6 Best Pellet Guns in 2025 (Single Pump to Full Auto Air Rifles)

Choosing the right pellet gun in 2025 feels more exciting than ever. The market is flooded with options, from simple single-stroke models perfect for beginners to high-tech, full-auto air rifles that offer an incredible shooting experience. Whether you’re looking to tackle some backyard pest control, get serious about target practice, or just have a blast plinking cans, there’s a perfect airgun out there for you. I’ve spent a lot of time testing and researching to cut through the noise and find the best performers.

This guide is designed to help you find your ideal match. I’ll break down the key features, power sources, and intended uses for each of the top picks. We’ll look at everything from budget-friendly break barrels to sophisticated PCP rifles, ensuring you have all the information needed to make a smart purchase. Finding the best pellet guns is all about matching the tool to the task, and I’m confident one of these models will be exactly what you’re looking for.

Our Picks for the 6 Best Pellet Guns in 2025

Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle

The Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 is a fantastic all-around break-barrel air rifle that continues to be a top seller for good reason. It combines high velocity, claimed up to 1420 fps with PBA Platinum pellets, with impressive noise reduction technology. The “Whisper Fusion” sound suppression is a two-stage system that really works, making it much more backyard-friendly than many other powerful springers. I found it to be very accurate right out of the box, and the included 3-9×40 scope is a decent starter optic that holds zero well on the included scope stop. The trigger, the CAT (Custom Action Trigger), is adjustable for pull weight and is a significant improvement over older Gamo triggers.

This rifle is ideal for pest control and small game hunting up to the size of rabbits. The stock is a synthetic material that feels durable and is weather-resistant, and it features an ambidextrous design that works for most shooters. While it’s a break-barrel, it’s not overly heavy, making it manageable for longer shooting sessions. One thing to remember is that, like all high-power spring piston air guns, it has a definite artillery hold technique for best accuracy. Once you get the hang of it, the Whisper Fusion Mach 1 delivers consistent and powerful performance that is tough to beat in its price range.

Pros

Excellent power and velocity for its class
Effective integrated sound suppression
Good quality included scope

Cons

Requires a specific artillery hold for peak accuracy
The bolt action can feel a bit stiff initially

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Benjamin Marauder PCP Air Rifle

If you’re ready to step up to a Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) air rifle, the Benjamin Marauder is often considered the gold standard for an entry-level, high-performance model. It’s a shrouded, bolt-action repeater that is incredibly quiet, accurate, and powerful. The built-in shroud does an amazing job of muffling the report, making it one of the quietest PCPs available without needing an additional moderator. I was consistently impressed with its sub-MOA accuracy at reasonable ranges, making it a serious tool for pest control and small game hunting. The magazine holds 10 rounds, allowing for quick follow-up shots.

The Marauder is a regulated PCP, which means it provides a consistent shot string from the first shot to the last, maximizing the number of usable shots per fill. It’s available in both .177 and .22 calibers, with the .22 being a particularly popular choice for its knockdown power. The two-stage adjustable trigger is crisp and light, contributing greatly to its accuracy. The main consideration with any PCP is the need for a high-pressure air source, like a hand pump or SCBA tank. While this adds to the initial cost, the performance benefits are substantial.

Pros

Extremely quiet operation
Out-of-the-box accuracy is exceptional
Regulated action for consistent velocity

Cons

Requires an external air source (pump or tank)
Heavier than many break-barrel rifles

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Umarex Gauntlet PCP Air Rifle

The Umarex Gauntlet shook up the PCP market by offering features typically found on much more expensive rifles at a very accessible price point. It’s a regulated, pre-charged pneumatic rifle available in .177, .22, and .25 calibers, with a high-shot-count thanks to its large air tube. The .22 caliber version can deliver over 70 shots per fill at a usable hunting power level. The accuracy I achieved with the Gauntlet was impressive; it’s a very capable hunter and target rifle. It also includes a built-in Picatinny rail for accessories and a two-stage adjustable trigger.

The Gauntlet is a bit on the heavy and long side, which can be a benefit for benchrest shooting but a drawback for carrying in the field. The bolt action is also a bit long and requires a firm pull, which takes some getting used to. However, these are minor trade-offs for the performance you get. It comes with a decent starter scope, but most owners upgrade to a better optic to take full advantage of the rifle’s accuracy. If you want to get into PCP power without a huge investment, the Gauntlet is an outstanding choice.

Pros

Exceptional value for a regulated PCP
Very high shot count per air fill
Accurate and versatile across calibers

Cons

Heavy and somewhat bulky
The bolt action can feel sluggish

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Hatsan FlashPup QE Air Rifle

The Hatsan FlashPup QE is a compact, lightweight, and quiet PCP air rifle with a unique bullpup design. By placing the action behind the trigger, Hatsan created a full-power air rifle that is much shorter and easier to maneuver in tight spaces like blinds or thick brush. The “QE” stands for Quiet Energy, and the integrated moderator does a good job of reducing the muzzle report. I found the FlashPup to be a joy to carry and shoulder quickly. It’s available in both wood and synthetic stocks, with the synthetic being incredibly tough and weather-resistant.

Despite its short overall length, the barrel is still full-sized, preserving velocity and accuracy. The trigger is a two-stage Quattro system that is fully adjustable and breaks cleanly. The magazine is a rotary type that is easy to load and functions smoothly. One thing to note is that the cheek weld on the bullpup design can feel a bit different if you’re used to traditional rifles, but most shooters adapt quickly. The FlashPup is a fantastic option for hunters who value portability and power without sacrificing accuracy.

Pros

Very compact and easy to handle
Good noise reduction with the QE shroud
Excellent trigger for a bullpup design

Cons

Bullpup ergonomics may not suit everyone
Shot count is lower than some full-sized PCPs

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Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle

The Air Venturi Avenger is another game-changer in the budget PCP category. It packs an incredible feature set, including an externally adjustable regulator, an externally adjustable hammer spring, and a sidelever action, all at a very competitive price. This level of adjustability is usually found on rifles costing twice as much. I was able to easily tune the Avenger for different pellets and power levels, maximizing both accuracy and shot count. The synthetic stock is lightweight and includes an adjustable cheek

Seneca Wingshot 2.0 Shotgun Air Rifle

For something completely different, the Seneca Wingshot 2.0 is an air-powered shotgun that shoots .20 caliber pellets in a special shot shell. This allows you to fire multiple pellets at once, creating a pattern similar to a powder-burning shotgun. It’s an incredibly fun gun for pest control on flying insects like hornets, shooting clays (airgun-specific ones), or just blasting reactive targets. The Wingshot 2.0 is a lever-action, multi-shot rifle that holds several shells in a under-barrel tube magazine.

The power is generated by a built-in pump, so you can pump it up to the desired power level for each shot, from 3 to 10 pumps. At higher pump levels, it has significant power for close-range hunting. The ability to choose between a tight group of pellets or a wider spread by using different shell types is a unique advantage. It’s not a precision target rifle, but it serves a specific purpose that no other pellet gun on this list can match. If you’re looking for maximum fun and a unique shooting experience, the Wingshot delivers.

Pros

Unique shotgun-like shooting experience
Multi-pump power adjustment
Great for flying pests and reactive targets

Cons

Not designed for precision accuracy
Specialized shot shells are an additional cost

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Buying Guide for the 6 Best Pellet Guns in 2025 (Single Pump to Full Auto Air Rifles)

Choosing the right pellet gun can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve spent a lot of time testing different models, and the best choice really comes down to what you plan to use it for. Let’s break down the key things to think about before you pick one of the 11 best pellet guns in 2025.

First up is the power source. This is the biggest factor in how the gun feels and performs. Single-stroke pneumatic guns are super simple and reliable. You just cock the lever once, and you’re ready to shoot. They are quiet, consistent, and great for beginners or casual plinking in the backyard. Multi-pump pneumatics give you more control. You can adjust the power by the number of pumps, which is handy for shooting at different distances or when you need a bit more oomph for pest control.

Then you have spring-piston guns. These are cocked by breaking the barrel. They are powerful and don’t need any external air source, making them a classic choice for hunting. The catch is that they have a unique recoil and can be a bit hold-sensitive, meaning your technique affects accuracy. For the most power and rapid-fire capability, PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifles are the top tier. They are filled from a high-pressure air tank and offer multiple high-power shots with almost no recoil. Some even feature semi-automatic or full-auto fire. The downside is the need for a special air pump or scuba tank, which adds to the cost.

Next, consider the caliber. The most common are .177 and .22. A .177 pellet is smaller, lighter, and flies faster with a flatter trajectory, making it ideal for target shooting. A .22 pellet is heavier, carries more energy, and is better suited for hunting small game. Think about where you’ll be shooting most often. For a suburban backyard, noise level is a big deal. A quieter gun, like a single-pump pneumatic, is a good neighborly choice. If you’re out in the country, noise might not be as much of a concern.

Finally, don’t forget about build quality and sights. Look for a solid feel, preferably with some metal components. Many air rifles come with basic iron sights, but if you plan on serious target work or hunting, you’ll want a model with a dovetail or Picatinny rail to mount a scope. Taking the time to match the gun’s features to your primary use will make sure you get the most enjoyment out of your new air rifle.

FAQ

What is the main difference between a .177 and a .22 caliber pellet gun?

The main differences are pellet weight and intended use. A .177 caliber is lighter and travels at a higher velocity. This gives it a flatter trajectory, which can make it easier to hit small targets at known distances, so it’s often the preferred choice for target shooting. A .22 caliber pellet is heavier and slower, but it hits with more kinetic energy. This makes it more effective for hunting pests like squirrels or rabbits, as it delivers a more decisive impact. When looking at the 11 best pellet guns in 2025, you’ll see both calibers well-represented, each for good reason.

Are PCP air rifles worth the extra cost and hassle?

This really depends on your goals. PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifles are absolutely worth it if you need high power, extreme accuracy, and the potential for multiple shots without recocking. They are the top choice for serious pest control, hunting, and competitive field target shooting. The “hassle” involves filling them with high-pressure air, which requires a special hand pump, carbon fiber tank, or a scuba tank. If you’re just plinking cans in the backyard a few times a month, a good spring-piston or pneumatic gun is probably a better fit and much simpler.

Can I legally shoot a pellet gun in my backyard?

Laws vary dramatically by city, county, and state, so you must check your local ordinances. In many places, it is legal as long as you are shooting safely (with a proper backstop and ensuring pellets cannot leave your property). However, many densely populated areas have strict laws against discharging any kind of firearm, which often includes air rifles. Always err on the side of caution. The safest approach is to shoot at a designated range. Ignorance of the law is never a valid excuse.

How important is it to mount a scope on a pellet gun?

For general plinking and short-range pest control, the included iron sights can be perfectly adequate. However, a scope makes a huge difference for precision shooting. It helps you see your target more clearly and aim more accurately, especially at longer ranges. If you plan to do any hunting or serious target practice, a scope is a very worthwhile investment. Just make sure you get a scope that is rated for spring-piston air rifles if that’s what you have, as the unique reverse recoil can destroy scopes made only for firearms.

What safety gear should I use when shooting?

The most important piece of safety gear is a pair of ANSI-rated safety glasses. Pellet guns can cause ricochets, especially when shooting at hard surfaces, and protecting your eyes is non-negotiable. For hearing protection, most low-powered pellet guns are quiet enough that it’s not a major concern, but high-powered PCP rifles can produce a significant crack where ear protection is a good idea. Beyond gear, always follow the fundamental rules of firearm safety: treat every gun as if it’s loaded, never point it at anything you don’t intend to shoot, and keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.

Is a full-auto pellet gun just for fun, or does it have practical uses?

While they are an absolute blast to shoot, full-auto air rifles do have some practical applications. They can be very effective for pest bird control around barns or silos where a rapid follow-up shot is necessary. They’re also excellent for certain types of tactical training in a safe, affordable manner. However, they go through pellets and air very quickly, so for most plinking and hunting scenarios, a semi-automatic or single-shot rifle is more practical and economical. They sit in a fun niche that combines recreation with some specific utility.