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

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.

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.

The Umarex Zelos .22 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle is an impressive choice for hunting enthusiasts. Its high-capacity 20-round rotary magazine allows for more shots between reloads, which is particularly advantageous when hunting. The side-lever cocking mechanism enhances ease of use, making it user-friendly.

The adjustable pressure regulator ranging from 1000-2000 PSI and a 3625 PSI tank ensure consistent power and performance, crucial for effective hunting. The rifle can shoot .22 caliber pellets at up to 1000 FPS, providing the velocity needed for efficient takedown of small game. The two-stage adjustable trigger allows for customized firing, improving accuracy and control.

Integrated picatinny rails provide easy attachment of optics and accessories, enhancing versatility in the field. However, at a weight of about 4.01 kilograms (approximately 8.84 pounds), it might be on the heavier side for some users, potentially affecting long hunting trips. Additionally, the noise level isn't specified, which could be a concern for those looking for a quieter option. This air rifle is well-suited for hunting with its robust power, accuracy, and ergonomic design, although potential buyers should consider its weight.