7 Best Air Rifle for Small Game

3) Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo

The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo is a popular choice among airgun enthusiasts, known for its powerful performance, high-quality construction, and exceptional accuracy. This air rifle combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, making it suitable for both small game hunting and target shooting. With its robust features and impressive specifications, the Hatsan 95 stands out as a reliable and versatile air rifle.

Specifications

• Caliber: Available in .177, .22, and .25
• Velocity: Up to 1000 fps (.177) / 800 fps (.22) / 650 fps (.25)
• Action: Spring-piston break barrel
• Barrel: Precision rifled steel barrel with QuietEnergy sound moderator
• Stock: Turkish walnut stock with Monte Carlo cheekpiece and rubber recoil pad
• Trigger: Quattro 2-stage adjustable match trigger
• Weight: Approximately 8.4 lbs
• Length: 44.3 inches
• Scope: 3-9×32 scope and mount included
• Safety: Automatic and manual safety mechanisms

Key Features

The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo is designed to deliver high-powered performance and exceptional accuracy. Its spring-piston break barrel action ensures consistent power with each shot, while the precision rifled steel barrel enhances accuracy and shot consistency. The barrel is also equipped with QuietEnergy sound moderator technology, significantly reducing noise and making it an ideal choice for backyard shooting and hunting.

One of the standout features of the Hatsan 95 is its Turkish walnut stock, which not only provides a classic and elegant look but also offers a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The Monte Carlo cheekpiece and rubber recoil pad further enhance shooting comfort, allowing for better control and stability. The rifle’s Quattro 2-stage adjustable match trigger enables precise control over the trigger pull, contributing to improved accuracy and shooting performance.

The included 3-9×32 scope and mount make the Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo ready for action right out of the box. The scope provides clear optics and versatile magnification options, ensuring accurate target acquisition at various distances. The rifle also features both automatic and manual safety mechanisms, adding an extra layer of safety for the shooter.

Pros

• High-Powered Performance: Capable of delivering high velocities in various calibers.
• Exceptional Accuracy: Precision rifled barrel and Quattro adjustable trigger enhance shot precision.
• Quiet Operation: QuietEnergy sound moderator technology reduces noise.
• Elegant Design: Turkish walnut stock with Monte Carlo cheekpiece and rubber recoil pad.
• Included Scope: Comes with a 3-9×32 scope and mount for immediate use.
• Safety Features: Automatic and manual safety mechanisms for added security.

Cons

• Spring-Piston Recoil: Recoil from the spring-piston mechanism might require some getting used to.

In summary, the Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo is a powerful and accurate air rifle that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern features. Its high-powered performance, elegant design, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for small game hunting and target shooting. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or a beginner, the Hatsan 95 offers a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.

4) Ruger Air Magnum Air Rifle

The Ruger Air Magnum is a high-velocity air rifle that stands out for its power, accuracy, and solid construction. Designed for those who demand high performance, this air rifle is well-suited for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting. With its robust features and impressive specifications, the Ruger Air Magnum offers a powerful and reliable shooting experience.

Specifications

• Caliber: Available in .177 and .22
• Velocity: Up to 1400 fps (.177) / 1200 fps (.22)
• Action: Spring-piston break barrel
• Barrel: Rifled steel barrel
• Stock: All-weather synthetic stock with rubber recoil pad
• Trigger: Two-stage adjustable trigger
• Weight: Approximately 9.5 lbs
• Length: 48.5 inches
• Scope: 4×32 scope included
• Safety: Automatic safety mechanism

Key Features

The Ruger Air Magnum is known for its exceptional power, capable of delivering velocities up to 1400 fps in .177 caliber and 1200 fps in .22 caliber. This high velocity is achieved through its spring-piston break barrel mechanism, which ensures consistent and reliable performance with each shot. The rifled steel barrel enhances accuracy and precision, making it a dependable choice for hitting targets at various distances.

The rifle’s all-weather synthetic stock is designed for durability and comfort, featuring a rubber recoil pad to reduce felt recoil and improve shooting stability. The Ruger Air Magnum’s two-stage adjustable trigger allows shooters to customize the trigger pull to their preference, enhancing control and accuracy.

Included with the rifle is a 4×32 scope, providing clear optics and aiding in precise target acquisition. This addition makes the Ruger Air Magnum ready for action right out of the box. The rifle also includes an automatic safety mechanism, ensuring safe operation during use.

Pros

• High Velocity: Capable of reaching up to 1400 fps (.177) / 1200 fps (.22) for powerful performance.
• Accurate Shooting: Rifled steel barrel ensures precise and consistent shots.
• Durable Stock: All-weather synthetic stock with rubber recoil pad for comfort and durability.
• Adjustable Trigger: Two-stage adjustable trigger for personalized trigger pull.
• Included Scope: Comes with a 4×32 scope for immediate use.
• Safety Mechanism: Automatic safety for added security during operation.

Cons

• Recoil: The powerful spring-piston mechanism can produce noticeable recoil.

In conclusion, the Ruger Air Magnum is a powerful and accurate air rifle designed for serious shooters who require high velocity and reliable performance. Its robust construction, adjustable features, and included scope make it an excellent choice for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting. While its weight and recoil might be considerations for some, the overall performance and durability of the Ruger Air Magnum make it a standout option in its class.

In conclusion, selecting the best air rifle for small game hunting involves a careful balance of power, accuracy, build quality, and user-friendly features. Whether you are drawn to the innovative design of the Gamo Swarm Maxxim, the precision engineering of the Weihrauch HW97K, or the classic reliability of the Diana RWS 34, each rifle offers unique advantages tailored to different shooting preferences and needs.

As you weigh the pros and cons of each model, consider how factors such as velocity, barrel quality, trigger mechanism, and ease of use align with your specific hunting requirements. With the right air rifle in hand, you’ll not only enhance your hunting success but also elevate your overall shooting experience. Explore these top options, and take the first step towards mastering the art of small game hunting with unparalleled precision and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best air rifle for small game hunting?

The best air rifle for small game hunting depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some top recommendations include the Benjamin Marauder for its versatility and accuracy, the Gamo Swarm Maxxim for its rapid-fire capability, and the Weihrauch HW97K for its precision engineering and superior build quality.

2. What caliber should I choose for small game hunting?

The most common calibers for small game hunting are .177 and .22. The .177 caliber offers higher velocity and flatter trajectory, making it ideal for smaller game and target shooting. The .22 caliber provides more stopping power and is suitable for slightly larger small game. Choose the caliber based on the type of game you plan to hunt and your personal shooting style.

3. How important is the barrel quality in an air rifle?

Barrel quality is crucial for accuracy and consistency. Rifled barrels, such as those found in the Weihrauch HW97K and Air Arms TX200, enhance pellet stability and accuracy. A precision rifled barrel ensures tight shot groups, which is essential for effective small game hunting.

4. Should I get an air rifle with a built-in noise suppressor?

A built-in noise suppressor, like the Whisper Maxxim technology in the Gamo Swarm Maxxim or the QuietEnergy sound moderator in the Hatsan 95, can be highly beneficial. It reduces noise, making the rifle quieter and less likely to scare away game or disturb neighbors, which is especially useful for backyard shooting.

5. Is a multi-shot air rifle better than a single-shot?

Multi-shot air rifles, such as the Gamo Swarm Maxxim with its 10-shot rotary magazine, offer the advantage of quick follow-up shots without needing to reload after each shot. This can be particularly useful in hunting scenarios where multiple targets or quick second shots are necessary. Single-shot air rifles are simpler and can be more reliable, but they may not offer the same convenience.

6. How important is an adjustable trigger in an air rifle?

An adjustable trigger, like the Rekord trigger on the Weihrauch HW97K or the T06 trigger on the Diana RWS 34, allows you to customize the trigger pull to your preference. This can significantly improve accuracy and shooting comfort, making it easier to achieve consistent, precise shots.

7. Do all air rifles come with scopes?

Not all air rifles come with scopes. Some models, like the Ruger Air Magnum and Hatsan 95, include scopes, while others, like the Weihrauch HW97K, do not. When purchasing an air rifle without a scope, you may need to buy a compatible scope separately to enhance your shooting accuracy.

8. How much does the weight of an air rifle affect shooting?

The weight of an air rifle can affect maneuverability and comfort, especially during extended use. Heavier rifles, like the Weihrauch HW97K and Air Arms TX200, offer stability but may be cumbersome for some shooters. Lighter rifles are easier to handle but may not provide the same level of stability.

9. What safety features should I look for in an air rifle?

Look for air rifles with automatic and manual safety mechanisms, like those in the Benjamin Marauder and Diana RWS 34. These features ensure safe handling and prevent accidental discharge, providing peace of mind during use.

10. Why is build quality important in an air rifle?

Build quality ensures the durability and longevity of the air rifle. High-quality materials and craftsmanship, as seen in the Air Arms TX200 and Hatsan 95, provide a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience. A well-constructed rifle can withstand regular use and maintain its performance over time.