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10 Best Air Rifle For Squirrels 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
10.0
Chosen by1,163
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
9045 reviews

Power Source
The cocking effort is minimal, making it accessible even for younger users, though they might need some assistance initially.
Accuracy
The included scope, while needing occasional re-sighting, significantly aids in accuracy, especially at 20-25 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for both hunting and backyard plinking.

The Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle is a solid choice for those looking to handle squirrel populations effectively. One of its standout features is its impressive velocity, capable of shooting .177 caliber pellets at speeds up to 1250 feet per second, providing the power needed for small game hunting. The included 4x32 scope aids in accuracy, making it easier to hit small targets like squirrels.

Additionally, the air rifle features a synthetic Monte Carlo stock with dual raised cheekpieces, offering good ergonomics and comfort during use. The manual safety and steel barrel with fluted polymer jacket add to its durability and safety features, while the anti-beartrap mechanism prevents accidental firing when loading the gun. The package also includes an Air Venturi Pellet Pen, which is a handy addition for quick and easy pellet loading.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Weighing in at 7 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for younger or smaller users. The spring-piston mechanism, while powerful, can also be somewhat noisy, which might not be ideal if you are trying to avoid alerting other wildlife. The plastic frame, while durable, might not appeal to those who prefer the feel and look of wooden stocks. Despite these points, the Gamo Varmint Air Rifle remains a popular and well-reviewed option for small game hunting, particularly for those focused on squirrel hunting.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,163
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
9045 reviews

Power Source
The cocking effort is minimal, making it accessible even for younger users, though they might need some assistance initially.
Accuracy
The included scope, while needing occasional re-sighting, significantly aids in accuracy, especially at 20-25 yards.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for both hunting and backyard plinking.
#2

Black Ops Airgun Sniper Rifle S .22 Pellet Gun with Scope, Break Barrel Air Rifle, High Powered Pellet Gun Rifle, 1,250 FPS, Power Piston Air Gun Rifle, Airsoft Hunting Rifle

Rating
9.7
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics
Noise Level

Most important from
916 reviews

Accuracy
Accuracy and consistency are standout features, with the ability to hit small targets over 50 yards reliably.
Weight and Ergonomics
The weight provides stability and a solid feel, making it suitable for carrying in the field for those accustomed to heavier gear.
Noise Level
Though not very quiet, the rifle’s noise level is manageable considering its power and suppressor feature.

The Black Ops Airgun Sniper Rifle S is a solid choice if you're looking for a high-powered air rifle to hunt squirrels or similar small game. It shoots .22 caliber pellets, which are effective for this purpose, with a strong velocity of up to 1,250 feet per second, giving you good range and stopping power. Powered by a spring-piston mechanism, it doesn’t rely on batteries or gas, so it’s straightforward to use but does require some effort to cock before each shot. The rifle is built with metal barrel and frame parts for durability, and the polymer stock offers a comfortable grip, making it easier to hold steady during long hunting sessions. Weighing nearly 13 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side, which can help with stability but might be tiring if you carry it around for extended periods.

One of its standout features is the quiet shooting noise combined with an attached suppressor, which helps avoid scaring away squirrels—a key factor when hunting these quick, skittish animals. It also comes with a 4x32 scope and adjustable bipod, both useful for improving accuracy and shot placement. The trigger pull is smooth thanks to gas piston tech, which should help with consistent shots. On the downside, the rifle needs a break-in period during the first 50 shots when it may be louder than usual. Also, the single-shot capacity means you need to reload after every shot, which might slow you down.

If you’re looking for a reliable, noise-conscious, and accurate air rifle for small game hunting, especially squirrels, this model offers good power and precision. However, its weight and single-shot nature are worth considering depending on your style of hunting.

Rating
9.7
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics
Noise Level

Most important from
916 reviews

Accuracy
Accuracy and consistency are standout features, with the ability to hit small targets over 50 yards reliably.
Weight and Ergonomics
The weight provides stability and a solid feel, making it suitable for carrying in the field for those accustomed to heavier gear.
Noise Level
Though not very quiet, the rifle’s noise level is manageable considering its power and suppressor feature.
#3

Gamo 611006875554 Swarm Whisper Air Rifle, .22 Caliber,Black

Rating
9.4
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
2040 reviews

Caliber
The .22 caliber provides plenty of power for small game, eliminating pests effectively.
Power Source
The strong spring mechanism ensures powerful shots without the need for continuous cartridge purchases.
Accuracy
The rifle is consistently precise at 25 yards, especially with lead pellets, making it a reliable choice for accuracy.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being lightweight compared to other rifles, it delivers powerful shots and is built to last for years.
Noise Level
The Gamo Swarm Whisper packs a tremendous punch and is very silent, perfect for backyard shooting.

The Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle is a solid choice for anyone looking to hunt squirrels effectively. With a .22 caliber, it has a decent power output and uses Inert Gas Technology (IGT) for higher velocity and reduced vibration, which is helpful for accuracy. The gun is designed to be quiet thanks to its Whisper Technology, making it less likely to scare off nearby animals, which is a big plus for hunting. Its ergonomic design, featuring a synthetic stock with rubber inserts, contributes to comfort during extended use, while the Shock Wave Absorber minimizes recoil, further improving shooting accuracy.

On the downside, the rifle weighs around 5.43 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users during long hunting sessions. The plastic frame, while durable and weather-resistant, might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer the feel of wood. Additionally, while the rifle performs well, new shooters may need some practice to master its handling and shooting technique, as with any air rifle.

For those focused on squirrel hunting, the Gamo Swarm Whisper offers a good balance of power, noise reduction, and comfort, making it a practical option. However, beginners might need some time to adjust to its weight and handling. This air rifle is well-suited for hunters looking for a reliable and quiet option to enhance their outdoor experience.

Rating
9.4
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
2040 reviews

Caliber
The .22 caliber provides plenty of power for small game, eliminating pests effectively.
Power Source
The strong spring mechanism ensures powerful shots without the need for continuous cartridge purchases.
Accuracy
The rifle is consistently precise at 25 yards, especially with lead pellets, making it a reliable choice for accuracy.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being lightweight compared to other rifles, it delivers powerful shots and is built to last for years.
Noise Level
The Gamo Swarm Whisper packs a tremendous punch and is very silent, perfect for backyard shooting.

Buying Guide for the Best Air Rifle For Squirrels

Choosing the right air rifle for hunting squirrels involves understanding several key specifications that will affect your hunting experience. The right air rifle should be powerful enough to humanely take down a squirrel, accurate enough to hit small targets, and comfortable for you to use. Here are the key specifications you should consider when selecting an air rifle for squirrel hunting.
CaliberCaliber refers to the diameter of the pellets that the air rifle shoots. For squirrel hunting, the most common calibers are .177 and .22. The .177 caliber is known for its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, making it suitable for longer shots. However, the .22 caliber offers more stopping power, which is crucial for ensuring a humane kill. If you prioritize accuracy and longer range, go for .177. If you want more impact and stopping power, .22 is the better choice.
VelocityVelocity is the speed at which the pellet leaves the barrel, measured in feet per second (FPS). Higher velocity means the pellet travels faster and can be more accurate over longer distances. For squirrel hunting, a velocity of 800-1000 FPS is generally sufficient. If you are hunting in a dense area with shorter shooting distances, a lower velocity might be adequate. For open areas where you need to shoot from a distance, a higher velocity is preferable.
Power SourceAir rifles can be powered by different mechanisms, including spring-piston, gas piston, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP). Spring-piston rifles are simple and reliable but can have more recoil. Gas piston rifles offer smoother shooting and are less affected by temperature changes. PCP rifles provide the highest power and accuracy but require a separate air tank or pump. Choose a power source based on your comfort and the level of maintenance you are willing to perform. For beginners, spring-piston or gas piston rifles are often easier to manage.
AccuracyAccuracy is crucial for hitting small targets like squirrels. Factors that affect accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the trigger mechanism, and the overall build of the rifle. Look for rifles with rifled barrels, which spin the pellet for better stability and accuracy. Adjustable triggers can also help you achieve a more precise shot. Test different models if possible to find one that feels comfortable and accurate in your hands.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of the air rifle affect how easy it is to carry and shoot. A lighter rifle is easier to carry around during long hunting sessions, but it might have more recoil. Heavier rifles are more stable but can be tiring to carry. Ergonomics, such as the shape of the stock and the placement of the trigger, should feel comfortable to you. Try holding different rifles to see which one feels the best in terms of balance and comfort.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration, especially if you are hunting in a residential area or want to avoid scaring away other squirrels. Some air rifles come with built-in noise dampening features. Spring-piston and gas piston rifles tend to be noisier than PCP rifles. If stealth is important to you, look for models that advertise reduced noise levels or consider adding a suppressor if legal in your area.

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