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10 Best Air Rifle For Adults 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle .177 Cal (Rifle + Pellet Pen Bundle)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,268
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
9085 reviews

Velocity
The rifle is powerful with a very long range, making it a great addition to any collection.
Accuracy
It's very accurate and easy to shoot, with a nice lightweight design.
Weight and Ergonomics
Breaking the barrel requires some force, but it's not a big deal for adults.
Noise Level
It's quiet enough to use in the backyard without disturbing neighbors.
Scope and Sights
The rifle and Gamo scope are awesome, offering great value for the price.

The Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle is designed for adult users looking for a reliable and powerful air rifle. It uses a spring-piston breakbarrel mechanism and shoots .177 caliber pellets at a high velocity of up to 1250 feet per second, making it suitable for target practice and small pest control. The included 4x32 scope can aid in improving shooting accuracy, though some users may find it challenging to zero in.

The rifle's synthetic Monte Carlo stock with dual raised cheekpieces provides added comfort and ergonomics, but the weight of 7 pounds might be a bit heavy for prolonged use. The noise level is moderate, typical for spring-piston rifles, which may not make it ideal for very quiet environments. The inclusion of the Air Venturi Pellet Pen in the bundle is a useful addition for quick reloading.

With its durable metal barrel, fluted polymer jacket, and anti-beartrap mechanism for added safety, this air rifle is well-built and secure. While the plastic frame might not appeal to everyone, it helps in keeping the cost down. The rifle's manual safety feature is also a plus for new users. Ideal for those seeking a sturdy and effective air rifle, the Gamo Varmint is a strong contender in its category.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,268
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
9085 reviews

Velocity
The rifle is powerful with a very long range, making it a great addition to any collection.
Accuracy
It's very accurate and easy to shoot, with a nice lightweight design.
Weight and Ergonomics
Breaking the barrel requires some force, but it's not a big deal for adults.
Noise Level
It's quiet enough to use in the backyard without disturbing neighbors.
Scope and Sights
The rifle and Gamo scope are awesome, offering great value for the price.
#2

Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle

Rating
9.4
Power Source
Weight and Ergonomics
Noise Level

Most important from
317 reviews

Power Source
Delivers powerful shots capable of handling large predators and even cape buffalo with remarkable stopping power.
Weight and Ergonomics
The carbon fiber barrel balances strength and weight, making it easier to carry during extended outdoor use.
Noise Level
The rifle’s recoil and report are comparable to high-caliber firearms, making it clear this is a serious hunting tool, not a toy.
Scope and Sights
Equipped with tactical rails, the rifle supports extensive customization with scopes, lights, lasers, and other accessories.

The Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP air rifle stands out for its impressive power, delivering one of the strongest shots available in production air rifles with pellets traveling up to 1130 feet per second. This makes it a solid choice for adult shooters interested in hunting or serious target shooting. The air rifle uses a compressed air system with a lightweight carbon fiber tank, providing a few powerful shots per fill, which is typical for PCP rifles. Weighing about 5 pounds, it’s relatively manageable, though its size might feel a bit bulky for some.

The rifle features a modern stock with options to mount accessories and optics, enhancing its customization and comfort. Its shooting is reported to be very quiet, which is beneficial for those wanting to avoid loud noise during use. Accuracy should be good, supported by the straight pull bolt action and two-shot magazines, although the limited number of shots per tank means frequent refills if used extensively. Safety is well-covered with a trigger block and magazine lock-out, helping prevent accidental firing.

A notable downside is that it only offers four full-power shots per fill, which might be limiting for long sessions, and its larger caliber and size make it less ideal for beginners or casual plinking. The Umarex Hammer is best suited for adults seeking a powerful, quiet, and customizable air rifle for hunting or precision shooting but may require some practice to handle smoothly and manage refills.

Rating
9.4
Power Source
Weight and Ergonomics
Noise Level

Most important from
317 reviews

Power Source
Delivers powerful shots capable of handling large predators and even cape buffalo with remarkable stopping power.
Weight and Ergonomics
The carbon fiber barrel balances strength and weight, making it easier to carry during extended outdoor use.
Noise Level
The rifle’s recoil and report are comparable to high-caliber firearms, making it clear this is a serious hunting tool, not a toy.
Scope and Sights
Equipped with tactical rails, the rifle supports extensive customization with scopes, lights, lasers, and other accessories.

Buying Guide for the Best Air Rifle For Adults

Choosing the right air rifle can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Whether you're interested in target shooting, hunting, or just plinking in the backyard, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an air rifle for adults.
CaliberCaliber refers to the diameter of the pellets that the air rifle shoots. The most common calibers are .177, .20, .22, and .25. The .177 caliber is popular for target shooting and small game hunting due to its high velocity and flat trajectory. The .22 caliber is preferred for hunting larger small game because it delivers more impact energy. The .25 caliber is less common but offers even more power for hunting. Choose a caliber based on your primary use: .177 for precision and target shooting, .22 or .25 for hunting.
Power SourceAir rifles can be powered by different mechanisms: spring-piston, gas piston, pre-charged pneumatic (PCP), and CO2. Spring-piston and gas piston rifles are popular for their simplicity and reliability, with gas pistons offering smoother cocking and shooting. PCP rifles provide high power and accuracy but require a separate air pump or tank. CO2 rifles are easy to use and offer semi-automatic firing but are less powerful and affected by temperature changes. Consider how you plan to use the rifle and your comfort with maintaining the power source.
VelocityVelocity, measured in feet per second (fps), indicates how fast the pellet travels when fired. Higher velocity means a flatter trajectory and potentially more accuracy at longer distances. For target shooting, a velocity of 600-800 fps is usually sufficient. For hunting, look for velocities of 800-1000 fps or higher to ensure enough power to humanely take down game. Match the velocity to your intended use, keeping in mind that higher velocity often comes with increased noise and recoil.
AccuracyAccuracy is crucial for both target shooting and hunting. Factors that affect accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the consistency of the power source, and the type of pellets used. Rifles with rifled barrels tend to be more accurate than those with smoothbore barrels. Consistent power sources like PCP and gas piston systems generally offer better accuracy. Additionally, using high-quality, well-matched pellets can significantly improve accuracy. Test different pellets to find the best match for your rifle.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of an air rifle affect how comfortable it is to shoot, especially over extended periods. Heavier rifles can be more stable and absorb recoil better, but they can also be tiring to carry and aim. Lighter rifles are easier to handle but may be less stable. Consider the rifle's balance, the comfort of the stock, and the ease of use of the sights or scope. Choose a rifle that feels comfortable and manageable for your body size and strength.
Noise LevelThe noise level of an air rifle can be an important consideration, especially if you plan to shoot in a residential area or want to avoid spooking game. Spring-piston and gas piston rifles tend to be louder than PCP and CO2 rifles. Some air rifles come with built-in noise dampening features to reduce the sound. If noise is a concern, look for rifles advertised as 'quiet' or 'whisper' models, and consider the environment in which you'll be shooting.
Scope and SightsA good scope or set of sights can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy. Many air rifles come with iron sights, but adding a scope can help with precision, especially at longer distances. When choosing a scope, consider the magnification power and the quality of the optics. For target shooting, a scope with adjustable magnification can be beneficial. For hunting, a fixed-power scope might be more durable and easier to use. Ensure the scope is compatible with the rifle and securely mounted.

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