10 Best Pellet Gun For Squirrels 2025 in the United States

The Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun is an extremely powerful air rifle designed for serious pest control, including squirrels. Its large .50 caliber pellets pack a strong punch, shooting at speeds up to 1130 feet per second, which means it delivers plenty of energy to stop small animals effectively. This power comes from a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) system with a lightweight carbon fiber air tank, allowing for about 4 powerful shots per fill. While not a high-capacity gun, its two-round magazines reload quickly, making it practical for short bursts of hunting.

In terms of handling, it weighs around 5 pounds and has a modern stock design with convenient mounting options for accessories like scopes or lights. The straight pull bolt action is smooth and requires moderate effort, which should be comfortable for most users. The rifle is also noted for being very quiet, which is a big plus when hunting small animals like squirrels to avoid scaring others away.

The limited number of shots per fill might be a drawback if prolonged shooting sessions without refilling the air tank are needed. Additionally, its size and weight make it less portable than smaller pellet guns. While it’s accurate and powerful, the high caliber might be excessive for casual squirrel hunting and could be better suited for slightly larger pests or hunting scenarios where stopping power is critical. This makes the Umarex Hammer an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet yet very powerful air rifle with good accuracy and solid build quality, especially if frequent refills are not an issue.

The Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle is a solid choice if you're looking for a pellet gun to control squirrels. Its .22 caliber is powerful enough to handle small pests effectively, and the IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston provides higher velocity and less vibration compared to traditional spring airguns, which can improve shooting performance and durability. One of the biggest advantages is its Whisper Technology that keeps the noise level low, making it less likely to disturb neighbors or nearby wildlife.

The rifle also features a shock-absorbing buttpad, helping reduce recoil, which makes it more comfortable to shoot, especially for longer sessions. Weighing around 5.4 pounds, it’s reasonably light but still has a sturdy feel thanks to its alloy steel barrel. The synthetic stock with rubber inserts ensures a good grip and weather resistance, so it holds up well in different conditions. However, the frame is made of plastic, which might not feel as solid as some metal alternatives, though this helps keep the weight manageable. It also holds 10 rounds, so you can shoot multiple times without frequent reloading.

The included scope is helpful for aiming, but accuracy will still depend on practice and pellet choice. This rifle effectively balances power, quiet operation, and comfort, making it well-suited for someone needing an effective and user-friendly pellet gun for squirrels.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a high-powered .22 caliber air rifle, making it a solid choice for those looking to manage small pests like squirrels. A significant advantage is its velocity of up to 1,300 feet per second (FPS) with alloy pellets, providing the power needed for effective pest control. The 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed magazine design allows for quick follow-up shots, which can be a huge benefit when targeting moving animals. Additionally, Gamo's Whisper Fusion technology is touted as their quietest, appealing if noise is a concern in your environment.

The rifle's ergonomic design and the weight can affect handling, so it's worthwhile to consider if this model feels comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. On the downside, the reliance on a spring-piston power source might require more effort to cock compared to gas-powered models. The magazine is exclusive to Gamo's 10X GEN3i line, which limits compatibility with other models. Moreover, while the rifle has received good customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.3, some users may find the polymer barrel material less durable than metal.

The empty magazine and shot count indicators are practical features, though they may not be crucial for all users. With its high power and noise reduction technology, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i suits those who need a reliable and somewhat quiet solution for squirrel control, but it may be less ideal for anyone preferring a lighter or less specialized air rifle.