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9 Best Air Rifle For Squirrels 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
851 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 by1,478
Power Source
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
851 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

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

Rating
9.1
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
2178 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
9.1
Caliber
Power Source
Accuracy

Most important from
2178 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.
#3

Gamo Swarm Magnum PRO 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed Break Barrel air Rifle. High Power 10-Shot Pellet air Gun. 1,650 fps Velocity. New Stock Design. (.22 Caliber)

Rating
8.2
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
227 reviews

Accuracy
The rifle performs exceptionally well, living up to its promises with power, accuracy, and a game-changing multi-shot feature.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle's power comes with a price: it's the heaviest break barrel to be cocked, which can be tiring after multiple shots.

The Gamo Swarm Magnum Pro Gen3i Multi-Shot Air Rifle is designed with a 0.22 caliber, which is suitable for effectively hunting small game like squirrels. With a high velocity of 1300 feet per second, this air rifle offers powerful shots that can ensure a quick and humane kill. The power source for this rifle is the IGT Mach 1 gas piston, which is known for providing consistent power and reducing vibration, resulting in better accuracy and less noise compared to spring-piston air rifles. However, the noise level might still be noticeable despite the gas piston technology, which is something potential users should consider if they are in a noise-sensitive environment.

Weighing in at 6.88 pounds, the rifle is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle and carry during extended periods of use. The ergonomics are also user-friendly, which adds to the shooting experience. The multi-shot capability is a notable advantage, allowing for quick follow-up shots without needing to reload immediately. This feature can be particularly beneficial when targeting fast-moving squirrels.

On the downside, the rifle is quite long at 49.2 inches, which might make it less convenient for maneuvering in tight spaces. Additionally, while the one-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, it may not be as extensive as some users would prefer. In summary, the Gamo Swarm Magnum Pro Gen3i is a powerful and accurate air rifle that is well-suited for hunting squirrels, offering good ergonomics and multi-shot capability, though its length and potential noise level should be taken into account.

Rating
8.2
Accuracy
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
227 reviews

Accuracy
The rifle performs exceptionally well, living up to its promises with power, accuracy, and a game-changing multi-shot feature.
Weight and Ergonomics
The rifle's power comes with a price: it's the heaviest break barrel to be cocked, which can be tiring after multiple shots.

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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