Last updated: February 2026
Bullpup air rifles offer full-length barrel performance in a compact package that’s easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Whether you’re hunting from a ground blind, navigating thick brush, or just want a more portable air rifle, bullpup designs deliver serious advantages over traditional rifle layouts.
Here’s the bottom line: The best bullpup PCP air rifles in 2026 combine 20+ inch barrels with overall lengths under 30 inches, giving you hunting-grade power in a platform that handles like a much smaller gun. If you want maximum energy without the bulk, bullpup is the way to go.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top bullpup air rifles for hunting, the unique advantages of the bullpup platform, what to look for when buying, and answer the most common questions about these increasingly popular airguns.
Why Choose a Bullpup Air Rifle?
Before diving into specific models, let’s understand what makes bullpup designs different and why they matter for hunters and shooters.
The Bullpup Design Advantage
Traditional air rifles place the action ahead of the trigger, requiring a long stock behind the shooter. Bullpup designs move the action behind the trigger, positioning the entire mechanism in what would normally be the stock area.
This seemingly simple change creates several practical benefits:
Compact Overall Length A bullpup can have a 23-inch barrel with an overall length of just 28 inches. A traditional rifle with the same barrel would measure 40+ inches. That 12-inch difference is massive when maneuvering in hunting blinds, vehicles, or dense cover.
Full Barrel Length Performance Shorter barrels mean lower velocity and less energy. Bullpups let you keep a full-length barrel for maximum power while still getting the handling of a carbine. You don’t sacrifice FPE for portability.
Improved Balance With the action positioned near the shooter’s shoulder, bullpups typically balance better and feel lighter in hand despite similar actual weights. The center of gravity is further back, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Better for Vehicle and Blind Hunting If you hunt from a ground blind, tree stand, or vehicle, that extra 10-12 inches of length makes a real difference. Bullpups are far easier to position and aim in confined spaces.
Bullpup Disadvantages (Be Honest About Them)
Bullpup designs aren’t perfect. Here are the tradeoffs:
Trigger Feel Because the trigger sits ahead of the action, bullpup triggers typically have longer linkages that can feel spongier than traditional designs. Modern bullpups have improved dramatically, but trigger quality still varies.
Magazine Position Magazines load behind the trigger grip, which some shooters find awkward initially. It requires practice to reload smoothly without breaking your shooting position.
Stock Adjustability There’s less room to adjust length of pull since the action occupies the stock area. Shooters with very long or very short arms may find fit more challenging.
Louder at the Ear With the action right beside your face, bullpups can sound louder to the shooter even when moderator-equipped. The muzzle report is the same, but the mechanical noise is closer to your ear.
For most hunters, the compactness advantages far outweigh these minor compromises. But it’s important to know what you’re getting.
Best Bullpup Air Rifles 2026: Top Picks
We’ve tested and researched the leading bullpup PCP air rifles available in 2026. Here are our top recommendations across different price points and use cases.
Best Overall: Hatsan BullBoss
ASIN: B0BVQW8ZYL
Caliber Options: .177, .22, .25
Power: Up to 27 FPE (.22), 35 FPE (.25)
Overall Length: 30 inches
Weight: 7.3 lbs
Price Range: $450-550
The Hatsan BullBoss earns our top overall pick for delivering serious hunting power in a compact platform at a reasonable price. This Turkish-made PCP features a 23-inch barrel, regulated action for consistent shot strings, and Hatsan’s QuietEnergy fully-shrouded barrel system.
Key Features:
- Two-stage adjustable Quattro trigger
- Regulated for consistent velocity across 50+ shots
- Includes built-in manometer (pressure gauge)
- Picatinny rail for optics
- QuietEnergy integrated sound suppression
- Ambidextrous stock design
Performance: In .22 caliber, the BullBoss delivers 27 FPE with 18-grain pellets at approximately 850 FPS. That’s enough energy for ethical hunting of rabbits, squirrels, and pest birds out to 50 yards. The .25 caliber version pushes 35 FPE, making it capable of handling raccoons and similar-sized game.
Shot count is excellent at 60+ shots in .22 caliber from a 230 bar fill. The regulator keeps velocity consistent within 20 FPS across the useful shot string, which translates to reliable accuracy.
Who It’s For: Hunters wanting a do-everything bullpup that can handle everything from backyard pest control to small game hunting. The .22 caliber version offers the best balance of power, shot count, and pellet availability.
Minor Drawbacks: The trigger, while adjustable, isn’t as crisp as higher-end models. There’s some takeup in the first stage. The stock is plastic rather than wood or aluminum, though it’s well-designed and functional.
Best Premium: FX Impact M4 Compact
ASIN: B0DJXM3K7P
Caliber Options: .177, .22, .25, .30
Power: Adjustable up to 90+ FPE (.30)
Overall Length: 27 inches (Compact)
Weight: 6.6 lbs
Price Range: $2,200-2,600
If budget isn’t a limitation and you want the most advanced bullpup PCP on the market, the FX Impact M4 Compact is the answer. This Swedish-engineered masterpiece offers unmatched adjustability, accuracy, and power in a shockingly compact package.
Key Features:
- Dual regulator system for extreme consistency
- AMP (Adjustable Match Pellet) regulator for slug shooting
- Power Plenum for increased energy output
- STX Superior Heavy liner barrel system
- Tool-less power adjustment
- Side-lever cocking for fast follow-up shots
- Accepts M-LOK accessories
Performance: The Impact M4 Compact isn’t just adjustable—it’s transformable. You can tune it from 12 FPE for backyard plinking to 90+ FPE in .30 caliber for hunting coyotes and similar-sized game. The dual regulator system delivers extreme shot-to-shot consistency, with velocity spreads under 10 FPS.
Accuracy is tournament-grade. With premium pellets or slugs, one-hole groups at 25 yards are routine. The barrel liner system allows quick caliber changes and customization for different projectile types.
Who It’s For: Serious hunters and competitive shooters who want one platform that can do everything. If you want to shoot pellets for small game and slugs for larger animals, or you compete in field target and hunt on weekends, the Impact M4 justifies its premium price.
Minor Drawbacks: The price. At $2,200+, this is a serious investment. The complexity can also be overwhelming for beginners—there are dozens of adjustment points. You’ll want to invest time learning how to tune it properly.
Best Budget: Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL
ASIN: B0C1FQHM8Y
Caliber Options: .22, .25
Power: 30 FPE (.22), 40 FPE (.25)
Overall Length: 29.5 inches
Weight: 7.5 lbs
Price Range: $350-400
The Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL (Short Length) brings bullpup performance to budget-conscious hunters. This isn’t a cheap gun—it’s an affordable one. The Gauntlet platform has proven itself over thousands of units, and the SL version packages that reliability in a compact bullpup format.
Key Features:
- Regulated action for consistent velocity
- Includes pressure gauge
- 11mm dovetail and Picatinny rail
- Adjustable two-stage trigger
- Threaded barrel for moderator attachment
- High-capacity magazine (12 rounds in .22)
Performance: The Gauntlet 2 SL delivers hunting-grade power with 30 FPE in .22 caliber. That’s sufficient for ethical hunting of all small game species out to 40 yards. The regulated system provides 35-40 consistent shots per fill, which is adequate for most hunting situations.
Accuracy is good, not great. With quality pellets like JSB Diabolo, you can expect 1-inch groups at 25 yards. That’s plenty for hunting but won’t win field target competitions.
Who It’s For: First-time PCP buyers who want a compact hunting rifle without breaking the bank. This is the entry point to serious bullpup PCPs. It’s also great for experienced shooters who want a beater gun that can get knocked around without worry.
Minor Drawbacks: The trigger has noticeable creep even after adjustment. The stock feels hollow and less substantial than competitors. Shot count is lower than more expensive regulated guns. But at this price point, these are acceptable tradeoffs.
Best for Hunting Power: Benjamin Akela
ASIN: B07YNXZ4QH
Caliber Options: .22, .25
Power: 30 FPE (.22), 40 FPE (.25)
Overall Length: 36 inches
Weight: 7.8 lbs
Price Range: $550-650
The Benjamin Akela blurs the line between compact and traditional length, but its bullpup design still delivers better balance and maneuverability than conventional rifles. What sets it apart is hunting-optimized power delivery and exceptional build quality.
Key Features:
- Regulated for 60+ consistent shots
- Crosman’s precision rifled barrel
- Adjustable two-stage trigger
- Includes pressure gauge
- Ambidextrous cocking bolt
- Picatinny scope rail
- Threaded barrel (1/2-20 UNF)
Performance: In .25 caliber, the Akela delivers a full 40 FPE, putting it solidly in the medium game hunting category. This is enough power for ethical shots on raccoons, groundhogs, and even smaller predators like fox (where legal and with precise shot placement).
The barrel quality is excellent, producing tight groups with minimal tuning. The regulator maintains consistency across a long shot string—you get 60+ shots in .22 caliber before velocity drops off significantly.
Who It’s For: Hunters who prioritize power and shot count over ultra-compact size. If you’re primarily hunting from ground blinds or need confidence for longer shots (50-75 yards), the Akela’s extra barrel length and power deliver.
Minor Drawbacks: At 36 inches, it’s the longest bullpup on this list. While still more compact than traditional rifles with similar barrel length, it gives up some of the maneuverability that makes bullpups attractive. The weight at 7.8 lbs is also on the heavier side.
Best for Tactical Shooting: Hatsan FlashPup QE
ASIN: B08T1KQVYD
Caliber Options: .177, .22, .25
Power: 25 FPE (.22), 35 FPE (.25)
Overall Length: 33 inches
Weight: 7.7 lbs
Price Range: $400-500
The Hatsan FlashPup QE combines tactical aesthetics with genuine performance. If you want a bullpup that looks the part and has the M-LOK accessory mounting to match, this is your rifle.
Key Features:
- QuietEnergy fully-shrouded barrel
- M-LOK compatible handguard
- Adjustable Quattro trigger
- Ambidextrous design
- Integrated pressure gauge
- Picatinny rail system
- AR-style grip and controls
Performance: The FlashPup delivers 25 FPE in .22 caliber, which is adequate for small game hunting and pest control. Where it shines is modularity—the M-LOK handguard lets you add lights, lasers, and tactical accessories. This makes it excellent for nighttime pest control when equipped with appropriate lighting.
Accuracy is solid, with 1-1.5 inch groups at 30 yards using quality pellets. The QuietEnergy shroud makes it genuinely backyard-friendly even without an additional moderator.
Who It’s For: Shooters who want tactical aesthetics with airgun practicality. This is the go-to for pest control operators who want to mount lights and accessories. It’s also popular with younger shooters drawn to the modern tactical look.
Minor Drawbacks: The tactical features add weight without improving core shooting performance. If you don’t need M-LOK mounting, you’re paying for features you won’t use. The trigger, while adjustable, isn’t competition-grade.
Bullpup Air Rifle Comparison Table
| Model | Calibers | Power (FPE) | Length | Weight | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hatsan BullBoss | .177/.22/.25 | 27-35 | 30” | 7.3 lbs | $450-550 | Overall value |
| FX Impact M4 Compact | .177/.22/.25/.30 | Up to 90+ | 27” | 6.6 lbs | $2,200+ | Premium performance |
| Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL | .22/.25 | 30-40 | 29.5” | 7.5 lbs | $350-400 | Budget hunters |
| Benjamin Akela | .22/.25 | 30-40 | 36” | 7.8 lbs | $550-650 | Hunting power |
| Hatsan FlashPup QE | .177/.22/.25 | 25-35 | 33” | 7.7 lbs | $400-500 | Tactical/accessories |
What to Look for When Buying a Bullpup Air Rifle
Not all bullpup air rifles are created equal. Here are the critical factors to evaluate before purchasing.
Trigger Quality
This is the biggest variable in bullpup designs. The physical distance between trigger and sear creates challenges for crisp trigger feel. Look for:
- Adjustable two-stage triggers: These let you minimize take-up and reduce creep
- User reviews mentioning trigger: If multiple reviews complain about trigger quality, take note
- Upgrade availability: Some bullpups accept aftermarket trigger upgrades
If possible, handle the rifle before buying. Trigger feel is subjective—what bothers one shooter might be fine for another.
Regulator vs. Unregulated
Regulated PCPs maintain consistent pressure shot-to-shot, delivering:
- Tighter velocity consistency (better accuracy)
- More usable shots per fill
- Predictable point of impact across the shot string
Unregulated PCPs are simpler and cheaper but:
- Velocity drops as pressure decreases
- Fewer consistent shots
- Require more careful shot counting
For hunting, a regulator is worth the extra cost. For casual plinking, unregulated guns work fine and cost less.
Shot Count
How many shots you get per fill depends on:
- Reservoir size (larger = more air)
- Caliber (smaller = more shots)
- Power level (lower = more shots)
- Regulated vs. unregulated design
A good hunting bullpup should deliver 40-60 consistent shots in .22 caliber. That’s enough for multiple hunting sessions without refilling.
Magazine Capacity
Bullpup magazines typically hold 8-14 rounds depending on caliber. Higher capacity means:
- Fewer reloads during pest control sessions
- More shots at multiple targets
- Slightly more weight and bulk
For hunting, magazine capacity matters less—you’re taking careful single shots. For pest control, higher capacity is beneficial.
Barrel Length and Shrouding
Longer barrels generally produce higher velocities and better accuracy, but increase overall length. Look for:
- 20-24 inch barrels: Optimal for bullpup designs
- Fully shrouded barrels: QuietEnergy, DonnyFL, or similar integrated sound suppression
- Threaded muzzles: Allows adding aftermarket moderators
Stock Design and Adjustability
Check for:
- Adjustable cheek risers: Essential for proper scope alignment
- Length of pull adjustment: Harder to achieve in bullpups but valuable
- Ambidextrous design: Important if you’re left-handed
- Grip ergonomics: Critical since the magazine sits right where your hand goes
Pressure Delivery System
Most bullpups require high-pressure air (HPA) filling to 3,000-4,500 PSI. You’ll need:
- Hand pump: Cheapest option ($50-100) but requires significant effort
- Electric compressor: Convenient ($300-800) but pricey
- Scuba/carbon fiber tank: Fast refilling ($200-500 for tank, plus filling costs)
Budget for your filling system when calculating total cost.
Caliber Selection for Bullpup Hunting Rifles
Bullpup air rifles typically come in .177, .22, .25, and sometimes .30 caliber. Here’s how to choose for hunting applications.
.22 Caliber: The Sweet Spot
For most hunters, .22 caliber offers the best balance:
- Energy: 25-35 FPE in most bullpups
- Game: Perfect for rabbits, squirrels, starlings, pigeons
- Shot count: 50-70 shots per fill
- Pellet selection: Widest variety of hunting pellets available
- Cost: Moderate pellet prices ($12-20 per 500)
Recommended for: First-time PCP buyers, general small game hunting, pest control
.25 Caliber: More Power
Step up to .25 caliber when you need extra authority:
- Energy: 35-45 FPE in most bullpups
- Game: Raccoons, groundhogs, larger pests
- Shot count: 35-50 shots per fill
- Pellet selection: Good but less variety than .22
- Cost: Higher pellet prices ($18-30 per 500)
Recommended for: Hunters targeting medium-sized game, those wanting maximum energy in a compact platform
.177 Caliber: Target Focus
The .177 caliber bullpups exist but aren’t ideal for hunting:
- Energy: 15-25 FPE (insufficient for ethical hunting beyond tiny game)
- Advantages: Flatter trajectory, more shots per fill, cheaper pellets
- Best use: Target shooting, competitive shooting, informal plinking
Skip .177 for hunting: The energy limitations make it questionable for ethical hunting beyond very small pests.
.30 Caliber: Maximum Power
A few bullpups like the FX Impact offer .30 caliber:
- Energy: 50-90+ FPE
- Game: Coyotes, bobcats, large raccoons (where legal)
- Shot count: 20-35 shots per fill
- Considerations: Requires more air, heavier recoil, expensive pellets
Recommended for: Experienced hunters with specific needs for larger game. Overkill for typical small game hunting.
For a comprehensive look at caliber selection, see our guide on .177 vs .22 caliber air rifles.
Bullpup Air Rifles for Hunting: Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before hunting with any air rifle, including bullpups, understand your local regulations and ethical responsibilities.
State Hunting Regulations
Air rifle hunting laws vary dramatically by state:
- Prohibited entirely: Some states don’t allow air rifle hunting for any game
- FPE minimums: Many states require minimum energy levels (often 16-20 FPE for small game)
- Caliber restrictions: Some states mandate minimum calibers (.22 or .25+)
- Species limitations: What you can hunt with airguns varies widely
Always check your state’s fish and game regulations before hunting with any air rifle. The compact size of bullpups doesn’t change legal requirements.
Ethical Energy Requirements
Legal minimums aren’t always ethical minimums. Here are recommended FPE levels for clean, humane kills:
- Small birds (starlings, sparrows): 6-10 FPE
- Pigeons, doves: 12-15 FPE
- Squirrels, rabbits: 20-25 FPE
- Raccoons, groundhogs: 35-40 FPE
- Larger game (coyotes, etc.): 50+ FPE with perfect shot placement
Don’t take shots beyond your rifle’s ethical capability, regardless of what’s legal. A wounded animal that escapes is never acceptable.
Shot Placement Matters More
With air rifles, precise shot placement is critical. The reduced energy compared to firearms means:
- Head shots only on small game: Brain shots ensure instant, ethical kills
- Heart/lung shots on medium game: Require careful stalking to close range
- Range limitations: Most ethical airgun hunting happens inside 50 yards
Bullpup designs help here—the compact length makes it easier to get into position for close-range precision shots.
Hunting Season Compliance
Even where air rifle hunting is legal, you must still follow:
- Season dates: Hunt during established seasons for each species
- Bag limits: Respect daily and possession limits
- License requirements: Purchase appropriate licenses and stamps
- Property permissions: Never hunt without landowner permission
The portability of bullpup air rifles makes them convenient for property owners dealing with pests on their own land year-round, which is often allowed outside regular hunting seasons. But always verify local laws.
For state-specific information, check out our guide on air rifle hunting laws by state.
Accessories for Bullpup Air Rifles
Bullpup air rifles benefit from specific accessories that enhance their unique design.
Optics
Most bullpup hunting involves short to medium ranges (10-50 yards). Ideal scope specs:
- Magnification: 3-9x or 4-12x variable
- Objective lens: 40-44mm for good light gathering
- Parallax adjustment: Essential for airgun accuracy
- Airgun-rated: Reverse recoil from springers can damage regular scopes (less critical for PCPs)
Scope Mounting: Bullpups typically have Picatinny or 11mm dovetail rails. Ensure your rings match.
Red Dot Option: For pest control inside 30 yards, a quality red dot sight offers faster target acquisition than magnified optics.
Moderators (Suppressors)
Many bullpups include integrated sound suppression, but adding a quality moderator further reduces report:
- DonnyFL moderators: Popular aftermarket option, very effective
- Weihrauch/Diana moderators: Quality German engineering
- Budget options: STO and Huggett offer value
Thread compatibility: Verify your bullpup’s thread pitch (usually 1/2-20 UNF) matches the moderator.
Bipods and Shooting Sticks
The compact nature of bullpups makes them ideal for shooting sticks:
- Primos Trigger Stick: Adjustable height, quick deployment
- BOG DeathGrip: Clamp style for maximum stability
- Traditional bipods: Work well but add length
For ground blind hunting, a short bipod enhances stability without increasing setup time.
Filling Solutions
You can’t shoot a PCP without air. Prioritize:
Hand Pump ($50-100)
- Hill MK4: Gold standard, durable
- Budget pumps: Work but require more effort
- Good for: Shooters on a budget, occasional use
Electric Compressor ($300-800)
- Yong Heng: Popular budget compressor ($300-400)
- GX Pumps: More reliable mid-range option ($400-600)
- Good for: Frequent shooting, multiple rifles
Carbon Fiber Tank ($300-500 + filling costs)
- 4500 PSI SCBA tanks
- Fast refilling (seconds vs. minutes)
- Requires access to filling station (dive shop, paintball field, or own compressor)
Pellet Selection
Different bullpup air rifles prefer different pellets. Start with these proven performers:
.22 Caliber:
- JSB Diabolo Exact 18.13gr: Accuracy standard, excellent in most PCPs
- H&N Baracuda 21.14gr: Heavier for more energy, great for hunting
- Crosman Premier Hollow Point: Budget hunting option
.25 Caliber:
- JSB King Heavy 33.95gr: Maximum energy for hunting
- H&N Baracuda 30.86gr: Good balance of accuracy and power
- JSB King 25.39gr: Flatter trajectory for longer shots
Buy small tins of several types and test for best accuracy in your specific rifle.
Maintaining Your Bullpup Air Rifle
Bullpup PCPs require minimal maintenance, but a few practices ensure long-term reliability.
Regular Cleaning
Barrel cleaning every 500-1,000 rounds:
- Use felt pellets or patches with airgun-specific cleaning solution
- Avoid petroleum-based cleaners (damage seals)
- Pull-through cleaning rods prevent muzzle damage
Wipe down after use:
- Remove moisture and debris from external surfaces
- Check scope mounting screws (can loosen from vibration)
- Inspect seals for wear or damage
O-Ring Maintenance
PCP air rifles depend on O-rings for air sealing. Every 6-12 months:
- Inspect visible O-rings for cracks or deformation
- Apply silicone chamber oil (not petroleum-based)
- Replace damaged seals immediately
Storage Considerations
Pressure storage: Modern PCPs can be stored pressurized without damage. This is actually easier on seals than repeated pressurization cycles.
Empty storage: If storing for extended periods (6+ months), some shooters prefer depressurizing to 1,000 PSI.
Environment: Store in climate-controlled environment. Temperature swings affect pressure readings and can damage seals.
Dealing with Leaks
If you hear hissing or notice rapid pressure loss:
- Locate the leak: Spray soapy water on connections, bubbles indicate leaks
- Check fill probe O-ring: Most common failure point, easy replacement
- Inspect gauge O-ring: Another common leak source
- Major leaks: Require professional service or factory return
Many bullpup-specific parts (magazines, O-rings, fill probes) are available through the manufacturer or specialty retailers like Pyramyd Air.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bullpup air rifle?
A bullpup air rifle places the action and air reservoir behind the trigger group instead of in front of it. This design allows a full-length barrel in a much shorter overall package. For example, a bullpup can have a 23-inch barrel with a total length of only 30 inches, while a traditional rifle with the same barrel would measure 40+ inches.
Are bullpup air rifles more accurate?
Bullpup design itself doesn’t inherently improve accuracy, but it can help shooters shoot more accurately in certain situations. The better balance and compact size make bullpups easier to hold steady and maneuver in tight spaces like hunting blinds. The full-length barrel provides the same accuracy potential as a traditional rifle with the same barrel length.
What is the best caliber for a bullpup hunting rifle?
For most small game hunting (rabbits, squirrels, pest birds), .22 caliber offers the best balance of power, shot count, and pellet availability. If you’re hunting larger game like raccoons or groundhogs, .25 caliber provides the extra energy needed for ethical kills. Avoid .177 for hunting—it lacks sufficient energy for clean, humane kills on game larger than small pest birds.
How much does a good bullpup PCP cost?
Entry-level bullpup PCPs like the Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL start around $350-400. Mid-range models like the Hatsan BullBoss and Benjamin Akela run $450-650. Premium bullpups like the FX Impact M4 Compact cost $2,200+. Budget an additional $200-500 for a quality scope, filling system, and accessories. For most hunters, the $500-700 total investment range offers excellent value.
Do I need a special license for a bullpup air rifle?
In most states, air rifles don’t require firearms licenses or background checks at the federal level. However, some states and cities have specific airgun regulations. A few states classify high-powered PCPs (typically over 20 FPE) differently than lower-powered airguns. Always check your local laws. For hunting use, you’ll need standard hunting licenses and must follow all game laws, regardless of using a bullpup or traditional design.
Can you hunt deer with a bullpup air rifle?
In states where air rifle deer hunting is legal, you would need a very high-powered PCP in .30 caliber or larger producing 80-150+ FPE. A few bullpups like the FX Impact M4 can achieve this power level. However, most bullpup air rifles top out at 35-45 FPE, which is insufficient for deer. Check your state’s specific requirements—many mandate minimum calibers (.35+) and energy levels that most bullpups can’t meet.
How loud are bullpup air rifles?
PCPs are much quieter than firearms but still produce noticeable sound. A quality bullpup with integrated shroud like the Hatsan BullBoss produces roughly 90-100 decibels—about as loud as a lawnmower. Adding an aftermarket moderator can reduce this to 75-85 decibels (similar to vacuum cleaner noise). This makes them backyard-friendly in most suburban settings, though always check local discharge ordinances.
What filling equipment do I need for a bullpup PCP?
Bullpup PCPs require high-pressure air (typically 3,000-4,500 PSI). You have three options: a hand pump ($50-100, requires physical effort), an electric compressor ($300-800, convenient but pricey), or a carbon fiber tank ($300-500 plus filling costs). Most new PCP shooters start with a hand pump and upgrade to a compressor or tank after confirming they’ll use the rifle regularly.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Bullpup Air Rifle
The bullpup air rifle platform offers genuine advantages for hunters and shooters who value compactness without sacrificing barrel length. The ability to maneuver a full-powered hunting rifle in tight spaces, vehicles, and ground blinds makes bullpups increasingly popular.
For most hunters, the Hatsan BullBoss delivers the best combination of power, features, and value. It’s a legitimate hunting tool that won’t break the bank.
For budget-conscious shooters, the Umarex Gauntlet 2 SL provides solid performance at an entry-level price. It’s the perfect introduction to PCP airguns and bullpup designs.
For serious enthusiasts willing to invest in top-tier performance, the FX Impact M4 Compact represents the pinnacle of bullpup engineering—adjustable, accurate, and powerful enough for nearly any airgun hunting scenario.
Whichever bullpup you choose, remember that ethical hunting depends more on your skill, patience, and shot placement than the specific rifle. Practice regularly, know your maximum effective range, and always prioritize clean, humane kills over taking questionable shots.
Looking for more guidance on air rifle selection? Check out our comprehensive air rifle buying guide for beginners or explore our reviews of the best PCP air rifles for hunting.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the site and allows us to continue providing helpful content. We only recommend products we’ve researched thoroughly or tested personally.