What are the best air rifles for hunting?

In recent years, air rifles have become significantly more popular as hunting tools. With a wide variety of available options, it can be challenging to determine which air rifle is best suited for certain hunting needs. 

In this blog post, we will explore the world of air rifles for hunting and look at some of the top contenders that have gained recognition among hunters. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or just starting, we will help you make an informed decision and find the best air rifle to enhance your hunting adventures. 

The Growing Popularity of Air Rifles for Hunting

Air rifles are a popular choice for hunting in the UK as their availability extends beyond experienced hunters. They often serve as an entry point for beginners starting their hunting journey. The accessibility and ease of use of air rifles can make them a common choice for individuals embarking on their hunting careers, offering a practical and safe introduction to the sport.

The market for air rifles has been expanding steadily and can now be found in various power sources, calibres, and designs, catering to your specific needs and preferences. Personalisations can be made to ensure that air rifles have a quieter operation (even more so than usual), making them ideal for hunting sensitive or skittish games. This low noise level allows hunters to maintain stealth and avoid alerting nearby animals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Rifle for Hunting

When selecting an air rifle for hunting, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your specific needs. The first consideration is to determine what and where you're hunting. 

Determine the air rifle's primary purpose, whether for small game hunting, pest control, or larger game hunting. Different purposes may require varying calibres, velocities, and power levels.

Power and Velocity:

Power and velocity are crucial factors when choosing an air rifle for hunting. An air rifle's power is measured in foot-pounds of energy and determines its ability to deliver a lethal shot to the target. Higher power allows for a more effective takedown of the game, significantly larger or tougher species.

Velocity, on the other hand, refers to the speed at which the projectile travels. It is measured in feet per second (FPS). Higher velocity increases the projectile's kinetic energy and helps achieve a flatter trajectory. This can be beneficial when shooting at longer distances, where accuracy becomes more critical.

When selecting an air rifle for hunting, it is essential to balance power and velocity based on your intended game and shooting conditions. More minor game or pests may require lower power and velocity, while larger game may necessitate higher levels of both.

Caliber and Projectile:

The calibre of an air rifle refers to the barrel's diameter and determines the size of the projectile it can fire. Different calibres are suitable for various types of hunting.

For small game hunting, .177 and .22 calibres are commonly used. The .177 calibre offers higher velocity and a flatter trajectory, making it suitable for shorter distances and smaller games. The .22 calibre provides more kinetic energy and is better for medium-sized games and longer ranges.

Factors like accuracy, penetration, and expansion should be considered when choosing projectiles. Hollow points or expanding pellets are effective for small game hunting as they transfer energy upon impact. Round nose pellets are suitable for target shooting or pest control.

Accuracy and Range:

Accurate shooting is essential for successful hunting. Look for features that contribute to better accuracy, such as a quality barrel, adjustable triggers, and effective sights. The effective range of an air rifle depends on factors like calibre, power, and accuracy. While .177 calibre offers a flatter trajectory and more extended range, .22 calibre provides more kinetic energy for the more giant games at closer ranges.

Noise Level and Stealth:

Low noise levels are crucial when hunting skittish or sensitive game. A quieter air rifle is advantageous for hunting purposes to avoid spooking game. Models with noise reduction technology or suppressors can help maintain stealth during hunting expeditions.

It allows hunters to get closer to game without alarming them, increasing the chances of a successful shot and reducing the risk of disturbing other wildlife in the area.

Ergonomics and Comfort:

Consider the design and ergonomics of the air rifle, including factors such as weight, balance, stock material, and grip. A comfortable rifle promotes better handling and shooting stability.

Look for air rifles with adjustable stocks, recoil pads, and ergonomic grips. These features ensure a comfortable shooting experience and help reduce fatigue during long hunting trips.

Durability and Maintenance:

Hunting rifles need to be durable enough to withstand rugged conditions. Choose an air rifle that is easy to maintain and clean, as regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your air rifle performing optimally. To prevent damage, clean the barrel regularly, lubricate moving parts, and store the rifle properly.

So, what air rifles are the best for hunting?

When considering the best air rifle for hunting, the choice of power model plays a significant role in determining performance and suitability for different types of hunting. Let's take a look at the popular power models favoured by hunters.

Spring-powered air rifles

Spring air rifles work when compressed air is released. It propels the pellet down the barrel with significant force and velocity. They are known for their affordability and simplicity but may require more effort to cock and have a slight recoil.

Gas-powered air rifles

A gas-powered air rifle, also known as a gas piston or gas ram air rifle, is a type of air gun that uses compressed gas for propulsion. Unlike spring-powered or CO2-powered air rifles, gas-powered air rifles use a gas piston mechanism and gas-filled cylinder to generate power. They offer consistent power and are easy to shoot, but they can be affected by temperature changes.

PCP rifles

A PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifle is an air gun that uses compressed air stored in a built-in reservoir to propel projectiles. Unlike spring-powered or CO2-powered air rifles, PCP air rifles rely on pre-charged air for their operation.

CO2

CO2-powered air rifles use disposable or refillable CO2 cartridges to propel pellets. They are easy to use, offer semi-automatic or full-automatic capabilities, and are suitable for plinking and small game hunting. However, CO2 rifles may experience reduced performance in cold weather conditions.

When choosing the best air rifle for hunting, the power source is a crucial factor to consider. Here's a closer look at the four primary power sources in the world of air rifles – spring, gas ram, CO2, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) – to help you determine which option might be the most suitable for your hunting needs:

How do these compare?

Spring-Piston: While spring-powered air rifles are known for their simplicity, durability, and lack of reliance on external power sources, they require a proper technique for accurate shooting and can produce recoil and noise upon firing, which may affect precision in hunting scenarios.

Gas Ram: Gas ram air rifles provide smoother cocking action, reduced vibration, and consistent power delivery compared to traditional spring-piston models, but they tend to be more expensive upfront and may have limited options for power adjustment compared to PCP models.

CO2: CO2-powered air rifles are easy to use, offer semi-automatic or full-automatic capabilities, and provide a high shot count per cartridge. However, you may experience reduced performance in cold weather, and the ongoing cost of CO2 cartridges should be factored into the overall expenses.

Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP): PCP air rifles are known for their high shot count, consistency, and adjustable power levels. They offer excellent accuracy, making them ideal for hunting various game sizes. 

While PCP rifles require a separate air source for charging, such as a hand pump or scuba tank, and may involve initial setup costs. However, they provide exceptional performance and versatility for hunting purposes.

So, is PCP the choice for hunting?

When selecting the ideal power model for hunting, Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) air rifles are often considered a top choice for many hunters due to their numerous advantages in hunting scenarios. Here are some reasons why PCP air rifles are a popular choice for hunting:

1. Consistent Power and Accuracy: PCP air rifles provide consistent power output shot after shot, improving accuracy and shot placement. This consistency is crucial for hunting success, especially when targeting small or medium game.

2. Adjustable Power Levels: PCP rifles often feature adjustable power settings, allowing hunters to tailor the velocity and energy of the shot based on the target game and distance. This versatility makes PCP rifles suitable for a wide range of hunting applications.

3. High Shot Capacity: PCP air rifles typically have a high shot count per fill, enabling hunters to take multiple shots without needing to refill frequently. This is advantageous during extended hunting sessions or when targeting various game animals.

4. Quiet Operation: PCP rifles operate quietly compared to other power models like spring-piston rifles, reducing the risk of spooking game animals. Their stealthy nature makes them ideal for hunting situations where noise could be a concern.

5. Minimal Recoil: PCP air rifles have minimal recoil, allowing hunters to maintain better accuracy and follow-up shot capabilities. The reduced recoil contributes to shot consistency and overall shooting comfort during hunting expeditions.

6. Versatility and Adaptability: PCP rifles come in various calibres and configurations, catering to different hunting preferences and environments. Whether you're pursuing small rodents or a larger game, there's likely a PCP rifle suited to your specific hunting needs.

While PCP air rifles offer numerous advantages for hunting, it's essential to consider factors such as initial setup costs, the need for a charging solution (e.g., hand pump, compressor), and ongoing maintenance requirements. By weighing these considerations against the benefits of PCP rifles, you can determine if they align with your hunting style and objectives.

Air Arms Rifles

Here at Air Arms, we're renowned for precision engineering, innovation, and exceptional performance. Here are some popular Air Arms options that are highly regarded in the world of air rifles:

Air Arms S510:

The Air Arms S510 is a high-quality PCP air rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. It is available in various calibres, including .177, .22, and .25, making it versatile for different hunting needs. Its adjustable power settings and regulated action offer consistent power and precision for hunting small to medium-sized game.

Air Arms Galahad:

The Air Arms Galahad is a bullpup-style PCP air rifle designed for hunting and target shooting. It features a compact design, ambidextrous stock, and a regulated action for enhanced shot consistency. The Galahad offers excellent accuracy and power, making it suitable for hunting a range of game sizes.

Air Arms Ultimate Sporter:

The Air Arms Ultimate Sporter is another popular PCP air rifle for hunting. Its fully adjustable stock allows users to customise the fit and ergonomics. The Ultimate Sporter offers excellent accuracy, power, and shot consistency, making it a reliable option for hunting small to medium-sized game.

Conclusion

When selecting the perfect air rifle for hunting, consider factors such as power, calibre, accuracy, and personal preference. The ideal choice will depend on your needs and hunting requirements, as air rifles aren't one size fits all.

Ultimately, the best air rifle for hunting will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific hunting environment. We advise you to try out different models, seek recommendations from an experienced hunter, and even research what you want and need. If you have any questions or queries about our air guns, please do not hesitate to contact us.