10 Best Air Rifle For Squirrel 2026 in the United States

The Gamo Varmint .177 caliber air rifle is a solid choice for small game like squirrels, thanks to its fast velocity of up to 1250 feet per second, which helps with accurate shots at a distance. It uses a spring-piston power source, meaning it doesn’t rely on batteries or CO2, making it reliable and lower maintenance. The rifle includes a basic 4x32 scope, which is helpful for spotting small targets, but more serious shooters might want to upgrade for better precision.

Its synthetic Monte Carlo stock with raised cheekpieces is comfortable for steady aiming, and the steel barrel with a polymer jacket adds durability. The manual safety and anti-beartrap mechanism improve handling safety, especially for beginners. Weighing around 7 pounds, it’s not too heavy, though it might feel a bit bulky for younger or smaller users. One downside is that it comes without pellets, so you’ll need to buy those separately and should choose quality ammo to avoid performance problems.

Noise level is typical for spring-piston rifles—noticeable but not overly loud, which is decent for backyard or light woodland use. If you're looking for a straightforward, durable air rifle for squirrel hunting or target practice, the Gamo Varmint offers good speed and decent accuracy with safety features, but keep in mind it’s a single-shot breakbarrel, so each shot requires reloading.

The Beeman Commodore-S .25 PCP Underlever Air Rifle is designed with a .25 caliber, offering a good balance of power and precision for hunting small game like squirrels. Its PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) power system provides consistent shots and better velocity than spring-powered rifles, making it reliable for accurate targeting. Weighing just over 7 pounds, it is reasonably lightweight for carrying during hunts, though not the lightest option available. The stainless steel barrel promotes durability and helps maintain accuracy over time.

PCP rifles tend to generate lower noise levels compared to traditional spring-powered ones, which helps prevent spooking nearby animals. The included single-shot setup requires manual reloading after each shot, common in precise hunting air rifles but potentially slowing down multiple quick shots. The plastic frame contributes to manageable weight but may not feel as robust as metal alternatives.

This rifle suits hunters seeking a solid, accurate option for squirrels and similar small animals, especially those who value consistent power and quieter shooting. For those desiring rapid firing or a lighter build, exploring other models might be beneficial.

The Benjamin Armada BTAP25SX .25-Caliber Pellet PCP Air Rifle is a powerful and versatile option for both target shooting and medium-sized game hunting, like squirrels. It uses a PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) power source, which ensures consistent shooting performance and can achieve velocities up to 900 fps, making it effective for small game hunting. The .25 caliber provides a good balance between power and pellet size, which is ideal for squirrel hunting.

With a weight of 12.3 pounds, it's on the heavier side, which might be a drawback for some users who need to carry it over long distances, but it does contribute to stability when shooting. The rifle features a modular design with a rifled barrel, enhancing accuracy and allowing for customization with the 5-inch Picatinny rail for additional accessories. The inclusion of a 4-16x50mm riflescope with a multi-coated lens further enhances downrange accuracy.

The 8-round rotary clip magazine allows for multiple shots without needing to reload frequently. The noise level, although not specified, might be higher due to the power of the rifle, which could be a concern if noise reduction is a priority. This air rifle suits those who prioritize power, accuracy, and customization options, and are okay with the trade-off of a heavier build.