game hunting. The included 4x32 scope with covers ensures accurate hits on your targets, and the 18" rifled steel barrel adds to the overall accuracy. With increased power thanks to Spring Piston Technology and a smooth trigger pull, this air rifle also includes a 6" picatinny rail for adding your choice of scope or accessories.

What We Like
High power and accuracy
Good customer service experience
Fun and satisfying to shoot
Works well with open sights
Solid build quality
What We Don't Like
Scope may require replacement
Heavy and noisy
#TOP 7

Umarex Notos Carbine .22 PCP Air Rifle

2254847
Black
One Size
Umarex Notos Carbine .22 PCP Air Rifle Cover
Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle

The Umarex Notos Carbine offers remarkable power with its compact 11.75-inch barrel, launching .22 caliber pellets at an impressive 700 feet per second. This air rifle features a 7-shot auto-indexing rotary magazine, allowing you to shoot multiple rounds without constant reloading, enhancing your shooting experience. Its side lever cocking mechanism ensures quiet operation and smooth transitions between shots, making it user-friendly. Additionally, the fixed high-pressure air tank provides consistent performance shot after shot, ensuring reliability whether you're hunting small game, plinking, or target shooting.

What We Like
Highly accurate with various pellets
Compact and lightweight design
Integral sound suppressor
Good value for beginners
Consistent performance and stability
What We Don't Like
Gritty trigger pull
Magazine may require adjustments
#TOP 8

Umarex Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun with Scope

2244010
Black
Large
Umarex Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun with Scope Cover
Umarex unisex adult Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun with 4x32mm Scope Air Rifle, Black, Large US

The Umarex Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun is a powerful air rifle with a velocity of 1000.00 ft/sec. It includes a 4x32 scope for improved accuracy and is backed by a one year limited warranty. This air rifle is perfect for those looking for a reliable and accurate option for target shooting or small game hunting.

What We Like
Powerful spring action
Excellent accuracy
Great value for price
Adjustable and smooth trigger
Good ambidextrous stock
What We Don't Like
Scope may not hold zero
Loud for neighborhood use
#TOP 9

Barra 250z PCP Air Rifle

4160
Camo
0.25
Barra 250z PCP Air Rifle Cover
250z PCP Air Rifle .25 Cal Camo

The Barra 250z Air Rifle is a high-performance PCP air rifle designed for serious shooters. With air stored around the barrel, it provides consistent power and precision with every shot. The externally adjustable regulator allows you to fine-tune your shooting experience, ensuring optimal performance tailored to your preferences. Additionally, the adjustable stock and accessories give you the flexibility to customize the fit and feel of the rifle, enhancing your comfort and control. You’ll appreciate the extreme accuracy this rifle offers, making it an excellent choice for target shooting or small game hunting.

What We Like
Exceptional accuracy
Lightweight for easy carrying
Built-in air tube
Easy magazine insertion
What We Don't Like
Price could be lower
Preference for side lever action
#TOP 10

Gamo Raptor Whisper Air Rifle

6110067954
Black
.177 Caliber
Gamo Raptor Whisper Air Rifle Cover
Gamo 6110067954 Raptor Whisper Air Rifle .177 Cal

The Gamo Whisper Air Rifle is a powerful and reliable air rifle designed for shooting enthusiasts. With its .177 Cal pellet single cocking break barrel, it can reach speeds of up to 1300 fps, providing you with a high level of accuracy and precision. The IGT (Inert Gas Technology) replaces the spring, resulting in less vibration, more consistent power, and a smoother cocking effort. The WHISPER noise reduction technology ensures a quiet shooting experience, while the SAT (Smooth Action Trigger) maximizes pinpoint accuracy. This air rifle also comes with a 4x32 Shockproof Scope for improved visibility. Its synthetic ambidextrous all-weather stock and lightweight design make it comfortable and easy to handle. With a 1-year warranty and made in Spain, the Gamo Whisper Air Rifle is a reliable choice for any shooter.

What We Like
Excellent accuracy
Light cocking effort
Good for small pests
Affordable price
Minimal recoil
What We Don't Like
Poor included scope quality
Initial noise level
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Air Rifles

Purpose

Consider the purpose for which you will be using the air rifle. Are you looking for a rifle for target shooting, pest control, or hunting? Different types of air rifles are designed for specific purposes, so choose one that suits your needs.

Caliber

The caliber of the air rifle determines the size of the ammunition it uses. Common calibers include .177, .22, and .25. The .177 caliber is suitable for target shooting and plinking, while the .22 and .25 calibers are more effective for hunting small game. Consider the intended use and the availability of ammunition for the chosen caliber.

Power Source

Air rifles can be powered by various methods, including spring-piston, gas-piston, CO2, or compressed air. Each power source has its advantages and disadvantages. Spring-piston rifles are more affordable and reliable, while gas-piston and PCP rifles offer higher power and accuracy. Choose a power source that suits your preferences and shooting requirements.

Accuracy

Check for features that contribute to accuracy, such as adjustable triggers, high-quality barrels, and scoped optics. A well-designed air rifle with good accuracy will enhance your shooting experience and improve your chances of hitting your target consistently.

Safety Features

Ensure that the air rifle you choose has adequate safety features, such as a safety catch or an automatic safety mechanism. These features prevent accidental discharges and help keep you and others safe during handling and storage. Always prioritize safety when selecting an air rifle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better .22 or .177 air rifle?

Both .22 and .177 air rifles are equally accurate. The difference lies in their trajectory. The .177 calibre air rifle has a flatter trajectory at longer ranges due to its higher velocity.

2. What is the killing range of a .177 air rifle?

A .177 air rifle typically has an effective range of around 60 to 80 yards. However, the exact range can vary depending on factors such as the brand of pellet used and the shooter's stance.

3. What is the best caliber for hunting with an air rifle?

For hunting, the best caliber for an air rifle depends on the target. A .25 or .30 caliber air rifle is a good mid-range option for predator hunting or varmint hunting. The .357 caliber is popular for hunting predators or varmints like coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and woodchucks.

4. How far can you shoot with an air rifle?

The effective shooting range of an air rifle varies depending on factors such as the shooter's skill and the type of rifle. Most shooters can consistently hunt within a range of 20-30 yards, while some skilled shooters can accurately shoot beyond 50 yards with spring-powered air rifles.

5. What air rifle is better CO2 or spring?

Spring-powered air rifles use a compressed spring to propel the pellet, while CO2-powered air rifles use compressed CO2 cartridges. Spring-powered air rifles are generally more powerful than CO2-powered ones.

6. How many yards will a .22 air rifle shoot?

A .22 air rifle can typically shoot around 45 to 50 yards, and potentially even further depending on factors such as the brand of pellets used, shooting skills, and shooting stance. Shooting from a prone position can increase the effective range of an air rifle.

Editor's Notes

During our air rifle research, we found 24 air rifle products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 104,212 customer reviews through our big data system to write the air rifles list. We found that most customers choose air rifles with an average price of $95.61.

The air rifles are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of air rifles, including Gamo, Crosman, Bear River, Umarex, Barra. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 7,309 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Air Rifles Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Gamo Gamo Gamo Crosman Gamo Bear River Umarex Umarex Barra Gamo
Color Black black Black Black Multi Black TPR 1300 FPS Black Black Camo Black
Air Gun Power Type Gas-Piston Spring-Piston Spring-Piston Spring-Piston Spring-Piston Spring-Piston PCP Spring-Piston PCP Spring-Piston
Barrel Material Type Aluminum Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel Metal Metal Polymer Stock Alloy Steel
Frame Material Metal Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Metal Metal Polymer Alloy Steel Metal
Rounds 10 1 10 1000 1 1 7 1 - 1
Item Weight 6.88 Pounds 5.47 Pounds 5.43 Pounds 1 Kilograms 5.64 Pounds 8.29 Pounds 5 Pounds 1 Kilograms - 5.6 Pounds
Caliber - 177 0.22 0.177 177 0.177 - - 0.25 -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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