10 Best Air Rifle For Squirrel 2026 in the United States

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a .177 caliber air rifle designed for quick, multi-shot use, making it a solid choice for squirrel hunting. It offers a high pellet speed of up to 1650 feet per second, delivering good power and effective range for small game. The gas-piston power source (IGT Mach 1) provides strong shots while being more reliable and requiring less maintenance than spring-powered rifles. Weighing about 6.9 pounds, it is fairly easy to carry in the field without feeling too heavy.

One of its standout features is the 10-shot inertia-fed magazine. This system automatically loads the next pellet using the rifle’s recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots without manual reloading—handy when hunting quick, small animals like squirrels. The rifle also includes a 3-9x40 scope mounted on a recoil-reducing rail, which helps keep your aim steady and the scope accurate even after repeated powerful shots. Noise level is kept low thanks to Gamo’s Whisper Fusion technology, which uses dual chambers to reduce the muzzle blast noise. This is beneficial for not spooking nearby wildlife and for quieter shooting sessions.

While the rifle is versatile and powerful, .177 caliber pellets can be more affected by wind compared to larger calibers, which might impact accuracy at longer distances. Some users find the recoil noticeable despite the reduction system, which could affect comfort during extended use. The metal frame and aluminum barrel make it sturdy but slightly heavier than some lightweight alternatives. For those seeking a fast-shooting, relatively quiet, and powerful air rifle suited to small game like squirrels, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i provides a well-rounded package with modern features, especially if quick multiple shots without reloading and decent accuracy and noise control are priorities.

The Gamo Varmint .177 caliber air rifle is a solid choice for small game like squirrels, thanks to its fast velocity of up to 1250 feet per second, which helps with accurate shots at a distance. It uses a spring-piston power source, meaning it doesn’t rely on batteries or CO2, making it reliable and lower maintenance. The rifle includes a basic 4x32 scope, which is helpful for spotting small targets, but more serious shooters might want to upgrade for better precision.

Its synthetic Monte Carlo stock with raised cheekpieces is comfortable for steady aiming, and the steel barrel with a polymer jacket adds durability. The manual safety and anti-beartrap mechanism improve handling safety, especially for beginners. Weighing around 7 pounds, it’s not too heavy, though it might feel a bit bulky for younger or smaller users. One downside is that it comes without pellets, so you’ll need to buy those separately and should choose quality ammo to avoid performance problems.

Noise level is typical for spring-piston rifles—noticeable but not overly loud, which is decent for backyard or light woodland use. If you're looking for a straightforward, durable air rifle for squirrel hunting or target practice, the Gamo Varmint offers good speed and decent accuracy with safety features, but keep in mind it’s a single-shot breakbarrel, so each shot requires reloading.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a .22 caliber break barrel air rifle that stands out for its innovative 10-shot magazine, allowing for quick successive shots without reloading. With an impressive velocity of 1,300 feet per second, it provides the power and accuracy needed for effective squirrel hunting. The IGT Mach 1 gas piston enhances the shooting experience, delivering consistent performance and reducing recoil compared to traditional spring-powered rifles. The adjustable two-stage trigger offers customization for shooters, improving precision with each shot.

Weighting in at 6.88 pounds, this rifle is reasonably portable, making it manageable for extended outdoor use. While the metal frame and aluminum barrel provide durability, the rifle's relatively heavy weight might not be suitable for all users, especially those looking for a lightweight option for longer treks.

The manual and automatic safety features add a layer of security for users, which is essential when handling any firearm. Noise level is a consideration in urban or suburban environments, and while this air rifle is quieter than traditional firearms, it may still produce noticeable sound, which could be a concern for some hunters. This air rifle is ideal for those who enjoy small game hunting, particularly for squirrels, as the combination of power, accuracy, and the ability to fire multiple rounds quickly makes it a valuable tool for hunters prioritizing efficiency. However, beginners should note that the weight and power may require some practice to handle effectively.