What kinds of air rifles you can get for under $300? Does low price mean low quality?
$300 is the average price of an air rifle, except for PCP air rifles – normally PCP air rifles cost about $500 and above.
However, you can get any kind of air rifle for $300, from CO2 to PCP rifles.
From $200 to $300, you can have a good air rifle with a nice-looking stock and a high-quality barrel.
(For more on things you should know about air rifle barrels before buying, see this post.)
The velocity of the best air rifles under $300 can be really high – some can even reach 1,400 fps.
N.B. Besides the cost of purchasing an air rifle, there is also the cost of pellets and the cost of recharging compressed air, dry nitrogen, or C02 gas.
If you purchase a springer, you won’t need to worry about the recharging cost.
Table of Contents
Top-rated Pellet Guns Under $300 in 2024
If you are in a hurry, here is an overview of the best air rifles under 300 dollars candidates in our list:
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | LINK |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Budget
 | Diana Stormrider Gen 2 |
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Most Accurate
 | Umarex Notos |
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Top Pick
 | Barra 1100z |
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Most Quiet
 | Hatsan AT44 QES |
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Best Semi-auto Under $300
 | SIG Sauer MCX Gen 2 |
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1. Diana Stormrider Gen 2
Diana Mayer & Grammelspacher is a German airgun manufacturer, headquartered in Rastatt, Germany.
The company was founded in 1890, and named after Diana, the goddess of the hunt.
They produce air rifles, air pistols, and other accessories like scopes, pellets, silencers.
Among them, their air rifles are their most famous products.
Their philosophy is to develop the extraordinary down to the smallest detail.
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 air rifles available in the market.
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.
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.
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 |
Features:
- PCP
- Bolt-action
- Repeater
- Up to 26 FPE in .22 / 20 FPE in .177 with lead pellets
- Up to 900 fps in .22 / 1050 fps in .177 with lead pellets
- Manual safety
- Gen. 1 Rifles feature a single-stage, non-adjustable trigger
- Gen. 2 Rifles have the new DIT (Diana Improved Trigger) 2-stage adjustable trigger
- Checkered beech stock
- Raised cheek piece for right-handed shooters (stock still usable for left-handed shooters)
- Fully adjustable rear sight
- 11mm dovetail
- Integrated manometer (pressure gauge)
- 200 BAR/2900 psi fill pressure
- 9 shot magazine in .177 / 7 in .22
- Includes fill probe with male quick disconnect fitting
- Includes rotary magazine and single-shot tray
Recommended uses
- Target shooting/plinking
- Pest control/small game hunting: rats, squirrels, rabbits.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
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2. Umarex Notos PCP Carbine
As an avid air rifle enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to examine the Umarex Notos PCP Carbine, and I must say it’s an impressive piece of engineering that combines versatility with practical functionality.
This .22 caliber pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle stands out for its adaptability and consistent performance across various shooting applications.
One of the most notable features is its adjustable buttstock, which allows shooters to customize the length of pull from 31.375 inches when fully collapsed to 34 inches when extended.
This adaptability, combined with the ridged rubber buttpad, ensures comfortable shooting for users of different sizes and provides excellent recoil management for more accurate follow-up shots.
The power plant is particularly impressive, featuring a 66cc air cylinder that can be filled to 3,625 PSI.
What really catches my attention is the regulated system, set at 1,900 PSI, which delivers 21 consistent, fully-regulated shots per fill. The rifle can actually provide up to 40 shots total per fill, though the latter portion will be unregulated. With velocities reaching up to 700 FPS with 12-grain pellets, this air rifle packs enough punch for small-game hunting, pest control, and recreational shooting.
Noise suppression is a key consideration for many airgunners, and the Notos doesn’t disappoint.
The combination of a shrouded barrel and a three-baffle SilencAir System effectively reduces the report, making it neighbor-friendly and less likely to spook game during hunting sessions.
The loading mechanism is well-thought-out, featuring a smooth sidelever action that makes cycling the rifle both easy and reliable. Shooters have the flexibility to choose between two loading options: a 7-round auto-indexing magazine for quick follow-up shots, or a single-shot tray for those who prefer precision shooting.
This dual-capability makes the Notos equally suitable for hunting scenarios where quick follow-up shots might be necessary, or for focused target practice where precision is paramount.
For optics mounting, the rifle comes with an integrated full-length Picatinny rail, providing ample space for mounting scopes and other accessories.
The inclusion of an integral manometer (pressure gauge) and a male Foster quick-disconnect fill fitting makes monitoring and refilling the air reservoir straightforward and hassle-free.
The 11.75-inch barrel length contributes to the rifle’s overall maneuverability while still maintaining excellent accuracy potential. This makes the Notos particularly suitable for hunting in tight spaces or for younger shooters who might struggle with longer, heavier rifles.
From a practical perspective, the Notos hits a sweet spot in terms of features versus functionality. It offers enough power and accuracy for serious small-game hunting and pest control, while remaining sufficiently user-friendly for recreational shooting.
The regulated shot count ensures consistency for those crucial shots, while the adjustable stock and ergonomic design contribute to overall shooting comfort.
For airgunners seeking a versatile PCP rifle that can handle multiple roles without breaking the bank, the Umarex Notos Carbine presents a compelling package that combines practical features with reliable performance.
3. Barra 1100z PCP Rifle
The Barra 1100z has genuinely caught my attention, offering features typically found on much more expensive rifles at a jaw-dropping $250 price point.
Let’s cut straight to the chase – what makes this rifle special is its impressive blend of premium features and solid performance. The side-lever action, so often reserved for higher-end PCPs, operates with reliable consistency, while the fully-shrouded barrel keeps noise levels remarkably low – comparable to the much-lauded Benjamin Marauder, which is quite a feat at this price point.
One standout feature that immediately impressed me is the trigger. With a consistent pull weight of 1 pound 11.1 ounces and minimal variation (just one ounce!), it outperforms many rifles costing three times as much.
This kind of consistency is crucial for accurate shooting, whether you’re target practicing or pest controlling.
(For more on the best air rifles for pest control, see this post)
The Barra 1100z comes ready for serious shooting with two 10-shot magazines and a well-thought-out design that includes an adjustable comb – a feature that taller shooters will particularly appreciate.
The addition of a robust rubber buttpad and ergonomic stock design shows that practical shooters were consulted during development.
Performance-wise, this rifle delivers where it counts. It achieves velocities up to 1,031 FPS with lightweight pellets, while showing excellent accuracy with heavier options.
The sweet spot seems to be with JSB Jumbo Monster 25.39 grain pellets, which delivered the best accuracy in testing and generated 25.83 ft/lbs of muzzle energy.
What really sets the Barra 1100z apart from other budget PCPs is its build quality and attention to safety features. The predominantly metal construction gives it a solid feel, while smart design choices like positioning the pressure gauge on the underside of the stock (rather than at the end of the HPA tube) show careful consideration for user safety. The inclusion of a de-gassing capability – often missing on budget rifles – is another welcome safety feature.
Perhaps most exciting for airgun enthusiasts is Barra’s decision to make spare parts readily available – a rarity in this industry. This opens up possibilities for tinkering and customization that could make the 1100z the next favorite platform for airgun modifiers, much like the legendary QB78.
While it’s not perfect – lacking a regulator and coming in a bit heavy at 7.5 pounds bare – these compromises are more than reasonable given the price point. For optimal performance, I’d recommend filling to 2,600 PSI and refilling after about 20 shots, which helps maintain consistent velocities.
The Barra 1100z represents a significant step forward in what’s possible in a budget PCP air rifle. It combines features typically found on much more expensive rifles with solid performance and build quality, all while maintaining an incredibly accessible price point.
Whether you’re new to PCP air rifles or an experienced shooter looking for a reliable platform to modify and tune, the Barra 1100z offers exceptional value that’s hard to overlook.
4. Hatsan AT44 QES PCP Pellet Rifle
When it comes to pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles, the Hatsan AT44 QES stands out as a remarkable evolution of the proven AT44 platform.
This latest iteration brings impressive features and capabilities that make it an excellent choice for both serious airgunners and hunters alike.
Whisper-Quiet Performance
The standout improvement in the QES model is Hatsan’s innovative Quiet Energy Technology. With an impressive 32% reduction in shot noise compared to its predecessor, this fully shrouded barrel system allows for more discreet shooting sessions.
This is particularly valuable for backyard practice or pest control situations where noise concerns might otherwise be an issue.
Versatility Meets Precision
One of the AT44 QES’s greatest strengths lies in its versatility. Available in three calibers (.177, .22, and .25), shooters can choose the perfect configuration for their needs.
For those focused on hunting or pest control, the .22 and .25 caliber options offer excellent power and accuracy at reasonable ranges. The rifle’s pre-charged pneumatic system, operating at up to 200 bar (2,900 psi), ensures consistent performance throughout each shooting session.
The multi-shot capability is another notable feature, with a generous 10-round magazine capacity (9 rounds in .25 caliber).
This quick follow-up shot capability, combined with the smooth side-lever action, makes the AT44 QES an effective tool for pest control or hunting scenarios where multiple targets might present themselves.
Thoughtful Design and Construction
Hatsan has clearly considered the practical needs of airgunners in the AT44 QES’s design. The ambidextrous synthetic stock makes it accessible to all shooters, while the adjustable vertical recoil pad allows for a custom fit.
The 14.25″ length of pull provides comfortable handling for most adult shooters.
The optics mounting system deserves special mention, as it accepts both Weaver and 11mm mounts. This flexibility means shooters aren’t limited in their choice of scopes or mounting systems.
The inclusion of open sights adds another layer of versatility, especially appreciated if you’re looking for a backup sighting system.
Professional-Grade Features
The Quattro 2-stage adjustable match trigger, complete with a gold-plated blade, provides a crisp and customizable trigger pull that enhances accuracy.
Safety features are comprehensive, including both manual and automatic safety systems, an anti-double-feed mechanism, and a patented anti-knock system that prevents accidental air discharge if the rifle is bumped or dropped.
Practical Performance
What sets Hatsan apart in the industry is their honest approach to performance ratings. Unlike many manufacturers who test with lightweight alloy pellets to achieve impressive but unrealistic velocity numbers, Hatsan tests with lead pellets – the type most shooters actually use. This transparency gives users a more accurate expectation of real-world performance.
Shot capacity is generous, with 30-40 useful shots per fill in .177 and .22 calibers, and 18-27 shots in .25 caliber. The option between standard (180cc) and long (230cc) cylinder sizes allows users to choose between maneuverability and extended shooting sessions.
The Hatsan AT44 QES represents an excellent value proposition in the PCP air rifle market. It combines proven reliability with modern features, impressive power, and practical accuracy in a package that’s both versatile and user-friendly.
Whether you’re interested in target shooting, pest control, or small game hunting, the AT44 QES delivers the performance and features needed for success.
5. Sig Sauer MCX Gen 2 – Best semi-auto air rifle under $300
The last gun on this list is a really fun air rifle – the Sig Sauer MCX .
Sig Sauer is a serious firearm manufacturer.
They were founded in 1853 in Switzerland.
In 1949, their SIG P49, which was used by the Swiss army, quickly became a legend on the battlefield as well as in competition.
Later, they started product lines of hunting rifles, which were also really successful and well-known worldwide.
In 1980, they reached the US market.
American success played an important role in making SIG an international leader in the small arms industry.
Nowadays, they produce the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, suppressors, optics, ammunition, and airguns, many of which are used by the world’s best militaries.
Their philosophies are to cherish freedom, not compromise, and to be the very best.
The Sig Sauer MCX Gen 2 is a really fun gun — you can see that just by looking at the rifle.
The stock is made of synthetic, and the barrel is made of rifled steel. The butt plate is made of plastic.
It comes in all black.
You can use either the Weaver or Picatinny scope on this gun.
The overall length is 34.7 inches.
The barrel length is 17.7 inches – the short length makes the gun shoot even faster.
The gun uses CO2 gas as the power source.
It’s a semi-auto rifle that can shoot 30 .177 caliber pellets per load.
The max velocity is 700 fps – not so fast.
The rifle shoots loudly but accurately.
This rifle is used for fun plinking, not for hunting as its power is not quite there.
The price of Sig Sauer MCX Gen 2 is $200.
