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10 Best Air Rifle For Squirrels 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Break Barrel Pellet Air Rifle - IGT Mach 1, Inertia Fed 10-Shot Magazine, High Velocity .177 or .22 Caliber Airgun - Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
832 reviews

Power Source
Power is impressive enough to break the sound barrier with the right ammo, comparable to a rimfire .22 LR in sound and impact.
Accuracy
This air rifle delivers unbelievable power and accuracy up to 70 yards, making it highly effective for small game hunting.
Weight and Ergonomics
Built with a sturdy metal frame and aluminum barrel, the rifle feels extremely well-made and durable with a natural balance in hand.
Noise Level
While the rifle is a bit louder than expected for a spring-piston model, the sound tends to mellow after extended use.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a multi-shot air rifle that uses .177 caliber pellets, which are common and suitable for small game like squirrels. It delivers a high velocity of up to 1650 feet per second, giving it enough power for effective and humane squirrel hunting. The rifle operates on a spring-piston mechanism, meaning it doesn’t require batteries or gas, which makes it reliable and easy to maintain. One of its standout features is a 10-round magazine, allowing multiple shots without reloading each time—this is handy if you want quick follow-up shots.

Weighing about 6.9 pounds, it's fairly manageable in weight for most users, though some might find it a bit heavy if they prefer a very lightweight rifle. The rifle’s metal frame and aluminum barrel contribute to its durability while keeping weight balanced. It comes with a scope included, which helps with accuracy — important when targeting small animals like squirrels. The noise level typical of spring-piston rifles might be noticeable, which could be a factor if you want a quieter shooting experience. The size and ergonomics seem straightforward and suitable for adult users.

With a solid 4.3-star rating from many users, it is recognized as a dependable choice for small game hunting. The main downsides are that it’s not the quietest option, and beginners might need some practice to master its break-barrel loading system and recoil. If you’re looking for a powerful, multi-shot air rifle with good accuracy suited for squirrels and small game, this model offers a good balance of features and performance.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
832 reviews

Power Source
Power is impressive enough to break the sound barrier with the right ammo, comparable to a rimfire .22 LR in sound and impact.
Accuracy
This air rifle delivers unbelievable power and accuracy up to 70 yards, making it highly effective for small game hunting.
Weight and Ergonomics
Built with a sturdy metal frame and aluminum barrel, the rifle feels extremely well-made and durable with a natural balance in hand.
Noise Level
While the rifle is a bit louder than expected for a spring-piston model, the sound tends to mellow after extended use.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
906 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
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
906 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.
#3

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
9.7
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1961 reviews

Accuracy
The Gamo Swarm Magnum is incredibly powerful and accurate, making it perfect for small game hunting.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being lightweight, the rifle has a satisfying recoil, adding to the realism.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is a high-power air rifle designed for small game hunting, including squirrels. With a caliber of 0.22 and a velocity of up to 1,300 fps, it offers significant stopping power and speed. This rifle uses the IGT Mach 1 gas piston, which enhances power and reduces vibration for more consistent shots.

The innovative 10X GEN2 Quick-Shot technology allows for up to ten shots without reloading, making it convenient for follow-up shots in the field. The two-stage Custom Action Trigger (CAT) is independently adjustable, providing a customizable shooting experience. Safety features include both manual safety and an automatic cocking safety system, which adds a layer of reassurance for the user.

Weighing 6.88 pounds, the rifle is relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for prolonged use. Its ergonomic design further enhances user comfort. The included scope adds to its accuracy, though it might require some initial adjustments for perfect alignment. One of the notable strengths is its quiet operation, thanks to the inert gas technology, which is a plus for not alarming game or disturbing neighbors. Additionally, while the gas piston offers many benefits, some users might find it harder to cock compared to spring-piston alternatives.

Rating
9.7
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1961 reviews

Accuracy
The Gamo Swarm Magnum is incredibly powerful and accurate, making it perfect for small game hunting.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite being lightweight, the rifle has a satisfying recoil, adding to the realism.

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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