10 Best Pellet Air Rifles 2026 in the United States

The Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle is designed for those who appreciate a quiet shooting experience, thanks to its Whisper Technology that significantly reduces noise. This makes it a great option for backyard practice or small game hunting where noise minimization is important. It employs Inert Gas Technology (IGT), which not only enhances velocity but also reduces vibration, leading to improved accuracy. Weighing in at just 5.43 pounds, it's relatively lightweight, promoting ease of handling, which is especially beneficial for extended use. The rifle's synthetic stock is durable and features rubber inserts for better grip and comfort.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The plastic frame may not appeal to everyone looking for a more traditional or rugged feel, and while the rifle is noted for its quiet operation, some users might still find it louder than expected compared to higher-end models. The scope that comes with the rifle is suitable for beginners, but seasoned shooters may prefer an upgrade for more precision.

The Gamo Swarm Whisper is a solid choice for casual shooters and beginners looking for a user-friendly air rifle that emphasizes quiet operation and ease of handling. It may not meet the expectations of more advanced users seeking top-tier performance and construction materials, but it offers good value for everyday use.

The Gamo Varmint Breakbarrel .177 Caliber Pellet Air Rifle is a solid choice for those looking to get into shooting sports or pest control. With a high velocity of 1250 feet per second, it has the power needed for both target practice and small game hunting. The spring-piston power source is reliable and easy to maintain, making it a good option for beginners. The rifle also includes a 4x32 scope, which is helpful for improving accuracy right out of the box. However, some users may eventually want to upgrade to a more advanced scope for better precision over longer distances.

The synthetic Monte Carlo stock with dual raised cheekpieces offers comfortable ergonomics, making extended shooting sessions more enjoyable. Weighing 5.5 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being sturdy and manageable for most users. Noise level is relatively moderate, which is beneficial for backyard shooting without alarming neighbors. One notable safety feature is the manual safety and anti-beartrap mechanism, which helps prevent accidental firing.

On the downside, the plastic frame material may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional, all-metal construction. Also, as with many high-velocity air rifles, there can be a bit of a learning curve in mastering accuracy, especially for new shooters. Nonetheless, with a high customer rating and a good balance of features, this rifle is well-suited for hobbyists and those new to air rifles.

The Hatsan Blitz is a .30 caliber PCP air rifle featuring rare semi and full-auto firing modes for pellet rifles. It operates using a gas-operated cycling system, eliminating the need for batteries and enabling a rapid firing rate of up to 1000 rounds per minute. Powered by a pre-charged air cylinder holding 580 cc at 250 BAR, it can deliver velocities up to 730 feet per second (FPS) with lead pellets and approximately 53 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, making it suitable for hunting and tactical applications.

Weighing around 8.8 pounds, the rifle offers a balance between stability and manageability. Its design incorporates a plastic frame with a metal barrel, maintaining durability while keeping weight moderate. The rifle includes a combination optics rail compatible with Weaver and 11mm dovetail mounts and comes with a removable carry handle featuring adjustable open sights. This provides flexibility for users to add scopes or use iron sights. The 16-round magazine supports quick follow-up shots without frequent reloading.

While PCP rifles generally produce less noise than traditional firearms, the full-auto firing mode may result in increased noise levels. The Hatsan Blitz appeals to users seeking a fast-firing, powerful pellet rifle with versatile aiming options. Its relatively large size and weight may be less convenient for casual plinking or younger shooters, and its performance characteristics make it best suited for experienced users who can manage maintenance and safety responsibly.