Best .22 Air Rifles – Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Once, when talking to a close friend who was into air rifles and hunting,

It became clear that he actually had some confusion when it came to buying an air rifle.

With such a wide variety available, he didn’t really know where to turn.

So he turned to me. 

Specifically, he wanted to know about the best .22 air rifles on the market today.

I’m a bit of an encyclopedia when it comes to air rifles, and I’m always happy to do a little digging anyway.  

So I decided to check out some excellent options myself to help him out and share some of the key insights with you. 

10 Top-rated .22 Air Rifles 2024

If you are in a hurry, here is an overview of the highlight candidates in our list of best .22 air rifles in 2024:

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILSLINK
Best .22 For Small Games and Pest Control
avengercombo 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Air Venturi Avenger
  • Calibers:  .177, .22,.25
  • Max Velocity: 1000 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 45 FPE

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Best Springer .22
Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Air Arms TX200 MKIII
  • Calibers:  .177, .22
  • Max Velocity: 930 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 18 FPE

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Best Budget .22
stormrider Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Diana Stormrider
  • Calibers:  .177, .22
  • Max Velocity: 1050 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 26 FPE

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Best .22 Under $200
hatsan95 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Hatsan 95 Walnut
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1000 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 24 FPE

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Best .22 Under $300
135 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Hatsan 135 QE
  • Calibers: .177, .22,.25,.30
  • Max Velocity: 1250 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 34 FPE

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Best .22 For Hunting
PY 4825 FX Impact X Black 1721225339 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
FX Impact M4
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25, .30
  • Max Velocity: 1020 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 128 FPE

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Best .22 Regulated PCP
gauntlet Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Umarex Gauntlet
  • Calibers:  .22, . 25
  • Max Velocity: 900 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 51 FPE

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Best Fit and Finish
beemanr9 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Beeman R9
  • Calibers: .177,.22,.25
  • Max Velocity: 935 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 24 FPE

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Best .22 Overall
marauder Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Benjamin Marauder
  • Calibers: .177, .22, .25
  • Max Velocity: 1100 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 45 FPE

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Best .22 Replica
PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232109 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
Springfield Armory M1A
  • Calibers: .177, .22
  • Max Velocity: 1000 FPS
  • Max Muzzle Energy: 18 FPE

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Now that we know what to look for in a .22 air rifle, let’s go into the details with the best ones in the market:

Best Value .22 PCP Air Rifle For Small Game And Pest Control: Air Venturi Avenger

PY 5136 Air Venturi Avenger Regulated 1703084937 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The Air Venturi Avenger air rifle is one of the best PCP rifles.

Further, it is a class apart when trying to hunt down animals or keep your backyard clean from pests. 

It is Pre-Charged Pneumatic and comes with side lever cocking.

For one charge, you get repeater-based shooting with a maximum of 60 shots.

The maximum pressure allowed is 4351 PSI. 

A pressure gauge helps keep a track of the adjustments you make.

It is available on the right side of the rifle.

Use the hammer spring to fine-tune your rifle for great power and performance. 

The barrel is rifled and shrouded.

Hence, the noise levels are considerably low when compared to many other PCP rifles.

For one load, you can fire up to 10 shots in repeater motion. 

PY 5136 Air Venturi Avenger Regulated 1703084962 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

In case, you wish to convert it to the single-shot mechanism, add your single-shot tray given with the package. 

While the two-stage adjustable trigger gives comfort and safety, you still have to manually reset the safety switch on the whole. 

A Picatinny rail on the front of the stock gives room to accessorize your rifle.

Also, a standard 11 mm dovetail is available to mount your scope. 

Shooters can easily carry their rifles when going hunting with the studs present at both ends of the rifle.

Through these studs, you can connect a sling for ease of use. 

The accuracy is guaranteed with the 950 FPS velocity on this rifle.

The FPE or muzzle energy provided with various pellets is also commendable.

It ranges between 20 to 56 FPE.

Therefore, providing enough power to shoot the pests and for small-game hunting. 

(For more on the best air rifles for pest control, see this post)

PY 5136 Air Venturi Avenger Regulated 1703084967 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Check the table below for more details regarding Air Venturi Avenger’s muzzle energy and velocity. 

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

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"

Additionally, the rifle weighs just 6.4 lbs without a scope and is perfect for use even with young people. 

The package also comes with two magazines and hence you are always loaded with more rounds.

Moreover, you can choose to add various types of pellets with no problem in this rifle. 

A male disconnect quick filling helps the users to quickly and smoothly fill their rifles.

It also comes with a dust cap to prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust. 

Many plastic parts are involved and the durability of the trigger or stock comes into question.

Also, the noise levels are high.

This demands the inclusion of baffles to bring the noise down. 

PY 5136 Air Venturi Avenger Regulated 1703084972 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

Features

  • Pre-Charged Pneumatic 
  • Sidelever Cocking
  • Synthetic Stock
  • Externally Adjustable Regulator (Up to 3,000 PSI / 210 BAR)
  • Easily accessible Hammer Spring Adjustment Screw
  • Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger
  • Max Fill Pressure: 4,351 PSI (300 BAR) 
  • Fully Shrouded Barrel
  • Picatinny Rail on Fore-end of stock
  • Holes in front and rear of stock for mounting swivel studs for a sling
  • Dual Gauges – Reg Pressure (RH Side) and Fill Pressure (LH Side)
  • Male Quick Disconnect Fill Fitting
  • Easy Access Degassing Screw 
  • Manual Safety
  • 11mm dovetail/weaver combination scope rail 
  • Magazine Capacity: 10 rds. (.177 & .22), 8 rds. (.25) 
  • Includes two magazines and single shot tray

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, raccoons, jackrabbits.
PY 5136 Air Venturi Avenger Regulated 1703084977 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

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
a11 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Best Springer .22 Air Rifle: Air Arms TX200 MKIII

unnamed Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

If you are on the lookout for a spring piston-based air rifle, you are in the right spot.

Air Arms TX200 has been around in the shooting range for many years and the modifications made with the latest versions are super cool. 

You get an underlever design with a fixed barrel to maintain accuracy and consistency.

Also, there’s no need to worry about choosing the pellets as this piece works great with just about anything inserted in the barrel.

The rifle comes with a Lothar Walter Barrel for a superior loading system. 

To talk about accuracy, you can fire with a maximum velocity of 755 FPS.

Also, it is a single-shot rifle.

Thus, for the accuracy mentioned, you can hit your targets without many misses. 

Many people would go for this air rifle for looks.

The metallic finish makes it stand out from the crowd. 

You can choose between the various offerings for right and left-handed types.

However, it is not an ambidextrous rifle. 

Users have a checkered forearm and pistol grip with this air rifle.

Hence, you get a firm grip without you missing the target while aiming for perfection. 

The Monte Carlo Cheek helps get you the best sight in place. 

Coming to the sound dynamics, it has a shrouded barrel in place.

Due to this, the sound emitted reduces to around 71 dB.

gallery Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

While it might not be the quietest one, it sure qualifies for use in your backyard. 

Equipped with the two-stage trigger mechanism, you are no longer in fear of losing your fingers.

Automatic safety comes in place with a smooth trigger.

As per the description, the recoil was moderate making it an apt use for more than just game hunting.

The ventilated rubber recoil pad helps in the recoil mechanism. 

You can go ahead and use it for plinking, shooting spinners, tin cans, and paper targets. 

The one problem noticed in comparison to other air rifles is the weight.

It carries a weight of around 9.3 lbs.

Therefore, many felt it was a burden carrying it around everywhere. 

Moreover, users found the rubber protecting the cocking stamp intruding on their way while taking aim. 

Overall, you can go for this rifle for the spring piston technology and accuracy for a whole range of purposes. 

gallery Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB 18.31 grain pellets50 yards< 1 inch
.2214.66 grain H&N Field Target Trophy50 yards< 1 inch
.177JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo 10.34 gr 20 yards0.21"
.22Air Arms Diabolo Fields12 meters1/2 inch
.177JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo 10.34 gr 25 meters< 1 cm
.177H&N Sport Baracuda 10.6550 yards0.88"
.177Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 10.3 gr25 yards0.44"
.177JSB Match Diabolo 7.87 gr25 yards0.33"
.177JSB 10.34 gr25 yards0.25"
.177Air Arms Field 8.4 gr35 yards0.7"
.177 Air Arms 10.3 gr40 yardsdime size
.177 Air Arms 10.3 gr50 yards1/4"
.177H&N Sport Baracuda 10.6520 yards1/4"
.22Crossman Premier domed 14.3 gr35 yards1/2"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 gr50 yards1/4"
.22H&N Baracuda Green 12.65 gr25 yardsone hole
.177Air Arms 10.3 gr50 yards1/2"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22JSB 18.31 grain pellets57211.29
.2214.66 grain H&N Field Target Trophies63513.13
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 8.2 gr 93215.82
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 8.2 gr 93615.95
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 8.2 gr 94116.13
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 8.2 gr 93115.78
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 8.2 gr 93715.99
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr62013.66
.177JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo 10.34 gr 787.8914.26
.177JSB Match Diabolo 7.87 gr89814.1
.177 Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 10.3 gr83015.76
.177H&N Sport Baracuda 10.6580315.25
.22Crosman 14.3 gr75017.87
.177Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 10.3 gr82515.57
.177Crosman Premier Light 7.9 gr88013.59
.177Beeman Laser 7.16 gr96614.84
.22Crosman Premier hunting pellets 14.3 gr73517.16
.177RWS Hobby 7 gr96014.33
.177JSB Diabolo 8.4 gr73210
.177Air Arms Diabolo Field 8.44 gr90815.46
tx200 walnut left handed Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

Features

  • Spring-piston
  • Underlever
  • Sliding breech
  • 11mm optics dovetail grooves
  • No open sights
  • Beech Monte Carlo stock
  • Raised right-hand cheekpiece
  • Checkered forearm and pistol grip
  • Ventilated rubber recoil pad
  • 2-stage adjustable match trigger

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/Plinking
  • Pest Control/ Small game hunting: Armadillos, Chipmunks, Grey Foxs, Possums, Porcupines, Prairie Dogs, Crows, Pigeons, Raccoons, Rabbits, Rats, Skunks, Squirrels, and Turkeys.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Underlever design and fixed barrel for accuracy and consistency
  • Famous Rekord trigger design.
  • Easy to clean
  • Beautiful blue chrome finish
  • Extremely accurate
  • Great for Field Target
  • doesn’t have open sights
gallery Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best Budget .22 Air Rifle: Diana Stormrider Multi-shot Gen 2

s2 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Diana Stormrider has come out with a PCP or Pre-Charged Pneumatics that is well within people’s budget.

It means that the rifle gets going once you pull the trigger.

Moreover, the PCP factor means that it’s an air-powered rifle. 

When calculated in terms of FPE, it gives 20 FPE and 900 in terms of FPS.

The cylinder has a maximum capacity of 2900 psi for charging to manage this accuracy. 

Also, beginners can use this rifle with repeating shots to never miss a target.

Hence, it makes this Diana Stormrider rifle a great .22 air rifle for small game hunting. 

You get 7 shots in one cycle of this air rifle. A small flick and bolt action reload the next set.

HAM Magazine 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

If you want to try out single shots, you can include a separate tray for the same. 

The German Beech stock has a checkered texture that grabs many eyes.

See also  Best Air Rifles Under $300 (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The checkering gives a better grip to the user for the non-slippage of the rifle. 

Both young and old shooters can take a field ride with this rifle.

Trying to add a mountable optic for long-sight shooting?

Make use of the 11 mm dovetail for this feature.

A fully-adjustable rear sight makes the sight all-clear. 

Both left and right-handed shooters can use this rifle for their purposes.

However, right-handed have a better advantage with a raised cheekpiece. 

You have two-generation rifles to choose from.

The major difference comes in the trigger mechanism.

Gen. 1 has a single-stage trigger.

However, the 2nd generation comes with automatic safety and an adjustable 2-stage trigger. 

You can consider this gun one of the more weight-friendly rifles.

It weighs a mere 5-pound which classifies it as easy to use. 

HAM Scope 10 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The Gen 2 comes with a better-muffled sound level.

Moreover, the rifle is not choosy when it comes to ammo. 

When you come to the downsides of this rifle, there is an easy accumulation of dirt and dust in the fill plug.

The loading of pellets into the barrel is not smooth.

You find that the bolt on the barrel disturbs the bullet while entering. However, no compromise in accuracy is observed due to this. 

The magazine given was not of great quality.

Loading more than one bullet at a time was hard as you need external pushing. 

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
PY 4449 Diana Stormrider Multishot PCP 1551363644 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

Features

  • PCP
  • Bolt-action
  • Repeater
  • Up to 26 FPE in .22 / 20 FPE in .177 with lead pellets
  • Up to 900 fps in .22 / 1050 fps in .177 with lead pellets
  • Manual safety
  • Gen. 1 Rifles feature a single-stage, non-adjustable trigger
  • Gen. 2 Rifles have the new DIT (Diana Improved Trigger) 2-stage adjustable trigger
  • Checkered beech stock
  • Raised cheek piece for right-handed shooters (stock still usable for left-handed shooters)
  • Fully adjustable rear sight
  • 11mm dovetail
  • Integrated manometer (pressure gauge)
  • 200 BAR/2900 psi fill pressure
  • 9 shot magazine in .177 / 7 in .22
  • Includes fill probe with male quick disconnect fitting
  • Includes rotary magazine and single-shot tray

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: rats, squirrels, rabbits.
PY 4449 Diana Stormrider Multishot PCP 1551363654 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

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
PY 4449 Diana Stormrider Multishot PCP 1551363695 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best .22 Air Rifle Under $200: Hatsan 95 Combo with Walnut Stock

PY 3411 Hatsan 95 Air Rifle 1458316208 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The Hatsan 95 Combo Walnut Stock air rifle is on our list mainly for the budget-friendly option.

If you want air rifles that have basic features and are under $200, go for this. 

Let’s get down to the basics.

It is a single-shot rifle with a rifled steel barrel.

The maximum velocity you can achieve with the rifle would be 800 FPS.  

Users can get maximum automatic safety from the 2-stage trigger.

Your hand has total control over the trigger and also the SAS (Shock Absorber System) gives less recoil after effects.

Hence, no damage to your body after shooting.

You get two sights to take perfect aim.

The red front sight is fixed while the green rear sight is adjustable.

Also, a dovetail of 11mm lets you mount the optics. 

This rifle is all about the safety aspect.

h1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

If you find the barrel broken, the anti-bear trap mechanism works to prevent the safety switch from going off automatically. 

Moreover, you can avoid any untoward accidents as the gun trigger is safe from accidental pull. 

No more left and right confusion when it comes to this rifle.

The ambidextrous Turkish walnut stock gives room for both types of users. 

Any shooter would love to have a firm grip on their rifle while shooting.

This gun gives the perfect hold with a checkered pistol and forearm grip. 

The rifle comes under just 7.9 lbs and is well within the normal range in terms of weight. 

With the right pellets in place, you can term this option one of the most accurate .22 air rifles.

You can utilize these rifles for shooting targets, taking care of pests around the house, or small game hunting when needed. 

Cocking was a bit hard in the beginning but smoothed out after repeated use of pellets.

However, first-time users will find the cocking a major hiccup to start with. 

To add on the noise front, it is not the quietest in the market.

The sound from the shooting and usage of parts led to the increased noise level.

The wood finish on the rifle was also not the best that I had seen in many .22 air rifles out there.

Also, some plastic parts were probably in use due to the low price. 

Besides, the Hatsan 95 comes in 2 versions: spring and Vortex gas piston.

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr10 yards dime size
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr40 yardsNickel size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr30 yards1/2"
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 28.24 gr25 ft1/2"
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr50 yardsdime size
.22Beeman Silver Bear Hi-impact 12.65 gr20 yards3/4"
.22Crossman Premier 14.3 gr15 yardsnickle size
.22Crossman Premier 14.3 gr25 yardsquarter size
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr25 yardsdime size
.22Crossman Premier 14.3 gr50 yards3/4"
.22JSB Diablo Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr25 yardsone hole
.22H&N Baracuda Hunter 18.21 Gr40 yardsone hole
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr35 yardsone hole
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr30 yardsquarter size
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr40 yards quarter size
.22H&N Baracuda Green 12.96 gr50 yardsquarter size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr20 yardsnickle size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr45 yardsquarter
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr20 yards 0.15"
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr40 yards0.18"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr830
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr604
.22H&N Slug 21 Gr615
.22H&N Baracuda Green 12.96 gr812
.25JSB Match Diabolo 25.3gr593
.25Predator Polymags 26gr618
.25Beeman 31 grain domed650
.22RWS Hobby .22 cal, 11.9 Grains957
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr632
.22H&N Sport Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr780
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr917
.25H&N Baracuda Hunter 27.47 Gr603
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr840
.25Predator GTO 16.54 Gr775
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr570
.25Benjamin Premier 27.8 gr538
.25Hatsan Vortex Supreme Pellets 19.91gr632
.25H&N Field Target Trophy 20.06 Gr625
.25H&N Hornet 22.07 Gr614
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr595
.25H&N Baracuda Green 19.91 gr702
.25H&N Field Target Trophy 20.06 Gr783
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr825
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr810
PY 3411 Hatsan 95 Air Rifle 1458316221 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Features

  • Gas piston
  • Breakbarrel
  • Single-shot
  • Avaliable in .177, .22 and .25 calibers
  • Offered with upgraded Quiet Energy Integrated Sound Moderator as an option
  • Rifled steel barrel
  • Quattro 2-stage adjustable match trigger (adj. for trigger-pull weight, first stage, second stage & length of travel)
  • 11mm optics dovetail
  • Fixed TruGlo fiber optic front sight (red, 0.060″)
  • Fully adjustable TruGlo fiber optic rear sight (green, 0.035″)
  • Anti-beartrap mechanism
  • Manual safety and Automatic cocking safety
  • Ambidextrous Turkish walnut stock
  • Checkered pistol grip and forearm
  • Rubber recoil pad
  • SAS (shock absorber system) that reduces felt recoil
  • 7.80 lbs. (gun only)
  • Includes 3-9×32 Optima scope, mount, scope lens covers and hex wrench

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, raccoons, woodchucks, blue jays, foxes, coyotes, rabbits.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Exceptional build quality utilizing German steel
  • Quality construction at an unbeatable price
  • A beautiful Turkish Walnut stock
  • Great Tru-Glo open sights and a Quatro (adjustable) trigger
  • Good checking on the stock
  • Easy to load pellets
  • Easy to push on and off
  • Handy Picatinny rail
  • The vortex gas piston can remain cocked for an extended period of time
  • Accurate and powerful for pest control/small game hunting
  • The trigger guard is plastic
PY 3411 Hatsan 95 Air Rifle 1616597488 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best .22 Air Rifle Under $300: Hatsan Model 135 Vortex QE

q2 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

When compared to the other air rifle from Hatsan, this option comes with considerable changes. 

The Hatsan Model 135 Vortex QE Air Rifle is again a single-shot gun but with a vortex gas piston design.

You never have to take special care when the gun is out in cold weather.

The vortex gas piston qualifies the rifle for smooth use even in hard times. 

Also, the safety standards are still of high standards with the 2-stage trigger in place.

Again, the anti-bear trap mechanism doesn’t allow the accidental pull of the trigger when the barrel has issues. 

The major advantage of picking this rifle would be the sound factor.

You get the shrouded barrel and an integrated sound moderator to qualify this rifle as a quiet .22 air rifle in the market. 

Who wouldn’t want a majestic-looking walnut stock finish on their rifles with an elevated cheekpiece?

Also, the cheekpiece has adjustable options to suit your needs.

Overall, this rifle ticks many boxes when it comes to design and looks. 

The optics sing a successful story, also.

The adjustable rear sight comes with a green Fiber Optic mechanism.

PY 3976 Hatsan 135 QE Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Moreover, the front sight is again Fiber optic but is fixed with no changes possible. 

Ambidextrous people can use the Hatsan model rifle with ease.

Again, the checkered grip and forearm hold helps to keep the gun in place while aiming for your targets. 

Users do not feel the recoil as the SAS or Shock Absorber System helps reduce it.

No vibration too!

When it comes to accuracy part, the air rifle worked astonishingly well.

The power to shoot targets was also great.

Moreover, the rifle is not a picky eater of pellets and takes many types. 

However, the one disadvantage that pulled this otherwise good rifle down was the weight.

It was 9.9 lbs and quite heavy for the old or young generation. 

The effort taken to cock the rifle was not easy.

Especially for beginners, it was a lot to ask for.

This makes the rifle not suitable for kids or women. 

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr25 yardsdime size
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr35 yardsnickel size
.30JSB Diabolo Exact 44.75 Gr25 yardsquarter size
.25H&N Grizzly 31 gr 40 yards1"
.30JSB Diabolo Exact 50.15 Gr30 yardsone hole
.30Predator Polymag 44.75 gr50 yards.75"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King Heavy 33.95 Gr74642
.30 JSB Diabolo Exact 50.15 Gr55334.06
.30 Predator Polymag 44.75 gr53328.24
.30JSB Exact 44.75gr53428.34
.25H&N Field Target Trophy 20.06 gr78027.11
.25H&N Hornet 22.07 gr750 27.57
.30JSB Diabolo Exact 44.75 Gr57032.29
.25H&N Grizzly 31gr69233
.22 JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr810 26.42
.25JSB Diabolo Exact King 25.39 gr82037.92
.30 JSB Diabolo Exact 50.15 Gr59539.43
.22H&N Slug HP Heavy 36 Gr716 40.99
.30Predator Polymag 44.75 gr55030.07
.30JSB Diabolo Exact 50.15 Gr553 34.06
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 gr92427.12
.25H&N Field Target Trophy 20.06 Gr78527.46
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr93831.05
PY 3976 Hatsan 135 QE Vortex 1 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Features

  • Vortex gas-piston
  • QuietEnergy fully shrouded barrel and integrated sound moderator – approximately 50% quieter
  • Breakbarrel
  • Single-shot
  • Rifled steel barrel
  • Quattro 2-stage adjustable match trigger (adj. for trigger-pull weight, first stage, second stage & length of travel)
  • 11mm and Weaver optics rail with scope stop
  • Fixed red TruGlo fiber optic front sight
  • Fully adjustable green TruGlo fiber optic rear sight
  • Anti-beartrap mechanism
  • Automatic safety
  • Ambidextrous Turkish walnut Monte Carlo stock with an adjustable, raised cheekpiece
  • Checkered pistol grip and forearm
  • Rubber recoil pad with SAS (shock absorber system) that reduces vibration
  • 9.90 lbs.

Recommended uses

  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, coyotes, groundhogs.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Incredible wood and craftsmanship
  • Beautiful stock and barrel
  • Adjustable 2-stage trigger
  • Very steady and balanced due to the weight
  • Universal weaver/11mm dovetail rail
  • Nice fiber-optic sights with adjustable rear
  • Adjustable cheek rest and recoil butt pad
  • Effective shock absorbent system at reducing the recoil
  • Heavy 
  • Cocking mechanism takes power
  • Hard to find ammo if you choose a .30 caliber version
PY 3976 Hatsan 135 QE Vortex 3 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best .22 Air Rifle for Hunting: FX Impact M4

PY 4825 FX Impact X Black 1721216848 2 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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 M4 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 M4 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 M4 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"
.30JSB Exact 44.75 gr50 yards0.557"
.177NSA Slugs 12.5 gr50 yardsNickel-size
.25JSB King Heavy Mark II 33.95 gr100 yards1.5"
.30JTS Dead Center 45.06 gr45 yards5/8"
.30FX Hybrid Slugs 44.5 gr45 yards5/8"
.30H&N Slug HP II 50 gr45 yards3/4"
.30Zan Projectile 45.5 gr45 yards3/8"

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
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 Gr110068.23
.30JSB Exact 44.75 gr67545.29
.177NSA Slugs 12.5 gr97726.5
.25JSB King Heavy Mark II 33.9574842.19
.22JSB Exact Jumbo Diablo 15.89 gr94031.18
.30Zan Projectile 45.5 gr81366.8
See also  Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
PY 4825 FX Impact X Black 1721236533 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Features

FX Impact M4 PCP Air Rifle

  • FX Smooth Twist X Superior (STX) barrel system
  • Interchangeable calibers and barrel liners (sold separately)
  • Power Block
  • Externally adjustable AMP MKII (Adjustable Match Precision) regulators
  • Externally adjustable hammer spring tension with macro and micro adjustments
  • Externally adjustable valve control
  • Quick Tune System for virtually tool-free adjustments
  • 250 BAR (3,625 PSI) max. fill pressure
  • Max regulator working pressure of 170 BAR
  • Equipped with improved 75cc Power Plenum 750 – allowing for an even wider range of power adjustment
  • .22 and .25 cal M4’s feature Dual transfer ports – one optimized for pellets, one for slugs
  • Male Quick Disconnect fitting
  • Shroud is threaded 1/2×20 for moderator
  • Forward mounted reversible sidelever cocking
  • Picatinny/Weaver optics mounting rail with 30 MOA compensation rides on 11mm dovetail allowing further customization to meet every shooters need
  • Picatinny accessory rails below cylinder and on each side of the forearm
  • New Quick Set Trigger – Adjustable match trigger
  • Wika dual pressure gauges: one for air cylinder pressure, one for regulator pressure.  
  • Height adjustable rubber buttpad
  • FX UG1 AR15 style grip
  • AR15 style manual safety
  • Redesigned Side Shot magazine capacity*: 34 rds. in .177, 28 rds. in .22, 25 rds. in .25, 23 rds. in .30
  • Maximum muzzle energy **:
    • 35 FPE in .177 
    • 87 FPE in .22 
    • 100 FPE in .25 
    • 125 FPE in .30 
  • Includes one side-shot magazine, FX moderator, and 3 year transferable warranty
PY 4825 FX Impact X Black 1721236555 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)


600mm (23.62”) Barrel, Standard Models:

  • Available in .177, .22, .25 and .30 cal.
  • Removable 480cc carbon fiber air cylinder
  • Overall length of 34”
  • Weight: 6.85 lbs.
  • Shots per fill: 375 in .177, 270 in .22, 130 in .25 and 85 in .30

700mm (27.55”) Barrel, Sniper Models:

  • Available in .22, .25 and .30 cal.
  • Removable 580cc carbon fiber air cylinder
  • Overall length of 39”
  • Weight: 7.15 lbs.
  • Shots per fill: 330 in .22, 160 in .25 and 105 in .30

Recommended uses:

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

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
PY 4825 FX Impact X Black 1721225339 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best .22 regulated PCP: Umarex Gauntlet 2

PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1701965961 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Users looking to get a great deal on hunting rifles can opt for the Umarex Gauntlet 2 air rifle which is PCP and synthetic. 

It is a 10-shot repeater gun to take perfect shots of the animals you are hunting.

So, you never have to miss out on your target ever again.

If you wish to go for single shots, place the single-shot tray to change it likewise. 

With the repeater tray, you no longer have to take time out after shooting to reload.

Load them in an array and you are good to go for the entire round. 

Every shot that comes out maintains the same velocity with the help of a built-in regulator.

PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1701965988 2 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Your pressure gauge plays a huge role in deciding the accuracy.

Also, the tank has about 3000 psi per charge for the number of shots planned.

All the lead shots went with an accuracy of around 900 FPS much to the delight of the shooter. 

Along with the FPS, another notable feature of Umarex Gauntlet 2 is its excellent FPE.

The table below represents different FPE numbers with the respective pellets. 

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

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"
PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1701965956 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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The main feature when you are hunting is the less noise levels.

You do not want to alarm your animals thereby making them speed away.

The rifle maintains the quiet environment needed after firing.

This rifle has a fully-automated barrel to do the trick. 

PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1702476800 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • Precharged pneumatic
  • Sidelever action with knurled drop-down handle 
  • 24 cu. in. removable aluminum air cylinder
  • Improved, precision tactical synthetic stock
  • OD Green stock (.30 cal)
  • Flat Dark Earth stock (.22 & .25 cal)
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum receiver
  • 4500 PSI/310 BAR fill pressure
  • 1900 PSI regulator (.22 cal), 2100 PSI regulator (.25 cal), 2800 PSI regulator (.30 cal) 
  • Max. velocity: 1075 FPS (.22 cal), 985 FPS (.25 cal), 1000 FPS (.30 cal w/ 44.75 grain), 950 FPS (.30 cal w/ 50.15 grain)
  • Max. power: 33 FPE (.22 cal), 51 FPE (.25 cal), 99 FPE (.30 cal)
  • Magazine capacity: 10 rounds (.22 cal), 8 rounds (.25 cal), 7 rounds (.30 cal)
  • Expected shot count: 70+ (.22 cal), 50+ (.25 cal), 25 (.30 cal)
  • 4 baffle design, 8 dB sound reduction over original Gauntlet 
  • 1/2×20 threads with knurled thread protector (.30 cal)
  • Single-stage adjustable trigger
  • Textured rubber buttpad
  • Integrated manometer
  • Height-adjustable cheek comb
  • Picatinny Scope Rail 
  • M-LOK accessory slots on sides and bottom of forearm
  • Foster quick-disconnect fill port
  • Weight: 8.5 lbs.
  • Barrel length: 28.25″
  • Overall length: 47″
  • Includes 2 rotary magazines and 1 single shot tray
PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1701965971 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/ small game hunting: woodchucks, squirrels, rabbits, squirrels, doves, young hogs, bobcats, starlings, crows, coyotes, and hyraxes.

Pros and Cons

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
PY 6106 Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL 1701965950 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best Fit and Finish .22 Break Barrel Air Rifle: Beeman R9

PY 1560 Beeman R9 Elite Series 1507129628 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Break barrel rifles are a specialty from Beeman and this choice will not disappoint you.

You can take this gun for your hunting expeditions and target shooting games.

The success rate is high as the accuracy is master-crafted right out of the factory. 

For the .22 caliber air rifle from Beeman, you get a maximum velocity of 740 FPS and the shooting sessions come with superb power. 

This powerful .22 air rifle follows a single-shot shooting and comes with a spring-piston mechanism. 

Shooters get a majestic rifle with hardwood Monte Carlo Stock.

Also, you get a raised cheekpiece to support ambidextrous customers. A checkered grip helps the shooter stick to the rifle at all times. 

The main reason to use the break barrel system is to help in the cocking mechanism. You no longer have to apply extra force as it is completely smooth. 

Beeman’s air rifle choice gives a standard dovetail to mount your optics.

Moreover, with an adjustable rear sight in place, your targets meet your sharp eyes easily. 

Let’s talk about the trigger and the safety aspects.

The rifle gives the users a two-stage trigger system to avoid any accidents.

Additionally, the entire safety system in place is automatic. 

Another thing you might be concerned about is the muzzle velocity and energy (or power) of this air rifle.

Typically, Beeman R9 .22 air rifles can reach over 17 FPE with an FPS between 650 to 750.

Thus, it is ideal for small-game hunting as well as target shooting. 

Recoil and noise are less.

Also, for the .22 caliber, you find many pellet types compatible. 

The air rifle weighs 7.3 lbs only and is lightweight for all users. 

Sometimes, shooters may sense vibration for the first few attempts. Fine-tuning will help correct this issue. 

BN 1039A R9 ZM10 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Crosman Premiere Hollow Point 14.3 gr20 yardsdime size
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr10 yards0.16"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr20 yards0.17"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr30 yards0.49"
.22Predator GTO 11.75 Gr25 yards0.5"
.22Predator GTO 11.75 Gr50 yards1"
.22H&N Barracuda Hunter Extreme20 yards1/4"
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr 50 yardsdime size
.177Beeman Kodiak Match 10.65 gr60 yardsquarter size
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr25 yards0.5"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr25 yards0.4"
.22Beeman FTS Double Gold 14.66 Gr25 yardsone hole
.22JSB Exact pellet25 yardsdime size
.22RWS Hobby pellet30 metersdime size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.3 gr50 yardsquarter size
.177H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177RWS Supermag 9.3 gr25 yards1/2"
.177Crosman Premier Heavy 10.5 gr20 yardsdime size
.177Predator Polymag 8.0 gr25 yards1/4"
.177Beeman FTS 8.64 gr50 yards7/16"
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14gr20 yards0.22"
.22JSB Hades 15.89 gr25 yards0.44"
.22H&N Terminator 16.36gr25 yards0.35"
.22H&N Terminator 16.36gr50 yards0.65"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Crosman Premiere Hollow Point 14.3 gr20 yardsdime size
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr10 yards0.16"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr20 yards0.17"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr30 yards0.49"
.22Predator GTO 11.75 Gr25 yards0.5"
.22Predator GTO 11.75 Gr50 yards1"
.22H&N Barracuda Hunter Extreme20 yards1/4"
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr 50 yardsdime size
.177Beeman Kodiak Match 10.65 gr60 yardsquarter size
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr25 yards0.5"
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr25 yards0.4"
.22Beeman FTS Double Gold 14.66 Gr25 yardsone hole
.22JSB Exact pellet25 yardsdime size
.22RWS Hobby pellet30 metersdime size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.3 gr50 yardsquarter size
.177H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 Gr25 yardsdime size
.177RWS Supermag 9.3 gr25 yards1/2"
.177Crosman Premier Heavy 10.5 gr20 yardsdime size
.177Predator Polymag 8.0 gr25 yards1/4"
.177Beeman FTS 8.64 gr50 yards7/16"
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14gr20 yards0.22"
.22JSB Hades 15.89 gr25 yards0.44"
.22H&N Terminator 16.36gr25 yards0.35"
.22H&N Terminator 16.36gr50 yards0.65"
PY 1560 Beeman R9 Elite Series 1520875737 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

Features

  • Breakbarrel
  • Spring-piston
  • 11mm Dovetail rail
  • 2-stage adjustable Rekord trigger
  • Checkered hardwood stock
  • Includes open sights
  • 14.25″ Length of Pull
  • Fully-adjustable rear sight

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/ small game hunting: squirrels, raccoons, chipmunks, possums, starlings, pigeons.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Well-made and nicely finished
  • Great blueing
  • Extremely accurate up to 50 yards
  • Great Rekord trigger
  • Easy to cock
  • Not hold sensitive
  • Not pellet picky
  • Great for possums and raccoons
  • Fiber optic sights would be nice
PY 1560 Beeman R9 Elite Series 1520875623 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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Best for the money: Benjamin Marauder PCP

m3 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Who wouldn’t love a rifle that ticks all the boxes in terms of features?

One such rifle is the Benjamin Marauder Synthetic. 

This rifle has a velocity adjuster. However, the maximum velocity you get is up to 1000 FPS.

Change it according to your need and become the best at what you do. 

Ambidextrous people can easily use these rifles with a vertically adjustable comb and reversible bolt. Also, the accuracy is on point with the help of a choked barrel. 

Let’s have a quick look at the different pellets, respective velocities, and accuracy for this air rifle:

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"
See also  The Bone Collector: Best Air Rifles For Deer Hunting (Reviews & Buying Guide 2024)

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
m7 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

This table shows that Benjamin Marauder is the best among the lot for accuracy as well.

From this information, it is one of the most accurate .22 rifles for small game hunting and target practice shots. 

You can also see the power or FPE that Benjamin Marauder Synthetic offers is excellent for both small-game hunting and medium-game hunting.

It can go up to 33 FPE, making it an ideal .22 air rifle for backyard pest control too. 

Moreover, with the shrouded barrel, the sound this gun gives out is extremely limited.

You get a 10-shot repeater feature and a two-stage trigger for added safety. 

The gun weighs 7.30 pounds, correct for the category of .22 air rifles.

Additionally, it is way lighter than the wood-stocked counterpart from the same makers.

Hence, you get to work around the rifle with ease. 

The gun works with a compressed air mechanism and hence it can hold up to 3000 psi.

However, the rifle comes pre-loaded with 2500 air fill. 

Coming to the things that users would love to change.

The cost plays a difference in going for other rifles when on a tight budget.

Also, many find the bolting action a tad bit hard. 

Finally, Benjamin Marauder is one of the best .22 air rifles in the market for pest control/ small game hunting and target practice purposes. 

m8 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • Benjamin Marauder air rifle – aka Synrod
  • 10-shot repeater with auto-indexing feature (.25 cal is an 8-shot repeater)
  • Uses compressed air: 2,000 to 3,000 psi (make adjustments as shown in the owner’s manual)
  • Can be adjusted for different velocities
  • Internal shroud makes this a VERY quiet gun
  • Choked barrel delivers superior accuracy
  • 2-stage adjustable match trigger…and the trigger is metal!
  • Raised aluminum breech for easier loading of circular magazine
  • 11mm dovetail (does not come with sights)
  • Ambidextrous synthetic stock with vertically adjustable comb (almost a full pound lighter than the wood-stocked rifle!)
  • Reversible bolt — switch from right to left side (with our special service)
  • Built-in air pressure gauge (manometer)
  • 215cc air reservoir
  • 7.30 lbs.* – is the gun only weight
  • 42.8″ long*
m5 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, rabbits, pigeons, rats, prairie dogs, groundhogs, sparrows, starlings, armadillos.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Powerful and accurate
  • Ideal for small game hunting like rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks
  • High-power Compressed Air gun
  • The internal shroud makes the weapon quieter
  • The gun has a classical design and is manufactured with a sleek hardwood stock
  • Due to the length of 42.8 inches, it is easy to carry a gun on the shoulders while shooting
  • Reasonable price
  • The air rifle can be filled with an optional hand pump and tank
  • It offers .25 caliber for hunting bigger game
  • You have to be careful with the double feeds as the rifle can be a bit difficult to cock
m4 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

check price on Pyramyd Air

Best .22 Replica: Spring Field Amory M1A

PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232083 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle is an incredibly accurate air rifle that brings a faithful replica of its namesake firearm to the market.

Developed by Air Venturi, this masterfully designed air gun features a fixed barrel and weighs 9.9 lbs, mirroring the standard of excellence set by the National Match semi-automatic rifle.

Equipped with an adjustable rear peep sight for windage and elevation, you can expect unparalleled accuracy from your shots.

The left-hand side of the rifle boasts threaded holes for mounting a traditional M1A/M14 rail mount and allows you to customize your experience with optics like scopes and red dot sights.

The beavertail extended cocking lever makes pulling back a whopping 35 lbs of force much easier than expected, without detracting from the beauty of design all firearms enthusiasts know and love about Springfield Armory products.

Whether you’re looking for an impressive piece to show off in your collection or you’re searching for precision accuracy from every shot, look no further than the Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle!

PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232297 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22H&N Terminator 16.36 Gr50 ftnickel size
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr25 yards0.75"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr20 yards3/4"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr71317.94
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr81020.84
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr65217.12
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr 85119.14
.22H&N Baracuda 15.89 Gr70317.44
PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232093 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

Features

  • Spring-piston
  • Extendable Underlever for added leverage while cocking
  • Single-shot
  • Up to 1000 FPS in .177
  • Up to 800 FPS in .22 
  • Sliding breech cover exposes loading port during cocking cycle
  • Rifled steel barrel
  • Fixed Front Sight
  • Windage and Elevation Adjustable Rear Sight
  • Ambidextrous Hardwood Stock
  • Two stage trigger, non-adjustable
  • Manual Safety
  • Recoil pad with rubber insert
  • Anti-bear-trap safety mechanism
  • Faux bolt handle 
  • Package with softcase includes Springfield Armory soft sided rifle case (48 inches external length)
PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232223 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

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

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Realistic look and feel
  • Stay true to the actual weight of the original M1A
  • Under lever cocking with the extension rod makes cocking somewhat easier
  • Accurate right out of the box
  • Easy to cock
  • Smooth and gentle firing cycle
  • It would be nice to have instructions on how to clean gun
PY 5169 Springfield Armory M1A Underlever 1582232093 1 Best .22 Air Rifles - Top 10 fantastic guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Things to Consider Before Buying a .22 Air Rifle 

Knowing what elements make up the best .22 Air Rifle helps make buyers the right decision.

Thus, before jumping to the options, let’s look at the common traits any .22 Air Rifle should have.

Sound Level

A major point to note while buying air rifles is the decibel level it produces.

Whatever the need for using it, you do not want too much sound to wake up the entire neighborhood or alert the animals you’re trying to shoot.

Go for rifles that make a minimum sound. 

Moreover, many air rifles are on the market that creates negligible to no sound.

Air Rifles come within the range of 80 to 100 decibels.

For the record, the Benjamin Marauder is one of the quietest guns in the game with its shrouding technique employed. 

Go for similar guns if you find all other features match your need and taste. 

Ease of Use

The .22 air rifles weigh more than 7 pounds in general.

Carrying it around and ease of use is one feature to note when going for air rifles.

You do not want a bulky gun or a gun that needs frequent maintenance. 

Check for the material used in making the gun.

For example, does it have a wooden or plastic stock?

Is the gun made of metal?

Check for the specifications to find these answers while purchasing. 

Any rifle that gives trouble time and again is no good.

However, servicing is mandatory and depends upon the use.

Try to keep it in good shape at least once a year. 

Propulsion Type

Propulsion type means the system used inside the air rifle to power out the pellets. 

You can choose between accuracy or power and speed when going for the best .22 air rifle.

In the case of accuracy, you get a spring-powered piston.

Else, for better power, you can go for a nitro-powered piston. 

PCPs are also well-known for both accuracy and power. 

It all depends on the reason you are going for a .22 air rifle.

If it is for game-hunting, accuracy plays a crucial role.

Similarly, make your choice before you buy. 

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

Velocity 

In terms of the .22 air rifle, the velocity and accuracy are inversely proportional.

Again, the use of the air rifle you get plays a crucial role here.

In terms of hunting, you may need more accuracy and hence go for .22 air rifles with lower velocity. 

Generally, higher velocity air rifles come with either gas-powered or nitro-powered pistons. 

Power (FPE)

When it comes to choosing air rifles, several people tend to overlook the rifle’s power or FPE.

Although the muzzle velocity or FPS is an important factor to consider, you also need to look for the rifle’s power, also known as muzzle energy or FPE. 

The muzzle energy states the effectiveness of an air rifle.

It depicts the amount of energy that could be transferred to the target.

Typically, the power or muzzle energy is dependent on two factors – the rifle’s FPS and the pellet’s weight. 

If you need to bring down any animal, you need a specific FPE with regard to your air rifle.

For instance, small-game animals might need an FPE between 10 to 25 whereas large-game animals might need an FPE above 50 too. 

Note: If you don’t know the FPE of an air rifle, you can calculate it by dividing the FPS of the gun by the pellet weight you’re planning to use. 

(What can you hunt with a .22 air rifle? See this post for more)

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are .22 Air rifles used for?

Air rifles are commonly used for pest control, small game hunting, or shooting targets.

Sometimes, air rifles are great for plinking.

Many air rifle competitions appear as official sports in the Olympics under different categories. 

Can a .22 air rifle kill a deer?

A .22 air rifle is not the perfect choice to kill a deer.

You need a minimum of .30 caliber to kill a deer. 

The .22 air rifle does not create much impact on large game animals nor kill them humanely.

How To Clean A .22 Air Rifle? 

The .22 Air rifle needs cleaning to maintain its performance and appearance.

You could purchase a gun cleaning kit along with your rifle package.

Follow these steps to have a good clean once in a while:

  • Avoid oiling the internal barrel or cleaning it to avoid damage. 
  • The external part of the gun or barrel should be wiped with a small amount of oil to protect against rust. 
  • Remove dust and dirt from scopes using a microfiber cloth. 
  • Do not expose the Woodstock to water as it might lead to damage. Remember to wipe clean the external finish after every use. 

How Loud Is A .22?

A .22 caliber air rifle can create noise up to 140 dB.

However, most new-age air rifles muffle the sound up to 80 dB.

It is better than the traditional ones.

The use of shrouded barrels reduces the sound levels in air rifles. 

What Are the Best .22 Pellets For Hunting?

Based on use and budget, the best .22 pellets are:

  • JSB Exact Match Jumbo Beast Diabolo
  • H&N Baracuda Match
  • H&N Hornet Pointed
  • Crosman LHP22 Hollow Points

Which is the Most Powerful .22 Ammo?

CCI Stringer’s 22 LR Ammo is currently the most powerful .22 Ammo in the market.

It comes with a 32-grain CPHP bullet that gives a muzzle velocity of 1640 FPS.

You can easily shoot a squirrel with this powerful ammo. 

How Many FPS Does a .22 Air Rifle Shoot?

The muzzle velocity is the speed at which the bullet leaves the rifle.

On that note, a .22 air rifle gives a velocity of 1125 FPS on average.

The speed will differ according to the rifle and parts used.

However, the maximum distance still lies around 150 meters for the .22 air rifle. 

Which is Better .177 or .22 Air Rifle?

The choice depends on the usage of the customer. .177 is much better for shooting small mammals.

Also, it is great for target shooting in the backyard or a shooting range.

The .22 air rifle works great for better game hunting and precision shooting ranges. 

The pellets that come out of .22 air rifles are with a slower velocity when compared to .177 air rifles.

Hence, opt for the one according to your need.

Which is the Best .22 Pellet For Raccoon Hunting?

H&N Hornet Pointed is the best pellet for a .22 air rifle to take raccoon targets easily.

The main point of using air rifles is to take down these animals in the most humane way possible.

These pellets do just that. 

Final Thoughts

I hope the list of the best .22 air rifles given above helps make your choice easier. 

Most of them have different features but are suitable commonly for hunting, striking cans, or target and pest control.

Choose the one depending on the major features like accuracy, weight, safety aspects, power, type of piston, etc. 

The choice you make will help fulfill your purpose easily. 

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