Best PCP air rifles – 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

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All riflemen agree on this one fact:

PCP air rifles are the most popular in comparison with the other types such as CO2, spring, variable pump, and gas piston air rifles.

(For more on the 5 types of air rifles you need to know before buying, see this post.)

As you may know, the drawback of a “real gun” is that the recoil is hard to master, and of course, they’re loud as all hell!

Air guns are much easier to shoot and much quieter, and PCP air rifles are the best of the lot on this front.

It’s suitable for all kinds of hunters, from newbies to masters.

best pcp air rifles 2020

The key differences are that the PCP air rifle has just a little recoil and the projectiles come out as soon as the trigger is pulled.

Whereas the spring air rifle recoils as much as a real gun and it takes time for the pellet to come out of the barrel.

When you shoot the PCP, you just need to pull the trigger and that’s all. It’s clear why so many people favor this rifle.

The PCP is also the most powerful air rifle type – compressed air is held at a much higher pressure than in the CO2 and the Springer.

(For more on the in-depth comparison between PCP and spring piston, see this post.)

Pressurized air is also not affected by temperature changes like CO2 is.

These rifles are powerful, consistent, and accurate.

The gas piston air rifles have attempted to reduce the recoil effect by eliminating the double hit and spring torque associated with steel spring air rifles.

However, the recoil effect is still a little bit greater than that of PCP air rifles.

the best pcp guns 2020

For the variable pump air rifles, you have to master the cocking action since the power of the shot depends on how strong your pump is.

This is not the case with the PCPs – once filled with air to the maximum fill pressure, all you have to do is pull the trigger, and the pellet fires. 

However, a PCP air rifle tends to be more expensive than a CO2 or spring-powered air rifle, and more expensive to refill too .

(For more on the in-depth comparison between PCP and CO2, see this post.)

Best PCP Air Guns

If you are in a hurry, here is an overview of the highlight candidates in our list of best PCP air rifles in 2023:

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILSLINK
Best Overall
marauderwood Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Benjamin Marauder
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1100 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 34 FPE

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Best Entry Level
flash1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Hatsan Flash QE
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1250 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 40 FPE

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Best Value
avenger2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Air Venturi Avenger
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1000 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 45 FPE

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Best .25
condor1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Airforce Condor
  • Calibers: .177,.20, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1250 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 70 FPE

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Best Budget
storm2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Diana Stormrider
  • Calibers:  .177, .22
  • Max Velocity: 1050 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 26 FPE

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Most Accurate
condorss2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Airforce Condor SS
  • Calibers: .177, .20, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1300 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 49 FPE

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Best Regulated
gauntlet2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Umarex Gauntlet
  • Calibers:  .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 900 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 21 FPE

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Best Under $500
bulboss1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Hatsan Bullboss QE
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1170 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 42 FPE

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Best Long Range
f33 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
FX Impact M3
  • Calibers: .177,.22,.25,.30,.35
  • Max Velocity: 1020 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 150 FPE

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Most Powerful
Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
AirForce Texan Big Bore
  • Calibers: .257,.30,.357,.457,.510
  • Max Velocity: 960 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 700 FPE

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Best For Hunting
claw1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
Seneca Dragon Claw
  • Calibers: .50
  • Max Velocity: 679 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 230 FPE

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1. Benjamin Marauder Wood stock – The Best overall PCP Air Rifle

benjamin marauder wood stock - the best pcp air rifle 2020

Benjamin Marauder Wood Stock

The Crosman Corporation is a shooting sports manufacturer from the U.S.

The company was founded in 1923 with the name “Crosman Rifle Company”.

They are famous for their airgun designs.

The Benjamin was first released in 1882 by the St. Louis Air Rifle Company.

It is intended not as a toy, but as a high-powered compressed air gun.

Later, Crosman bought the patent rights to the rifle and made it one of the best PCP air rifles for hunting.

The Benjamin Marauder Air Rifle (wood stock) discharges .25 caliber rounds at speeds of 900 FPS.

The velocity can also be adjusted.

The rifle is capable of shooting as far as 100 yards.

It has a 10-shot rotary magazine.

And there is no recoil while shooting.

m1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.25JSB Match Diabolo Heavies 33.95 Gr50 yardsdime size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Heavies 33.95 Gr30 yards3/8"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65gr30 yards1/4"
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr27 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr30 yards1/4"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr40 yards1/4"
.22JSB Diablo 18.13 gr40 yardsdime size
.25JSB Exact King 25.4 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22H&N Field Target 16.36 Gr10 yardsone hole
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14.0 Gr10 yardsone hole
.177Crosman Premiers 10.5 gr30 yardsdime size
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 gr35 yardsone hole
.177JSB 10.3 gr50 yardsdime size
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr50 yards0.5"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr50 feetone hole
.22JSB Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards0.6"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr40 yards1/2"
.22Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum 14.3 gr48 yards0.45"
.177Crosman Premier 7.9 gr45 yards1/2"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr20 yards0.16"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr75 yards3/4"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr100 yards1.5"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39gr30 yards3/4"
.22Crosman Premier pointed 14.3gr22 yards1/16"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr45 yardsdime size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr25 yards3/8"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsdime size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr45 yards1/4"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr43 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.25Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4 gr50 yards0.74"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.61"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards3/4"
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr50 yards0.57"
.22JSB Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr50 yards0.77"
.22Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr50 yards0.62"
.22Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr100 yards2.38"
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr100 yards1.96"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards3/4"
.22 Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr30 yards0.3"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr30 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.75"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr30 yards1/4"
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr35 yardsdime size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr50 yards0.5"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr55 yards0.5"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsone hole
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr40 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr35 yardsone hole
.177JSB Diabolo Exact Heavy 10.34 Gr48 yards 0.87
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards1.4"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr75 yards0.75"
.25Predator Polymag 26 Gr50 yards3/4"
.177Crosman Premier 10.5 Gr50 yards 0.75"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr75 yards0.5"
.25Air Arms Diabolo Fields 25.4 gr50 yards0.74"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.61"
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16gr50 yards0.57"

Chrony tests:

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65gr88718.61
.22JSB Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr81537.46
.22JSB Diablo 18.13 gr95036.34
.177JSB Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr101019.12
.177Crosman Premiers 10.5 gr91519.52
.22JSB Jumbo Express 14.35 gr91026.39
.177JSB 10.3 gr89018.12
.177Crosman Premier Domed 10.5 Gr96021.49
.177Crosman Premier 7.9 gr105019.34
.22H&N Crow Magnum 18.21 Gr77524.29
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr81523.44
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr91026.39
.22Crosman Premiere 14.3 gr88224.71
.25Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4 gr87943.59
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr87443.08
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr75720.36
.22JSB Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr79219.99
.22Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr78619.62
.22Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr101532.72
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr86041.71
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr87530.83
.25JSB Exact Kings 25.39 grain83839.6
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 Gr92022.37
.177H&N Baracuda 10.65 gr90819.5
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr84522.68
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr90045.68
.25Predator Polymag 26 Gr87444.11
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 gr85334.16
.25Air Arms Diabolo Fields 25.4 gr88043.69
.25JSB Diabolo King 25.39 gr87543.18

read review here

Despite its impressive capability, the rifle is really quiet thanks to its internal shroud.

This may well be the quietest PCP air rifle out there.

The Benjamin Marauder has a classic and ambidextrous design.

It has a sleek, hardwood stock, a total length is 42.8 inches, and weighs in at 8.2 pounds (scope included).

(For more on the in-depth comparison between synthetic and wood stock, see this post.)

This is one of the best-rated PCP air rifles at $500.

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, rabbits, crows, starlings, groundhogs, raccoons, tree rats.
ProsCons
  • Made in the USA
  • Very quiet
  • Fantastic accuracy
  • Impressive muzzle energy
  • Ideal for pest control/small games hunting 
  • The wood stock version is a little bit heavy
benjamin marauder wood stock - the best pcp guns

2. Best Entry level PCP : Hatsan Flash QE PCP

This is yet another amazing rifle by Hatsan.

As a beginner, you may not be interested in lots of accessories and the most excellent qualities you can find in a PCP air rifle.

The Hatsan Flash best suits new entrants into the hobby of hunting and plinking.

f2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Its weight of 5.9 lbs is simply the best as you try your hand on PCP air rifles.

Even young shooters can handle this rifle with great prowess.

In addition to the lightweight, the Hatsan Flash features the popular Picatinny rail which allows you to mount the rifle on a bipod .

This will guarantee you much-needed stability when shooting.

Hatsan did not take any chances regarding the safety of the air rifle.

With the 2-stage Quattro trigger fitted on the Hatsan Flash, there are very little or no chances of misfiring the rifle.

Also of importance to the beginner is the Dovetail mount for fitting a compatible scope.

With this, you can easily master the basics of sighting and be the pro you desire within a few days of practice.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr45 yards1/2"
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 18 Gr30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.35 gr50 yards0.6"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr25 yards3/4"
.22Beeman Crow Magnum 18.21 Gr20 yards0.317"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr40 yards5/8"
.25JSB Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Exact Jumbo 15.89 gr30 yardsdime size
.25JSB Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr35 yards0.9"
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22H&N Baracuda 21.14 gr10 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact 25.39 gr20 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact 25.39 gr37 yards3/4"
.22H&N Baracuda 21.14 gr45 yards1.15"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 gr45 yards1"
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89 gr45 yards5/8"
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.38"
.25JSB Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95gr50 yards0.65"
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47 gr50 yards0.78"
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards1.97"
See also  Quietest Air Rifle - Top 23 Silent Guns for Hunting (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr854 41.13
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr96029.27
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47 Gr81540.53
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr83739.51
.25H&N Grizzle 31gr76340.08
.25H&N Field Target Trophy 20.06 gr87734.27
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr97029.88
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr90228.71
.177Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum 10.5 gr91819.65
.177JSB Exact Monster Diablo 13.43 gr84521.3
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47gr 82541.53
.25JSB Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95gr76043.55
.177JSB Exact Monster 13.4 Gr82020.01
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89 gr92530.2
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 Gr69126.93
.25JSB Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95gr62729.64
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47 gr78737.79
hatsan flash qe pcp - the best pcp guns you can buy right now

Coming to its power, the Hassan Flash will shoot pellets at a speed of 1250 fps for the .177 caliber, 1120 fps for the .22 caliber, and 900 fps for the .25 caliber.

In terms of muzzle energy, the air rifle manages up to 29, 38, and 40 FPE for the .177, .22, and .25 caliber respectively.

Such energy is enough to bring down the fox-sized games and other smaller games, including the rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, birds, and possum.

What’s more, this air rifle is relatively quiet, thanks to Hatsan’s QE

Suppression technology, so you won’t scare away every other animal before taking them out.

Fill the 165 cc air cylinder to a maximum of 2900 psi and you are good to go with this best starter PCP air rifle.

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: pigeons, starlings, grackles, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, groundhogs, snakes, armadillos
ProsCons
  • Great entry level rifle
  • Lightweight and portable (6 lbs without rings and scope)
  • Solidly made
  • Super quiet
  • Accurate up to 50 yards
  • Easy to pump with 4 stage pump
  • The instruction is lackluster
hatsan flash qe pcp - the best pcp air rifle 2020

3. Best Value: Air Venturi Avenger

With high-end features at an entry-level price, the Avenger sets a new standard for similarly priced PCPs to live up to.

Featuring an externally adjustable regulator and externally adjustable hammer spring, the Avenger provides the user with a seemingly infinite amount of performance adjustability never seen at this price point.

A smooth side lever action allows for quick follow-up shots, and the fully shrouded barrel keeps your shooting quiet. Available in .177, .22 and .25 caliber.

a1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards1/2"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr35 yardsnickel size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr10 yardsone hole
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr25 yards0.41"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr50 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr30 yardsone hole
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 18 grain50 yards1"
.177JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr25 yards1/4"
.177JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr50 yards1/2"
.177JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr100 yards1 1/2"
.177JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr27 yards0.26"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr107 yards2"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards3/4"
.22H&N Barracuda Match 21.14 gr25 yardsone hole
.22H&N Barracuda Match 21.14 gr50 yards1/4"
.22JSB 18 gr50 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr40 yardsdime size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yardsnickel size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39gr30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Beast Jumbo 34 Gr50 yardsdime size
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr20 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards0.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr75 yards.688"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr100 yards1.25"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsone hole
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr45 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.45"
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr50 yards0.33"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards0.38"
.22NSA Slugs 20.2 gr50 yards0.59"
.22FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr50 yards0.48"
.22H&N Slug HP 21 gr
50 yards0.62"
.22FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr100 yards1.55"
.22FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr50 yards0.42"
.22Jumbo Exact 16 gr50 yards1.07"
.22Patriot Javelin Slugs 23 gr50 yards0.63"
.22Patriot Javelin Slugs 23 gr100 yards1.67"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.25JSB Diablo MKII Heavies, 33.95 gr843 53.59
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr86530.13
.22JSB Monster 25.39 gr87342.98
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr85025.5
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr91046.7
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr90045.68
.25H&N Barracuda 31.02 gr83347.81
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr88027.33
.22JSB Monster 25.39 gr91246.9
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr89027.96
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr90032.62
.25Slug 41 gr78556.12
.22Slug 25 gr82537.79
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1 Gr93234.92
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr95028.66
.25JSB Hades 26.54 gr91749.57
.22JSB Beast Jumbo 34 Gr85054.56
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr82221.46
.25NSA Slugs 26.8gr 90248.43
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr94450.25
.25JSB Match Diabolo Hades 26.54gr875 45.13
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr97630.25
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr89044.67
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr86730.27
.22NSA Slugs 20.2 gr94840.32
.22FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr90840.29
.22H&N Slug HP 21 gr
84633.38

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, raccoons, jackrabbits.

Can the Avenger take down hogs? The answer is YES. Watch Keith Warren did it in the video below:

read review here

ProsCons
  • Excellent value for the money
  • Lightweight and well-balanced
  • Powerful and easy-to-use
  • Light weight and easy to load magazines
  • Easy to cycle the bolt for loading
  • Great trigger adjustment and regulator pressure adjustment
  • The stock is hollow
a2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

4. Best .25 caliber: Airforce Condor

Just to make sure we’re all on the same page, caliber points to the internal diameter of the barrel of the air rifle, which is equivalent to the size of the pellet used.

The most common calibers for PCP air rifles are .177, .22, .25, .357 and .50.

The lower the caliber, the higher the velocity, and therefore the greater the accuracy of the shot.

The .177 caliber pellets are perfect for target shooting.

However, if your main use of the rifle is hunting, you better go for the .25 caliber and above air rifle. 

(For more on how to choose the right air gun caliber for your game, see this post.)

20180106 135020 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

This produces greater impact energy which is needed to get the job done in the field.

Of course, the .25 caliber pellets move with a reduced velocity, but not with so much a degree as to greatly reduce the accuracy of the air rifle.

After all, being the good hunter that you are, or that you are striving to become

You know it is best to finally shoot down the prey when it is less than 50 yards from you.

As for the .357 caliber, this is dedicated to serious hunters who are particularly after the large games. 

(For more on the best air rifle for hunting medium games, see this post)

20180106 140442 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

I find the Airforce Condor to be the best .25 caliber air rifle.

If you use JSB 33.95 grain pellets, you are staring at the incredible energy of 70 FPE.

Of course, it comes in other calibers, for which the muzzle energy and velocity differ.

For instance, the .177 caliber produces a muzzle velocity of up to 1450 fps – quite high.  

It would be good to note that each caliber is designed to work optimally with a given tank.

In case you use the .25 caliber tank with other small bore calibers, the speed of the projectile may reduce up to 100 fps. 

So make sure to buy the right tank for your preferred caliber.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.25Airgun Slugs 38.5 gr88 yards1"
.25H&N Baracudas 30.86 grain50 yardsnickel size
.25H&N Baracudas 30.86 grain75 yardsquarter size
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr30 yardsone hole
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr75 yards1"
.22H&N Slug HP 21 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr60 yardsquarter size

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.25H&N Slug HP 36 Gr110096.75
.25H&N Slug HP 28 gr103666.75
.25H&N Grizzly 31gr1300 116.36
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr97571.68
.22H&N Slug HP 21 Gr95042.09
.177Eun Jin 16.1 gr107841.55
.20JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo 15.89 gr75420.06
.25Beeman Crow Magnum 26.23 Gr105765.09
.25Airgun Slugs 33.5 gr91962.84
.25Airgun Slugs 29 gr99463.64

Recommended uses:

  • Pest control/ small – medium game hunting: Feral pigs, goats, chickens, parrots, squirrels, prairie dogs, ground hogs, woodchucks 
20180106 140352 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
ProsCons
  • Made in the USA
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Exceptionally functional
  • Little recoil
  • Remarkable killing ability
  • Easy to accessorize and modify
  • It is loud

5. Best budget PCP air rifle: Diana Stormrider

The Diana Stormrider PCP air rifle is one of the best-priced PCP air rifles.

This is a PCP air rifle of Diana Mayer & Grammelspacher.

diana stormrider - best budget pcp air rifle 2020

Diana Mayer & Grammelspacher is a German airgun manufacturer, headquartered in Rastatt, Germany.

The company was founded in 1890, and named after Diana, the goddess of the hunt.

They produce air rifles, air pistols, and other accessories like scopes, pellets, and silencers.

Among them, their air rifles are their most famous products.

Their philosophy is to develop the extraordinary down to the smallest detail.

Diana Stormrider PCP air gun has a straightforward sturdy stock.

Despite being a budget PCP air rifle, the stock is made of beech.

The gun is right-handed (still usable for left-handed shooters) and has a classic, refined look.

The rifle is compact with a weight of 5.0 pounds, an overall length of 40.5 inches, and a barrel length is 19.0 inches.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr40 yardsdime size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1 Gr55 yards0.5"
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets, 14.3 Gr30 yards0.5"
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr50 yards3/4"
.177Crosman Premier Light 7.9 Gr25 yards0.5"
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr20 yardsdime size
.177H&N Excite Hollow Point 7.4gr25 yardsnickel size
.177H&N Excite Hollow Point 7.4gr40 yardsquarter size
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr50 yards1/4"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr 25 yards7/16"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 gr25 yards9/16"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr 45 yards3/8"
.22Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 gr45 yards7/8"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr50 yards1.05"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr100 yards3.6"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.177Crosman Premier Domed Field 10.5g87617.9
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 gr705 15.79
.22Slug HP 21gr760 26.94
.177JSB Exact Heavy 10.34 gr825 15.63
.177Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum 10.5 gr 92519.95
.22H&N Sniper Lights 14 gr90025.19
.22H&N Hornets 16gr87026.9
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr 82924.25
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr88723.47

read review here

diana stormrider - the best pcp guns

The Diana Stormrider PCP air rifle has a 9-shot magazine in .177 and 7 shot magazine in .22.

So, the gun can disperse up to 9 shots per load. In terms of the scope, there is an 11mm dovetail tray.

This rifle is bolt-action and not so powerful (20 ft/lbs).

Its velocity is up to 900 fps in .22 caliber and up to 1050 fps in .177 caliber (lead pellet).

See also  Best PCP Air Rifles Under $1000 - Top 5 Guns that Get the Job Done (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

There’s some sound while shooting.

It has a 100 cc cylinder that can be filled up to 200 bar (2900 psi).

When fully filled, it can crack out up to 40 shots.

The gun’s price is slightly over $200.

s11 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: rats, squirrels, rabbits.
ProsCons
  • Budget friendly
  • Light weight and easy to operate
  • Quiet and Backyard friendly
  • Enough power for pest control and small games 
  • Needs better instructions on magazine loading

6. The most accurate PCP: AirForce Condor SS

You will certainly marvel at the maximum velocity of up to 1300 fps when using the .177 caliber.

Even more pleasing is the 1” accuracy at 50 yards. 

The accuracy of air rifles is somewhat subjective.

While one person would shoot a large tin 20 yards away and praise the air rifle for its accuracy

Another person may want to shoot a coin 50 yards away. 

airforce condor ss pcp rifle - the most accurate pcp air rifle

Even more complex are those experienced ones who may want to shoot the same coin at 100 yards away.

That aside, the accuracy of the air rifle is largely determined by the pellet used, the barrel and the powering mechanism.

(For more on things you should know about air rifle barrels before buying, see this post.)

Other determinants of accuracy include the operability of the trigger and the fit of the stock on the shooter’s hands. 

All factors kept optimum, the AirForce Condor SS can be accurate by up to 1” at 50 yards.

This is quite commendable of the air rifle compared to others in the same price range.

Precision shooters and ardent riflemen find it very handy. 

On top of its accuracy, the AirForce Condor is equally powerful.

Think of a maximum muzzle velocity of 1300 fps for the .177 caliber. 

This is made possible by the 3000 psi gas tank of compressed air or dry nitrogen.

Coupled with an air tank volume of 490 cc, you can fire quite a good number of shots before thinking of refilling the gas tank.

On the same note, I always encourage shooting enthusiasts to consider carrying extra-filled tanks, rather than carrying a scuba for a refill.  

It’s lightweight (only 6.1 lbs) and recoilless in action, further endearing it to sharpshooters.

The Condor SS comes in three colors: Black, Blue, and Red.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr30 yardsone hole
.22Airgun Slugs Nielsen 31.2 gr75 yardsnickel size
.25H&N Barracuda 31.02 gr55 yards3/8"
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 28.24 Gr50 yards0.4"
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14gr30 yards0.632"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards1.31"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95 gr92063.82
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95 gr968 70.66
.22Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr100547.42
.22Airgun Slugs Nielsen 31.2 gr91758.27
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr 116035.56
.25H&N Barracuda 31.02 gr1028 72.81
.177JSB Diabolo Exact Heavy 10.34 Gr100022.97
.25H&N Crow Magnum 26.23 Gr880 45.11
.25Beeman Kodiak Match 31.02 gr1049 75.81
.25Predator Polymag 26 Gr1054 64.15
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14gr97844.91
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr102342.14
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14gr96543.72
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Beast 33.96 gr95268.36
.22H&N Rabbit Magnum II 25.62Gr99756.56
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 Gr101958.56
a2 1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels,  grouses, woodchucks, cowbirds, rabbits.
a1 1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)
ProsCons
  • Made in the USA
  • Extremely quiet
  • Great accuracy
  • Hit like a hammer
  • Lightweight but very solid
  • Multiple power settings
  • A Picatinny rail instead of dovetail would be great

7. Best regulated PCP air rifle: Umarex Gauntlet

It is worth pointing out that most PCP air rifles do not operate at the peak value of pressure of the gas tanks.

If the capacity of the gas tank is 3000 psi, the rifle may work best at around 2000 psi.

This means that the rifle will fire the first set of shots at varying velocities until the optimum pressure is reached. 

umarex gauntlet  - the best pcp air rifle 2020

With a regulated air rifle, the pressure of the reservoir is lowered before it gets to the valve.

This way, the air rifle works at the ideal pressure right after refill.

You can therefore fire shots at a relatively constant velocity.

The regulator also increases the capacity of the gas tank to some level.

This increases the number of shots you can fire before having to refill the gas tank.

Regulators can be added to PCP air rifles, but again not all of them.

The Umarex Gauntlet Air Rifle comes specifically regulated by the manufacturer. 

The manufacturer once claimed that their Gauntlet model has similar capabilities to other rifles over $1000.

At a retail price of less than $300, you may doubt their claim, but let the features speak for themselves.

The 3000 psi capacity gas tank shoots up to 70 pellets in .177 caliber, and 60 shots for the .22 caliber.

Using the JSB Jumbo Exact 14.35 grain pellets, the Gauntlet air rifle achieves muzzle velocities of up to 807 fps, with an energy outcome of about 21 FPE.

This is certainly enough power in your hands for simple target shooting.

Lighter pellets can achieve speeds of up to 1000 fps, but with reduced energy.

Tests with the Umarex Gauntlet reveal great accuracy up to 80 yards.  Quite a great value for money.

Accuracy

Calibers PelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 gr50 yards0.79"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 gr80 yards1"
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 Gr30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr25 yardsnickel size
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Points 14.3 gr40 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr40 yardsone hole
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 28.24gr60 yards0.5"
.25Hybrid Slugs 26gr45 yardsone hole
.25H&N Field Target Trophy Domed 19.91 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 Gr50 yards1/2"
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr35 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr25 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr50 yards0.5"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr45 yards0.5"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr36 yards3/8"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards5/8"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards1/4"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr75 yards5/8"
.25Air Arms Field 25.4 Gr65 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr75 yards3/4"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.3 Gr50 yards0.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr35 yards0.285"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr40 yards0.480"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr45 yards0.475"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yards0.69"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr40 yards0.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr20 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.59"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King MKII Heavy 33.95 Gr50 yards0.66"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards1.46"
.22H&N Sniper Light 14 gr50 yards1.02"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr50 yards1.22"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr50 yards1.17"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr100 yards2.18"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22H&N Field Target Trophy Green 10.03 gr960 20.53
.22JSB Exact Heavies 18.13 gr775 24.19
.22Predator GTO Lead-Free 11.75 gr930 22.57
.22RWS Hobbies 11.9 gr895 21.17
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 gr895 23.89
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Points 14.3 gr874 24.26
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr880 43.67
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr79322.19
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr90028.59
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr89025.16
.25Hybrid Slugs 26gr870 43.71
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr90526.01
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr78121.53
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr88544.17
.25JSB King Heavy MK II 33.39 gr80748.3
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr89323.79
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr92147.83
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr92448.15
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr97353.39
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr87743.37
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr82421.56
.22JSB Jumbo Express 14.35 gr832 22.06
.22JSB Exact RS 13.43Gr 85521.81
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr80823.2
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr91021.89
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 gr83422.09
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr76423.5
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr81923.67
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr89845.47
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr80823.04
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr88544.17
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King MKII Heavy 33.95 Gr79247.3
.22H&N Sniper Light 14 gr84121.99
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr84621.35
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr80522.87

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/ small game hunting: woodchucks, squirrels, rabbits, squirrels, doves, young hogs, bobcats, starlings, crows, coyotes, and hyraxes.
ProsCons
  • Durable matte-black synthetic stock
  • Not pellet picky
  • Fully shrouded barrel
  • Regulated at a cheap price
  • Accurate up to 80 yards
  • A little bit heavy

8. Hatsan BullBoss QE Rifle – Best PCP air rifle under 500 dollars

I’m really impressed with the power of the Hatsan BullBoss.

Consider powers of 27 FPE for the .177 caliber, 38 FPE for the .22 caliber, and 42 FPE for the .25 caliber.

The corresponding muzzle velocities are 1070 fps, 1070 fps, and 970 fps respectively.

This is quite powerful for a rifle going for less than $500.

The gas tank with a pressure capacity of 2900 psi is partly responsible for this power.

The gas tank is rated 255 cc

hatsan bullboss qe rifle - the best pcp air rifle 2020

Another great feature of this rifle is the antiknock system patented by Hatsan.

The gas does not go to waste when the air rifle is accidentally bumped into or knocked against some hard surface.

Additionally, the rifle features an anti-double pellet feed system which ensures that only one pellet is loaded into the barrel at a time. 

hatsan bullboss qe rifle - best pcp air rifle under 500 dollars

For safety reasons, the Hatsan Bullboss makes use of the 2 stage Quattro trigger system.

Your chances of accidentally firing the air rifle are reduced.

Successful shots are also made smoother by the smooth side-lever action. 

Coming to noise, Hatsan mesmerizes me with the QuietEnergy Technology that reduces noise by up to 50 %.

=> Read Hatsan Bullboss Review here

You will also find its 6-slot Picatinny rail useful for mounting various accessories to enhance your shooting experience.     

The Hatsan BullBoss has a striking bullpup design that is both beautiful and convenient for young and aged shooters alike.

You can use its adjustable cheek comb to tune the air rifle to your stature.

Its detachable cylinder is also convenient for hunters on the move.

The rifle comes with spare cylinders for this same reason.

Overall, getting such amazing features for under $500 is more than a great deal.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.25JSB Exact King Diablo 25.39 gr75 yardsquarter size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King Heavies 33.95 Gr50 yardsone hole
.22JSB Exact King Diablo 25.39 gr35 yardsone hole
.22JSB Exact King Diablo 25.39 gr50 yardsdime size
.22JSB Exact King Diablo 25.39 gr100 yardsquarter size
.25H&N Sport Grizzly 31 Gr50 yards1.25"
.25H&N Sport Grizzly 31 Gr100 yards2"
.25JSB Match Diabolo 25.39 Gr35 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo 25.39 Gr80 yards1"
.25JSB Match Diabolo 25.39 Gr50 yards1/4"
.22JSB Monster 25gr25 yards1/2"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr35 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr22 yards dime size
.25H&N Baracuda 31.02 gr 25 yards1/4"
.25Predator Polymag 26 Gr40 yards1/2"
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 28.24 gr40 yards1/2"
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr52 yards1"
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr80 yards2"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King Heavies 33.95 Gr50 yardsone hole
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr100 yards1"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King Heavies 33.95 Gr25 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King Heavies 33.95 Gr50 yardsdime size
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1gr50 yards1"
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 Gr50 yards3/4"
See also  Best Air Rifles Under $200 - Top 5 budget guns for the money 2023 (Reviews and Buying Guide)

Chrony tests

Calibers PelletsFPSFPE
,22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr98939.39
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr86542.19
.25H&N Baracuda 31.02 gr 900 55.81
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King 25.39 gr88143.77
.25H&N Baracuda 31.02 gr81245.43
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy MKII 33.95 gr75943.44
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 28.24gr70531.17
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr86756.68
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr101758.33
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.3 Gr105035.02
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr90032.62
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr103033.7
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39gr98054.16
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr92147.83
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1gr967 37.59
.22H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 Gr94041.49
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr105038.91
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Pellets 28.24 gr87948.46
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr90746.39
.25JSB Exact King Heavy 33.95 gr80648.99
.22H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.52 gr84829.58
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr90028.59
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr102234.01

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: rabbits, muskrats, squirrels, feral hogs.
ProsCons
  • Great knockdown power
  • Adjustable cheek riser
  • Easy to load magazine
  • Removable air cylinder
  • Accurate and consistent
  • Bullpup design at a low price
  • Slightly on the heavy side
hatsan bullboss qe rifle - the best pcp guns

9. Best Long-Range PCP: FX Impact M3

Introducing the FX Airguns Impact M3 PCP Air Rifle – a cutting-edge air gun manufactured by Swedish experts.

The Impact M3 breaks through industry boundaries, boasting unmatched precision and performance like no other.

Perfect for precision shooters or anyone looking to improve their rifle’s accuracy, the Impact M3 contains dual Adjustable Match Precision (AMP) regulators for effortless adjustment based on your shooting needs.

f22 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Its external micro- and macro-hammer spring tension adjustments allow you to customize the optimal setting for each round of shots you take.

For maximum control, try out the valve control adjustment system which is externally accessible so you can always monitor the internal pressure systems and make tweaks whenever needed.

Furthermore, the new FX Airguns Impact M3 PCP air rifle is the latest breakthrough in airgun technology.

The new dual regulator system pre-reduces air pressure, providing superior regulated power and consistency with fewer standard deviations from shot to shot – a must-have for any serious shooter.

In addition, the unique Power Plenum 720 offers an increased diameter and 72cc volume for efficient and powerful projectiles every time.

Combined with the rifle’s specially designed porting and valving system, the FX Airguns Impact M3PCP is perfect for precision performance in competition or out on the field. With its maximum output pressure of 250 bar, this top-of-the-line rifle ensures the accuracy you need when it matters most.

The FX Impact M3 comes in 5 different calibers available: .177, .22, .25, .30, .35 , with Black/Bronze colors.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.4 Gr50 yards3/4"
.30Slugs 67 Gr50 yards3/4"
.30Slugs 67 Gr100 yards1 1/2"
.30JSB Match Diabolo Hades 44.75 gr50 yards.557"
.25JSB King Heavy Mark II 33.95 gr100 yards1"
.30Nielson Slug 47 gr. 50 yardsone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr50 yardsone hole
.30JSB Diabolo Exact 50.15 Gr60 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Hades 26.54gr35 yardsone hole
.35JSB Match Diabolo Exact 81.02 Gr100 yards1"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr95 yards3/4"
.177NSA Slugs 12.5 gr50 yardsnickel size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr50 yardsdime size
.25JSB Exact King 25.39gr50 yards3/4"
.22JSB Exact Jumbo 15.89gr50 yards1/2"
.25JSB Exact King Diabolo 25.39gr50 yards0.37"
.25Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4gr50 yards0.47"
.25JSB Diabolo King Heavy MKII 33.95gr50 yards0.71"
.25JSB Exact King Diabolo 25.39gr100 yards1.34"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.35JSB Match Diabolo Exact 81.02 Gr845128.49
.30JSB Match Diabolo Hades 44.75 gr87075.23
.177JSB Exact Heavy 10.34g90018.6
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 gr875 57.73
.35JSB Match Diabolo Exact 81.02 Gr915150.66
.35JSB Match Diabolo Exact 81.02 Gr877138.4
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr94035.58
.177NSA 12.5 gr97726.5
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 gr94031.18
.22JSB Jumbo Express 14.35gr100332.06
.22JSB Jumbo Heavies 18.13gr86329.99
.25JSB Exact King 25.4 gr89344.99
.25JSB King Heavies MKII 33.95gr84954.35
.30JSB Exact 44.75 gr82968.31
.25Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4gr93849.64
.25JSB Exact King Diabolo 25.39gr90746.39
.25Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4gr89745.39
.25JSB Diabolo King Heavy MKII 33.95gr81650.21

Recommended uses:

  • Pest control and Small/medium/large game hunting: coyotes, iguanas, groundhogs, rabbits, squirrels, gooses, woodchucks, prairie dogs.

read review here

f5 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Incredible accuracy up to 100 yards
  • Well-built and lightweight
  • Quiet and backyard-friendly
  • Large rotary mag
  • Great Interchangeable Barrel System
  • Lots of available aftermarket parts and upgrades 
  • A longer Picatinny rail would be nice

10. The most powerful PCP Air Rifle: AirForce Texan Big Bore

t2 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

When it comes to raw power, I recommend the AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle.

AirForce Airguns was the first manufacturer of PCP air rifles in the U.S.

It was founded in 1994 in Texas, and the Texan and Texan SS are its main products.

AirForce has some serious airguns for the serious shooter.

Their rifles offer an advanced design, performance, and versatility for every shooter.

The Texan was released in 2015.

Since then, it has been a monster in the airgun world.

OL Texan 5 scaled 1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

read review here

The gun is famous for its massively powerful shots.

It can be considered the most powerful PCP air rifle in the world.

The gun is designed to close the gap between a real firearm and an air rifle.

You should never underestimate the power of this gun!

The AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle is designed for big game

And it can discharge .257, .308, .357, .457, and .510 calibers at speeds up to 1,000 fps with over 800 ft/lbs of energy.

You can hunt anything with this air rifle.

Deer and boar are no problem at all to it.

With a long barrel of 34 inches, the AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle can take down a target 125 yards away.

t1 Best PCP air rifles - 11 of the best PCP guns you can buy right now (Reviews and Buying Guide 2023)

Although the power is deadly, you don’t need to worry about recoil – it’s not much to handle since the power source is compressed air.

It is not equipped with AirFore’s Sound-Loc Technology though, so it’s not so quiet.

The stock is made from synthetic, all black, and really nicely finished.

The overall length is 48.5 inches, and it weighs 7.65 pounds (minus the scope and mount).

The 490cc air tank can be filled up to 3000 psi (200 bar) (only use compressed air or dry nitrogen).

The drawbacks are that the gun doesn’t come with open sights or a scope, and it only has a 1 shot capacity.

The AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle Price is just under $1000.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.308JSB EXACT DIABOLO, 50.15 Gr50 yards1/2"
.308JSB Exacts....50.15 gr25 yardsnickel size
.457340 grain 100 yards0.75"
.457143 grain round ball50 yardsone hole
.457150 gr ball75 yards3/4"
.457Air Venturi FP 350 gr50 yards0.73"
.357Aero Magnum 50 yards0.66"
.357Predator Polymag50 yards1.42"
.357Aero Magnum 100 yards1.31"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.357JSB Diabolo Exact 81.02 gr1100217.74
.30Slug 85 grains 1040204.19
.457Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains1016327.85
.357Air Venturi Round Ball 66 grain1066166.58
.357Air Venturi Flat Point 127 grain847202.36
.30Nielson 122 gr. hollow point
692129.76
.30Hunter Supply 134 gr. s.p.
721154.71
.457Semi-wadcutters 215 Grains835332.94
.457Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains, 1044 346.17
.457Slugs Nielsen 350 gr809508.77
.457Slugs 405 gr765526.42
.457Air Venturi FP 350 gr710391.87
.257Nielsen 85gr1048207.35
.257Areo Magnum 70gr1139201.7
.457Air Venturi PHP 250gr813367.01
.457Air Venturi SWC 265gr820395.76
.457Air Venturi FP 350 gr746432.62
.457Air Venturi FP 405 gr704445.82
.357Aero Magnum 128gr915238.02
.357Predator Polymag 81gr989175.97
.457Roundball 143 gr907261.28
.457Hollow point 200 gr848319.43
.457Round Nose 350 gr791486.38
.457Round Nose 405 gr750505.98
.457Hunters Specialty 310gr806447.29
.457Hunters Specialty 350gr769459.7

Recommended uses:

  • Pest control – small/medium/large game hunting: deer, hogs, groundhogs, squirrels, rabbits, coyotes.
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ProsCons
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Made in the USA
  • Great power and accuracy without too much tuning
  • Quality construction
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Wonderful hunting airgun for large game
  • The rifle is long for a gun case

11. Best PCP air rifle for hunting: Seneca Dragon Claw

Hunting is usually engaging, simply because no prey will wait for its death without putting up a fight for dear life.

For this reason, you have to choose an air rifle best suited for the job.

I hope you do understand that others are best suited for fun plinking and target shooting. 

Ideally, you should go for an air rifle with great stopping power, that will not only bruise the animal but penetrate deep and kill it.

To clearly sight the animals as they hide in the dark bushes, you may need a high-quality scope

As opposed to the basic open sight that comes with many air rifles.  

(For more on how many types of air gun sights out there and which one is suitable for you, see this post)

seneca dragon claw 500cc air rifle - best pcp air rifles for hunting

The caliber of the rifle will also determine the power and speed of the pellets.

Higher calibers are associated with greater power, lower velocity, and lower range. 

Lower calibers are associated with less power, higher velocity, and higher range.

Considering the above, and of course costs, the Seneca Dragon Claw 500cc air rifle best fits this description.

The rifle features a power of up to 679 fps for the .50 caliber.

This translates to the incredible power of 230 FPE, enough to knock down nutria, hogs, foxes, woodchucks, raccoons, javelinas, and coyotes.

It comes with a dual-air chamber with a total capacity of 500 ccs.

Their maximum fill pressure is 3000 psi.

To have an idea of what kind of power this is, the average fill pressure for car tires is about 35 psi!

The air rifle features a hardwood Monte Carlo stock with a checkered forearm and grip for proper handling.

It has two levels of power – the low and the high power, determined by whether you cock the first or second bolt.

And with a rifled barrel, you can be sure of the most accurate of shots.

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.50Air Venturi Round Ball 177 gr630156.03
.50Air Venturi FP 336 gr556230.7
.50300 grain Pellet738362.9
.50Air Venturi 210gr640191.04
.50Air Venturi 336 gr545221.66

Recommended uses:

  • Small/medium/large game hunting: hogs, buffalos, deers, groundhogs, coyotes, javelinas.
ProsCons
  • Great looking
  • Powerful and consistent
  • Can shoot multiple projectiles (bullets or arrows)
  • Very little recoil
  • Save a ton of ammo
  • Easy cleaning
  • Two power setting
  • A little bit heavy
seneca dragon claw 500cc air rifle - the best pcp air rifle 2020

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