Introduction
As avid hunters and marksmen, we know that pursuing squirrels with an air rifle is a true test of skill, patience, and equipment. You need a rifle that is accurate, powerful enough for a humane kill, and quiet enough not to spook every creature in the woods. After extensive testing in the field and on the range, we’ve found that the Gamo Swarm Fusion Gen3i Inertia Fed .22 Air Rifle stands out as our top pick. Its innovative 10-shot magazine eliminates fumbling for pellets, allowing for rapid follow-up shots, while its gas-piston power plant delivers consistent, hard-hitting accuracy—a combination that truly sets it apart for serious squirrel hunting.
 Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle |
Best Price Gamo Silent Cat .177 Breakbarrel Air Rifle |
Best Choice Gamo Swarm Fusion Gen3i Inertia Fed .22 Air Rifle |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 0.22 | .177 | .22 |
| Max Velocity | 1020 FPS | 1200 FPS | 1000 FPS |
| Propulsion | IGT Gas Piston | Breakbarrel Spring Piston | IGT Gas Piston, Breakbarrel |
| Scope Included | No | Yes (4×32 scope) | Yes (3-9 scope) |
| Noise Dampening | Whisper Fusion | Silent Cat Technology | Whisper Fusion |
| Warranty | 5 Year Manufacturer | 1 year limited | 5 Year Warranty |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 7 Picks for Best .22 Caliber Air Rifle for Squirrel Hunting
#1 Gamo Swarm Fusion Gen3i Inertia Fed .22 Air Rifle – Best for: Overall Performance and Quick Follow-up Shots
- ✅ [High Powered Air Rifle] Up to 1,000 FPS with alloy .22 Cal. Pellets
- ✅ [Inertia Fed] 10X GEN3i technology includes our revolutionary horizontal inertia fed magazine integration
From the moment we unboxed the Gamo Swarm Fusion Gen3i Inertia Fed .22 Air Rifle, we knew it was a serious contender. The standout feature is, without a doubt, the 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed magazine. In the field, this is a game-changer. When you have a squirrel in your sights, the last thing you want is to break your position to reload. We found the horizontal magazine integration to be smooth and reliable, allowing for lightning-fast follow-up shots without fumbling for pellets. This sentiment was echoed by numerous users who praised the convenience of the multi-shot system for both hunting and plinking.
In our testing, the accuracy was phenomenal right out of the box. After a brief sight-in period with the included 3-9×40 scope, we were consistently stacking pellets in tight groups at 25 yards. The IGT Gas Piston delivers a smooth cocking cycle and a consistent shot, with noticeably less vibration than a traditional spring-piston rifle. This rifle packs a serious punch, with more than enough power for dispatching squirrels and other small game humanely. We tested its penetration on a 3/4″ piece of plywood, and the pellets were fully embedded, confirming its impressive stopping power. While some users noted the included scope is functional, we feel that upgrading the optics could unlock this rifle’s full long-range potential. The manageable 30-pound cocking effort makes it accessible for most adult shooters, striking a perfect balance between power and usability.
What We Like
- Game-changing 10-shot inertia-fed magazine
- Excellent accuracy and consistency out of the box
- Smooth IGT Gas Piston power plant
- Sufficient power for humane small game hunting
- Manageable cocking effort for its power level
What We Didn’t Like
- Included scope is adequate but could be better
- Magazine can occasionally be finicky if not seated properly
#2 Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle – Best for: Raw Power and Experienced Shooters
- caliber: 0.22
- velocity: 1020.00 ft/sec
If raw, unadulterated power is your primary concern, the .22 caliber Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle demands your attention. During our tests, this rifle consistently delivered impressive velocity and kinetic energy, punching through 3/4″ plywood with authority. This is a rifle that leaves no doubt about its capability for small game hunting. The accuracy we achieved was superb, especially after finding the right pellet. Our experience, confirmed by many users, showed that it loves Crosman Premier 14.3-grain hollow points, allowing us to produce dime-sized groups at 25 yards.
The build quality feels solid and substantial in hand. The CAT (Custom Action Trigger) is a welcome feature, allowing for adjustments to both stages for a crisp, predictable break. However, all this power comes with a trade-off: a stiff cocking effort. We measured it around 40 lbs, which can be fatiguing during a long day of shooting. This is not a rifle for a younger or smaller-framed shooter. While Gamo’s Whisper Fusion technology does a decent job of muffling the report, it’s more of a “thwack” than a whisper, comparable to a loud nail gun. The most common complaint we found, and one we can corroborate, is the quality of the bundled scope. It struggles to hold zero against the rifle’s powerful recoil. We highly recommend investing in a quality, airgun-rated scope to truly harness this rifle’s impressive accuracy.
What We Like
- Exceptional power and velocity for a .22 break barrel
- Capable of outstanding accuracy with the right pellets
- Solid build quality and an adjustable trigger
- Good iron sights for shooting without optics
What We Didn’t Like
- Bundled scope is not durable enough for the rifle’s recoil
- Significant cocking effort may be too much for some shooters
#3 Gamo Silent Cat .177 Breakbarrel Air Rifle – Best for: Beginners and Pest Control on a Budget
- VELOCITY: .Shoots .177 Caliber pellets up to 1200 FPS (1000 FPS Lead)
- PROPULSION: Breakbarrel Spring Piston Single Shot
While our primary focus is on .22 caliber rifles for squirrel hunting, we included the Gamo Silent Cat .177 Breakbarrel Air Rifle because it’s an incredibly popular and accessible option for general pest control. For those new to airgunning or needing a lightweight, easy-to-handle rifle, this is a fantastic starting point. We found the cocking effort to be significantly lighter than the more powerful models, making it enjoyable for extended plinking sessions. Its lightweight synthetic stock and thumbhole design provide a comfortable and stable grip.
For its price point, the accuracy is impressive. We were able to sight in the included 4×32 scope quickly and achieve 1-inch groups at 25 yards, which is more than sufficient for small pests like sparrows and mice. However, for squirrels, the .177 caliber is less forgiving. It requires precise shot placement to ensure a humane kill, as it delivers less energy on target compared to a .22. The “Silent Cat” name is a bit of an overstatement; we found the noise level to be noticeable, but certainly backyard-friendly in most neighborhoods. Many users have praised this rifle as a reliable tack-driver once it’s broken in and paired with the right pellet. It’s a solid, no-frills air rifle that offers excellent value and performance for light pest control and plinking.
What We Like
- Very lightweight and easy to handle
- Manageable cocking effort suitable for most shooters
- Good accuracy for the price
- Excellent value for backyard plinking and small pests
What We Didn’t Like
- .177 caliber offers less knockdown power for squirrels
- Noise dampener is effective but not truly “silent”
- Included scope is very basic
#4 Umarex Legends M1A1 Blowback BB Gun Air Rifle – Best for: Backyard Plinking and Replica Collectors
- 30-shot, .177 caliber BB air pistol with realistic blowback action; Semi-auto and full-auto shooting modes
- Powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (CO2 not included)
Let’s be perfectly clear: the Umarex Legends M1A1 Blowback BB Gun Air Rifle is not a hunting rifle. It fires .177 caliber steel BBs, not lead pellets, and lacks the power and accuracy required for humane hunting of any kind. However, we included it in our roundup because it represents the pinnacle of backyard fun. This rifle is an absolute blast to shoot. The all-metal construction gives it a realistic weight and feel, replicating the iconic “Tommy Gun” down to the finest details. The blowback action on both semi-auto and full-auto modes is incredibly satisfying, delivering a clatter and kick that brings a smile to your face every time you pull the trigger.
The full-auto mode is pure, unadulterated fun, capable of emptying its 30-round magazine in a matter of seconds. As many users delightedly report, it’s perfect for shredding soda cans and paper targets. Accuracy is what you’d expect from a smoothbore BB gun—decent for hitting cans at 15-20 yards but not for precision work. The dual CO2 cartridge system provides the necessary power for the strong blowback, but be prepared to go through cartridges quickly, especially on full-auto. If you’re looking for a fun, high-quality replica for plinking or as a collector’s piece, this is one of the best available. Just remember to keep it in the backyard and away from the squirrel woods.
What We Like
- Incredibly realistic all-metal construction and feel
- Extremely fun full-auto and semi-auto blowback action
- Great for backyard plinking and can-shredding
- Excellent as a collector’s replica
What We Didn’t Like
- Completely unsuitable for hunting
- Consumes CO2 cartridges very quickly
- Fixed sights offer limited accuracy
#5 Gamo Swarm Maxxim 10X GEN 2 Multi-Shot Air Rifle – Best for: High-Volume Plinking
- caliber: 0.177
- velocity: 1300.00 ft/sec
The Gamo Swarm Maxxim 10X GEN 2 Multi-Shot Air Rifle is another .177 caliber entry that showcases Gamo’s multi-shot technology. Like our top pick, it offers the convenience of a 10-shot rotary magazine, which makes for a fast-paced and enjoyable plinking experience. We found the rifle to be lightweight and comfortable to shoot, with a velocity that’s perfect for target practice and knocking down spinners. The GEN 2 system works, but it feels less refined than the newer GEN3i system on the Swarm Fusion.
During our testing, we experienced a few instances where the loading mechanism felt a bit fragile, a concern that was also raised by a number of users who reported issues with the plastic components of the breech. While our unit functioned correctly through several hundred shots, the long-term durability of the plastic loading mechanism is a potential point of failure. When it works, it’s a great feature that keeps the fun going without interruption. The accuracy is respectable for a rifle in this category, capable of consistent groups once you find a pellet it likes. For someone who wants a multi-shot plinker and understands the need to handle the loading mechanism with care, it’s a decent option, but for the rigors of hunting, we’d recommend a more robust single-shot or the upgraded GEN3i system.
What We Like
- 10-shot magazine is great for fast-paced plinking
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- High velocity in .177 caliber for flat trajectory
What We Didn’t Like
- Plastic loading mechanism feels fragile and is a common point of failure
- .177 caliber is not ideal for squirrel hunting
- GEN 2 system is less refined than newer models
#6 Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle – Best for: Long-Range Target Practice
- caliber: 0.177
- velocity: 1420.00 ft/sec
This is the .177 caliber version of its hard-hitting .22 sibling. The Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle in .177 boasts blistering velocities, often breaking the sound barrier with lighter pellets, which results in a loud “crack.” For maximum accuracy and quietness, we recommend using heavier lead pellets (9 grains or more). The primary advantage of this caliber is its incredibly flat trajectory, which we found makes it easier to hit targets at varying distances without significant holdover adjustments. This makes it an excellent tool for honing your marksmanship skills or for pest control on smaller critters like starlings at longer ranges.
Just like its .22 counterpart, this rifle is exceptionally accurate. We were able to achieve very tight groups out to 35-40 yards, proving its potential as a precision shooter. It shares the same solid build, the adjustable CAT trigger, and the significant cocking effort. As with the other model, the bundled scope is the rifle’s Achilles’ heel. The intense, snappy recoil of the gas piston proved too much for it during our testing, and we quickly swapped it for a more robust, airgun-rated optic. For a hunter focused on squirrels, the .22 version is the better choice for its superior energy delivery. But for the dedicated target shooter or long-range pest controller, the flat trajectory of this .177 model is very appealing.
What We Like
- Extremely high velocity and flat trajectory
- Excellent accuracy potential for target shooting
- Solid construction and quality adjustable trigger
What We Didn’t Like
- Less knockdown power for larger pests like squirrels
- Included scope is inadequate for the rifle’s recoil
- Very loud with lightweight pellets
#7 Black Ops Sniper S .177 Caliber Air Rifle – Best for: Tactical Look and Feel
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The Black Ops Sniper S .177 Caliber Air Rifle immediately grabs your attention with its tactical, sniper-rifle aesthetics. It comes complete with an adjustable bipod and a 4×32 scope, offering a full package right out of the box. We found the bipod to be surprisingly stable, making it easy to shoot from a bench rest. The rifle feels solid, and the polymer stock is comfortable to hold. For shooters who appreciate the tactical look and feel, this rifle delivers in spades.
Performance-wise, it’s a powerful .177 gas-piston rifle. After a break-in period of about 50 shots, the noise level settled down to a backyard-friendly report. We found the accuracy to be quite good, capable of consistently hitting targets once the scope was zeroed. Several users noted that with a bit of practice, it becomes a reliable and consistent shooter. However, like many bundled packages, the included scope is the weakest link. It’s functional for getting started, but an upgrade would significantly improve the shooting experience. While its .177 caliber makes it less ideal for squirrel hunting than a .22, it has enough power for smaller pests and is a blast for target shooting, especially for those who want a rifle that looks as serious as it shoots.
What We Like
- Awesome tactical sniper-rifle appearance
- Comes with an adjustable bipod and scope
- Good power and accuracy for a .177
- Comfortable and solid-feeling polymer stock
What We Didn’t Like
- Included 4×32 scope is very basic
- .177 caliber has less energy for humane hunting
- Can be loud during the initial break-in period
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Power (FPS & FPE): For squirrel hunting, Foot-Pounds of Energy (FPE) is more important than Feet Per Second (FPS). A .22 pellet, being heavier, retains more energy at a distance. Look for a rifle that can deliver at least 12 FPE at your target distance to ensure a humane kill.
- Accuracy: A humane shot requires precision. A squirrel’s vital zone is tiny. A rifle must be capable of producing tight, consistent groups (ideally under 1 inch at 25 yards) to be considered an ethical hunting tool.
- Power Plant: Most rifles on our list use a gas-piston system (like Gamo’s IGT). Compared to older spring-piston designs, gas pistons are smoother to cock, have less vibration (twang), and are not affected by being left cocked for extended periods while you wait for a shot.
- Noise Level: In a hunting scenario, a loud rifle can spook your quarry and any other game in the area. Look for rifles with built-in sound suppression technology to keep the report to a minimum.
- Trigger Quality: A heavy, gritty trigger can ruin the accuracy of even the best rifle. A light, crisp, predictable trigger (like Gamo’s CAT) allows for better shot control and tighter groups.
Understanding Power Plants
The rifles in our list primarily feature two types of power plants. The majority are Gas-Piston rifles. These use a sealed cylinder of compressed gas (like nitrogen) that acts as a power source. When you break the barrel, you are compressing this gas. Upon firing, the gas expands rapidly, driving a piston forward to compress air behind the pellet. This system is known for its consistency, smooth operation, and longevity. The CO2 powered rifle, like the Umarex M1A1, uses disposable 12-gram CO2 cartridges. This allows for semi-automatic or even full-automatic fire without the need to cock the rifle between shots, making it ideal for fast-paced plinking. However, performance can be affected by ambient temperature, and the cost of CO2 cartridges can add up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the Wrong Ammunition: Not all pellets are created equal. Every air rifle has a preference. Buy several different types and shapes of pellets to see which one groups best in your specific rifle.
- Ignoring the Break-In Period: New gas-piston rifles have internal lubricants that need to be burned off. Your rifle’s accuracy and consistency will improve dramatically after the first 100-250 shots.
- Over-tightening Scope Mounts: It’s tempting to crank down on scope mount screws, but this can damage the scope tube and affect accuracy. Use a torque driver if possible, or tighten them to be “firmly snug.”
- Choosing Caliber Based on Velocity Alone: Don’t be seduced by the high FPS numbers of .177 rifles. For hunting, the heavier .22 pellet’s greater mass and energy transfer is almost always the superior choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum FPS and FPE needed to humanely hunt squirrels with a .22 air rifle?
The widely accepted ethical minimum for hunting squirrels is delivering at least 12 foot-pounds of energy (FPE) to the target. While FPS (feet per second) contributes to this, FPE is the true measure of knockdown power. A typical .22 caliber hunting rifle shooting a 14.3-grain pellet at around 800 FPS will generate well over 20 FPE at the muzzle, ensuring it carries sufficient energy for a clean kill within reasonable hunting distances.
Is a .22 caliber better than a .177 for squirrel hunting?
Yes, for squirrel hunting, the .22 caliber is generally considered superior. While a .177 pellet flies faster and has a flatter trajectory, the heavier .22 pellet transfers significantly more energy to the target. This creates a larger wound channel and delivers more shock, resulting in a more decisive and humane kill, and providing a greater margin for error on shot placement.
What type of pellet is most effective for squirrel hunting?
The most effective pellet is the one that is most accurate in your specific rifle. That said, two types are generally favored. Domed (or Diabolo) pellets are known for their aerodynamic stability and are often the most accurate choice for general use. Hollow-point pellets are designed to expand on impact, transferring more energy and creating a larger wound channel, which is ideal for hunting.
What is the maximum ethical shot distance for squirrel hunting with a .22 air rifle?
This depends heavily on the power of your rifle and your skill as a marksman. For most of the gas-piston rifles on our list, the maximum ethical range is typically between 30 and 40 yards. You must be able to consistently place your shots within a one-inch circle at that distance to ensure you can hit the squirrel’s small vital zone (head or heart/lung area).
Should I choose a PCP or a gas-piston rifle for squirrel hunting?
Both are excellent choices. Gas-piston rifles, like most on this list, are self-contained, requiring no external pumps or tanks. You simply break the barrel for each shot. They are simple, reliable, and powerful. Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifles use a high-pressure onboard air reservoir that you fill from a scuba tank or hand pump. They offer recoil-free shooting and multi-shot capabilities but come with a higher initial cost and more support equipment.
What kind of scope is best suited for the ranges involved in squirrel hunting?
A scope with a variable magnification, such as a 3-9x, is ideal. This allows you to have a wide field of view at 3x to find the squirrel in the trees, then zoom in to 9x for precise shot placement. An Adjustable Objective (AO) or side-focus parallax adjustment is also a critical feature, as it allows you to keep both the reticle and the target in sharp focus at various distances, eliminating aiming errors.
How does weather, like cold temperatures, affect the performance of an air rifle for hunting?
Gas-piston rifles are quite resistant to temperature changes compared to CO2-powered guns. However, extreme cold can still cause the seals and lubricants inside to stiffen, potentially leading to a slight decrease in velocity. CO2 rifles are highly susceptible to cold, which can cause a dramatic drop in pressure and velocity. Gas-piston rifles remain a reliable choice for all-season hunting.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After thorough testing and careful consideration, we confidently stand by our initial assessment: the Gamo Swarm Fusion Gen3i Inertia Fed .22 Air Rifle is the best all-around choice for squirrel hunting. It solves the single biggest drawback of traditional break-barrel hunting—the slow, single-shot reload—with its brilliant and reliable 10-shot magazine. This feature alone can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. When you combine that convenience with the rifle’s outstanding accuracy, the smooth power delivery of the IGT gas piston, and its effective noise suppression, you get a package that is perfectly tailored for the modern airgun hunter. It offers the power, precision, and performance needed to ethically and effectively control pests and put food on the table.
Last update on 2025-10-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API