There’s nothing quite like taking down a squirrel with a pellet gun when it comes to hunting. In fact, for many people, there’s nothing more rewarding than bagging their own game. And when it comes to hunting squirrels, a pellet gun is the way to go.
But with so many different pellet guns on the market, which one is right for you? That all depends on what you’re looking for in a rifle.
Here are just a few things to consider when choosing the best pellet gun for squirrel hunting:
Power and accuracy:
When it comes to taking down small game like squirrels, you need air rifle technology that’s powerful and accurate. Look for a pellet gun that offers at least 700 fps of power and 1″ groups at 10 yards.
Weight and balance:
Since you’ll be carrying your air rifles around for long periods, it’s important to choose one that’s not too heavy and has a good balance. A lightweight rifle is always easier to carry, but make sure it’s not too light or else it will lack stability and accuracy.
Scope:
A good scope is a must-have for any hunter, but it’s especially important if you plan on doing most of your hunting from a distance. Look for a scope that offers at least 4x magnification and is durable enough to withstand the elements.
Price:
Of course, you also need to consider your budget when choosing a pellet gun. There are plenty of affordable options on the market, so you shouldn’t have to break the bank to get a good quality rifle.
Extras:
Finally, you may also want to consider some of the extras for your pellet gun. For example, some rifles come with a bipod for added stability, while others include a carrying case or extra magazines.
Types of air rifles:
BREAK-BARREL AIR RIFLES:
A break-barrel air rifle is a type of airgun that uses an intermittent breech-loading mechanism to load pellets or BBs into the barrel. To fire, the shooter must first break open the barrel, load a pellet or BB into the chamber, and then close the barrel.
This airgun is often used for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting. There is no need to have a rimfire rifle or centerfire ammunition when you own a break-barrel air rifle.
Break-barrel air rifle typically has a single-shot capacity, meaning that each time the shooter wants to fire a shot, they must first break open the barrel, load a pellet or BB into the chamber, and then close the barrel again. This can be somewhat cumbersome compared to other airguns, but it also makes break-barrel air rifles more affordable since they don’t require the same level of manufacturing complexity.
PCP AIR RIFLES
A PCP air rifle is a Pre-Charged Pneumatic air rifle that uses compressed air or nitrogen to power its shots. PCP air rifles are a type of Stunt action Airsoft gun used in competition and infield play. A PCP air gun typically has better range and accuracy than a standard spring-powered air rifle, making it a popular choice for competitive shooters and serious marksmen.
There are two main types of PCP air rifles: “single-shot” and “repeating.” Single-shot PCP air rifles must be manually cocked after each shot while repeating PCP air rifles have a magazine that automates the cocking process. Repeating PCP air guns typically have a higher rate of fire than their single-shot counterparts, making them more suitable for competition and field play.
PNEUMATIC AIR RIFLES:
Pneumatic air rifles are one of the most popular choices for target and plinking enthusiasts around the globe. The technology behind these rifles is simple yet effective, using compressed air to fire a pellet or BB downrange with pinpoint accuracy.
The advantage that pneumatic air rifles have over traditional firearms is that they are relatively quiet, low maintenance, and inexpensive to operate.
Pneumatic air rifles use compressed air as the propelling force behind a projectile. Most pneumatic rifles are pump-action or CO2-powered, which means that they require manual pump action or a CO2 cartridge to cock the gun and load a pellet into the chamber. Once cocked, the compressed air is released and propels the pellet downrange with impressive accuracy and velocity.
CO2 AIR RIFLES:
CO2 air rifles are pistols or rifles that use compressed carbon dioxide to propel a projectile. CO2 is an inexpensive, readily available gas that is safe to use and store. Air rifles firing projectiles propelled by compressed CO2 are often used in target shooting and plinking (recreational shooting).
When discharged, the compressed CO2 expands rapidly, providing a high-pressure blast of air that propels the projectile down the barrel. Most CO2 air rifles have a storage reservoir built into the gun that holds enough gas for several shots. When this reservoir is depleted, it must be refilled before the gun can be fired again.
The power of a CO2 air rifle is typically expressed in terms of “shots per fill.” For example, a gun rated for 50 shots per fill will fire 50 shots before needing to be refilled with CO2. The number of shots per fill will vary depending on the size of the gun and the amount of pressure used to propel the projectile.
Top five air rifles for squirrel hunting:
To help you get started, here are the five best air rifles for squirrel hunting:
1. Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 .177-Caliber Nitro Piston Air Rifle:
Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 .177-Caliber Nitro Piston Air Rifle is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-powered air rifle. It features a nitrogen-filled gas piston, making it much more powerful than traditional spring piston rifles.
Additionally, it is .177 calibre makes it perfect for small game or pest hunting. The Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 also comes with a scope, making it ready to use right out of the box. It is important to note that this air rifle is not meant for beginners, as it can be quite powerful.
However, for experienced shooters, the Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 .177-Caliber Nitro Piston Air Rifle is an excellent choice.
2. Gamo Whisper Silent Cat Air Rifle:
The Gamo Whisper Silent Cat Air Rifle is a great choice for those looking for an effective and humane way to control squirrel populations. This air rifle features a specially designed sound suppressor that reduces the noise of the shot, making it less likely to startle or scare away other animals.
The Gamo Whisper Silent Cat Air Rifle is also equipped with a 4x32mm scope, making it easier to take accurate shots at small targets. In addition, the air rifle comes with a pellets sample pack, so you can get started right away.
With its power and accuracy, the Gamo Whisper Silent Cat Air Rifle is an ideal tool for controlling squirrel populations in a manner that is both effective and humane.
3. Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun:
The Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun is a popular choice for squirrel hunting. It is a single-shot spring-air rifle that uses steel BBs. It is lightweight and easy to handle, making it good for small game hunting. The gun is accurate, and the BBs will kill a squirrel if they strike it in the head or body.
The gun is also relatively quiet, so it will not startle other animals when it is fired. In addition, the gun is very affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget. Overall, the Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun is an excellent choice for those looking to hunt squirrels.
4. Daisy Powerline 415 Air Rifle:
The Daisy Powerline 415 Air Rifle is a great choice for those looking for an affordable air rifle perfect for squirrel hunting. This air rifle is equipped with a 4x32mm scope, making it easier to take accurate shots at small targets. It also comes with a pellets sample pack, so you can start right away.
With its combination of power and accuracy, the Daisy Powerline 415 Air Rifle is an ideal tool for hunting squirrels.
5. Ruger Blackhawk Combo Air Rifle:
Ruger Blackhawk Combo air rifle is a great choice for hunting squirrels. It is a powerful and accurate air rifle that can take down squirrels quickly and humanely. The Ruger Blackhawk Combo air rifle features a precision rifled barrel and an adjustable two-stage trigger for precise shooting.
It also has a full metal jacketed pellet magazine that holds 50 pellets. The Ruger Blackhawk Combo air rifle is high quality and durable air rifle that will provide years of service.
Benjamin Marauder Woods Walker PCP Air Pistol:
The Benjamin Marauder Woods Walker PCP Air Pistol is a great option for a reliable and powerful air pistol. It is a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) pistol that can deliver up to 700 feet per second of velocity with lead pellets. It also features a 10-shot rotary magazine, making it easy to keep shooting without constantly reloading.
The pistol is also equipped with a precision rifled barrel, making it more accurate than many other air pistols. Additionally, the pistol comes with an integrated suppressor, making it even quieter when firing. Overall, the Benjamin Marauder Woods Walker PCP Air Pistol is a great option for those looking for an accurate and powerful air pistol.
Conclusion:
With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect pellet gun for your next squirrel hunt. Be sure to consider the different features of each gun to find the one that best suits your needs. And always remember to practice safety when handling any firearm.
FAQs:
What are the best air rifles for squirrel hunting?
There are many great air rifles for squirrel hunting on the market. Some of the best include the Gamo Whisper Silent Cat Air Rifle, Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun, and Daisy Powerline 415 Air Rifle.
What is the benefit of an automatic cocking safety system?
An automatic cocking safety system (ACS) is a device that helps to prevent the accidental discharge of a firearm. It works by automatically cocking the gun when the trigger is pulled and then release the cocking mechanism when the trigger is released. This prevents the gun from firing unless the trigger is intentionally held down.
I want quick follow up shots; which air rifle should I choose?
If you want quick follow up shots, you should look for an air rifle with a magazine. Some of the best options include the Ruger Blackhawk Combo air rifle and the Benjamin Marauder Woods Walker PCP Air Pistol.
What is the best calibre for squirrel hunting?
The best calibre for squirrel hunting will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular options include .177 and .22.
What is the difference between a BB gun and an air rifle?
A BB gun is an air rifle that fires small metal balls. On the other hand, air rifles can fire a variety of different projectiles, including pellets, darts, and BBs.
