As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the publication date.
For backyard shooters, urban pest control, and hunters who don’t want to spook nearby game, a quiet pellet rifle isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Neighbors, noise ordinances, and skittish animals all make sound suppression a critical factor in choosing an air rifle.
In this guide, we’ll examine what actually makes an air rifle quiet, measure real-world sound levels, and recommend the quietest pellet rifles available in 2026.
Understanding Air Rifle Noise
Before looking at specific rifles, it helps to understand where the sound comes from:
Sources of Air Rifle Noise
-
Muzzle report – Air escaping behind the pellet at the muzzle (primary noise source in PCPs)
-
Mechanical action – Spring/piston movement in springers, hammer strike in PCPs
-
Pellet ballistics – Sonic crack if pellet exceeds ~1,100 FPS
-
Impact sound – Pellet striking the target
Sound Level Reference
To put air rifle noise in context:
| Sound Source | Decibels (dB) |
|---|---|
| Whisper | 30 dB |
| Normal conversation | 60 dB |
| Car door closing | 70-75 dB |
| Quiet PCP with suppressor | 70-78 dB |
| Unsuppressed spring rifle | 92-98 dB |
| .22 LR rifle | 140+ dB |
Note: Sound measurements vary significantly based on testing conditions. These are approximate values from testing by Hard Air Magazine and manufacturer data.
The quietest air rifles typically produce sound comparable to a door closing—noticeable if you’re listening for it, but unlikely to draw attention from neighbors or spook game at distance.
What Makes a Pellet Rifle Quiet?
1. Shrouded/Suppressed Barrel
The most effective noise reduction comes from barrel shrouds and integrated suppressors. These devices contain baffles that slow and diffuse the air escaping behind the pellet, dramatically reducing muzzle report. A good suppressor can reduce sound by 15-25 dB.
2. Sub-sonic Velocities
Pellets traveling faster than approximately 1,100 FPS create a sonic crack that no suppressor can eliminate. The quietest setups use heavier pellets at sub-sonic speeds (typically 800-950 FPS).
3. PCP vs. Spring Power
PCP rifles are inherently quieter than spring-piston rifles because they lack the mechanical “twang” of a spring releasing. The air release is also more controlled and easier to suppress.
4. Regulated Air Systems
In PCPs, regulated systems release a consistent, measured amount of air per shot—enough to propel the pellet but not excessive. Unregulated rifles often release more air than necessary, increasing noise.
Quietest Pellet Rifles for 2026
1. Benjamin Marauder – Quietest Overall
The Benjamin Marauder has been the benchmark for quiet PCP operation since its introduction. Multiple independent tests consistently rank it among the quietest production air rifles available.
Key Specifications:
| Calibers | .177, .22, .25 |
|---|---|
| Sound Level | ~72-75 dB (per Hard Air Magazine testing) |
| Velocity (.22) | Up to 1,000 FPS |
| Power | ~30 FPE |
| Price | $450-550 |
Why It’s So Quiet:
The Marauder’s shrouded barrel extends nearly the full length of the gun, providing extended baffling. Combined with its regulated air system and optional power adjustment (to keep velocities sub-sonic), it produces remarkably little noise. Many owners describe the shot sound as a “click” followed by the pellet striking the target.
Real-World Experience:
According to extensive user reports on Airgun Forum, the Marauder is routinely used for backyard pest control without disturbing neighbors. The impact on a pellet trap is often louder than the rifle itself. For detailed guidance on power requirements and rifle selection for different pest species from rats to groundhogs, check our comprehensive best air rifles for pest control guide.
Pros:
-
Exceptional noise suppression from factory
-
Fully adjustable power for optimal quiet operation
-
Proven reliability over many years
-
Excellent accuracy
Cons:
-
Higher price point
-
Bolt-action slower than side-lever
-
Requires air filling equipment
2. Umarex Gauntlet 2 – Best Value Quiet PCP
The Umarex Gauntlet 2 delivers impressive suppression at a lower price point than the Marauder, with some shooters considering it equally quiet.
Key Specifications:
| Calibers | .22, .25, .30 |
|---|---|
| Sound Level | ~75-78 dB (manufacturer/testing estimates) |
| Velocity (.22) | Up to 1,075 FPS |
| Power | ~33 FPE |
| Price | $400-450 |
Why It’s Quiet:
The Gauntlet 2 features a full-length shrouded barrel with integrated baffles. The 24″ barrel provides ample suppression length. While slightly louder than the Marauder at full power, it’s still remarkably quiet by air rifle standards.
Tip for Maximum Quiet:
Use heavier pellets (18-21 grains in .22) to keep velocities sub-sonic. This significantly reduces the already-low sound signature.
Pros:
-
Excellent suppression for the price
-
Side-lever action for faster follow-ups
-
Available in .30 caliber for hunting
-
Large air tank for extended sessions
Cons:
-
Not quite as quiet as Marauder at full power
-
Power not user-adjustable without modification
-
Heavier than competitors
3. Air Venturi Avenger – Quietest Budget PCP
The Air Venturi Avenger offers good suppression with the added benefit of adjustable power—dial it down for quiet backyard shooting, up for hunting.
Key Specifications:
| Calibers | .177, .22, .25 |
|---|---|
| Sound Level | ~78-82 dB (varies with power setting) |
| Velocity (.22) | Adjustable up to 1,000 FPS |
| Power | Adjustable up to ~30 FPE |
| Price | $300-350 |
Quiet Mode:
The Avenger’s adjustable regulator and hammer spring let you tune for quiet operation. At lower power settings (15-20 FPE), it becomes noticeably quieter while still being effective for pest control and target shooting.
Pros:
-
User-adjustable power for quiet operation
-
Excellent accuracy
-
Best budget price for a suppressed PCP
-
Lothar Walther barrel
Cons:
-
Louder than premium options at full power
-
Requires tools to adjust
-
Synthetic stock feels basic
4. Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X Gen 3i – Quietest Break-Barrel
While break-barrels are inherently louder than PCPs, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X Gen 3i with Whisper Fusion technology is the quietest in this category based on our research.
Key Specifications:
| Caliber | .177, .22 |
|---|---|
| Sound Level | ~85-90 dB (estimated) |
| Velocity (.22) | ~975 FPS with lead |
| Power | ~25 FPE |
| Price | $200-280 |
Whisper Fusion Technology:
Gamo’s Whisper Fusion combines a dual-stage noise dampener with a fluted polymer jacket. While it won’t match PCP quiet, it’s significantly quieter than unsuppressed break-barrels—making it viable for backyard use in many situations.
Pros:
-
No air tank or pump needed
-
10-shot magazine for quick follow-ups
-
Quietest break-barrel option
-
Most affordable option listed
Cons:
-
Louder than any PCP
-
Mechanical noise from piston
-
High velocity may cause sonic crack with light pellets
Tips for Quieter Shooting
Regardless of which rifle you choose, these tips will minimize noise:
1. Use Heavier Pellets
Heavier pellets travel slower, staying sub-sonic and avoiding the sonic crack. In .22 caliber, look for 18+ grain pellets like JSB Exact Heavy or H&N Baracuda.
2. Choose .22 Over .177
The .22 caliber inherently uses heavier, slower pellets than .177, making it easier to stay sub-sonic while maintaining power.
3. Use a Proper Pellet Trap
A quality pellet trap like the Champion Heavy Duty Metal Trap absorbs impact energy quietly. Shooting into metal cans or wood creates additional noise that may be louder than the rifle itself.
4. Consider Your Backdrop
Sound reflects off hard surfaces. Shooting toward a soft backstop (earth, thick vegetation) produces less audible report than shooting toward fences or buildings.
Comparison Table: Quietest Pellet Rifles
| Rifle | Type | Sound Level | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Marauder | PCP | ~72-75 dB | $450-550 | Quietest Overall |
| Umarex Gauntlet 2 | PCP | ~75-78 dB | $400-450 | Best Value Quiet |
| Air Venturi Avenger | PCP | ~78-82 dB | $300-350 | Budget + Adjustable |
| Gamo Swarm Magnum | Break-barrel | ~85-90 dB | $200-280 | Quietest No-Tank Option |
Our Recommendation
For maximum quiet, the Benjamin Marauder remains the standard. Its combination of effective suppression, adjustable power, and proven reliability makes it the go-to choice for backyard shooters and suburban pest control.
For those wanting excellent quiet at a lower price, the Umarex Gauntlet 2 comes remarkably close to the Marauder’s performance for $50-100 less.
If you don’t want to deal with air tanks, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X with Whisper Fusion is your best option—just understand it won’t match PCP quiet levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can neighbors hear a suppressed air rifle?
At 70-75 dB (like the Marauder), the sound is comparable to normal conversation or a closing car door. Most neighbors won’t notice or identify the sound, especially from inside a house. However, results depend on distance, surroundings, and local ambient noise.
Are air rifle suppressors legal?
In the United States, air rifle suppressors/moderators are generally legal and unregulated (unlike firearm suppressors). However, some states have restrictions. Always check your local laws.
Do I need to stay sub-sonic for quiet shooting?
For truly quiet operation, yes. Pellets exceeding approximately 1,100 FPS create a sonic crack that cannot be suppressed. Using heavier pellets or reducing power settings keeps velocities sub-sonic.
Why are PCPs quieter than springers?
Spring-piston rifles produce mechanical noise from the spring/piston assembly—a “twang” or “boing” sound that’s difficult to suppress. PCPs release only compressed air, which is easily baffled and muffled.
Sources
-
Hard Air Magazine – Sound level testing methodology and data
-
Airgun Forum – Community experience reports
-
Crosman – Benjamin Marauder specifications
-
Umarex USA – Gauntlet 2 specifications
Looking for more air rifle recommendations? Check out our Best PCP Air Rifles Under $500 and Best Air Rifles 2025 guides.
Last updated: November 2026