10 Best Air Rifle For Squirrels 2026 in the United States

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.

The Umarex Notos Carbine .22 caliber PCP air rifle is a solid choice for small game hunting, including squirrels. It shoots .22 caliber pellets at a velocity of about 700 feet per second, which provides good power for clean, humane shots at close to medium distances. Its PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) power source means consistent power and accuracy from shot to shot, thanks to a fixed, regulated air tank. The rifle is relatively lightweight at 5 pounds, making it easy to handle and carry during outdoor use.

The 7-shot auto-indexing rotary magazine allows quick follow-up shots without manual reloading, which is handy when hunting active squirrels. One notable feature is its quiet side lever cocking mechanism, helping to keep noise low and avoid startling nearby animals. The metal frame and barrel add durability, though the rifle’s short 11.75-inch barrel might slightly reduce maximum accuracy compared to longer barrels, but it helps with maneuverability in tight spaces like wooded areas. Some users might find the rifle a bit bulky in length (around 25 inches), but it balances power and ease of use well.

While it is well-suited for hunting and target shooting, beginners should be aware that PCP rifles require an air source to fill the tank, which adds some maintenance compared to spring-powered rifles. The Umarex Notos Carbine provides a dependable, fairly quiet, and easy-to-use option for those looking to hunt squirrels or engage in plinking with a powerful .22 caliber air rifle.

The Benjamin Bulldog BPBD4S is a powerful PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifle designed with a .457 caliber, which is quite large for squirrel hunting and may be more than needed for such small game. Its velocity reaches up to 760 feet per second, offering enough power to ensure a clean shot, but the rifle is built more for bigger game, which might be overkill if you're focusing solely on squirrels. The bullpup design makes it compact at 36 inches overall, helping with handling and maneuverability in wooded areas where squirrels are found.

Weighing about 4.9 kilograms (around 10.8 pounds), it may feel a bit heavy if you prefer carrying your rifle for long periods. The rifle features a 5-shot magazine, which can be convenient for quick follow-up shots. Its sound suppression system helps reduce noise, which is good for not disturbing wildlife or neighbors, although it’s not completely silent. Accuracy should be solid thanks to the rifled steel barrel and the included Picatinny rail allows mounting scopes or sights to improve aim.

A downside is that it only delivers about three effective shots per full tank at 3000 PSI, meaning you might need a way to refill the air reservoir frequently — an air compressor is not included. This air rifle is robust and accurate but might be better suited to larger small game hunting rather than just squirrels, especially if you want something lighter and quieter for casual squirrel hunting.