Best Air Rifles – The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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AirForce, ASG, ATN, Aeon, Air Arms, Air Venturi, Anschutz, Ataman, Athlon Optics, Avanti.

All these are the air rifle brands starting with the Letter A.

Imagine if I had gone to Z, you would be really confused by now.

This is why you will find this “best air rifles of 2024” review of great help.

To get you in tune, it is good to look at the different types of air rifles.

hunting with an air rifle

Types of air rifles according to power sources

While a real gun uses powder burning to provide a ton of power source, an air gun only uses pressurized air as a power source

Which is much less powerful but safer, as well as legal in many more countries than real guns.

There are five mechanisms to produce pressurized air: Spring power, Variable Pump, Gas piston, Compressed CO2 gas, and Compressed air (PCP).

In general, these five types of rifles can be equally accurate, however, you need to get used to each recoil and speed.

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

the most exciting guns to have

The PCP air rifle has just a little recoil and the projectiles are fired from the barrel immediately

While the Springer recoils as much as a real gun and it takes time for the pellet to come out of the barrel.

So, when you shoot the spring-powered air rifle, you need to hold it steady or your projectile will fly way off course

But when you fire the PCP air rifle, you just need to pull the trigger and that’s it.

The CO2 rifle sits in the middle of the PCP and the Springer, faster than the latter but slower than the former.

The recoil is much more powerful than the PCP but still less so than the Springer .

small hunting game with air rifles

The spring-powered air rifles do not require any gas or refills.

You only need to cock, load it and shoot.

However, the spring can experience fatigue over time and cause the rifle to be less powerful. 

CO2 air rifles use bolt action so that you can fire shots in quick succession.

The spring-powered air rifles cannot shoot in such quick succession.

On the other hand, with spring-powered air rifles, you can just go on shooting endlessly.

The CO2 and gas piston air rifles can only fire a number of shots, after which they need to be refilled before shooting more.

For PCP air rifles, the air is held at a much higher pressure than in CO2 air rifles.

For CO2 air rifles, the maximum fill pressure is about 800 psi.

For PCP air rifles, the maximum fill pressure is about 3,000 psi.

This gives the PCP air rifles more consistency and accuracy when compared to the CO2 air rifles.

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

best pcp air rifle in 2019 for hunting

Generally, PCP air rifles are built better than CO2 air rifles.

PCP air rifles also incorporate regulators which further increase their consistency.

The better quality of materials used for PCP air rifles makes them even more accurate. 

Many riflemen find the variable pump air rifles quite difficult to master.

The effort you use to pump the rifle will determine the power of the shot.

For PCPs, you only have to fill the air tanks to the maximum fill pressure and go on shooting. 

It’s this that makes the PCP air rifle very popular, particularly with newbies.

However, shooting with a spring air rifle is so much fun as it will give you an experience similar to shooting a full-bore rifle.

If you can handle the recoil and still shoot accurately, you can consider yourself a great shot.

Spring power and compressed air are not affected by the temperature, while compressed CO2 gas works poorly when it’s too cold or too hot.

In terms of cost, Springer is the lowest because it does not need to be recharged, unlike the  CO2 and the PCP.

However, compressed air is more expensive than CO2 gas.

To sum up, if you need a fun gun that’s close to a real rifle, choose Springer.

If you need a modern,easy-operating gun, choose the PCP.

If you think the PCP air rifle costs a little too much, go for the CO2 rifle.

Caliber

The bigger the caliber size, the bigger the animal you can take down.

.177 calibers are the most accurate, long-range, and fastest in the air rifle world. They are suitable for small games like the pigeon.

.22 and .25 calibers have more power but less range and speed. They are suitable for medium games like raccoons and rabbits.

Other less common calibers include .20, .30, .357, .45, .50,.58, and .72 among others .

The bigger calibers are super powerful and capable of bringing down big games such as deer or boar.

Remember to choose a suitable and accurate air rifle to kill your prey ethically.

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

Below are the top-rated best air rifles of 2024, categorized for specific purposes and criteria

Warning: this is a long, comprehensive list so sit back and enjoy the reading!

Powerful air rifle for hunting: AirForce Texan Big Bore

AirForce Airgun is one of the first manufacturers of PCP air rifles in the U.S.

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

airforce texan big bore air rifle

AirForce has some serious airguns for the serious shooter.

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

The Texan was released in 2015.

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

The gun is famous for its massively powerful shots.

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

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

You should never underestimate the power of this gun.

t1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

read review here

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

And can discharge 257, .308, .357, or .457 calibers at speeds up to 1,000 fps with over 500 ft/lbs of energy.

You can hunt anything with this air rifle.

Deer and boar are no issue.

With a long barrel of 34 inches, the AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle can shoot a faraway target even at 125 yards.

(For more on the best distance to sighting in an air rifle, see this post)

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

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

The stock is made from synthetic, comes in all back, and is really nicely finished.

The overall length is 48.5 inches and the weight is 8 pounds.

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

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

The AirForce Texan Big Bore Air Rifle Price will set you back just under $1000 – but it is the best PCP air rifle available for that amount.

t2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

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

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.357JSB Diabolo Exact 81.02 gr1100217.74
.30Slug 85 grains 1040204.19
.457Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains1016327.85
.357Air Venturi Round Ball 66 grain1066166.58
.357Air Venturi Flat Point 127 grain847202.36
.30Nielson 122 gr. hollow point
692129.76
.30Hunter Supply 134 gr. s.p.
721154.71
.457Semi-wadcutters 215 Grains835332.94
.457Air Venturi Round Ball 143 Grains, 1044 346.17
.457Slugs Nielsen 350 gr809508.77
.457Slugs 405 gr765526.42
.457Air Venturi FP 350 gr710391.87
.257Nielsen 85gr1048207.35
.257Areo Magnum 70gr1139201.7
.457Air Venturi PHP 250gr813367.01
.457Air Venturi SWC 265gr820395.76
.457Air Venturi FP 350 gr746432.62
.457Air Venturi FP 405 gr704445.82
.357Aero Magnum 128gr915238.02
.357Predator Polymag 81gr989175.97
.457Roundball 143 gr907261.28
.457Hollow point 200 gr848319.43
.457Round Nose 350 gr791486.38
.457Round Nose 405 gr750505.98
.457Hunters Specialty 310gr806447.29
.457Hunters Specialty 350gr769459.7
t3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

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

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Made in the USA
  • Great power and accuracy without too much tuning
  • Quality construction
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Wonderful hunting airgun for large game
  • The rifle is long for a gun case
airforce texan big bore powerful air rifle

click for the lowest price

Benjamin Marauder

overall benjamin marauder

The Benjamin Marauder is evidently the most popular air rifle in 2021.

Perhaps what endears this air rifle to the masses is the high level of built-in tuning capability.

You can adjust the muzzle velocity, the number of shots per fill, the fill pressure, and also trigger settings.

All these customization options are clearly outlined in the owner’s manual

You do not need to be a pro to make this gun your own in every aspect possible.

read review here

b3 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Testing with the Gamo Raptor 9.7 grain pellets in the .22 caliber yields muzzle velocities of up to 1040 fps, with a muzzle energy of 23 FPE.

For heavier pellets, such as the H&N Baracuda Match 21.14 grain pellets, the muzzle velocity drops to 843 fps, which is equivalent to a muzzle energy of 33 FPE.

These energy values are more than enough to kill small and medium-sized games such as pigeons, raccoons, and rabbits or for pest control purposes.

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

b1 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

You will also find the trigger action pleasant enough.

As mentioned earlier, you have the option to adjust the trigger pull weight, and the position of the trigger blade and make changes to the first and second stages of pulling the trigger.

Just make sure you keep all things safe.

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  Garden Rescue: Best Air Rifles For Squirrels 2024 (Reviews & Buying Guide)

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
b2 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, rabbits, crows, starlings, groundhogs, raccoons, tree rats.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Made in the USA
  • Very quiet
  • Fantastic accuracy
  • Impressive muzzle energy
  • Ideal for pest control/small games hunting 
  • The wood stock version is a little bit heavy
benjamin marauder for you.jpg

Check Price on PyramydAir

Best CO2 air rifle for the money: Diana Chaser Rifle Kit

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. 

d1 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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. 

d2 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.177Crosman Premier Domed 10.5gr10 yards1/4"
.177Crosman Pellets Hollow 7.9gr15 metersnickel size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr15 yards1"
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr15 yardsone hole
.177H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Gr10 yardsone hole
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 Gr10 metersdime size

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr5259.73
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr5457.85
.177Crosman Premier 7.9 gr6507.41
.22Crosman Premier 14.3 gr 5328.99
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr530 8.73
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr511 8.5
.22H&N Terminator 16.36 Gr5019.12
.177JSB Simply Pellets 8.02 Gr6527.57
.177H&N Sniper Light 7.4gr5504.97
.22H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 18.52gr4096.88
.177Predator GTO 5.0 Grain 676 5.59
1.177H&N Field Target Trophy Green 5.56 Grain 6645.45
2.177RWS Hobby 7.0 Grain 605 5.58
3.177Crosman Premier HP 7.9 Grain 5986.27
4.177JSB Exact Diabalo 8.44 Grain5936.59
5.177H&N Field Target Trophy 8.64 Grain5716.25
6.177H&N Baracuda Match 10.65 Grain5497.13

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control: starlings, rats, pigeons.
d4 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Inexpensive
  • Lightweight and accurate
  • Can be switched between pistol and carbine in minutes
  • Perfect for shooting small pests like rats and pigeons
  • The user manual is not very descriptive
d3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

check price on Pyramyd Air

Best air rifle for medium game hunting: FX Impact M3

Designed to advance and evolve beyond traditional limitations to push the boundaries of accuracy and power capabilities, the FX Impact M3 will take your shooting experience to the next level.

f1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Beginning with its dual regulator system, the smooth transfer of air from the first regulator to the second provides outstanding consistency in output pressure, as well as greater accuracy for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and serious air rifle shooters alike.

The versatility of this weapon also extends to features such as its integrated universal moderator, a handy fill probe device that comes standard with an extended high-capacity magazine.

As if that weren’t enough, users can configure this adaptable platform according to their specifications with multiple user-changeable parts and accessories available.

From barrels in various calibers to an array of stocks – designed specifically to deliver ergonomic manipulation while allowing you precise control over your shot velocity – you have a choice when it comes to customizing your impact.

All told, compared to competing models on the market today, there is no substitute for the masterful engineering behind this iconic compressed air rifle – packed dueling power and precision into one attractive piece of machinery.

The heart of the Impact M3 is the Power Plenum 720 – a 72cc chamber that’s more spacious than your average airgun powerplant, allowing for more precise airflow that propels the projectile further and with greater accuracy.

With energy-dense compressed air, you have resolute confidence when taking shots from far distances – perfect for those long hunting trips.

But what really sets the Impact M3 apart is its Quick Tune System, which allows for nearly limitless adjustment capabilities to get precisely tuned performance no matter your skill level or preferred type of shooting.

This tool-free system gives users complete control over their rifle’s accuracy without having to do any complex work. It truly is a remarkable feature you won’t find on other air rifles today.

This powerhouse of an air rifle allows you to adjust the air pressure with dual regulators, adjust the length of time the valve stays open with a front valve adjuster, and adjust the strength of the hammer even further with its redesigned Micro and Macro Power Adjustments.

Experience incredible accuracy that was never before possible thanks to 16-step power wheel adjustments on the Rear Macro Power Wheel, allowing you to tailor your firepower from 5-15 FPS depending on caliber and regulator pressure.

It even gets better with the Micro Fine Adjustment, offering incredibly precise increments of 1-2 FPS per click of the barrel roller – the possibilities are endless with this exquisite piece of engineering.

With an ambidextrous short throw cocking lever and enlarged handle, dual transfer ports on most calibers, barrel housing tolerances that are tightened for a snugger fit and better accuracy, breech adjustments to house the Side-Shot Magazine, a crisp trigger, 20 MOA built into the scope rail and Dual Wika manometers as well as more forthcoming accessories available today – all these improvements make the FX Impact an ideal choice not only for shooting enthusiasts but also for hunters looking for maximum power with each shot.

f3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features:

  • FX Smooth Twist X Superior (STX) barrel system
  • Interchangeable calibers and barrel liners (sold separately)
  • Externally adjustable dual AMP (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
  • Power Block, redesigned rear block
  • Improved, Wika dual pressure gauges: one for air cylinder pressure, one for second regulator pressure. First regulator has a standard FX gauge. 
  • Forward-mounted reversible side lever cocking
  • 250 BAR (3,625 PSI) max. fill pressure
  • Equipped with improved 72cc Power Plenum 720 – allowing for an even wider range of power adjustment
  • .22 and .25 cal M3’s feature Dual transfer ports – one optimized for pellets, one for slugs
  • Male Quick Disconnect fitting
  • Picatinny/Weaver optics mounting rail with 20 MOA compensation
  • Picatinny accessory rails below the cylinder and on each side of the forearm
  • Two-stage adjustable match trigger
  • Height adjustable rubber buttpad
  • AR15 style Hogue pistol grip
  • AR15 style manual safety
  • Side Shot magazine capacity: 38 rds. in .177, 28 rds. in .22, 25 rds. in .25, 21 rds. in .30
  • Maximum muzzle energy*: 35 FPE in .177, 79 FPE in .22, 89 FPE in .25, 124 FPE in .30
  • Includes one side-shot magazine and 3 year transferable warranty
f4 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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
f5 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses:

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

read review here

f2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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.

a1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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.

The Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle is the perfect addition to any outdoors enthusiast’s arsenal.

Combining power and affordability, this high-powered PCP air rifle weighs about 6 lbs., and features a fully shrouded barrel with either a synthetic or wooden stock.

It even has an 11-millimeter dovetail/weaver combo rail to fit most scope mounts, so you can customize your mount to your specific needs.

The Avenger comes with a Picatinny rail section on the fore-end of the stock for adding bipods, lights, and lasers.

The externally adjustable regulator goes up to 3,000 psi/210 bar and boasts a max-fill pressure of 4,351 psi/300 bar – making it more than capable enough for even the toughest jobs.

Plus, thanks to its two-stage adjustable trigger and manual safety you can be sure that it’ll fire accurately and safely time after time!

The Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle is the ideal air rifle to take you from novice shooters to experts.

Whether you’re an avid hunter or an air gunner, this sleek and agile PCP air rifle is the perfect fit. It sports a unique design with front and rear swivel studs for mounting a sling, making it easy to maneuver through the woods for an enjoyable hunting experience.

a2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features:

  • Shoots up to 100 FPS (.177), 930 FPS (.22), 900 FPS (.177)
  • Side lever Cocking
  • Externally Adjustable Regulator (Up to 3,000 PSI / 210 BAR)
  • Easily accessible Hammer Spring Adjustment Screw and Degassing Screw
  • Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger
  • Max Fill Pressure: 4,351 PSI (300 BAR) , Male Quick Disconnect Fill Fitting
  • Fully Shrouded Barrel
  • Dual Gauges – Reg Pressure (RH Side) and Fill Pressure (LH Side)
See also  Best PCP air rifles for the money 2024 - Top 5 stunning guns to have (Reviews and Buying Guide)
a3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

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

Chrony tests

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

Recommended uses:

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, raccoons, jackrabbits.
a4 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (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

Check Price on PyramydAir

Air Arms S510 XS Xtra FAC

When beauty and accuracy are your top considerations, you will find the Air Arms S510 XS Xtra FAC a truly invaluable air rifle.

First things first – the look.

The traditional wooden stock, walnut, in this case, will certainly charm you.

Coupled with the black barrel and other metal parts, this air rifle will certainly feel trendy and stylish.

aa1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Not only the looks – performance is not compromised with this air rifle.

It comes in three calibers, .177, .22, and .25.

Using the pellets that come with the air gun, the .177 caliber will give you a muzzle velocity of 1050 fps.

The .22 caliber will give you 920 fps.

The .25 caliber will give you 780 fps.

As expected, other pellets will yield different results from these.

At the rear end of the stock is a ventilated rubber butt pad that protects you from any recoil coming from the gun.

The butt also keeps you from getting tired when aiming at the target.

The air rifle’s barrel is the coveted Lothar Walther. With this, you can be sure of consistent, clean shots.

aa4 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • Precharged pneumatic
  • Sidelever cocking
  • Fully Regulated
  • 10-shot repeater
  • 2-stage adjustable trigger
  • 5 position adjustable power
  • 11mm scope grooves (no open sights)
  • 3,625 psi fill pressure (250 bar)
  • Built-in manometer (air pressure gauge)
  • 288cc air tank
  • Lothar Walther barrel
  • Shrouded barrel for extra-quiet shooting
  • Ambidextrous Monte Carlo poplar stock
  • Dual raised cheekpieces
  • Checkered pistol grip and forearm
  • Superbly blued
  • Magnificent stock finish
  • Ventilated rubber buttpad
aa3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr.25 yardsone quarter
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr40 yardsdime size
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King Heavies 33.95gr50 yards5/8"
.22 JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 Gr40 yardsone hole
.22JSB Jumbo Heavy Diabolo 18.13 gr 30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Jumbo Heavy Diabolo 18.13 gr 50 yardsdime size
.22H&N Sport Baracuda Match30 yards0.16"
.22Beeman Kodiaks 21.14gr30 yards0.2"
.25Air Arms Field 25.4 Gr30 yardsdime size
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr50 yardsdime size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr35 yardsone hole
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr25 yards 3/8"
.177Air Arms Field Heavy 10.34 Gr25 yards 1/2"
.25Air Arms Field 25.4 Gr50 yards0.59"
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 Gr50 yards0.62"
.25Predator GTO 16.54 Gr50 yards0.66"
.25Air Arms Field 25.4 Gr100 yards1.97"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr98038.67
.22Beeman Kodiak 21.14 Gr 83232.5
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr94531.52
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr97630.25
.177Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 10.6 Gr1020 24.49
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr108121.91
.22Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 21.14 gr 86835.38
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr98530.82
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr98434.17
.22Beeman Crow Magnum 18.21 gr960 37.27
.177RWS Hobby 7 gr1032
16.56
.177RWS R10 Match 7.0 gr101516.02
.177RWS Meister Pistol 7 gr104717.04
.177Beeman Silver Bear Hi-impact 7.1 gr103216.79
.177RWS Superpoint 8.2 gr103419.47
.177Napier Hunter 7.72 gr102718.08
.177JSB Match Exact Express Diabolo 7.87 Gr100717.73
.177Crosman Premier Light 7.9gr103218.69
.177Predator Polymag 8.0 Gr102418.63
.177RWS R10 Match Heavy 8.2 Gr1014
18.73
.177H&N Match Heavy 8.18 Gr99517.99
.177RWS Superdome 8.3 gr 101018.81
.177RWS Meisterkugeln 7 gr98915.21
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr103420.04
.177Beeman FTS 8.80 gr101820.26
.177Beeman Silver Sting 8.64 Gr98718.69
.177Beeman FTS Double Gold 8.64 Gr99619.04
.177H&N Crow Magnum 8.80 Gr101019.94
.177RWS Supermag 9.3 Gr96919.39
.177JSB Diabolo Exact Heavy 10.34 Gr99422.69
.177H&N Baracuda Hunter 10.49 gr 96921.88
.177Crosman Premier Heavy 10.5 Gr98022.4
.177Beeman Kodiak Match 10.65 gr96421.98
.177Beeman Kodiak Double Gold 10.65 Gr93820.81
.177Beeman Silver Arrow 11.57 Gr91921.7
.177H&N Rabbit Magnum II 15.74gr83424.32
.22RWS Meisterdugeln 14.0 Gr92926.84
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr95028.66
.22JSB Jumbo Express 14.35 gr94528.46
.22RWS Superdome 14.5 Gr94228.58
.22Beeman FTS Copper Plated 14.72 gr93728.7
.22Napier Power Hunter 15.42gr92329.18
.22Beeman Silver Sting 15.74 gr 91129.01
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr93330.72
.22Beeman Silver Arrow 17.13gr88129.53
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr88931.82
.22Beeman Crow Magnum 18.21 gr86730.4
.22Beeman Kodiak Copper Plated 21.12 gr80730.55
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Monster 25.39gr71228.59
.25H&N Baracuda 30.86 gr85750.34
.25Beeman Silver Arrow 24.38 gr81135.61
.25JSB Match Diabolo Exact King 25.39 gr82138.01
.25Beeman Silver Bear 26.23 gr79636.91
.25Beeman Kodiak Extra Heavy 31.02 gr75939.69
.22Air Arms Diabolo Field 16 Gr93731.2
.25Air Arms 25.4 gr85841.53
.25JSB Exact King 25.39 gr86442.1

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: squirrels, rabbits, doves, pigeons, raccoons.
aa2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)
ProsCons
  • Beautiful walnut stock with nicely blued air cylinder
  • Checkered pistol grip suitable for a firm grip
  • 5-position power adjuster 
  • One of the most accurate pellet rifles you will ever come across 
  • Awesome punching power
  • Fully shrouded match grade Lothar Walther barrel 
  • Not pellet picky
  • Walnut stock is a bit heavy

Check Price on PyramydAir

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i 

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Gas piston Air Rifle is an impressive piece of gear that makes firing your shots quick and accurate.

This high-powered air rifle can fire alloy .177 caliber pellets at up to 1,650 FPS.

g1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

With a horizontal inertia-fed magazine, you’ll get lightning-fast follow-up shots with a 10-shot capacity.

Furthermore, enjoy complete peace of mind knowing you won’t annoy anyone in the vicinity thanks to Gamo’s Whole Fusion noise-dampening technology – one of the quietest technologies designed by Gamo.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Air Rifle is the latest in advanced air rifle technology.

Featuring a 33-millimeter IGT Mach1 Gas Piston, the Swarm Magnum has superior velocity and terminal penetration compared to other standard spring power plants.

The Custom Action Trigger (CAT) allows users to independently adjust both stages of the trigger so they can customize their rifle’s trigger pull and crispness to their exact specifications.

The Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) has been specifically designed to dampen the intense recoil of high-powered rifles and also reduce the stress placed on your scope.

As a testament to its durability, the Swarm Magnum is backed by 5 Year Warranty and proudly made in Barcelona, Spain.

g2 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • 10X GEN 2 Quick-Shot inertia-fed magazine
  • Max velocity: 1300 fps with alloy, 975 fps with lead
  • Break barrel
  • .22 cal
  • IGT Mach 1 gas piston
  • 2-stage adjustable Custom Action Trigger (CAT)
  • Checkered grip and forearm
  • Whisper Fusion noise suppression
  • Automotive grade glass-filled nylon all-weather thumbhole stock
  • Shock Wave Absorber (SWA) recoil pad
  • Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR)
  • Barrel length: 21.3″
  • Overall length: 49.2″
  • 5 year limited warranty
g4 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.177Gamo Precision60 yards1"
.22Gamo Red Fire 15.4 Gr30 yardsone hole
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr40 yards1"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22Gamo Red Fire 15.4 Gr93429.84
.22H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme 19gr83329.28
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr83524.61
.22H&N Baracuda Green 13gr93525.24
.22H&N Hornet 16.2 gr 89528.82
g11 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Good looking
  • Durable synthetic
  • Very comfortable stock
  • Great power & superb accuracy
  • The cocking effort takes sometime to get used to

Air Arms TX200

Spring piston air rifles work by the force of a piston compressing the air in front of it to shoot a pellet.

The powerful compressed gas drives the piston when you pull the trigger.

The piston of these air rifles is powered by a spring housed in a compression chamber.

air arms tx200 - best spring piston air rifle

The Air Arms TX200 is very popular among both hunters and sportsmen.

It’s got power, an excellent finish, perfect fit, and accuracy!

The Monte Carlo stock will captivate you.

The cheekpiece is a bit raised for added stability when aiming.

It is professionally blued which further adds to the beauty of the gun.

For added safety, the Air Arms TX200 includes an automatic safety and a two-stage trigger.

Testing this air rifle with the pellets supplied with it, the maximum muzzle velocity for the .177 caliber comes to 930 fps, and 755 fps for the .22 caliber. 

The only thing that may discourage you from purchasing this air rifle is the fact that it does not come with either a scope or open sights.

Make sure to get yourself a good quality one so as to fully realize the great accuracy of the rifle. 

Check Price on PyramydAir

Best variable pump pneumatic air rifle: Seneca Dragonfly MKII

The Seneca Dragonfly MKII Multi-Pump Air Rifle is the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and air rifle shooters.

Its sleek design and patented butterfly pump high-efficiency system make it a desirable gun for anyone looking for quality performance without having to put in too much effort.

dragonrightface Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

It is designed to reduce the amount of effort needed per pump by half compared to the older model, and the effort stays consistent from pump stroke to pump stroke.

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

Equipped with variable power capabilities, this air rifle can reach velocities up to 950 FPS in .177 and 800 FPS in .22 making it powerful enough for a variety of uses including plinking, pest control, or small-game hunting.

s5 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

With an elevation and windage adjustable rear sight, an 11-millimeter dovetail optics rail, and a fixed fiber-optic front sight to make it easy to line up your target with precision accuracy every time – this air rifle is the perfect tool for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts.

This pistol grip-style action makes it ideal for long hours in the field or at the shooting range, so you can enjoy accuracy and reliability every time.

Built for safety and security, the Seneca Dragonfly MKII also comes fitted with a manual safety mechanism and single-shot tray that helps make loading a breeze. Each package also includes one magazine and a single-shot tray, so you’ll always have your ammo ready to go.

s2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • Multi-pump pneumatic
  • Patented Butterfly High Efficiency Pump System
  • Hardwood stock
  • Bolt-action
  • 1/2″ UNF threaded muzzle adapter
  • Max. velocity (alloy): 950 FPS (.177), 800 FPS (.22)
  • Max. velocity (lead): 850 FPS (.177), 730 FPS (.22)
  • Magazine capacity: 9 rounds (.177), 7 rounds (.22)
  • Variable power: 3-15 pumps
  • Checkered grip
  • 11mm dovetail optics rail
  • Fixed fiber optic front sight
  • Elevation and windage adjustable rear sight
  • Textured rubber buttpad
  • Weight: 6.5 lbs.
  • Barrel length: 22.75″
  • Overall length: 40″
  • Includes 1 magazine and single shot tray
s3 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 Gr15 yards1"
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.4 Gr25 yards1"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr45 yards1/2"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr650
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.4 Gr799
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo RS 13.43 Gr699
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 Gr674
.177H&N Baracuda Hunter 10.49 Gr715
.177RWS Hobby 7 gr797
.22JSB Match Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13gr586
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr706
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr685
s4 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Recommended uses

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

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Easy to pump and power up
  • Good quality & nice finish
  • Lightweight and accurate
  • Threaded barrel
  • Single shot tray and 7-shot magazine
  • Great for short-range pest control
  • The stock is a little short for adults
s1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Best air rifle under $100: Crosman Diamonback SBD NP Elite

The Crosman® Diamondback .22 Break Barrel Air Rifle offers the perfect combination of power, accuracy, and convenience.

With Nitro Piston Elite technology, this gun is up to 70% quieter than other models in its class.

It also delivers a noticeably lighter, smoother cocking force.

s1 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Featuring a durable synthetic stock that stands up to any weather conditions and a rifled steel barrel for longer-range shooting, this rifle is fit for even the most serious hunter or outdoors enthusiast.

Equipped with QuietFire sound suppression technology and an adjustable two-stage CleanBreak Trigger, you can make your shot cleanly and quietly time after time with the Diamondback air rifle.

And with velocities of up to 1100 FPS, this gun has the power and accuracy needed for both short and long-range shooting. Outfitted with adjustable rear and front sights for easy target acquisition, this makes this one package that you’ll be sure to love!

Features

  • Nitro Piston Elite (gas piston)
  • Break barrel
  • Single-shot
  • Rifled steel barrel
  • Adjustable 2-stage trigger CBT=Clean Break Trigger
  • Front and rear sights
  • 11 Dovetail rail
  • Manual safety
  • All-weather black synthetic stock
  • SBD sound suppression system (Gold Level)
  • Sling mounts (rear post/front loop)
  • Includes CenterPoint 4×32 scope

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr65 yardsquarter size
.22Rifle Premium 18.67gr25 yardsone hole
.22Seneca Hunting Pellets 32.4 gr30 yardsnickel size
.22CPHP50 yards1"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr84122.46
.22Crosman Essential Domed 13.7 Gr906 24.98
.22RWS Hobby 11.9gr92322.52
.22JSB Match Diabolo Hades 15.89 Gr79022.03
.177Crosman Premier Pointed 7.4 gr102517.27

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting: rats, skunks, raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits.
s2 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Affordable
  • Made in the USA
  • Powerful and quiet
  • Quality construction and easy to use
  • 5-year warranty
  • Excellent value for a low price
  • Perfect gift for a newbie shooter 
  • The open sight is plastic

Best air rifle under $150: Umarex Air Javelin

The Umarex AirJavelin is the perfect choice for any serious outdoorsman.

This high-powered and accurate CO2-powered air rifle launches cutting-edge Straight Flight Technology arrows at an impressive 300 FPS, packing a punch with 34 foot pounds of energy!

a1 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

With easy to install open sights, shooters have the option of coupling it with their favorite dot sight or scope for an incredibly precise shooting experience.

The AirJavelin’s full-length Picatinny rail on top and M-LOK slots on both sides provide plenty of attachment opportunities so you can customize your setup to your hearts’ content.

And best of all, you don’t need to worry about refilling frequently either – the AirJavelin accepts 88-gram CO2 tanks which will launch dozens of arrows downrange in a single filling; for shorter shooting sessions, a Umarex 2x12g adapter (not included) can also be installed.

a2 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Features

  • CO2 Powered Arrow Gun
  • Powered by (1) 88 gram CO2 Cartridge
  • Straight Pull Bolt Action
  • 120 Grain Carbon Fiber Shaft Arrow with 50 grain Field Tip
  • Straight Flight Technology Arrows
  • M-LOK Slots
  • Top integrated accessory rail
  • Bottom Accessory Rail
  • Arrows Accept Broadheads
  • Manual Safety
  • Multi-Position Adjustable Stock
  • Accepts 2x12g CO2 Adapter (sold separately)
  • Fixed Front & Rear Sights
  • Comes with 3 Umarex AirJavelin Arrows with field tips
a3 2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
170 gr33843.14

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/small game hunting
a4 1 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Easy to shoot and handle
  • Powerful and accurate
  • Light and compact
  • Full-length Picatinny Rail
  • Easily readable and conveniently located manometer
  • The cost of CO2 cartridges can add up overtime
a5 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Beeman R9

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. 

b1 2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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. 

Features

  • Break barrel
  • 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
R9 trigger HAM Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (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"
R9 scope side HAM Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr 75018.32
.20JSB Exact 13.9 gr70815.48
.20H&N Field Target 11.42 gr772 15.12
.22Predator GTO 11.75 Gr75714.95
.20H&N Field Target 11.42 gr780 15.43
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14 gr 74117.07
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr73017.35
.20Beeman H&N Match 10.03 Gr82014.98
.22Beeman FTS Double Gold 14.66 Gr68015.06
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.44 Gr860 13.86
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point 14.3 Gr72516.69
.22H&N Field Target Trophy 14.66 gr70015.95
.177JSB Match Diabolo Exact 8.4 Gr80312.03
.177Crosman Premier 7.9 Gr83012.09
.22RWS Meisterkugeln 14gr71316
.22JSB Hades 15.89 gr65615.19
.22H&N Terminator 16.36gr65815.73
.22H&N Baracuda 18.21 gr65117.14
.22Predator GTO 11.75 gr81417.29
.22JSB Exact Jumbo 13.43 gr67413.55
.177Beeman Kodiak 10.6 gr77013.97
.177RWS Hobby 7.0 gr93113.45

Recommended uses

  • Target shooting/plinking
  • Pest control/ small game hunting: skunks, squirrels, raccoons, chipmunks, possums, starlings, pigeons.
b2 2 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

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

check price on Pyramyd Air

Diana 460 Magnum

Enjoy the legendary precision and quality of a Diana airgun with the RWS 460 Magnum spring-piston air rifle. Powered by a spring piston mechanism and made in Germany by the renowned Diana company, this rifle is designed to offer exceptional performance.

The 460 Magnum offers outstanding power, firing lead pellets at 900 fps in .22 caliber while delivering unbeatable accuracy. With a fixed barrel and underlever cocking system, hold small groups with each shot.

41 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

The right-handed Monte Carlo stock crafted from beech wood gives you a comfortable grip and provides you with checkering on both the pistol grip and forearm.

Iron sights come standard with this model but mount up your favorite scope onto the 11mm dovetails for even better results.

Even if you’re new to shooting rifles, this one offers an easy 36 lbs cocking effort so you don’t have to shell out for weights or accessories for extra strength. For pest control or varmint hunting this is the perfect tool for conveniently dispatching vermin without delay!

Featuring an under-lever cocking mechanism for effortless operation, this premium spring-piston airgun has a top-side loading port for easy loading and micro-adjustable sights to ensure accuracy when firing.

With a fixed barrel providing stability and a supple rubber butt pad for comfort, you will experience the performance, power, and grace expected from a valuable RWS rifle. For those who prefer to use a scope, it can be easily added as an accessory.

Features

  • Underlever action
  • 1100 FPS (.177), 900 FPS (.22)
  • Loudness: 3 – medium
  • Single shot
  • Cocking effort: 36 lbs.
  • Blade & ramp front sight
  • Micrometer adjustable rear sight
  • 11mm dovetail scope mount
  • Two-stage, adjustable T06 trigger
  • Rifled steel barrel
  • Ventilated rubber buttplate
  • 3.3-lb. trigger pull
  • Automatic safety
  • Spring piston power plant
  • Hardwood stock
  • Checkered forestock and grip
  • Monte Carlo stock with raised right-hand cheekpiece
42 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Accuracy

CalibersPelletsDistancesGroups
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr20 yardsnickel size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr30 yardsdime size
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr30 yards3/4"
.22Predator Polymag 15.89 gr50 yards1.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr20 metersdime size
.22RWS Super H Point 14.2 Gr60 yards1.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr25 yardsquarter size
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr10 metersone hole
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr25 meters0.5"
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr45 yards0.5"

Chrony tests

CalibersPelletsFPSFPE
.22Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets 14.3 Gr890 25.16
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo Heavy 18.13 gr77524.19
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr74919.8
.22Gamo Raptor 9.9 Gr91118.25
.22H&N Sniper Light 14 gr82521.16
.22RWS Superdome 14.5 Gr81521.39
.22Beeman FTS Copper Plated 14.72 gr 90526.78
.22RWS Hobby 11.9 gr897 21.27
.22RWS Superpoint 14.5 Gr820 21.65
.22RWS Super H Point 14.2 Gr801 20.24
.22JSB Diabolo Exact Jumbo 15.89 Gr777 21.31
.22Beeman Kodiak 21.14 Gr585 16.07
44 Best Air Rifles - The Most Exciting Guns to Have (Reviews and Buying Guide 2024)

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
  • Beautiful and well-made construction
  • Excellent trigger
  • Extremely easy to be accurate
  • You don't need a scope for shooting up to 30 yards
  • Well-balanced and powerful
  • Built to last for a long time
  • The front sight is plastic

Check price

A final word

I hope this detailed review has given you great insight into choosing air rifles. Generally, you first have to identify your needs. Are you after hunting or plinking? If hunting, are you looking at small or big game? If plinking, what distances are you looking at? Additionally, what are the state guidelines for owning air rifles? What is your budget? If you can answer these, and several other questions, you will make an informed decision that won’t make you regret later. 

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