Last updated: December 2026
Choosing the right air rifle for pest control isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. The gun that efficiently dispatches barn rats isn’t necessarily ideal for groundhogs at 50 yards, and the perfect backyard squirrel rifle might be overkill—or inadequate—for your specific situation. Effective pest control requires matching your rifle’s capabilities to the pests you’re targeting.
This comprehensive 2026 guide breaks down the best pest control air rifles by pest type, power requirements, and shooting environment. Whether you need whisper-quiet operation for a suburban barn or serious knockdown power for larger varmints, we’ll help you select the right tool for humane, effective pest management.
Understanding Power Requirements by Pest Size
Before selecting an air rifle for pest control, you need to understand the relationship between muzzle energy (measured in foot-pounds, or FPE) and humane dispatch capability. Insufficient power leads to wounded animals and unnecessary suffering. Too much power can create safety concerns and over-penetration issues.
Minimum Energy Requirements by Pest Type
| Pest Category | Examples | Minimum FPE | Recommended FPE | Max Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Pests | Rats, mice, starlings, sparrows | 8 FPE | 12-15 FPE | 25 yards |
| Medium Pests | Pigeons, squirrels, chipmunks | 12 FPE | 18-25 FPE | 35 yards |
| Large Pests | Rabbits, raccoons, possums | 20 FPE | 25-35 FPE | 40 yards |
| Heavy Pests | Groundhogs, woodchucks | 30 FPE | 35-50 FPE | 50 yards |
These figures assume proper shot placement (covered later in this guide). More energy provides a larger margin for error, but even a powerful rifle won’t compensate for poor shot placement. Ethical pest control requires both adequate power and accurate shooting.
Caliber Matters for Pest Control
.22 caliber is the best all-around choice for pest control. It delivers more energy than .177 at typical pest control ranges while maintaining a flatter trajectory than .25 caliber. The heavier .22 pellets also retain energy better at distance and create larger wound channels for quicker, more humane kills. For larger pests like groundhogs, consider .25 caliber for maximum energy transfer.
Ethical Considerations: The Foundation of Humane Pest Control
Every pest control shooter has an ethical obligation to minimize animal suffering. This means:
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Using adequate power: Never take shots you’re not confident will result in instant incapacitation
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Practicing shot placement: Know the kill zones for your target species before hunting
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Limiting range: Respect your accuracy limitations—closer is always better
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Taking only clear shots: Pass on obstructed or angled shots that reduce kill probability
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Following up humanely: Be prepared to dispatch wounded animals immediately
An air rifle for pest control is a serious tool that demands responsible use. The goal is always a clean, instant kill—anything less is unacceptable.
Best Air Rifles for Pest Control: Our Top 5 Picks
1. Benjamin Marauder (~$550) – Best Quiet Option for Barns and Suburban Use
The Benjamin Marauder stands alone as the premier choice when noise suppression is critical. Its fully shrouded barrel and sophisticated baffle system produce a report so quiet that the loudest sound is often the pellet striking the target. For barn pest control, chicken coop protection, or any situation where gunfire would disturb neighbors or livestock, the Marauder is unmatched.
Beyond being quiet, the Marauder delivers serious pest-dispatching capability. In .22 caliber, it produces approximately 30 foot-pounds of energy—more than enough for any common pest up to and including raccoons. The 10-round rotary magazine allows quick follow-up shots if needed, and the exceptional accuracy (sub-MOA at 25 yards with good pellets) ensures clean kills.
The regulated action maintains consistent velocity across the entire shot string, meaning your 20th shot performs identically to your first. This consistency is crucial for pest control where you may wait hours for a shot—you need to know exactly where your pellet will hit without worrying about tank pressure variations.
The adjustable two-stage trigger can be tuned to a crisp, light pull that promotes accurate shooting. Combined with the rifle’s inherent accuracy, this makes head shots on squirrels and rats routine rather than lucky.
Key Specifications:
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Calibers: .177, .22, .25
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Velocity: ~850 FPS (.22)
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Energy: ~30 FPE (.22)
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Noise Level: ~70-75 dB (excellent)
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Shots per Fill: ~32 (.22)
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Magazine: 10-round rotary
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Weight: 7.3 lbs (synthetic)
Best For: Barn pest control, suburban use with close neighbors, situations requiring stealth, raccoons and larger pests requiring power AND quiet operation.
Check Marauder Price on Amazon
2. Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X Gen3i (.22) (~$280) – Best Break Barrel for Groundhogs and Heavy Pests
When you need raw power without the complexity of PCP air systems, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X Gen3i delivers. This is the most powerful break barrel on our list, generating approximately 33 foot-pounds in .22 caliber—enough to handle groundhogs and other heavy pests that would be marginal for lesser rifles.
The Gen3i designation indicates Gamo’s third-generation Inertia Fed Technology, which automatically loads 10 pellets without a separate magazine to fumble with. Break the barrel, cock the rifle, and you’re ready to fire—the next pellet feeds automatically. This is a significant advantage for pest control where speed matters.
The gas piston powerplant (IGT MACH 1) provides smooth, consistent power and can be left cocked without spring fatigue—useful when waiting for a pest to appear. The integrated Whisper Maxxim suppressor technology reduces (but doesn’t eliminate) the report, making it more neighbor-friendly than unsuppressed springers.
At 33 FPE, the Swarm Magnum handles the largest common pests with authority. Groundhogs, woodchucks, and large raccoons that would be challenging for 20-25 FPE rifles are cleanly dispatched with proper shot placement. For rural pest control where noise isn’t a primary concern and targets may be larger or at longer range, this rifle excels.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .22
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Velocity: ~1,050 FPS
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Energy: ~33 FPE
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Noise Level: ~88-92 dB (moderate-loud)
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Magazine: 10-shot auto-indexing
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Powerplant: Gas piston (IGT MACH 1)
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Weight: 6.88 lbs
Best For: Groundhogs and woodchucks, rural pest control, shooters who want self-contained simplicity without PCP air systems, maximum power without regulated air complexity.
Check Swarm Magnum Price on Amazon
3. Air Venturi Avenger (~$300) – Best Value for Serious Pest Control
The Air Venturi Avenger offers unprecedented versatility for pest control at a budget-friendly price. Its user-adjustable regulator, hammer spring, and transfer port let you configure the rifle for your specific needs—tune for maximum power (up to 45 FPE in .22) for larger pests, or dial it back for quieter operation and more shots per fill on rats and squirrels.
This adjustability is the Avenger’s superpower for pest control. Dealing with groundhogs? Crank up the power. Barn rats? Reduce power for quieter operation and 70+ shots per fill. No other rifle under $500 offers this flexibility. You’re essentially getting multiple rifles in one platform.
Accuracy is excellent once you’ve found the right pellet—expect sub-MOA groups at 25 yards and genuine pest-dispatching precision at 50 yards. The included moderator provides reasonable noise reduction, making it usable in suburban settings with some discretion.
The side-lever action and 10-round magazine allow rapid follow-up shots without breaking your shooting position. For pest control involving multiple targets (like a flock of pigeons or a rat infestation), this capability is invaluable.
Key Specifications:
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Calibers: .177, .22, .25
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Velocity: Up to 1,000 FPS (.22, tuned)
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Energy: 30-45 FPE (.22, adjustable)
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Noise Level: ~75-82 dB (good)
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Shots per Fill: 60-70 (.22, varies with tune)
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Magazine: 10-round
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Weight: 6.0 lbs
Best For: Versatile pest control across multiple species, budget-conscious shooters wanting premium features, hunters who appreciate tuning and optimization.
4. Crosman 362 (~$100) – Best Budget Multi-Pump Option
Not everyone needs or wants to invest $300+ in a pest control rifle. The Crosman 362 proves effective pest elimination doesn’t require expensive equipment. This multi-pump pneumatic generates variable power based on pump count—from gentle 3-pump shots for close-range rats to full-power 8-pump shots delivering approximately 14 FPE for squirrels and pigeons.
The 362’s simplicity is its strength. No tanks to fill, no CO2 cartridges to buy, no complex mechanisms to maintain. Pump it up and shoot. For occasional pest control where you might go weeks between uses, this self-contained simplicity is valuable. The rifle is always ready without worrying about tank pressure or CO2 depletion.
The bolt-action, single-shot design forces deliberate shooting—you’ll make that first shot count. While this limits rapid follow-up capability, it encourages the accurate, well-placed shots that define ethical pest control.
At around $100, the 362 is the most affordable effective pest control option available. It handles rats, squirrels, pigeons, and similar medium-sized pests cleanly within 25 yards. For budget-conscious shooters or those wanting a backup rifle, it’s excellent value.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .22
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Velocity: Up to 875 FPS (8 pumps)
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Energy: Up to ~14 FPE (8 pumps)
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Noise Level: ~80-85 dB (moderate)
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Shots: Single-shot bolt action
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Powerplant: Multi-pump pneumatic (3-8 pumps)
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Weight: 5.0 lbs
Best For: Budget-conscious pest control, beginners, backup rifle, situations where you want complete self-sufficiency, occasional use where PCP maintenance isn’t practical.
5. Diana Stormrider (~$200) – Best Entry-Level PCP for Pest Control
The Diana Stormrider offers the accuracy and consistency advantages of PCP technology at the lowest practical price point. At approximately $200, it’s the gateway to regulated, repeating pest control capability—and it punches well above its weight class.
Diana’s German barrel-making heritage delivers excellent accuracy. The Stormrider consistently groups under an inch at 25 yards with quality pellets, providing the precision needed for clean head shots on rats and squirrels. The regulated action ensures consistent velocity, eliminating the guesswork that comes with unregulated rifles.
In .22 caliber, the Stormrider produces approximately 18-19 foot-pounds—adequate for all small and medium pests and marginal for larger animals at close range. For rat control, pigeon elimination, and squirrel management, it’s more than sufficient.
The rifle’s moderate noise level (louder than the Marauder, quieter than break barrels) makes it suitable for suburban use with reasonable discretion. It won’t disturb livestock in adjacent stalls but isn’t silent enough for shooting inside an occupied barn.
Key Specifications:
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Calibers: .177, .22
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Velocity: ~700 FPS (.22)
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Energy: ~18-19 FPE (.22)
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Noise Level: ~75-80 dB (good)
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Shots per Fill: 30-40 (.22)
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Magazine: 7-round (.22) / 9-round (.177)
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Weight: 5.0 lbs
Best For: Budget PCP entry point, rat and squirrel control, shooters upgrading from springers, those who want regulated accuracy without significant investment.
Check Stormrider Price on Amazon
Pest Control Air Rifle Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Power (FPE) | Noise | Price | Best Pest Targets | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Marauder | PCP | ~30 | Very Quiet | ~$550 | All (stealth) | Amazon |
| Gamo Swarm Magnum | Break Barrel | ~33 | Moderate | ~$280 | Groundhogs | Amazon |
| Air Venturi Avenger | PCP | 30-45 | Good | ~$300 | All (versatile) | Amazon |
| Crosman 362 | Multi-Pump | ~14 | Moderate | ~$100 | Rats, Squirrels | Amazon |
| Diana Stormrider | PCP | ~19 | Good | ~$200 | Rats, Pigeons | Amazon |
Shot Placement Guide for Quick, Humane Kills
Proper shot placement is more important than raw power. A well-placed shot from a moderate-power rifle kills more cleanly than a poorly-placed shot from a magnum. Here’s where to aim for common pest species:
Rats and Mice
Primary target: Head shot, directly behind the eye or at the base of the skull. The brain is small but accessible from multiple angles. At typical engagement distances (5-15 yards), this shot is achievable with any accurate rifle.
Secondary target: Heart/lung area, located immediately behind the front leg. Results in rapid incapacitation but may allow the animal to travel a short distance.
Squirrels
Primary target: Head shot, aiming for the area between the eye and ear. The skull is thin and the brain is proportionally large. This is the most reliable instant-kill shot.
Secondary target: Heart/lung, behind the front shoulder. Effective with adequate power (.22 at 18+ FPE) but head shots are preferred for clean kills.
Pigeons and Starlings
Primary target: Head shot when stationary. Birds have small heads but are often cooperative targets when feeding.
Secondary target: Chest/breast area. The vital zone is compact but accessible. Use sufficient power (15+ FPE for pigeons) to ensure penetration through feathers and muscle.
Raccoons and Possums
Primary target: Head shot at the base of the ear, targeting the brain. Raccoons have thick skulls—ensure adequate power (25+ FPE) and close range (under 30 yards).
Secondary target: Heart/lung behind the shoulder. Requires significant power (30+ FPE) for reliable penetration. Follow-up shots may be necessary.
Groundhogs and Woodchucks
Primary target: Head shot, aiming between eye and ear. Groundhogs have thick skulls—use maximum practical power (30+ FPE) and limit range to 40 yards.
Secondary target: Avoid body shots unless using very high power (40+ FPE). Groundhogs are tough animals with thick hides and dense muscle. Poorly placed shots result in wounded animals that retreat to burrows.
Critical Rule: If You’re Not Confident, Don’t Shoot
Every pest control shooter will face marginal shots—obstructed views, moving targets, extreme angles. The ethical response is to wait for a better opportunity. Wounding an animal is never acceptable. If you’re not certain of a clean kill, lower the rifle and wait. Another opportunity will come.
Quiet Air Rifles for Barns and Residential Areas
When noise is a primary concern, your air rifle for pest control selection narrows significantly. Here’s what actually matters for quiet shooting:
Noise Level Reality Check
| Rifle Type | Typical dB Level | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Shrouded PCP (Marauder) | 70-75 dB | Quieter than conversation |
| Moderated PCP (Avenger, Stormrider) | 75-82 dB | Similar to car door closing |
| Multi-pump (362) | 80-85 dB | Noticeable but not alarming |
| Suppressed break barrel (Swarm) | 88-95 dB | Clearly audible at distance |
For barn use around livestock, the Benjamin Marauder is the clear choice. Horses, cattle, and chickens generally ignore its quiet report. The Avenger and Stormrider are acceptable for outdoor use near barns but may startle animals in enclosed spaces.
Matching Rifles to Specific Pest Scenarios
Scenario 1: Rat Infestation in Feed Storage
Best choice: Benjamin Marauder or Diana Stormrider
Why: Quiet operation won’t disturb stored products or nearby animals. Multiple shots may be needed in a single session—PCP repeaters excel here. 18-30 FPE is more than adequate for rats at close range.
Scenario 2: Pigeons in Barn Rafters
Best choice: Benjamin Marauder
Why: Maximum quiet operation for enclosed spaces. Accurate enough for head shots at typical barn distances. Won’t spook the flock after the first shot, allowing multiple eliminations.
Scenario 3: Squirrels Raiding Garden
Best choice: Air Venturi Avenger or Crosman 362
Why: Outdoor use allows slightly more noise. Both rifles have adequate power for clean squirrel kills. The 362’s lower cost makes sense for occasional use; the Avenger provides more capability for persistent problems.
Scenario 4: Groundhogs Destroying Foundation
Best choice: Gamo Swarm Magnum or Air Venturi Avenger (tuned high)
Why: Maximum power needed for clean groundhog kills. Shots are typically outdoors at 30-50 yards where noise is less critical. The Swarm’s self-contained operation means no air supply concerns during extended stake-outs.
Scenario 5: Raccoons in Chicken Coop Area
Best choice: Benjamin Marauder (.22 or .25)
Why: Quiet operation won’t panic chickens. Adequate power for raccoons at typical engagement distances. The ability to leave the rifle ready (unlike springers) is valuable for unpredictable pest timing.
Final Recommendations
Best Overall Pest Control Air Rifle: Benjamin Marauder (~$550)
The Marauder’s whisper-quiet operation, excellent accuracy, and adequate power for all common pests make it the most versatile choice. If noise matters at all in your situation, this is the rifle to buy. The higher price is justified by genuine capability across every pest control scenario.
Best Value for Versatile Pest Control: Air Venturi Avenger (~$300)
The Avenger’s adjustable power system handles everything from rats to raccoons to groundhogs (when tuned high). At half the Marauder’s price, it’s the smart choice for budget-conscious shooters who need serious capability. The learning curve for tuning is worth the versatility gained.
Best Budget Pest Control: Crosman 362 (~$100)
Effective pest control doesn’t require expensive equipment. The 362 handles rats, squirrels, and pigeons with authority at a price anyone can afford. Its self-contained simplicity means it’s always ready when pests appear, with no air supply concerns.
Effective pest control with an air rifle combines the right equipment, proper shot placement, and ethical responsibility. Choose a rifle matched to your specific pests and shooting environment, practice until you’re confident in your accuracy, and always prioritize quick, humane kills. With the right approach, an air rifle for pest control is one of the most effective and practical tools for managing nuisance wildlife on your property.
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