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Introduction to .30 Caliber Pellet Guns
If you’re serious about airgun hunting or just want maximum power for pest control, .30 caliber pellet guns represent the pinnacle of airgun performance. These big-bore air rifles deliver devastating energy, often exceeding 100 ft-lbs, making them capable of ethically taking medium game and providing exceptional stopping power.
Unlike their smaller .177 and .22 caliber cousins, .30 cal air rifles are purpose-built for power. They’re the go-to choice for hunters pursuing coyotes, hogs, and other medium-sized game where a clean, humane kill is paramount. In this guide, we’ll cover the best .30 caliber pellet guns available in 2026.
Looking for more budget-friendly options? Check out our guide to the best PCP air rifles under $500.
Top .30 Caliber Pellet Guns for 2026
1. Umarex Gauntlet 2 .30 – Best Value
The Umarex Gauntlet 2 in .30 caliber has quickly become a favorite among airgunners who want big-bore performance without breaking the bank. Building on the success of the original Gauntlet, this second-generation rifle delivers impressive power and accuracy at a price point that makes .30 caliber shooting accessible.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .30 (7.62mm) |
| Power Source | PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) |
| Velocity | Up to 900 FPS |
| Energy | ~88 ft-lbs |
| Magazine | 9-shot rotary |
| Fill Pressure | 4,500 PSI |
| Weight | 8.5 lbs |
Pros:
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Excellent value for big-bore performance
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Fully regulated for consistent shot-to-shot velocity
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Integrated suppressor for quiet operation
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High shot count per fill (20-25 shots)
Cons:
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Requires high-pressure pump or tank
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Synthetic stock may not appeal to traditionalists
2. AirForce Texan SS .30 – Best for Hunting
The AirForce Texan SS (Sound Suppressed) is the quieter version of the legendary Texan, one of the most powerful production air rifles ever made. In .30 caliber, it strikes an excellent balance between power and shootability, making it ideal for hunting applications where neighbors might be nearby.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .30 (7.62mm) |
| Power Source | PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) |
| Velocity | Up to 930 FPS |
| Energy | ~120 ft-lbs |
| Magazine | Single shot |
| Fill Pressure | 3,000 PSI |
| Weight | 8.0 lbs |
Pros:
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Exceptional power and accuracy
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Sound suppression for hunting
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Made in USA with excellent build quality
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Adjustable power settings
Cons:
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Single-shot operation
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Higher price point
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Sparse, utilitarian design
3. Hatsan BullBoss QE .30 – Best Bullpup Design
The Hatsan BullBoss QE brings the bullpup configuration to big-bore airguns, offering a compact package that’s easier to maneuver in tight hunting situations. The “QE” stands for Quiet Energy, featuring Hatsan’s integrated suppressor system.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .30 (7.62mm) |
| Power Source | PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) |
| Velocity | Up to 860 FPS |
| Energy | ~75 ft-lbs |
| Magazine | 9-shot rotary |
| Fill Pressure | 200 BAR |
| Overall Length | 36.8 inches |
Pros:
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Compact bullpup design for maneuverability
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Integrated Quiet Energy suppressor
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Dual magazine capacity
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Excellent Turkish walnut stock
Cons:
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Bullpup trigger can feel different
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Slightly lower power than competitors
4. Benjamin Bulldog .357 – For Maximum Power
While technically a .357 caliber, the Benjamin Bulldog deserves mention as an alternative for those wanting even more stopping power. It represents the upper end of what’s practical for airgun hunting.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 (9mm) |
| Power Source | PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) |
| Velocity | Up to 800 FPS |
| Energy | ~180 ft-lbs |
| Magazine | 5-shot rotary |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs |
Pros:
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Extreme power for large game
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Bullpup design keeps it compact
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Reversible side-lever action
Cons:
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Lower shot count (5-10 per fill)
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Expensive ammo
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May be overkill for most applications
Comparison Table: Best .30 Caliber Air Rifles
| Model | Energy | Shot Count | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umarex Gauntlet 2 | ~88 ft-lbs | 20-25 | Value | $500-600 |
| AirForce Texan SS | ~120 ft-lbs | 10-15 | Hunting | $1,000-1,200 |
| Hatsan BullBoss QE | ~75 ft-lbs | 15-20 | Compact/Quiet | $700-850 |
| Benjamin Bulldog .357 | ~180 ft-lbs | 5-10 | Max Power | $800-1,000 |
Buying Guide: What to Consider
Power vs. Shot Count
Big-bore air rifles face a fundamental trade-off: more power means fewer shots per fill. The Gauntlet 2 offers 20+ shots but less energy, while the Texan SS delivers crushing power but needs refilling more often. Consider your hunting style when choosing.
Fill Pressure Requirements
Most .30 caliber PCPs require 3,000-4,500 PSI fills. You’ll need either a high-pressure hand pump (great workout!) or an air tank/compressor. Factor this into your budget. Learn more in our pellet gun buying guide.
Pellet Availability
.30 caliber pellets are less common than .22 or .177. Budget for higher ammo costs and consider buying in bulk. Quality projectiles like the JSB Match Diabolo and H&N slugs are worth the investment for accuracy.
Legal Considerations
Always check your local regulations. Some states and municipalities regulate high-powered air rifles. For hunting, ensure your chosen rifle meets minimum energy requirements for your target game. Read our basics of pellet gun hunting guide for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a .30 caliber pellet gun good for?
.30 caliber air rifles excel at hunting medium game (coyotes, raccoons, groundhogs) and pest control where maximum stopping power is needed. They’re also popular for long-range target shooting.
How powerful is a .30 cal air rifle?
Most .30 caliber PCP air rifles produce 75-120 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, with some models like the AirForce Texan exceeding 150 ft-lbs. For comparison, a .22 LR rimfire produces about 140 ft-lbs.
Are .30 caliber pellet guns legal?
In most U.S. states, .30 caliber air rifles are legal to own. However, regulations vary, and some areas may restrict their use for hunting or require them to be treated like firearms. Always verify local laws.
What’s better: .30 or .357 caliber?
.30 caliber offers better ammo availability, higher shot counts, and sufficient power for most applications. .357 is for those specifically targeting larger game or wanting maximum energy, accepting the trade-offs in cost and shot count.
Final Thoughts
The .30 caliber air rifle market has matured significantly, offering hunters and enthusiasts excellent options at various price points. The Umarex Gauntlet 2 remains our top pick for most users due to its exceptional value and performance, while the AirForce Texan SS is the choice for serious hunters who need maximum power with reduced noise.
For more air rifle recommendations, browse our best air rifle reviews.
Sources
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Hard Air Magazine – Big Bore Air Rifle Reviews
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Umarex USA – Official Gauntlet 2 Specifications
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AirForce Airguns – Texan SS Product Information
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Hatsan Arms – BullBoss QE Technical Data
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Airgun Forum – User Reviews and Field Reports
Last updated: November 2026