10 Best Air Rifles 2026 in the United States

The Benjamin Armada BTAP25SX .25-Caliber Pellet PCP Air Rifle is a robust choice for both target shooting and medium game hunting. It uses PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) power, making it a reliable and consistent power source. The .25 caliber is suitable for delivering impactful shots, with a velocity of up to 900 fps, which is quite decent for medium game hunting.

The included 4-16x50 mm riflescope helps with accuracy, making it easier to hit targets at varying distances. The 8-round rotary clip allows for multiple shots without frequent reloading, a convenient feature for both hunting and target practice. One of its standout features is the reversible bolt-action, accommodating both right and left-handed users, which enhances its versatility.

The modular design with a rifled barrel and onboard air pressure gauge adds to the rifle’s functionality and quiet operation. Weighing in at 12.3 pounds, it might be considered heavy for some users, potentially making it less ideal for prolonged use or for those preferring lighter air rifles. The build quality is generally good, with a plastic frame and alloy steel barrel, but some might prefer a more premium material for durability. While relatively quiet for hunting, the noise level might still be noticeable. This air rifle is suitable for serious hobbyists or hunters looking for a versatile and powerful air rifle, but its weight and material might be minor drawbacks for some users.

The Gamo Varmint Air Rifle is a .177 caliber spring-piston breakbarrel model designed for target shooting or small pest control. It shoots pellets at a fast speed of up to 1250 feet per second, which is quite powerful for this type of air rifle. It comes with a 4x32 scope, helping shooters aim more accurately, and includes a useful pellet pen, although pellets themselves are not included. The rifle's synthetic stock with raised cheekpieces offers comfort and stability while shooting, and the steel barrel with a fluted polymer jacket adds durability. It also has safety features like a manual safety and an anti-beartrap mechanism, which prevents injury when cocking the rifle.

The rifle weighs about 7 pounds, making it manageable for most users. Since it’s a spring-piston power system, there's naturally some noise and recoil compared to gas or CO2 powered models, which might bother very noise-sensitive users. The plastic frame material makes the rifle lighter but may feel less rugged than full metal options. For best performance, using quality pellets is important, as low-quality ammo can affect accuracy and power.

This air rifle suits beginners and casual shooters looking for a reliable, fairly powerful air rifle with decent accuracy and good safety features, but it might not satisfy those wanting quieter shooting or a heavier, all-metal build.

The Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle stands out in the air rifle category, particularly for those interested in powerful hunting tools. One of its main strengths is its impressive power, capable of shooting pellets at velocities up to 1130 fps, making it one of the most powerful production air rifles available. This power allows it to deliver significant energy to targets, making it suitable for bigger game hunting.

It features a lightweight carbon fiber air tank that can hold high pressure, giving you four full power shots plus one finishing shot per tank refill. The design is modern and user-friendly, with M-LOK locations for accessories and a Picatinny rail for optics, enhancing versatility for different shooting preferences. Additionally, the rifle operates quietly, which is a major plus for hunting scenarios where stealth is essential.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. At 5 pounds, it might be on the heavier side for some users, especially during extended use. While the noise level is low, the air rifle's complexity, such as the straight pull bolt and dual safeties, might require some adjustment for beginners. Furthermore, the limited number of shots per air tank could be a concern for those looking for extended shooting sessions without frequent refills.

The Umarex Hammer is an excellent choice for experienced hunters seeking a powerful and quiet air rifle. It may not be the best fit for beginners or those looking for a lightweight, high-capacity option, but it excels in delivering a robust performance for serious outdoor enthusiasts.