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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
9.7
Chosen by1,465
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
1895 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
9.7
Chosen by1,465
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
1895 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 .22 Cal. 10 Pellet Multi-Shot Inertia Fed Pellet Air Rifle. 1100 fps.

Rating
9.4
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
197 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
9.4
Velocity
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
197 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

Benjamin Marauder BP2264S .22-Caliber Pellet PCP Hunting Air Rifle

Rating
9.2
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
570 reviews

Power Source
I get 50-60 consistent shots from 3000psi to 1800psi on factory tune with this .22 cal Marauder.
Accuracy
The Marauder is extremely accurate, placing less than 1/2 inch groups at 20 yards straight out of the box.
Weight
Handling and weight are very good, with the stock fitting your grip perfectly.
Noise Level
The fully encased barrel for sound reduction is a significant plus, making the rifle very quiet.
Trigger
The adjustable comb stock and two-stage target trigger are appreciated by those with high powered target shooting experience.

The Benjamin Marauder BP2264S .22-Caliber Pellet PCP Hunting Air Rifle is a solid option for those looking to hunt small game. One of its standout features is its PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) power source, which allows for up to 30 shots per fill at 3000 PSI and delivers impressive speeds of up to 1000 feet per second with 31 foot-pounds of energy. This makes it efficient for hunting purposes, providing both power and accuracy. The rifled steel barrel is shrouded and has integrated sound suppression, which is a significant advantage for stealthy hunting. The adjustable synthetic stock and reversible bolt handle make it versatile for different users. With a weight of 7.8 pounds, it's manageable for carrying during hunts but may feel heavy for prolonged use.

On the downside, the single-shot bolt action may not appeal to all users, especially those who prefer a semi-automatic for faster follow-up shots. Additionally, while the air rifle is reasonably priced, an air compressor is not included, which could add to the overall cost if you don't already own one. The modest Best Sellers Rank suggests it has a decent following but may not be the top choice for all hunters.

The Benjamin Marauder BP2264S is an excellent air rifle for small game hunting, offering a blend of power and accuracy, but potential buyers should consider the single-shot action and the additional cost of an air compressor before making a purchase.

Rating
9.2
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight

Most important from
570 reviews

Power Source
I get 50-60 consistent shots from 3000psi to 1800psi on factory tune with this .22 cal Marauder.
Accuracy
The Marauder is extremely accurate, placing less than 1/2 inch groups at 20 yards straight out of the box.
Weight
Handling and weight are very good, with the stock fitting your grip perfectly.
Noise Level
The fully encased barrel for sound reduction is a significant plus, making the rifle very quiet.
Trigger
The adjustable comb stock and two-stage target trigger are appreciated by those with high powered target shooting experience.

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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