Top 10 Air Rifles & Pellet Guns Reviewed

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
HATSON 95 Combo
Test Winner: HATSON 95 Combo
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The purpose of this is to provide more information to interested consumers about the latest information on air and pellet guns. When it comes to finding what makes the best air rifle, there are certain characteristics that are obvious. For example, if you had one that was not very accurate, then it clearly would not be very good. We’ll still cover accuracy, but we’ll also cover other aspects, including power, speed and the ease of use for each you might be looking at. Finding the right option for you might seem like it can be an overwhelming proposition; however, it doesn’t need to be. If you are wanting to make sure you purchase the right one for the long-term, then taking a couple of hours of doing research ahead of time will easily pay dividends down the road.

Standout Picks

HATSON 95 Combo
The HATSON 95 Combo is a break barrel single-shot firearm. It comes equipped with everything you need. It features a trigger system as well as an optic system. It also has features that cut back on the recoil of each shot and focus on safety. Such as the automatic safety and anti-beartrap mechanism for safe and precise operation.
Amazon Link
$150.00
Gamo Swarm Fusion
Get the power, accuracy, and reliability that you need right when you need it with the Gamo Swarm Fusion. Gamo is known for providing quality air rifles but this one takes it a step further by offering a smoother operation. Furthermore, the brand ensured this one was one of the very best on the market, by providing state of the art technology that gets the job done without missing a beat.
Amazon Link
$236.99
Winchester Model 77XS
The Winchester 77XS is a dual ammo firearm that is loaded with features you will love. It is comfortable to hold with a thumbhole that offers your hand the right support so that you stay relaxed. With every charge, you will gain more power and velocity. You can use it indoors or outdoors. Three charges will help you with indoor fire practice and ten charges will help you achieve maximum velocity.
Amazon Link
$122.50
Benjamin 392 Bolt Action
This option offers timeless performance and dependable accuracy. It will stay on your favorites lists for years to come. It features a multi-charge design and sleek, lightweight body. This is perfect for small game and pests or for target practice. Zero in on whatever your target is with a fully adjustable sight scope.
Amazon Link
Ruger Blackhawk Combo
The Ruger Blackhawk Combo is an option that boasts an all-weather polymer stock that is ambidextrous making it a great option for both right- and left-handed folks.
Amazon Link
$111.02
Daisy 880 Powerline Kit 37.6”
The Daisy 880 Powerline Kit is a great starter. It is a solidly built option that includes safety glasses and the ammo you need to shoot targets. Pump the gun three times for indoor target practice or ten times to achieve maximum velocity outdoors. This firearm will impress with its adjustable scope for wind and elevation and its fog proof and shockproof design.
Amazon Link
$64.99
Gamo Raptor Whisper
This is the first Gamo product that has made our list and it hits all the marks that we look for in a solid firearm. It's available in .177 and .22 caliber projectiles and comes with a gas piston that makes this a smooth cocking and firing the firearm. It also comes with a nice shockproof sight and a comfy all-weather stock. All in all a great product.
Amazon Link
$113.66
Black Ops Break Barrel
Some might say looks could be deceiving and while sometimes that is true, that is not the case when it comes to this pellet gun. Featuring a solid body built to provide the best service, paired with spring piston technology, the .22 rifle shoots pellets up to 1,000 FPS, allowing you to get to your target with exceptional accuracy every time.
Amazon Link
$189.99
Crosman Pneumatic Pump .177
The Crosman Pneumatic Pump is based on popular AR platforms. It features a rifled steel barrel, lowering the charging force for higher velocities and an exceptional shot. Overall, it is easy to use whether you are right-handed or left-handed.
Amazon Link
$72.57
Gamo Whisper Silent Cat
This Gamo product is powerful, comfortable and effective. It offers everything that you could want in an air weapon. You’ll be extremely impressed by its power and accuracy, lightweight construction and adjustable scope.
Amazon Link
$159.99

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Accuracy

If you do not have an ability to hit anything you are firing at, then your hunting experience will be very frustrating. In order to avoid this scenario, then you need to have a weapon that fires accurately on a consistent basis. Not only this, but if you end up with a weapon that is not accurate, not only do you miss what the smaller target you are already firing at, but you will more than likely scare away any other small animal game you were going after. This can cause you to have an empty trip – and even the most avid hunters never like returning home empty-handed.

So, what are some ways you can ensure you have an accurate weapon? First and foremost, as with any tool that has multiple moving parts, you should clean it at least once a year. If you are not comfortable with doing this yourself, then you can take it into a pro shop, and have them clean it out for you. Once it is clean, you can then take your weapon to a range, and re-calibrate it. If you attempt to re-calibrate it when you are out in the wild, you will continue to fire wildly. It’s important for your accuracy to go to a range, and take a few shots, so you can ensure you know understand how it fires, and at what range, and how you need to adjust your shots accordingly.

Ease of Use

Because of where you are typically firing, you want to ensure that your weapon is the right way. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, then you will want a lighter option, as you don’t want to be tired from carrying it before you even have the chance to fire. If you are going to keep one in your barn or garage, then having one that is a little bit heavier is suffice, to ensure it stays durable over the course of time.

When it comes to your weapon, you may also want to consider what kind of case you use with it. If you are in an area where you need a quick release, then having a large case with a big buckle may not be the way to go. However, if you want to protect your weapon from the elements of the weather, then having a case which does cover most of it will help you in this endeavor.

In addition to this, if you have a scope for it, it’s important to make sure your scope is taken care of anytime it is stored, and can easily be put on each time you use your weapon. No matter what kind of case your purchase, you want to ensure it has room for a scope, even if you don’t purchase a scope when you purchase it.

Effectiveness

Because you are firing with a weapon, the type of ammunition you use can actually vary greatly. The lighter your ammunition, then the faster it will be shot out. However, you have to be very wary of the products which promise you that our ammunition will come out quicker compared to other models. How fast it can fire, also known as the FPS (feet per second), can be very deceptive. Due to your ammunition type, the heavier it is, then the slower your shot will actually come out, no matter what the FPS says. The attribute you should be more concerned with is the FPE (Foot Pounds of energy).

Also worth reading sx4 shotgun review

The FPE truly determines how fast and powerful your ammunition will come out. This is very important to consider, as depending on the game you are hunting, you may not need a powerful gun if you are firing at the game at a close distance. However, if you plan on putting up a tree stand, and sitting for a while, and waiting for the game to come to you, then you will need a weapon that has a more powerful FPE. Even if it has a high FPS, if it is low on the FPE scale, you might fire an animal, but you might only maim it, and not kill it.

Maiming an animal is very inhumane, and you break an unwritten rule among hunting; you fire to kill. If you notice an animal that is struggling, and is maimed, or just not in good shape, you do the animal a favor by actually killing it. So, it is very important that you have a weapon that will kill the animal you are firing at.

Versatility

Another thing you want to consider is if the next product you purchase is going to be your long-term option or just the next one. Your budget may help determine this question some, but if you have a weapon for the long term, then you don’t have to purchase everything at the same time. However, you want to ensure that your weapon has all the necessary rails in order to add to it what you desire. If you buy one which does not have the proper amount of rails, then it will be very difficult for you to add the accessories you will want down the road. It may be tough to know what the future will hold, and what you will want in the future; the more accessories it can hold, though, then the happier you will be with your product long-term.

Style

When it comes to finding the best, you want to find one that has a design that fits your style. There are very basic finishes out there, which are meant to replicate more advanced types of weapons. You have the standard brown wood finish, which is meant to show an option from the olden days. You can also go with an all-black matte finish, which ensures that yours does not give off a shine and scare animals away, while also looking sleek and cool.

If you don’t want a standard finish, then you have the choice of other kinds of finishes. There are some which have a body that is in all camouflage, which is great for hunting when you don’t have a lot of covers to start with. You can also pick finishes that are in a variety of different colors and combinations; with such a variety of different styles, you are sure to find an option with the type of body you want on it which matches your personality.

However, not all weapons are fully customizable, so you want to ensure you are still getting the power, speed and accuracy you are wanting within the body style of your choice. Modifications can always be made, but sometimes those modifications cost more than the initial price – so, once you have deiced that you are wanting a weapon, take the time to figure out all the key components within the type of finish you desire.

10 Best Long Range Air Rifle Reviews

1. HATSON 95 Combo

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$150.00
HATSON 95 Combo
Amazon Link

The HATSON 95 Combo is a break barrel single-shot firearm. It comes equipped with everything you need. It features a trigger system as well as an optic system. It also has features that cut back on the recoil of each shot and focus on safety. Such as the automatic safety and anti-beartrap mechanism for safe and precise operation.

Combination trigger system

This HATSON product comes with a combination trigger system. This combination trigger system allows you to pull the trigger in two stages; the first trigger pull-back is for power, and the second trigger pull-back will help determine the length of the shot. This comes with a fixed TruGlo fiber-optic system, where a red laser front site, along with the fully adjustable green laser optic rear sight.

Noteworthy features

This product comes with a checkered forearm and pistol grip. The forearm grip comes with a recoil pad, to ensure your foreman doesn’t get jarred too much by the recoil of each shot. The HATSON firearm comes with a 9x32 magnification firearm scope, the mount for the scope, as well as the lens cover needed for the scope. This firearm has a 1000FPS.

Cost & Value

This HATSON option is sturdy and offers a reliable shot. It would be safe to say that this may even be worth twice as much as it costs, but lucky for you, you can get your hands on impressive precision for an amazing price.

Amazon Link
$150.00

2. Gamo Swarm Fusion

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$236.99
Gamo Swarm Fusion
Amazon Link

Get the power, accuracy, and reliability that you need right when you need it with the Gamo Swarm Fusion. Gamo is known for providing quality air rifles but this one takes it a step further by offering a smoother operation. Furthermore, the brand ensured this one was one of the very best on the market, by providing state of the art technology that gets the job done without missing a beat.

10X GEN2 Quick-Shot Technology
One of the most impressive features this air rifle has is its 10X GEN2 Quick-Shot Technology. Known for being an exceptional concept patented to Gamo, this feature new horizontal magazine integration, making the rifle lighter, more compact and easier to carry around. Due to having this feature, this air rifle brings forth a smooth system with advanced improved accuracy.

Whisper Fusion
While this entire product is quite impressive, having a whisper fusion integrated, happens to be one of the greatest elements to have weaved into your rifle. Furthermore, this feature offers combined sound moderators, making this the ultimate, yet quietest Gamo air rifle on the market. The pellets travel through two distinct chambers, that compress them enough to significantly reduce the noise expansion that typically happens.

Cost and Value
As for the cost and value of the item, it is priced quite fairly. Particularly due to how much-advanced technology you are getting. Furthermore, there is the fact that quality plays a big role in the construction of this air rifle. You are getting quality materials with the technology we all know and love.

Amazon Link
$236.99

3. Winchester Model 77XS

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$122.50
Winchester Model 77XS
Amazon Link

The Winchester 77XS is a dual ammo firearm that is loaded with features you will love. It is comfortable to hold with a thumbhole that offers your hand the right support so that you stay relaxed. With every charge, you will gain more power and velocity. You can use it indoors or outdoors. Three charges will help you with indoor fire practice and ten charges will help you achieve maximum velocity.

Dual ammo chamber

This Multi-pump Winchester 77XS firearm has a dual ammo chamber, along with a 4x32 magnified scope. You have the option of single loading projectiles into this firearm, or up to 50 BB’s at a single time. Each time you pull the bolt back, it will load your metal balls quickly for your next shot.

Velocity

This variable charge allows you to choose the power and speed you want on each shot. If you want a light shot that doesn’t need to go very far, then you can charge it 2-3 times. However, if you need a shot that reaches the maximum amount of velocity and distance, you can charge it up to 10 times. This firearm can fire up to 800 FPS.

Cost & Value

This firearm and the weapon is at a great price. You won’t have to overdo your budget to get a quality gun if you go with this option. Plus, you will love the support and power that it offers, too.

Amazon Link
$122.50

4. Benjamin 392 Bolt Action

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Benjamin 392 Bolt Action
Amazon Link

This option offers timeless performance and dependable accuracy. It will stay on your favorites lists for years to come. It features a multi-charge design and sleek, lightweight body. This is perfect for small game and pests or for target practice. Zero in on whatever your target is with a fully adjustable sight scope.

Strong construction

This Benjamin 392 Bolt Action charge has a Monte Carlo design and is made out of American hardwood. This is a Single Shot bolt action, which is powered by a Variable charge to give you the proper amount of power and speed for each shot.

Adjusts to wind and elevation

This comes with adjustments for both Wind and Elevation, allowing you to figure out the right shot for any elevation. It is 37” long, and the firearm weighs just over 5 lbs. It shoots a .22 caliber ammunition and can fire up to 675 FPS, along with a 14.9 FPE.

Cost & Value

You will be pleased with the look and feel of the Benjamin 392. It is an outstanding .22 caliber option that excels in both appearance and performance. It is an investment that is worth both design and reliability.

Amazon Link

5. Ruger Blackhawk Combo

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$111.02
Ruger Blackhawk Combo
Amazon Link

The Ruger Blackhawk Combo is an option that boasts an all-weather polymer stock that is ambidextrous making it a great option for both right- and left-handed folks.

Comfortable to use

This Spring-Piston Ruger option is made out of an all-weather composite, which allows you to be comfortable with this in any weather environment. The sights are made from an Optic material, including a fully adjustable rear optic.

Clear view scope

This gun includes a 4x32 magnification scope as well as a Duplex reticle Parallax option, which gives you the 29 feet of view up to 100 yards with an 8-millimeter exit pupil. In addition to this, the Scope comes with the waterproof and fog-proof capabilities, along with adjustments for both wind and elevation to give you the perfect shot. This is also coated with a black matte, so it is not shiny while you are in the woods.

Cost & Value

For a good price, you will love this. It offers a clear view of the scope for your best shot. Also, it is comfortable to hold and use. It offers the accuracy you want whether you are right-handed or left-handed.

Amazon Link
$111.02

6. Daisy 880 Powerline Kit 37.6”

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$64.99
Daisy 880 Powerline Kit 37.6”
Amazon Link

The Daisy 880 Powerline Kit is a great starter. It is a solidly built option that includes safety glasses and the ammo you need to shoot targets. Pump the gun three times for indoor target practice or ten times to achieve maximum velocity outdoors. This firearm will impress with its adjustable scope for wind and elevation and its fog proof and shockproof design.

Solid wood grained body

This 880 Powerline Kit is a Multi-Pump option, to ensure you are safe while out shooting, and you can build up the correct amount of pressure for each shot. This is made out of a Wood Grained Monte Carlo, for both the stock and forearm.

Safety first

In addition to this, it comes with Safety Glasses, 750 metal balls, 500 Daisy projectiles and a 4x15 millimeter scope with rings. This 37.6” long firearm can shoot metallic bullets up to 750 FPS, and daisy pellets can come out at 715 FPS.

Cost & Value

You can’t beat the price of this. With the Daisy 880 Powerline, you’ll not only get a great shooting kit, but you will also get the maximum outdoor shooting experience. See clearly, achieve maximum velocity and more for a small price.

Amazon Link
$64.99

7. Gamo Raptor Whisper

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$113.66
Gamo Raptor Whisper
Amazon Link

This is the first Gamo product that has made our list and it hits all the marks that we look for in a solid firearm. It's available in .177 and .22 caliber projectiles and comes with a gas piston that makes this a smooth cocking and firing the firearm. It also comes with a nice shockproof sight and a comfy all-weather stock. All in all a great product.

Inert Gas Technology

A cartridge is what gives this firearm its power. But that doesn't mean it skimps on power. The cartridge that will send your projectile racing at 1300 fps in .177 caliber and .975 fps in .22 caliber. That's plenty of power and also keeps everything smooth.

Whisper Noise Reduction

The Smooth Action Trigger and the cartridge makes this one silent and quiet gun, with an incredibly smooth action pull.

Cost & Value

This is a mid-range product but it's worth every penny. We were really happy with the smooth action and the look and feel of this firearm. Gamo makes a great product and we're happy to toss it on our list.

Amazon Link
$113.66

8. Black Ops Break Barrel

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$189.99
Black Ops Break Barrel
Amazon Link

Some might say looks could be deceiving and while sometimes that is true, that is not the case when it comes to this pellet gun. Featuring a solid body built to provide the best service, paired with spring piston technology, the .22 rifle shoots pellets up to 1,000 FPS, allowing you to get to your target with exceptional accuracy every time.

Maximum Accuracy
When it comes to finding an air rifle that works as hard as you do, you want to have something that focuses on accuracy and being able to provide a quick point and shoot. Thanks to having a long barrel paired with its ability to shoot your ammo up to 1,000 FPS allowing you to have maximum accuracy at long range. It’s the perfect pairing to ensure you get the most out of your air rifle.

Good Scope
To have the most accurate shot you need to have a scope, but not just any scope but a good scope at that. This pellet gun provides you with just that. Featuring a 4X3 is crystal clear scope with adjustable bipod, to ensure you get the crispest display possible.

Cost and Value
The cost of this air rifle is mid-range which works exceptionally well for those that want a quality product without spending a huge chunk of money. Furthermore, you are getting exceptional value for the price, making it a win-win for all.

Amazon Link
$189.99

9. Crosman Pneumatic Pump .177

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$72.57
Crosman Pneumatic Pump .177
Amazon Link

The Crosman Pneumatic Pump is based on popular AR platforms. It features a rifled steel barrel, lowering the charging force for higher velocities and an exceptional shot. Overall, it is easy to use whether you are right-handed or left-handed.

Built for your best shot

The Crosman Pneumatic Pump comes with a 5-shot clip, along with a metallic bullet container that can store 350 pellets at once. Along with the storage, this comes with both the ability to adjust for wind and height, allowing you to zero in on the best shot possible.

Adjustable features

This Crosman also comes with an adjustable stock and dual rear sights, to ensure you have an accurate shot each and every time. In addition to all of this, it comes with the accessory rails so you can mount a scope, flashlights, cameras, and lasers. It also comes with a 600FPS and can shoot BB’s up to 625 FPS.

Cost & Value

As the lowest priced option on this list, you can bet that this one is a total steal. That goes without sacrificing all of the quality and power that you hope to have in your rifle, too. If you want something that you can adapt to quickly, the Crosman Pneumatic Pump is the perfect weapon to start off with.

Amazon Link
$72.57

10. Gamo Whisper Silent Cat

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$159.99
Gamo Whisper Silent Cat
Amazon Link

This Gamo product is powerful, comfortable and effective. It offers everything that you could want in an air weapon. You’ll be extremely impressed by its power and accuracy, lightweight construction and adjustable scope.

Adjustable scope

This product comes with a .177 caliber chamber, along with a 4x32 magnification scope. It also comes with a noise dampener which is non-removable and will reduce the sound of your shot by more than 50%. It is ideal for any type of pest control or small game hunting you want to hunt anytime you are out in the wild, or near your own house.

All-weather construction

This is made out of an all-weather black synthetic stock, which means you can take it out in any weather environment and feel secure it will function properly. In addition to all of these features, it also comes with a ventilated rubber pad, in order to absorb any recoil. It has a 1200 FPS, along with a 1000 FPE.

Cost & Value

This Gamo product is a great guy and an awesome addition to your small game hunting and pest control collection. You won’t be dissatisfied with this purchase.

Amazon Link
$159.99

Sources

  1. Gun News Daily, 4 Reasons Why Air Rifles Are Awesome, Article
  2. Matthew Clark, Top 10 reasons to keep an airgun, Article