Best Air Rifles: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of air rifles, where precision engineering meets backyard fun and serious pest control. After extensive testing and analysis, we’ve put together the definitive guide to the best air rifles available today. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a newcomer, we’ve found a model that fits your needs. While many contenders impressed us with their power and accuracy, one stood out for its sheer enjoyment factor and realistic feel. Our top pick, the DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2 Air Gun, delivers an unparalleled experience with its thrilling full-auto capability, robust construction, and exceptional customizability, making every shooting session an absolute blast.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Air Rifles

#1 DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2 Air Gun – Ideal for: Realistic Training and Unmatched Plinking Fun

From the moment we unboxed the DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2 Air Gun, we knew we had something special. This isn’t just a BB gun; it’s a high-fidelity replica that provides an incredibly authentic shooting experience. The weight and balance feel remarkably similar to a real AR-platform rifle, making it an excellent tool for training and familiarization. We found the 6-position adjustable stock and quad-rail system to be fantastic features, allowing for a comfortable fit and limitless customization with lights, lasers, and optics. Many users confirmed our findings, noting that the rifle’s customizability is one of its strongest selling points.

The real magic, however, happens when you switch to full-auto. The sheer joy of sending 25 BBs downrange at up to 1400 rounds per minute is undeniable, a sentiment echoed by countless users who describe the experience as “spontaneous giggling.” The blowback action is crisp and satisfying, adding another layer of realism. In semi-auto mode, we achieved surprisingly tight groupings at 30 feet. While the included pop-up sights are basic, we recommend adding a red dot sight, as many other owners have, to truly unlock its accuracy potential. The dual 12g CO2 cartridges provide enough power for about four magazines before needing a change, which felt reasonable for the performance. The included speedloader can be finicky if overfilled, a minor quirk we also saw mentioned by other users, but with a little practice, it becomes a non-issue. For pure, unadulterated fun and realistic handling, this rifle is in a class of its own.

#2 Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle – Perfect for: Powerful and Quiet Small Game Hunting

For those who need serious power without alerting the entire neighborhood, the Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle is a top-tier choice. We were immediately impressed by the IGT Mach 1 gas-piston powerplant. It delivers a smooth, consistent cocking motion and a powerful shot, sending .22 caliber pellets downrange with authority—up to 1020 fps. This rifle packs more than enough punch for effective pest control and small game hunting. Our tests showed it could easily penetrate 3/4″ plywood, demonstrating its impressive kinetic energy. The Whisper Fusion sound dampening is genuinely effective; while not completely silent, it reduces the report to a dull thud, similar to a nail gun, which is perfect for backyard use.

We found the accuracy to be excellent once we found the right pellet. Our rifle favored the Crosman 14.3gr hollow points, allowing us to produce dime-sized groups at 25 yards. This experience is common, as many users reported having to test several pellet types to find the perfect match for their specific barrel. The CAT (Custom Action Trigger) is a standout feature, allowing for precise adjustments to both stages of the pull for a crisp, predictable break. A common point of criticism we share with some users is the durability of the bundled 3-9×40 scope. The recoil, though dampened, can be harsh on optics, and some users reported scope failure. However, the rifle itself is a solid, well-built performer that, when paired with a quality scope, becomes a formidable hunting tool.

#3 Gamo Silent Cat .177 Caliber Breakbarrel Pellet Air Rifle – Suits: Varmint Control and Target Plinking

The Gamo Silent Cat .177 Caliber Breakbarrel Pellet Air Rifle has been a popular choice for years, and after putting it through its paces, we understand why. It strikes an excellent balance between power, weight, and user-friendliness. At just over 5 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great option for extended plinking sessions or carrying around the property for pest control. The spring-piston power plant is robust, launching alloy pellets at up to 1200 FPS. We found it had more than enough power to dispatch squirrels and other small pests cleanly and efficiently, a fact confirmed by numerous satisfied users who praise its effectiveness for “squirrel control.”

Accuracy is a strong point. Once we had the included 4×32 scope zeroed in, we were consistently hitting 1-inch groups at 25 yards. The ergonomic thumbhole stock provides a stable and comfortable grip, which contributes significantly to its accuracy. A point of contention among some users is the sound level; while the name “Silent Cat” might suggest whisper-quiet operation, we’d classify it as backyard-friendly rather than truly silent. It’s noticeably quieter than a non-suppressed rifle but will still produce an audible pop. We also noted that the included scope, while functional, can be obstructed by the iron sights, requiring some users to remove the rear sight for a clear picture. Despite these minor issues, its combination of power, accuracy, and lightweight design makes it a fantastic value for general-purpose airgunning.

#4 Gamo Swarm Maxxim G2 .22 Cal Multi-Shot Pellet Rifle – Best for: Fast Follow-Up Shots on Pests

The single-shot nature of break-barrel rifles can be a drawback, but the Gamo Swarm Maxxim G2 .22 Cal Multi-Shot Pellet Rifle elegantly solves this problem. The 10X GEN 2 multi-shot system is a game-changer, allowing for rapid follow-up shots without fumbling for pellets. We found the autoloading mechanism to be reliable and smooth after a brief break-in period of about 50 rounds. This feature is invaluable for pest control, where a quick second shot can make all the difference. The .22 caliber pellets hit with significant force, easily capable of dispatching common yard pests with humane, one-shot stops.

The gas-piston power plant provides a consistent 1000 FPS velocity and a much smoother shooting cycle than a traditional spring-piston. We found the cocking effort to be manageable and less strenuous than some of the more powerful magnum rifles. Accuracy was impressive; after sighting in the included scope, we were achieving dime-sized groups at 35 yards. Our experience was confirmed by several users who were delighted with its precision. However, we did encounter a minor design flaw also noted by others: the scope needs to be mounted as far back as possible to allow the front lens cap to be removed without hitting the loading mechanism. Additionally, some users have reported issues with a retaining pin on the loading mechanism working its way loose over time, so it’s something to keep an eye on. Overall, the convenience of the 10-shot magazine makes this an outstanding choice for efficient pest management.

#5 Crosman CAK1 BB Air Rifle – Ideal for: Tactical Plinking with Classic AK Styling

For fans of the iconic AK platform, the Crosman CAK1 BB Air Rifle is a dream come true for backyard plinking. Crosman has done a fantastic job replicating the look and feel of the classic rifle, from the weight to the controls. We found the synthetic construction to be very durable, and the foldable, adjustable stock adds a modern tactical touch while allowing for a comfortable shooting stance. It runs on two 12g CO2 cartridges housed in the 28-round drop-out magazine, which provides a satisfying heft and realistic feel when reloading.

Just like its AR-styled cousin, the SBR, the real excitement with the Crosman CAK1 BB Air Rifle is the select-fire capability. Flipping the switch to full-auto and unleashing a barrage of BBs is incredibly fun and addictive. The rate of fire is blistering, emptying the magazine in just a couple of seconds. We found it to be surprisingly accurate in semi-auto mode, capable of hitting targets consistently at 30 feet. The main drawback we and many other users noted is its CO2 consumption. You can expect to get through about two, maybe three, magazine refills before the power drops off significantly. While the 430 FPS velocity is adequate for plinking cans and cardboard targets, it’s not intended for pest control. If you’re looking for a realistic, fun, and tactical-styled BB gun for target practice, this is an excellent and enjoyable option.

#6 Gamo Swarm Magnum GEN3i .22 Caliber Air Rifle – Perfect for: Maximum Power and Long-Range Pest Control

When you need maximum power from a break-barrel platform, the Gamo Swarm Magnum GEN3i .22 Caliber Air Rifle answers the call. This is not a toy; it is a serious hunting tool. The IGT Mach1 gas piston, with its large 33mm cylinder, is the heart of this beast, launching alloy pellets at a blistering 1,300 FPS. During our testing, this rifle demonstrated incredible knockdown power, penetrating 1/2″ plywood with ease. It’s more than capable of handling small game and larger pests at extended ranges. The accuracy was exceptional; right out of the box, we were able to achieve 1-inch groups at 50 yards, a testament to its quality barrel and power plant.

The GEN3i 10-shot inertia-fed magazine system is a fantastic addition, making follow-up shots fast and intuitive. However, all this power comes with a trade-off: a very stout cocking effort. This is a rifle that requires significant strength to operate, a point many users emphasize. The recoil is also substantial for an air rifle, but Gamo’s Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) does an admirable job of protecting the scope. That said, like other high-powered Gamo rifles, we’d recommend upgrading the included scope to a more robust model to handle the intense recoil long-term. Several users reported the stock scope failing after a few hundred shots. If you can handle the cocking force and want a multi-shot rifle with magnum-level power, this is one of the best options available.

#7 Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X GEN3i Break Barrel Air Rifle – Suits: Hunters Wanting a Balance of Power and Portability

The Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X GEN3i Break Barrel Air Rifle sits in a sweet spot, offering many of the features of its more powerful Magnum sibling but in a more manageable and user-friendly package. We found this to be an outstanding rifle for general pest control and small game hunting. The IGT gas piston delivers a potent punch, sending .22 caliber pellets at up to 1,000 FPS, which is plenty of power for dispatching squirrels and rabbits humanely. The key difference we noted was the cocking effort; at a reported 30 pounds of force, it’s significantly easier to cock than the Magnum, making it more suitable for longer shooting sessions. Many older users or those with less physical strength praised this rifle for being powerful yet manageable.

Accuracy is superb. We were thoroughly impressed with its ability to stack pellets, achieving tight 10-shot groups at 25 yards. The GEN3i inertia-fed magazine works flawlessly, allowing for quick reloads and fast follow-up shots. The Whisper Fusion noise dampening is also very effective, keeping the sound to a neighbor-friendly level. The Custom Action Trigger (CAT) provides a clean, adjustable pull that enhances precision. The main complaint we and others had was related to shipping and handling, with some units arriving in damaged boxes. Additionally, the scope, while functional, has some internal debris reported by a few users. Despite these potential quality control issues on the accessory side, the rifle itself is a top-performer that perfectly balances power, accuracy, and ease of use.

#8 Umarex Legends M1A1 BB Gun – Ideal for: Historical Collectors and Full-Auto Fun

Stepping back in time, the Umarex Legends M1A1 BB Gun is a stunningly realistic replica of the iconic “Tommy Gun.” From its all-metal frame to the faux-wood furniture, the look, weight, and feel are incredibly authentic. As collectors and shooting enthusiasts, we were blown away by the attention to detail. This is a hefty piece, weighing in at nearly 8 pounds, which adds to its realism. The open-bolt blowback action is a fantastic touch, providing a satisfying clack with every shot that mimics the original firearm’s operation.

The experience of shooting this rifle is pure joy. We loaded up the 30-round magazine with two CO2 cartridges and switched to full-auto. The rate of fire is astonishingly high, and as many users happily reported, it will have you “giggling like a little girl.” It chews through CO2 and the 30-round magazine in seconds, so we highly recommend picking up a spare magazine to keep the fun going. In semi-auto mode, we found it to be reasonably accurate for plinking at 15-20 yards, easily hitting soda cans. The fixed peep sight is the primary drawback; our unit shot slightly off, and with no way to adjust it, we had to compensate our aim. This was a common complaint among users. However, this rifle isn’t about tack-driving precision; it’s about the historical experience and the thrill of full-auto fire, and in that regard, it delivers magnificently.

#9 Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle .177 Caliber – Perfect for: Fast, High-Velocity Target Shooting

The Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle .177 Caliber is designed for shooters who prioritize velocity and quick reloading for target practice or dealing with small, fast-moving pests. The combination of the .177 caliber and a powerful spring-piston power plant results in a blazing 1300 FPS muzzle velocity with alloy pellets. During our tests, we found this rifle to be very accurate out of the box. After zeroing the included 4×32 scope at 25 yards, we were consistently able to produce tight groups, making it a reliable tool for both plinking and nuisance varmint control.

The standout feature is the 10X Quick Shot system. Being able to break the barrel and have the next round automatically loaded is a significant quality-of-life improvement over traditional single-shot rifles. The mechanism worked flawlessly for us with pointed and domed pellets. However, some users noted that flat-nosed pellets could have trouble loading. A significant point of criticism, which we also observed, is the build quality of some components. The stock is a lightweight plastic, and the included scope is very basic; several users reported the scope breaking after only a small number of shots. The high velocity also means a loud report, contrary to the “Whisper” name. It is certainly not quiet. Despite these drawbacks, if you want a high-velocity, multi-shot .177 rifle for fast-paced shooting, the core performance is solid for the price.

#10 Gamo Swarm Maxxim 10X GEN 2 Multi-Shot Air Rifle – Suits: Beginners Seeking a Multi-Shot Plinker

The .177 caliber version of the Gamo Swarm Maxxim 10X GEN 2 Multi-Shot Air Rifle offers a fantastic entry point into the world of multi-shot break-barrels. Its high velocity of 1300 FPS makes for a very flat trajectory, which is helpful for beginners learning to shoot at various distances. We found the rifle to be lightweight and easy to handle, with a manageable cocking effort thanks to the gas-piston system. The low-profile design of the GEN 2 loading mechanism is an improvement, making the rifle’s silhouette cleaner and less obtrusive.

The 10-shot magazine is the main draw, and for casual plinking, it’s a wonderful feature that keeps the action going. However, we experienced some of the reliability issues that were frequently mentioned by users. The plastic loading mechanism and magazine can be fragile, and we encountered several instances of misfires or pellets failing to load correctly. Some users reported catastrophic failure of the loading mechanism after only a few hundred shots. The vibration from the shot can also loosen the scope screws over time, requiring frequent re-tightening. While the core rifle feels solid and performs well when it works, the unreliability of the plastic loading components is a significant concern that keeps it from ranking higher on our list. It’s a fun concept, but the execution needs refinement.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right air rifle depends entirely on your intended use. Consider these factors before making a decision:

• Purpose: Are you plinking in the backyard, controlling pests, or hunting small game? For plinking, a CO2-powered BB rifle like the DPMS SBR offers maximum fun. For pest control and hunting, a powerful .22 caliber gas-piston rifle like the Gamo Swarm Magnum is a better choice.
• Power Plant: The mechanism that powers the rifle affects its performance. CO2 is great for semi/full-auto action but can be affected by temperature. Spring-piston/gas-piston (break-barrels) are self-contained and powerful but are single-shot unless you get a multi-shot model like the Gamo Swarm series.
• Caliber: The two most common calibers are .177 and .22. The .177 offers higher velocity and a flatter trajectory, making it great for target shooting. The .22 is slower but carries more energy (knockdown power), making it the preferred choice for hunting.
• Weight & Ergonomics: A lighter rifle is easier to carry and hold steady for off-hand shots. Heavier rifles can feel more stable when shooting from a rest. Ensure the stock and grip are comfortable for you.

Understanding Power Sources and Caliber

The “engine” of your air rifle is its power plant. CO2-powered rifles use disposable 12g cartridges to fire multiple shots rapidly, making them ideal for semi-automatic and full-automatic models. Their performance can dip in cold weather. Spring-piston rifles use a coiled spring that is compressed when you “break” the barrel. They are powerful and self-sufficient but have a distinct “twang” and recoil that can be hard on scopes. Gas-piston (like Gamo’s IGT) rifles replace the spring with a sealed cylinder of compressed gas. This results in a smoother cocking and firing cycle, less vibration, quieter operation, and better cold-weather performance than both CO2 and springers.

Regarding caliber, the choice between .177 and .22 is a classic debate. The .177 pellet is smaller and lighter, achieving higher velocities. This flat trajectory makes it forgiving for target shooting where hitting the bullseye is key. The .22 pellet is heavier and slower but transfers significantly more energy to the target. This makes it a much more effective and humane choice for hunting small game and pest control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When buying your first or next air rifle, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Chasing Velocity (FPS) Alone: A high FPS number looks impressive, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. A heavier .22 pellet at 900 FPS can have more impact energy than a lightweight .177 pellet at 1200 FPS. Focus on foot-pounds of energy (FPE) for hunting.
• Ignoring the Scope: Many rifles come with a bundled scope, but these are often of low quality. The unique forward-and-backward recoil of a break-barrel rifle can destroy scopes not specifically rated for airgun use. Be prepared to invest in a quality airgun-rated scope.
• Using the Wrong Ammunition: BBs are for smooth-bore barrels, and pellets are for rifled barrels. Using BBs in a pellet rifle can damage the rifling. Furthermore, every rifle has a “pellet preference”—buy a few different types to see which one your rifle shoots most accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of air rifles?

The main types are defined by their power source. Spring-Piston (or “springers”) use a coiled spring compressed by breaking the barrel. Gas-Piston (or gas-ram) rifles replace the spring with a sealed gas cylinder for smoother, quieter operation. CO2 rifles use disposable 12-gram CO2 cartridges, allowing for semi-auto and full-auto fire. Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifles use a high-pressure onboard air reservoir filled from a scuba tank or special pump, offering recoilless power and accuracy, but require more support equipment.

What is the most important factor when choosing an air rifle?

The most important factor is your primary intended use. If your goal is backyard fun and plinking, features like full-auto capability and realistic design (like the DPMS SBR) are key. If you need to control pests or hunt small game, the most important factors become caliber (.22 is generally preferred) and power, measured in Foot-Pounds of Energy (FPE).

Are air rifles legal in all US states?

Air rifle laws vary significantly by state and even by city. While they are legal to own in most places, some jurisdictions have restrictions on velocity (FPS), power (FPE), or where they can be discharged. Some states may classify high-powered air rifles as firearms. Always check your local and state laws before purchasing or using an air rifle.

What is the difference between .177 and .22 caliber?

.177 caliber pellets are smaller, lighter, and travel at a higher velocity, resulting in a flatter trajectory which is ideal for target shooting. .22 caliber pellets are larger, heavier, and travel slower but deliver significantly more impact energy (knockdown power), making them the superior choice for hunting and pest control.

How much power (FPE) do I need in an air rifle?

For plinking and paper targets, any power level is fine. For small pests like mice or starlings, you’ll want at least 5-6 FPE. For larger pests like squirrels and rabbits, a minimum of 12 FPE at the target is considered the ethical standard. For larger animals like raccoons or groundhogs, you should look for rifles delivering 20+ FPE.

Which air rifle brands are the most reliable?

Brands like Gamo, Crosman, and Umarex have a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and innovative air rifles across various price points. Gamo is well-known for its powerful and quiet gas-piston hunting rifles, while Crosman and Umarex excel at creating fun, realistic CO2-powered replicas.

Do I need a scope for my air rifle?

While many air rifles come with open “iron” sights, a scope is highly recommended for unlocking the full accuracy potential of your rifle, especially for hunting or shooting at distances beyond 15-20 yards. A scope magnifies the target and provides a precise aiming point (crosshairs), leading to much tighter groups and more humane shots on game.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we are confident in naming the DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2 Air Gun as our top pick. While other rifles may offer more raw power for hunting, none can match the sheer joy, realism, and versatility that the DPMS SBR provides. Its authentic weight and AR-platform controls make it an invaluable and inexpensive training tool. The quad-rail system offers endless customization, allowing you to tailor it to your exact preferences. But above all, the exhilarating experience of switching to full-auto fire delivers an unmatched level of fun that will bring a smile to any shooter’s face. For its blend of realistic training potential and pure, unadulterated plinking enjoyment, the DPMS Full Auto SBR CO2 Air Gun is the clear winner.

Last update on 2025-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API