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10 Best Air Rifle For Hunting 22 Cal 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle, .22 Caliber,Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,244
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
1998 reviews

Power Source
Delivers powerful shots with a strong spring mechanism, ensuring consistent performance without needing frequent cartridges.
Accuracy
The rifle and included scope provide impressive accuracy at typical target ranges, allowing even beginners to hit their mark confidently.
Weight
The synthetic stock offers a comfortable, solid feel in hand, resembling high-quality polymer rather than hollow plastic.
Noise Level
Operates with remarkable quietness, producing a sound comparable to clapping sticks, which maintains discretion during hunting.
Trigger
Safety lever placement inside the trigger guard is less modern but functions reliably as intended.

The Gamo Swarm Whisper .22 caliber air rifle is a solid choice for hunting thanks to its advanced gas-piston power system, which offers higher shot velocity and less vibration than traditional spring-powered rifles. This means better shooting comfort and longer durability. It weighs about 5.4 pounds, making it light enough to carry on hunting trips without causing much fatigue. One of its standout features is the Whisper Technology, designed to keep noise levels low, which is a significant advantage for staying discreet while hunting. The rifle also has a 10-round magazine, allowing for multiple shots before needing to reload.

Accuracy is generally good due to its alloy steel barrel and the inclusion of a scope, helping make precise shots at typical hunting distances. The synthetic stock with rubber inserts adds comfort and weather resistance, so it holds up well outdoors. The recoil is reduced by a shock-absorbing buttpad, making shooting more comfortable during longer sessions. On the downside, the plastic frame may feel less sturdy compared to metal-framed rifles, which could affect long-term durability if heavily used. While the trigger is not highlighted as adjustable, it offers a decent feel for consistent shooting but might not satisfy those looking for a highly customizable trigger experience.

This air rifle is suitable for casual to intermediate hunters looking for a quiet, reliable, and accurate .22 caliber option that balances performance with user-friendly features.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,244
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
1998 reviews

Power Source
Delivers powerful shots with a strong spring mechanism, ensuring consistent performance without needing frequent cartridges.
Accuracy
The rifle and included scope provide impressive accuracy at typical target ranges, allowing even beginners to hit their mark confidently.
Weight
The synthetic stock offers a comfortable, solid feel in hand, resembling high-quality polymer rather than hollow plastic.
Noise Level
Operates with remarkable quietness, producing a sound comparable to clapping sticks, which maintains discretion during hunting.
Trigger
Safety lever placement inside the trigger guard is less modern but functions reliably as intended.
#2

Gamo Swarm Bone Collector 10X Gen3i Multi-Shot Air Rifle air Rifle

Rating
9.6
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
210 reviews

Velocity
This air rifle packs an impressive punch for something in this price range and is almost perfectly sighted in right out of the box.
Accuracy
The scope is decent for an included accessory, but the gun itself is wonderful and shoots amazingly well.
Weight
It's whisper quiet, accurate, and well-balanced, albeit a bit heavy, making it one of the best air rifles in this price range.
Noise Level
It's whisper quiet, accurate, and well-balanced, albeit a bit heavy, making it one of the best air rifles in this price range.

The Gamo Swarm Bone Collector 10X GEN3i .22 Cal. air rifle is designed for hunting enthusiasts who need a reliable and powerful air rifle. One of its standout features is the 10-shot inertia-fed magazine, which allows for rapid successive shots without the need for constant reloading. This is particularly beneficial for hunting situations where multiple quick shots can be crucial.

The rifle boasts an impressive velocity of 1100 fps, ensuring that it delivers powerful and effective shots. It comes with a Gamo 3-9x40 scope, enhancing its accuracy for long-distance shooting. The 9.3-pound weight might make it slightly heavier than some other models, which could be a consideration if you plan on carrying it for extended periods.

Despite its power, the noise level is relatively moderate, making it less disruptive in a hunting environment. The trigger is designed for smooth operation, contributing to shooting accuracy and user comfort. The 3-year manufacturer's warranty is a reassuring aspect, providing peace of mind regarding its durability and longevity. The Gamo Swarm Bone Collector 10X GEN3i is a robust and accurate air rifle suitable for serious hunters, offering a combination of power, speed, and precision, though its weight might be a drawback for some.

Rating
9.6
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
210 reviews

Velocity
This air rifle packs an impressive punch for something in this price range and is almost perfectly sighted in right out of the box.
Accuracy
The scope is decent for an included accessory, but the gun itself is wonderful and shoots amazingly well.
Weight
It's whisper quiet, accurate, and well-balanced, albeit a bit heavy, making it one of the best air rifles in this price range.
Noise Level
It's whisper quiet, accurate, and well-balanced, albeit a bit heavy, making it one of the best air rifles in this price range.
#3

Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle

Rating
9.3
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
224 reviews

Power Source
Thanks to the regulated air system, the shot velocity and power remain consistent across multiple shots, ensuring reliable performance throughout the reservoir.
Accuracy
The rifle delivers exceptional accuracy, grouping pellets tightly even at 20 to 30 yards, making it a dependable choice for small game and target shooting.
Weight
The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces without feeling flimsy or cheap.
Noise Level
The integral sound suppressor effectively reduces noise, allowing for discreet hunting without disturbing neighbors or wildlife.
Trigger
The two-stage trigger initially feels gritty but can be adjusted and improved with some tinkering to achieve a smoother, more manageable pull.

The Umarex Notos Carbine .22 caliber PCP air rifle is a solid choice for small game hunting, plinking, and target shooting. It delivers a good balance of power and accuracy, shooting 12-grain pellets at 700 feet per second from a compact 11.75-inch barrel. This velocity is enough to humanely take down small game at reasonable distances. The 7-shot auto-indexing rotary magazine allows for quick follow-up shots without manual reloading, which is convenient in the field. Weighing just 5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry comfortably during long outings. The rifle uses a quiet side lever for cocking, helping to keep noise levels low and avoid spooking animals—a useful feature for hunting.

The fixed, regulated high-pressure air tank ensures consistent shot power and accuracy across all shots, which is important for reliable performance. The trigger is designed for smooth shooting, making it easier to maintain accuracy. The barrel length is relatively short, which can slightly affect long-range accuracy compared to longer-barreled rifles. Also, the fixed air tank means you’ll need to refill it using a separate pump or air source, which might be less convenient for some users. This rifle suits beginners to intermediate users looking for a reliable, quiet, and easy-to-use air rifle for hunting small game or casual shooting. If you want a lightweight and reasonably powerful PCP air rifle with decent shot capacity and smooth handling, the Umarex Notos Carbine is definitely worth considering.

Rating
9.3
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
224 reviews

Power Source
Thanks to the regulated air system, the shot velocity and power remain consistent across multiple shots, ensuring reliable performance throughout the reservoir.
Accuracy
The rifle delivers exceptional accuracy, grouping pellets tightly even at 20 to 30 yards, making it a dependable choice for small game and target shooting.
Weight
The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces without feeling flimsy or cheap.
Noise Level
The integral sound suppressor effectively reduces noise, allowing for discreet hunting without disturbing neighbors or wildlife.
Trigger
The two-stage trigger initially feels gritty but can be adjusted and improved with some tinkering to achieve a smoother, more manageable pull.

Buying Guide for the Best Air Rifle For Hunting 22 Cal

Choosing the right air rifle for hunting can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. The .22 caliber air rifle is a popular choice for hunting small to medium-sized game due to its balance of power and accuracy. When selecting an air rifle, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Power SourceThe power source of an air rifle determines how the pellet is propelled. Common power sources include spring-piston, gas piston, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP). Spring-piston rifles are reliable and easy to maintain, making them a good choice for beginners. Gas piston rifles offer smoother shooting and are less affected by temperature changes. PCP rifles provide the highest power and accuracy but require additional equipment like a hand pump or scuba tank for refilling. Choose a power source based on your comfort level and the type of game you plan to hunt.
VelocityVelocity, measured in feet per second (FPS), indicates how fast the pellet travels when fired. Higher velocity means more power and a flatter trajectory, which is important for hunting. For .22 caliber air rifles, velocities typically range from 500 to 1000 FPS. Lower velocities (500-700 FPS) are suitable for close-range hunting and small game, while higher velocities (800-1000 FPS) are better for medium-sized game and longer distances. Consider the type of game and typical shooting distances when choosing the appropriate velocity.
AccuracyAccuracy is crucial for successful hunting. Factors that affect accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the type of sights or scope, and the overall build of the rifle. Rifles with rifled barrels provide better accuracy by imparting a spin to the pellet. Scopes can greatly enhance accuracy, especially at longer distances. Look for air rifles with adjustable sights or the ability to mount a scope. Test different rifles to find one that feels comfortable and allows you to consistently hit your target.
WeightThe weight of an air rifle affects how easy it is to carry and handle, especially during long hunting trips. Lighter rifles (5-7 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them ideal for younger or smaller hunters. Heavier rifles (8-10 pounds) may offer better stability and reduced recoil, which can improve accuracy. Consider your physical strength and the duration of your hunting trips when selecting the weight of your air rifle.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration for hunting, as a loud rifle can scare away game. Some air rifles come with built-in noise dampening features, such as shrouded barrels or suppressors, which can significantly reduce the noise produced when firing. If you plan to hunt in areas where noise is a concern, look for air rifles with these features. Keep in mind that higher-powered rifles tend to be louder, so balance your need for power with the need for stealth.
TriggerThe trigger mechanism affects the ease and precision of shooting. A good trigger should have a smooth pull and a predictable break. Adjustable triggers allow you to customize the pull weight to your preference, which can improve accuracy and comfort. Test the trigger on different air rifles to find one that feels right for you. A lighter, smoother trigger is generally better for precision shooting, while a heavier trigger may be preferred for safety reasons.

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