Air Rifles: When To Use One For Hunting

While air rifles have been used for small game hunting for some time, rapid technological expansion and design developments have opened up some new avenues for air rifle hunting. They're easier to use and are often an excellent gateway for young or new hunters to enter the sport.

Whether pursuing small game animals, controlling pests, or hunting in areas with noise restrictions, knowing when to use an air rifle can enhance your hunting experience and lead to tremendous success in the field.

At the same time, it's essential to know and understand these firearms' limitations and how they may or may not deliver a clean and ethical kill, depending on the target game species. 

Today, we look at the basics of air rifles and some insights to help you decide whether it would be an appropriate option for your next hunt.

An Introduction to Air Rifles

Air rifles use compressed air, gas, or a spring piston mechanism to propel pellets or slugs, unlike traditional firearms, which use gunpowder. The intensity and speed of the air rifle will depend on the model and design.

Air rifles have traditionally been used for small game hunting, pest control, target practice, and sport. Here's a look at a few types of air guns and how they work.

Types of Air Rifles

The first type of air rifle is a spring piston, which uses a compressed spring. When pulling the trigger, the sear disengages the main spring, which rapidly fires the projectile forward. 

The second primary type is a gas piston (gas ram), which uses a compress-sealed gas cylinder to propel the piston and fire the pellet. 

The third and final primary type of these rifles is precharged pneumatic (PCP), which uses an internal, high-pressure air cylinder to send a rush of air that fires a projectile (pellet or slug) through the barrel.

Calibers

Similarly to regular firearms, air rifles come in various calibers suitable for multiple purposes.

On the lower end, you have the .177, suited to small game such as birds, reptiles, and rodents. The .22 offers more power and accuracy and suits slightly larger games like hare, squirrel, and rabbits. At the higher end, with more stopping power, you can consider an air rifle such as a .25, which can be used for slightly larger game such as raccoons or coyotes. 

What Are the Advantages of Using Air Rifles For Hunting?

One of the most significant benefits of an air rifle is its noise reduction, which allows you to take follow-up shots that would likely not be possible with a traditional gun. Additionally, they are ideal for hunting in noise-sensitive areas, for hunters with auditory issues, or when stealth is crucial.

Additionally, airguns are more accessible and much cheaper to maintain when you factor in the cost of pellets or slugs. 

Smaller-framed, novice hunters and young ones may also benefit from using these rifles as an introduction to the sport, as the minimal recoil makes for a much smoother shooting experience. 

Finally, in some zones, air rifles may be subject to fewer limitations in some regions than traditional firearms, meaning more hunting opportunities or extended seasons beyond the conventional allocations. 

When To Use One of These Rifles for Hunting 

Generally, air rifles should be used for small game hunting, targeting game animals including but not limited to: 
 

• Squirrels
• Rabbits
• Birds
• Grouse
• Peasant 
• Quail 
• Dove

These guns are also commonly used to control the pest population. They can effectively target pest species such as rats and pigeons, especially in more built-up areas where firearms may be unsafe or illegal.

Finally, consider an air rifle for use in denser areas or residential zones where noise pollution may be a factor or where there are limitations regarding the use of firearms. 

When Not to Use an Air Gun for Your Hunt

Air guns can increase the chance of wounding and not killing large game animals, so they are generally not recommended for this type of hunting.

One of the easiest ways to determine the legality and appropriateness of an air gun in your area is to contact your state department that manages hunting to ask. For example, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department offers these insights into air guns for hunting.

How to Choose an Air Rifle

When choosing an air firearm, your first consideration should be whether it has sufficient power and accuracy to take down your intended game effectively and ethically.

Calculate the foot-pounds of energy (fpe) at the muzzle to determine the power. This is a valuable measurement in that you can use it to compare the power settings of an airgun and the impact of a lighter or heavier projectile and how this impacts velocity. Make sure you ask the retailer for this information if it is unavailable. 

For example, .177 and .22 are two of the most popular options. The .177 will offer more significant impact and penetration ability as its lighter pellet builds more kinetic energy.

Range and accuracy are also essential considerations, so always look for the rifle's effective range. Consider scope options or optical additions for improved accuracy to assist with this. 

Keep It in Good Condition

To maintain your air gun, remember to oil regularly to keep all moving parts functioning as they should. Wipe down the outside and inspect for debris and dirt, impacting functionality and contributing to rusting, wear, and tear. 

No Matter Your Firearm Choice, Hunt Better With HuntWise

Air rifles certainly have a place in the hunting community and can be an effective and safe method of hunting and pest removal. Remember that choosing your air rifle requires considering dimensions, power output, and accuracy to determine whether it can effectively bring down your intended game. 

If you're ready to break in your new air rifle (or any firearm or bow) with a hunt, go ahead and jump on HuntWise for mapping insights, boundary line indications, landowner contact details, and much more. 

No matter the firearm or bow you hunt with or the species you hunt — large or small — HuntWise delivers species-specific insights about movement and locations to help you plan your hunt. Use WindCast and HuntCast to plan around the wind and weather for a better hunt.

Download it today and explore the ultimate hunting app — free — for your first week!