Best Air Rifles for Pest Control – Top 10 effective guns for the money (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recently, one of my friends in Florida contacted me regarding iguana issues in his backyard.

He asked me to suggest a few air rifles that would help him get rid of his pest issue and prevent his backyard from getting damaged. 

Owing to that call, I came up with the idea of dedicating an air rifle guide that talks about the best air rifles for pest control.

After all, there are several things to consider, right from their power to their noise. 

So, if you’re facing the same issues as my friend, read on!

Top 10 Air Guns For Pest Control

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

Things to Consider Before Buying An Air Rifle for Pest Control

Before I move on to discussing the best air rifles for pest control, let’s talk about a few things to consider.

These should help you make the right choice for choosing a good air rifle for the job.

1. Types of Pests & Suggested FPE & Caliber

Keep in mind that you need to opt for an air rifle depending on the size and speed of the pest.

Also, note that the best air rifle pellet for pest control also depends on the type of pest. 

Another important thing you need to take care of is the muzzle energy, or FPE, of the air rifle.

If you’re unaware of FPE, it basically states the amount of energy that hits the target.

Hence, for different pests, you need different FPE. 

Let’s take a look at the required FPE for each type of pest: 

Pest Type	FPE Required	Suggested Caliber
Rats	5 FPE	.177 Cal
Chipmunks	6 FPE	.177 Cal
Squirrels	9 FPE	.22 Cal
Iguanas	10 FPE	.22 Cal
Groundhogs	12 FPE	.22 Cal
Possums	25 FPE	.22 Cal
Raccoons	25 FPE	.22 Cal

The FPE largely depends on two factors – the velocity and the pellet weight.

So, ensure that apart from looking for FPS, you focus on the pellets you use as well. 

2. Sound Produced

Imagine if you’re about to shoot a pest in your backyard and the sound is so loud that your neighbors may feel threatened.

Trust me, you would want to avoid this situation. 

Generally, air rifles have a noise between 74 and 90 decibels.

You may find some models on the quieter side and for pest hunting — those are the best. 

For example, the Benjamin Marauder air rifle is one of the quietest air rifles on the market with 74 decibel sounds. 

When it comes to the type of air rifle, you’ll find that springers are the quietest ones.

So, they’re ideal for hunting backyard pests too if you’re looking for quiet air rifles. (See this post for more)

3. Repeater Mechanism

It isn’t always possible to kill the pest in one single shot itself.

Sometimes, they may still be alive.

Therefore, you should look for an air rifle with a repeater mechanism. 

A repeater mechanism allows you to shoot multiple shots before having to reload your gun.

This allows you to kill the pest immediately before they escape. 

On the contrary, a single-shot rifle may allow the animal or rodent to escape before you shoot them again. 

4. Easy Usage and Lightweight Nature

You would want to go for an air rifle that is lightweight, easy to use, and low maintenance. 

When it comes to weight, most air rifles weigh around 6 to 7 pounds.

You can opt for those as they’re ideal for backyard hunting and easy to use. 

What is the Best Air Rifle Choice for Pest Control?

1. Best Overall Air Rifle for Pest Control: Benjamin Marauder

If you’re looking for the best PCP air rifle for pest control, the Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock is the one.

This rifle offers a power-packed performance with excellent velocity and accuracy. 

Moreover, the air rifle’s velocity ranges anywhere between 850 FPS to 1000 FPS.

So, you can easily get a clean shot while hunting squirrels and similar pests. 

Therefore, if you’re planning to get Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock, you simply don’t have to worry about the velocity or accuracy. 

Owing to its excellent FPE and FPS, it is ideal for hunting squirrels, woodchucks, chipmunks, and groundhogs. 

read review here

Moving on to the repeater mechanism, Benjamin Marauder doesn’t disappoint here either. 

You can easily fire up to 10 successive shots using your Marauder rifle.

This way, no pest can escape easily!

I have found that a lot of people admire this rifle for its ultra-quiet sound of 74 decibels. 

Most users say that it’s so dead silent that if you’re shooting one squirrel, the others won’t even know. 

When it comes to rifle architecture, the Benjamin Marauder weighs around 7.3 lbs.

Thus, it’s light enough to carry while you’re hunting pests. 

The only major limitations to this rifle are its somewhat basic finish and consistency.

As you can see in the table above, the muzzle velocity deviates a lot as per the pellets. 

Overall, the Benjamin Marauder makes for an accurate, quick, and noise-free PCP air rifle for pest control.

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Heavies 33.95 Gr	50 yards	dime size
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Heavies 33.95 Gr	30 yards	3/8"
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65gr	30 yards	1/4"
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	27 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	30 yards	1/4"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	40 yards	1/4"
.22	JSB Diablo 18.13 gr	40 yards	dime size
.25	JSB Exact King 25.4 Gr	50 yards	quarter size
.22	H&N Field Target 16.36 Gr	10 yards	one hole
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14.0 Gr	10 yards	one hole
.177	Crosman Premiers 10.5 gr	30 yards	dime size
.25	JSB Exact King 25.39 gr	35 yards	one hole
.177	JSB 10.3 gr	50 yards	dime size
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	50 yards	0.5"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr	50 feet	one hole
.22	JSB Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	0.6"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr	40 yards	1/2"
.22	Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum 14.3 gr	48 yards	0.45"
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 gr	45 yards	1/2"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr	20 yards	0.16"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr	75 yards	3/4"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 Gr	100 yards	1.5"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39gr	30 yards	3/4"
.22	Crosman Premier pointed 14.3gr	22 yards	1/16"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	45 yards	dime size
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	25 yards	3/8"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	dime size
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	45 yards	1/4"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr	43 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	quarter size
.25	Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4 gr	50 yards	0.74"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	0.61"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	100 yards	3/4"
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr	50 yards	0.57"
.22	JSB Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr	50 yards	0.77"
.22	Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr	50 yards	0.62"
.22	Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr	100 yards	2.38"
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr	100 yards	1.96"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	3/4"
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr	30 yards	0.3"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	30 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	0.75"
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr	30 yards	1/4"
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	35 yards	dime size
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr	50 yards	0.5"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	55 yards	0.5"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	one hole
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	40 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	35 yards	one hole
.177	JSB Diabolo Exact Heavy 10.34 Gr	48 yards	0.87
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	100 yards	1.4"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	75 yards	0.75"
.25	Predator Polymag 26 Gr	50 yards	3/4"
.177	Crosman Premier 10.5 Gr	50 yards	0.75"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	75 yards	0.5"
.25	Air Arms Diabolo Fields 25.4 gr	50 yards	0.74"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	0.61"
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field 16gr	50 yards	0.57"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65gr	887	18.61
.22	JSB Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr	815	37.46
.22	JSB Diablo 18.13 gr	950	36.34
.177	JSB Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	1010	19.12
.177	Crosman Premiers 10.5 gr	915	19.52
.22	JSB Jumbo Express 14.35 gr	910	26.39
.177	JSB 10.3 gr	890	18.12
.177	Crosman Premier Domed 10.5 Gr	960	21.49
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 gr	1050	19.34
.22	H&N Crow Magnum 18.21 Gr	775	24.29
.22	Predator Polymag 15.89 gr	815	23.44
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr	910	26.39
.22	Crosman Premiere 14.3 gr	882	24.71
.25	Air Arms Diabolo Field 25.4 gr	879	43.59
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	874	43.08
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 gr	757	20.36
.22	JSB Exact Jumbo 14.35 gr	792	19.99
.22	Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr	786	19.62
.22	Crosman Premier Dome 14.3gr	1015	32.72
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	860	41.71
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	875	30.83
.25	JSB Exact Kings 25.39 grain	838	39.6
.22	RWS Hobby 11.9 Gr	920	22.37
.177	H&N Baracuda 10.65 gr	908	19.5
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	845	22.68
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	900	45.68
.25	Predator Polymag 26 Gr	874	44.11
.22	H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 gr	853	34.16
.25	Air Arms Diabolo Fields 25.4 gr	880	43.69
.25	JSB Diabolo King 25.39 gr	875	43.18

Recommended uses:

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

Pros and Cons

check price on Pyramyd Air

2. Best Air Rifle for Rats: Diana Chaser

If you’re looking for a budget air rifle for pest control, especially rats, Diana Chaser is worth trying.

This cheap air rifle for pest control is specifically amazing for rats as it’s available in both .177 and .22 caliber with varying muzzle velocity. 

I suggest opting for the .177 version as it can work accurately with long distances.

As rats are small pests, you wouldn’t require a lot of power either but you do need great accuracy.

Moreover, Diana Chaser is also the best pellet pistol for rats as per several users. 

Both the .177 and .22 Diana Chaser offer just the right velocity (FPS) and accuracy. 

As mentioned above, you require around 500 FPS for hunting rats easily.

Thankfully, Diana Chaser offers 525 FPS (.177) and 460 FPS (.22) that work perfectly. 

This rifle takes into consideration the amateurs and the professionals.

Hence, it is the best-value pellet pistol for rats for almost everyone.

With a muzzle velocity of 525 FPS and energy of 8.6 FPE, you can either hunt small animals or practice target shots. 

Moreover, it is inexpensive, so if you are a beginner looking for good air rifles, then this is the best option for you.

It also comes with a repeater mechanism and you can easily shoot 50 shots per CO2 fill. 

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.177	Crosman Premier Domed 10.5gr	10 yards	1/4"
.177	Crosman Pellets Hollow 7.9gr	15 meters	nickel size
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	15 yards	1"
.22	RWS Hobby 11.9 gr	15 yards	one hole
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	10 yards	one hole
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	10 meters	dime size

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.22	Predator Polymag 15.89 gr	525	9.73
.22	RWS Hobby 11.9 gr	545	7.85
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 gr	650	7.41
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 gr	532	8.99
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr	530	8.73
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr	511	8.5
.22	H&N Terminator 16.36 Gr	501	9.12
.177	JSB Simply Pellets 8.02 Gr	652	7.57
.177	H&N Sniper Light 7.4gr	550	4.97
.22	H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.52gr	409	6.88

Recommended uses:

• Target shooting/plinking
• Pest control: starlings, rats, pigeons.

check price on Pyramyd Air

3. Best Air Rifle for Possums and Gophers: Benjamin Marauder Air Pistol Prod

If you want to invest more but at less price, you can go for the Benjamin Marauder Air Pistol. 

This is perfect for hunting possums and gophers since it requires a velocity of 800 FPS and Benjamin Marauder provides the same. 

Moreover, this lightweight air pistol offers you excellent accuracy and if you are a good hunter, then you will definitely hit the right spot. 

With a .22 caliber air pistol and 8 shots magazine, you can easily control the possum situation at your place. 

Moreover, Benjamin Marauder offers an ultra-quiet experience in comparison to the pistol.

It gets the job done with 98 decibels.

The 3000 PSI of compressed air helps to have a rather amazing hunting experience in terms of sound. 

Additionally, it only gives about 30 shots before the consistency starts to drop.

Benjamin Marauder produces the best muzzle velocity and energy on the list. Plus, its trigger is lightweight and it has no recoil too.  

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	25 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr	17 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr	38 yards	1/4"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr	50 yards	1"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	25 yards	dime size
.22	Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr	22 yards	0.5"
.22	Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr	55 yards	1"
.22	Predator Polymag 15.89 gr	40 yards	1/2"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr	15 yards	0.2"
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	30 yards	1/4"
.22	H&N Baracuda 18.13 Gr	30 yards	0.8"
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr	60 yards	2.21"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr	800	20.33
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr	745	22.35
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr	622	13.65
.22	H&N Hunter 18.2 gr	710	20.38
.22	Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr	568	15.15
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr	643	13.13
.22	Predator Polymag 16.0 Gr	611	13.27
.22	RWS Superdome 14.5 Gr	615	12.18
.22	H&N Sniper Light 14 gr	665	13.75

Recommended uses

• Target shooting/plinking
• Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, possums, gophers, pythons.

It’s quiet enough and has enough power to kill the possum in the first go. 

Benjamin Marauder is the rifle of your dreams but it does not have a good finish.

In terms of its appearance as well, it is below average.

But when you’re getting such a  great deal at the best price, then such details are minor. 

check price on Pyramyd Air

4. Beeman R9: Best Air Rifle for Raccoons and Skunks

With a maximum velocity of 935 FPS, the Beeman R9 is your best bet at killing raccoons and skunks.

(Are raccoon rodents? See this post for more)

It is a dream to work with this rifle especially during hunting because of its spot-on accuracy.

Although .177 is the optimum caliber, if you are into eliminating the pest problem, then you can easily work well with .22 caliber too. 

Beeman R9 is a vintage model but it can easily take over any air rifle of this velocity.

At 7.3 lbs, this German-quality air rifle will not disappoint you even if you want to target practice. 

Unfortunately, the only issue with this rifle is with the adjustment screws that loosen up after some time.

You’ll have to tighten them up just in case before you start practicing or hunting. 

Additionally, it does not have a silencer, so it will get a bit difficult to fire a shot and not wake the neighborhood. 

With its sheer consistency, accuracy, and appearance, you will not be able to part with this rifle.

It eases your hands naturally and comfortably. 

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	Crosman Premiere Hollow Point 14.3 gr	20 yards	dime size
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr	25 yards	dime size
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr	10 yards	0.16"
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr	20 yards	0.17"
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr	30 yards	0.49"
.22	Predator GTO 11.75 Gr	25 yards	0.5"
.22	Predator GTO 11.75 Gr	50 yards	1"
.22	H&N Barracuda Hunter Extreme	20 yards	1/4"
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr	50 yards	dime size
.177	Beeman Kodiak Match 10.65 gr	60 yards	quarter size
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 gr	25 yards	0.4"
.22	Beeman FTS Double Gold 14.66 Gr	25 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Exact pellet	25 yards	dime size
.22	RWS Hobby pellet	30 meters	dime size
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Express 14.3 gr	50 yards	quarter size
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	25 yards	dime size
.177	H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 Gr	25 yards	dime size
.177	RWS Supermag 9.3 gr	25 yards	1/2"
.177	Crosman Premier Heavy 10.5 gr	20 yards	dime size
.177	Predator Polymag 8.0 gr	25 yards	1/4"
.177	Beeman FTS 8.64 gr	50 yards	7/16"
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14gr	20 yards	0.22"
.22	JSB Hades 15.89 gr	25 yards	0.44"
.22	H&N Terminator 16.36gr	25 yards	0.35"
.22	H&N Terminator 16.36gr	50 yards	0.65"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr	750	18.32
.20	JSB Exact 13.9 gr	708	15.48
.20	H&N Field Target 11.42 gr	772	15.12
.22	Predator GTO 11.75 Gr	757	14.95
.20	H&N Field Target 11.42 gr	780	15.43
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr	741	17.07
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr	730	17.35
.20	Beeman H&N Match 10.03 Gr	820	14.98
.22	Beeman FTS Double Gold 14.66 Gr	680	15.06
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	860	13.86
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	725	16.69
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr	700	15.95
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.4 Gr	803	12.03
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 Gr	830	12.09
.22	RWS Meisterkugeln 14gr	713	16
.22	JSB Hades 15.89 gr	656	15.19
.22	H&N Terminator 16.36gr	658	15.73
.22	H&N Baracuda 18.21 gr	651	17.14
.22	Predator GTO 11.75 gr	814	17.29
.22	JSB Exact Jumbo 13.43 gr	674	13.55
.177	Beeman Kodiak 10.6 gr	770	13.97
.177	RWS Hobby 7.0 gr	931	13.45

With the energy of more than 17 FPE, H&N Field Target Trophy, Baracuda and RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr are your best bets for hunting raccoons and skunks. 

Pros and Cons

Recommended uses

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

check price on Pyramyd Air

5. Best Air Rifle for Iguanas: Umarex 850 M2 CO2

If you are looking for a CO2-based air rifle then, Umarex 850 M2 is one of the best CO2 air guns you can get.

You may think that with CO2 the cost of the air will increase, but this is not the case.

This air rifle is extremely affordable.

Additionally, it works well with a wide range of pellets and gives an accurate shot with most of the pellets. 

If you are a beginner then this is the air rifle for you.

You can practice target shots or even get rid of the Iguana problem in your backyard.

(How To Get Rid Of Iguanas? See this post for more)

With a 750 FPS and light trigger pull, this is a favorite among shooters. 

However, the bolt of Umarex 850 is a bit rough, so if you are starting out, it may seem uncomfortable to you.

Additionally, if you want to hunt silently, this air rifle is a bit too noisy for you. 

It is powered by 88g CO2, an 8-shot magazine, and can easily shoot about 250 pellets before it runs out. 

Moreover, it comes with an adjustable trigger and automatic safety that is good for a beginner.

But if you are a regular, then the automatic safety may irritate you a bit.

With a repeater mechanism, moderate sound, and a great finish, this is the best CO2 air rifle that you can get to hunt iguanas. 

read review here

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	651	7.94
.177	Gamo Platinum PBA 4.7 gr	790	6.51
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy Green 5.56 gr	759	7.11
.177	RWS Hobby 7.0 Grain	717	7.99
.177	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 7.9 gr	695	8.48
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	703	9.26
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	699	9.38

Recommended uses:

• Target shooting/plinking
• Pest control: iguanas.

check price on Pyramyd Air

6. Best Air Rifle for Coyotes: Seneca Dragon Claw

Seneca Dragon Claw has been consistently getting the best air rifle seller award since 2011.

With a 679 FPS of muzzle velocity, it uses a .50 caliber and releases 230 ft/lbs muzzle energy.

This makes it a perfect rifle for pests such as coyotes, feral hogs, foxes, and possums. 

This rifle is literally considered the ultimate survival hunting rifle.

Additionally, it comes with dual air chambers, a total of 500cc with a 3000 psi pressure. 

Unfortunately, it has no repeater mechanism, so you’ll have to load it time and again.

On the other hand, you can shoot more than 20 shots before you’ll have to fill the air again. 

Additionally, its trigger is a bit rough and there is a lot of resistance from the trigger before firing.

I would advise you to fill the tank with the scuba tank because this gun is heavy and it will get difficult to fill it manually. 

It is accurate and when the pressure is good, the gun is consistent too but as the pressure drops, the consistency becomes shaky. 

This rifle is loud and has a manual safety option instead of an automatic one.

(What meat is venison? Find out here)

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.50	Air Venturi Round Ball 177 gr	630	156.03
.50	Air Venturi FP 336 gr	556	230.7
.50	300 grain Pellet	738	362.9
.50	Air Venturi 210gr	640	191.04
.50	Air Venturi 336 gr	545	221.66

Recommended uses:

• Small/medium/large game hunting: hogs, buffalos, deers, groundhogs, coyotes, javelinas.

check price on Pyramyd Air

7. Best Budget Air Rifle for Pest Control: Diana Stormrider

If you are looking for a quality rifle on a budget to control the pest problem at your home, then look no further.

Diana Stormrider is an absolute favorite among shooters for its performance and accuracy. 

Moreover, this air rifle is one of the best budget options available in the market.

read review here

One of the best features of Diana Stormrider is its red-colored warning feature when you are about to pull the trigger.

The safety light comes on to warn you once. 

However, its bolt handle is not easy to operate.

The forward action is comfortable but when you pull it back, its small size makes it difficult to grasp. 

Plus, its consistency drops after 20 shots due to the lack of PCP level.

So you have to refill it up to 2900 psi to get the desired results. 

(Groundhog vs. Woodchuck: What’s the Difference? Find out here)

Another great feature of Diana Stormrider is the noise level which is way better than the other rifles.

It produces very little sound and you can easily use it for accurate shots. 

The low noise level is also beneficial for pest control as you can kill one without alarming the other.

Diana Stormrider offers you a whopping 1050 FPS of muzzle velocity.

This means that you can get away with any kind of pest situation at home.

(Is Squirrel A Rodent? See this post for more)

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	Predator Polymag 15.89 gr	40 yards	dime size
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1 Gr	55 yards	0.5"
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets, 14.3 Gr	30 yards	0.5"
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr	50 yards	3/4"
.177	Crosman Premier Light 7.9 Gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	20 yards	dime size
.177	H&N Excite Hollow Point 7.4gr	25 yards	nickel size
.177	H&N Excite Hollow Point 7.4gr	40 yards	quarter size
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	50 yards	1/4"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr	25 yards	7/16"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 gr	25 yards	9/16"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr	45 yards	3/8"
.22	Crosman Premier Domed 14.3 gr	45 yards	7/8"
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr	50 yards	1.05"
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr	100 yards	3.6"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.177	Crosman Premier Domed Field 10.5g	876	17.9
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 gr	705	15.79
.22	Slug HP 21gr	760	26.94
.177	JSB Exact Heavy 10.34 gr	825	15.63
.177	Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum 10.5 gr	925	19.95
.22	H&N Sniper Lights 14 gr	900	25.19
.22	H&N Hornets 16gr	870	26.9
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Domed 15.89gr	829	24.25
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr	887	23.47

Recommended uses

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

check price on Pyramyd Air

8. Best Spring Piston Air Rifle for Pest Control: HW50S

The HW50S spring piston air rifle from Weihrauch Sport is a high-quality gun perfect for plinking and hunting small rodents. With a state-of-the-art German design and construction, this gun is built to last.

The HW50S features a precision rifled barrel, making it accurate and reliable. The rugged stock is made from durable hardwood, making it sturdy and stable.

The HW50S also has an adjustable trigger, so you can customize it to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a gun for plinking or hunting, the HW50S is a perfect choice. 

Features

• Single-shot
• 24 lbs. cocking effort
• Checkered beech stock with raised cheekpiece
• 2-stage adjustable Rekord trigger
• Globe front sight accepts inserts (included)
• Adjustable rear sight
• Steel barrel & receiver
• Rubber buttpad
• Incl. front sight inserts

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.5 gr	20 yards	1/2"
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	10 meters	dime size
.177	H&N Excite Spike Pointed 8.64 Gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	Predator Polymag 8 Gr	15 meters	dime size
.22	Crosman Hollow Point 14.3 gr	25 yards	0.5"
.177	JBS Exact	25 yards	5/16"
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9gr	10 yards	one hole
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	35 yards	dime size
.177	JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr	10 yards	0.16"
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	30 yards	1/4"
.177	RWS Superdomes 8.3gr	25 yards	0.5"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.177	RWS Hobby 7 Gr	864	11.61
.177	H&N Excite Spike Pointed 8.64 Gr	765	11.23
.177	Predator Polymag 8 Gr	775	10.67
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9gr	765	10.27
.22	Crosman Premiers 14.3 gr	610	11.80
.177	H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr	754	10.91
.22	RWS Superdome 14.5 gr	630	12.78
.22	H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr	616	12.36
.177	JSB Exact 8.4 gr	775	11.21
.177	RWS Super Point 6.9 Gr	815	10.18
.22	RWS Hobby 11.9 gr	650	11.17
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 gr	770	10.4
.177	JSB Exact heavies 10.5 gr	660	10.16
.177	Crosman Premier 7.9 Gr	769	10.38

Pros and Cons

Recommended uses:

• Target shooting/backyard plinking
• Pest control: crows, iguanas, rats.

9. Most Accurate Rifle for Long Range Pest Control : Airforce Texan Big Bore

If you are looking for the world’s most powerful long-range air rifle, then your search stops right here.

The Airforce Texan is the best long-range air gun that you can use.

With a muzzle velocity of up to 1000 FPS and strong FPE, you are no longer limited to small games of hunting nearby pests.

You may also check our individual Airforce Texan review for an in-depth idea about the FPS and other features.

read review here

Of course with the world’s best product comes a high price range, so this air rifle is the most expensive one on this list. 

It’s available in a variety of caliber options such as .357, .308, .257, and .510.

All these produce excellent results. 

Unfortunately, the only problem is with the single shot as it does not have a repeater mechanism. 

Additionally, this air rifle is not for the faint-hearted, meaning that it is super loud.

But what else can you expect from a big-bore rifle? 

I personally love how I can change the caliber of the barrel according to the task at hand.

You can even hunt at night with the night vision scope and flashlight. 

It also includes an in-built manometer that keeps a track of the pressure level in the barrel.

So, if you find your performance deteriorating, that means the pressure levels are dropping. 

Hence, it’s obvious to state that it is a PCP that needs compressed air pressure.

Therefore, you need an external source to fill it. 

With a 490cc tank, you can shoot about 50 consistent shots before refilling the tank. 

It’s safe to say that this is not for amateurs but only for professionals.

It can produce over 500-foot-pounds of power and technically it blurs the line between a powerful firearm and an air rifle. 

This last point is probably the best for the shooters since Airforce Texan is a low-maintenance rifle. 

Occasionally, you can clean it up otherwise, you can keep it aside and it won’t bother you for a clean-up. 

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.308	JSB EXACT DIABOLO, 50.15 Gr	50 yards	1/2"
.308	JSB Exacts....50.15 gr	25 yards	nickel size
.457	340 grain	100 yards	0.75"
.457	143 grain round ball	50 yards	one hole
.457	150 gr ball	75 yards	3/4"
.457	Air Venturi FP 350 gr	50 yards	0.73"
.357	Aero Magnum	50 yards	0.66"
.357	Predator Polymag	50 yards	1.42"
.357	Aero Magnum	100 yards	1.31"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.357	JSB Diabolo Exact 81.02 gr	1100	217.74
.30	Slug 85 grains	1040	204.19
.457	Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains	1016	327.85
.357	Air Venturi Round Ball 66 grain	1066	166.58
.357	Air Venturi Flat Point 127 grain	847	202.36
.30	Nielson 122 gr. hollow point	692	129.76
.30	Hunter Supply 134 gr. s.p.	721	154.71
.457	Semi-wadcutters 215 Grains	835	332.94
.457	Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains,	1044	346.17
.457	Slugs Nielsen 350 gr	809	508.77
.457	Slugs 405 gr	765	526.42
.457	Air Venturi FP 350 gr	710	391.87
.257	Nielsen 85gr	1048	207.35
.257	Areo Magnum 70gr	1139	201.7
.457	Air Venturi PHP 250gr	813	367.01
.457	Air Venturi SWC 265gr	820	395.76
.457	Air Venturi FP 350 gr	746	432.62
.457	Air Venturi FP 405 gr	704	445.82
.357	Aero Magnum 128gr	915	238.02
.357	Predator Polymag 81gr	989	175.97
.457	Roundball 143 gr	907	261.28
.457	Hollow point 200 gr	848	319.43
.457	Round Nose 350 gr	791	486.38
.457	Round Nose 405 gr	750	505.98
.457	Hunters Specialty 310gr	806	447.29
.457	Hunters Specialty 350gr	769	459.7

Recommended uses

• Pest control – small/medium/large game hunting: deers, hogs, groundhogs, squirrels, rabbits, coyotes.

check price on Pyramyd Air

10. Best Value Air Rifle for Pest Control: 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.

Accuracy

Calibers	Pellets	Distances	Groups
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	1/2"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	35 yards	nickel size
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	10 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	25 yards	0.41"
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	50 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	30 yards	one hole
.22	Air Arms Diabolo Field Heavy 18 grain	50 yards	1"
.177	JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr	25 yards	1/4"
.177	JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr	50 yards	1/2"
.177	JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr	100 yards	1 1/2"
.177	JSB Exact heavy Diablo 10.34 gr	27 yards	0.26"
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	107 yards	2"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	3/4"
.22	H&N Barracuda Match 21.14 gr	25 yards	one hole
.22	H&N Barracuda Match 21.14 gr	50 yards	1/4"
.22	JSB 18 gr	50 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	40 yards	dime size
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	nickel size
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39gr	30 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Beast Jumbo 34 Gr	50 yards	dime size
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	20 yards	one hole
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	0.5"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	75 yards	.688"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	100 yards	1.25"
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	one hole
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	45 yards	one hole
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	50 yards	0.45"
.22	JSB Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr	50 yards	0.33"
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	50 yards	0.38"
.22	NSA Slugs 20.2 gr	50 yards	0.59"
.22	FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr	50 yards	0.48"
.22	H&N Slug HP 21 gr	50 yards	0.62"
.22	FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr	100 yards	1.55"
.22	FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr	50 yards	0.42"
.22	Jumbo Exact 16 gr	50 yards	1.07"
.22	Patriot Javelin Slugs 23 gr	50 yards	0.63"
.22	Patriot Javelin Slugs 23 gr	100 yards	1.67"

Chrony tests

Calibers	Pellets	FPS	FPE
.25	JSB Diablo MKII Heavies, 33.95 gr	843	53.59
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	865	30.13
.22	JSB Monster 25.39 gr	873	42.98
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	850	25.5
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	910	46.7
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	900	45.68
.25	H&N Barracuda 31.02 gr	833	47.81
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	880	27.33
.22	JSB Monster 25.39 gr	912	46.9
.22	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr	890	27.96
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	900	32.62
.25	Slug 41 gr	785	56.12
.22	Slug 25 gr	825	37.79
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.1 Gr	932	34.92
.22	Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr	950	28.66
.25	JSB Hades 26.54 gr	917	49.57
.22	JSB Beast Jumbo 34 Gr	850	54.56
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	822	21.46
.25	NSA Slugs 26.8gr	902	48.43
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr	944	50.25
.25	JSB Match Diabolo Hades 26.54gr	875	45.13
.22	Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr	976	30.25
.22	JSB Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39 gr	890	44.67
.22	JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr	867	30.27
.22	NSA Slugs 20.2 gr	948	40.32
.22	FX Hybrid Slugs 22gr	908	40.29
.22	H&N Slug HP 21 gr	846	33.38

Recommended uses

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

read review here

Pros and Cons

Final Thoughts

With so many air rifles out there, it can be a bit confusing to keep up with all the information around. 

But fear not! Just read the article according to the problem at hand.

Pests are sneaky little creatures that can destroy your backyard in no time. 

More and more people are choosing to sell their firearms in exchange for air rifles because when no other method for pest control works, turning to air rifles is the best option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use an Air Rifle in Your Background for Pest Control?

Yes, you can use an air rifle to hunt for pests in your backyard.

But you will have to check the gun laws of your area before doing so.

In a lot of countries and cities, there are very strict laws regarding air rifles and their usage. 

Additionally, you should be 18 or above to use air rifles.

Do check on your town’s laws and regulations before you use an air rifle. 

How Much Air Rifle Power Is Needed for Pest Control?

This completely varies according to the pest situation.

However, one important factor to keep in mind is the FPE, also known as muzzle energy. 

The muzzle energy is dependent mainly on FPS and the pellet weight.

Typically, you require an air rifle with 1000 FPS for pest control.

But, you also need to know how much energy is required to kill each pest in one clean shot. 

You can also refer to the table above to get a better idea about the FPE required for each type of pest. 

Do Chipmunks Bite?

Chipmunks are definitely not friendly as they are a house of deadly diseases.

But they bite in rare conditions such as when they are provoked unnecessarily.

Otherwise, they’ll probably run away if they sense the slightest danger. 

Do Chipmunks Carry Rabies? What Disease Do Chipmunks Carry?

Small pests such as chipmunks have a relatively low chance of spreading rabies.

It’s almost equivalent to zero.

But chipmunks do carry diseases like plague, hantavirus, and salmonella which are harmful to both babies and adults. 

How Can You Kill a Rat in a Humane Way?

Using an air rifle is the most humane way to kill a rat since the rat will die in a second.

Rat poison and rat traps are more cruel methods.

Which Animal Is More Dangerous, Possums or Raccoons?

Possums are docile animals who try to avoid confrontation as much as possible.

But if cornered or provoked, they can attack.

On the other hand, raccoons are aggressive creatures and would defend themselves in the first go.

They would try to bite you or attack you, sometimes even viciously. 

Will a BB Gun Kill a Raccoon?

No, a BB gun will not kill a raccoon because it does not produce the kind of energy required to kill a raccoon.

It will only injure the raccoon which is inhumane as it will die a slow death.

Or it can become too aggressive and attack you. 

Are Iguanas Poisonous?

Iguanas produce a venom that is generally harmless but they do have sharp teeth.

Although there have been a few cases where iguanas have bitten humans, this is rare.

Their bites can give serious injuries to your face, ankles, fingers, etc. 

Do Iguanas Change Colors? What Causes an Iguana To Change Colors?

Iguanas often change colors but not like chameleons.

They turn orange during mating season and dark green as they age.

In low temperatures, they turn black or brown to absorb heat and in hot temperatures, they turn to pastel colors. 

Is it legal to shoot a skunk with a pellet gun?

As we mentioned before, shooting any kind of pest has to be mandated by law.

If your district or town’s law states that you can shoot any pest with a pellet gun or air rifle, then you can do so. In a lot of places, it is legal to shoot pests like skunks in your backyard. 

Can a .22 Kill a Coyote? What Size Air Rifle Can Kill a Coyote?

No, a .22 rifle will hardly injure the coyote, and so will a .177.

They will either just run off in a distance or towards you for hurting them.

You can go for a .25 air rifle which will impact them more.

With a good distance and muzzle energy, a .25 will definitely work for you. 

How Many Times Can a Skunk Spray? Is Skunk Spray Toxic?

Skunks spray only in dire circumstances like when they feel threatened.

They can spray 6 times in succession.

Skunk spray is toxic for both dogs and humans, for the former it may cause diarrhea and vomit but for the latter, it will cause irritation.