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10 Best Pellet Rifles 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle .177 Cal (Rifle + Pellet Pen Bundle)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,107
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
8899 reviews

Caliber
The steel barrel with rifling enhances pellet stability and penetration, capable of taking down small game with clean shots.
Power Source
Breaking the barrel for cocking requires noticeable force, which might challenge younger shooters, but the overall design remains user-friendly and safe.
Accuracy
Delivers impressive accuracy and power ideal for small pest control and backyard target practice, consistently hitting targets within 20-25 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle’s weight and Monte Carlo stock provide a comfortable, stable shooting experience, which beginners and kids can handle with some assistance.
Noise Level
Quiet operation compared to gas-powered rifles makes it suitable for backyard use without disturbing neighbors.

The Gamo Varmint Air Rifle is a .177 caliber spring-piston breakbarrel rifle that shoots pellets up to a fast 1250 feet per second, making it suitable for target practice and small pest control. Its single-shot design paired with a 4x32 scope provides decent accuracy without complexity. The synthetic Monte Carlo stock with raised cheekpieces offers a comfortable hold, and the rifle's weight of around 7 pounds balances stability and ease of handling.

The steel barrel with a fluted polymer jacket and an anti-beartrap safety mechanism contribute to durability and user protection, important features for newer shooters. Although it does not include pellets, they can be purchased separately. Being spring-piston powered, it is quieter than many gas-powered rifles, though it still produces noticeable noise and is not entirely silent. Performance depends on using good quality pellets, as lower-quality ammo may affect accuracy and velocity.

This rifle is well-suited for beginners and casual shooters seeking a reliable, affordable option for backyard shooting or small game hunting. However, it may not meet the expectations of those looking for rapid fire or high-end precision.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,107
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
8899 reviews

Caliber
The steel barrel with rifling enhances pellet stability and penetration, capable of taking down small game with clean shots.
Power Source
Breaking the barrel for cocking requires noticeable force, which might challenge younger shooters, but the overall design remains user-friendly and safe.
Accuracy
Delivers impressive accuracy and power ideal for small pest control and backyard target practice, consistently hitting targets within 20-25 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle’s weight and Monte Carlo stock provide a comfortable, stable shooting experience, which beginners and kids can handle with some assistance.
Noise Level
Quiet operation compared to gas-powered rifles makes it suitable for backyard use without disturbing neighbors.
#2

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed .22 Caliber Break Barrel air Rifle. High Power 10-Shot Pellet air Gun. 1,300 fps Velocity.

Rating
9.6
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1787 reviews

Accuracy
The Gamo Swarm Magnum is incredibly powerful and accurate, delivering 1" groups at 35 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being a bit stiff to cock, the power and performance make it worthwhile.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a powerful and innovative .22 caliber pellet rifle designed for both hunting and target shooting. One of its standout features is the 10X GEN2 Quick-Shot technology, allowing users to fire up to ten pellets without the need to reload after each shot. This can be a significant advantage for those looking for efficiency and rapid follow-up shots. The rifle has a high velocity of 1,300 feet per second, which contributes to its impressive accuracy, making it suitable for various shooting activities.

The IGT Mach 1 gas piston system offers a reliable power source, which can enhance the rifle's performance and reduce recoil compared to traditional spring-powered options. Additionally, the two-stage adjustable CAT trigger provides a customizable shooting experience, allowing users to fine-tune their pull for better control.

In terms of ergonomics, the rifle weighs 6.88 pounds, which is manageable for most adults, yet some users may find it a bit on the heavier side during extended use. The rifle’s metal frame and aluminum barrel lend durability, but the weight can be a consideration for those seeking a lightweight option. While the Gamo Swarm Magnum is generally considered to be a quieter option compared to other air rifles, it's essential to note that it’s not completely silent, which might be a concern in noise-sensitive environments. On the downside, potential buyers should be aware of the manual safety feature, as it requires users to remember to engage it, adding an extra layer of responsibility while handling the rifle. Furthermore, some users might find that the learning curve for using the rapid-fire feature can take a bit of practice.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is an excellent choice for users seeking a feature-rich, high-powered pellet rifle that balances performance with usability, though its weight and safety features should be considered depending on individual preferences.

Rating
9.6
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1787 reviews

Accuracy
The Gamo Swarm Magnum is incredibly powerful and accurate, delivering 1" groups at 35 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being a bit stiff to cock, the power and performance make it worthwhile.
#3

Beeman Commodore-S .25 PCP Underlever Air Rifle Combo

Rating
9.5
Power Source
Accuracy
Noise Level

Most important from
45 reviews

Power Source
The rifle boasts great power and an easy-to-use front lever charging handle.
Accuracy
After firing 18 shots, it consistently achieved a ragged hole at ten yards, proving its accuracy.
Noise Level
Despite being louder than a kitten purring, its noise level is much quieter compared to a traditional firearm.

The Beeman Commodore-S .25 PCP Underlever Air Rifle Combo stands out with its .25 caliber, making it suitable for hunting small to medium game due to its power and impact. Powered by a Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) system, it delivers consistent shooting power and accuracy, a key advantage for shooters seeking reliability and precision.

Weighing 7.3 pounds, it strikes a balance between being solid and manageable, though it might be a bit heavy for prolonged use or for younger shooters. The rifle includes a stainless steel barrel that promises durability and longevity, while the plastic frame might not inspire the same confidence in terms of robustness. Its dimensions (29”L x 3”W x 8”H) suggest that it is compact enough for various shooting environments.

The noise level is typical for a PCP air rifle, meaning it is quieter than a traditional firearm but still produces some noise. The single-shot design might be a limitation for those seeking quicker follow-up shots. This air rifle appears well-suited for hunting and target shooting enthusiasts who value power and precision.

Rating
9.5
Power Source
Accuracy
Noise Level

Most important from
45 reviews

Power Source
The rifle boasts great power and an easy-to-use front lever charging handle.
Accuracy
After firing 18 shots, it consistently achieved a ragged hole at ten yards, proving its accuracy.
Noise Level
Despite being louder than a kitten purring, its noise level is much quieter compared to a traditional firearm.

Buying Guide for the Best Pellet Rifles

Choosing the right pellet rifle can be a rewarding experience, whether you're looking for a tool for pest control, target shooting, or small game hunting. The key to finding the best fit for you is understanding the various specifications and how they align with your needs. By focusing on the right specs, you can ensure that your pellet rifle will perform as expected and provide you with the best experience possible.
CaliberCaliber refers to the diameter of the pellets that the rifle uses. The most common calibers are .177, .20, .22, and .25. The .177 caliber is popular for target shooting and small pest control due to its high velocity and flat trajectory. The .22 caliber is preferred for small game hunting because it delivers more impact energy. The .20 and .25 calibers offer a balance between the two. Choose a caliber based on your primary use: .177 for precision and speed, .22 for power and impact, and .20 or .25 for a mix of both.
VelocityVelocity is the speed at which the pellet leaves the barrel, measured in feet per second (fps). Higher velocity means a flatter trajectory and potentially more accuracy at longer distances. Pellet rifles typically range from 500 fps to over 1200 fps. For target shooting, a velocity of 600-800 fps is usually sufficient. For hunting, higher velocities (800-1200 fps) are preferred to ensure the pellet has enough power to humanely take down small game. Consider your intended use to determine the appropriate velocity.
Power SourcePellet rifles can be powered by different mechanisms: spring-piston, gas piston, CO2, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP). Spring-piston and gas piston rifles are popular for their simplicity and reliability, with gas piston models offering smoother cocking and shooting. CO2 rifles are easy to use and provide consistent power but require CO2 cartridges. PCP rifles offer the highest power and accuracy but are more complex and require a separate air source for refilling. Choose a power source based on your preference for ease of use, power, and maintenance.
AccuracyAccuracy is crucial for both target shooting and hunting. Factors that affect accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the consistency of the power source, and the type of pellets used. Rifles with rifled barrels tend to be more accurate than those with smoothbore barrels. Consistent power sources like PCP and gas piston can also enhance accuracy. Additionally, using high-quality, well-matched pellets can improve performance. Consider investing in a rifle with a good reputation for accuracy if precision is important to you.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of a pellet rifle affect how comfortable it is to handle and shoot. Heavier rifles can be more stable and absorb recoil better, but they may be tiring to carry and use for extended periods. Lighter rifles are easier to maneuver and carry but may be less stable. Ergonomics, including the design of the stock and grip, also play a role in comfort. Try handling different rifles to see which feels best in your hands and consider how you'll be using the rifle to determine the ideal weight and ergonomics for you.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a pellet rifle can be an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it in a residential area or for hunting. Some rifles are designed to be quieter, using built-in suppressors or shrouded barrels to reduce noise. Spring-piston and gas piston rifles tend to be louder than CO2 and PCP models. If noise is a concern, look for rifles specifically marketed as quiet or with noise-dampening features. Consider your environment and how important noise reduction is for your intended use.

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