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Looking for a quality pellet rifle without breaking the bank? The sub-$150 market has improved dramatically in recent years, offering excellent value for beginners, casual shooters, and those on a budget. Here are the best options available in 2025.
Last updated: November 2025
Best Overall Under $150: Crosman 1077
The Crosman 1077 remains one of the best values in air rifles. This CO2-powered semi-automatic fires as fast as you can pull the trigger, making it incredibly fun for plinking sessions. The 12-shot rotary magazine keeps you shooting longer between reloads.
What we like:
- Semi-automatic action – rapid fire capability
- Consistent 625 fps velocity with lead pellets
- Low recoil, easy to shoot accurately
- Quiet operation, backyard friendly
- Affordable CO2 powerlets widely available
Best for: Plinking, target practice, beginners, backyard fun
Key Specs: .177 caliber | 625 fps | 12-shot magazine | CO2 powered | ~4 lbs
Best Break-Barrel: Gamo Varmint Air Rifle
If you want more power for pest control, the Gamo Varmint delivers break-barrel performance at a budget price. The included 4×32 scope makes it ready to shoot out of the box, and velocities up to 1,250 fps (with alloy pellets) give it real stopping power.
What we like:
- No CO2 or air tank needed – just cock and shoot
- Powerful enough for pest control
- Includes mounted 4×32 scope
- Synthetic all-weather stock
- Adjustable two-stage trigger
Best for: Pest control, small game, those who don’t want to buy CO2
Key Specs: .177 caliber | 1,250 fps (alloy) | Single shot | Spring piston | ~5.8 lbs
Best Multi-Pump: Crosman 362
The Crosman 362 is a modern take on the classic multi-pump pneumatic. Variable power (2-8 pumps) lets you adjust from quiet backyard shooting to full-power pest control. No CO2 costs, no break-barrel technique to learn – just pump and shoot.
What we like:
- Variable power – adjust velocity with pump count
- No recurring CO2 costs
- Bolt-action single shot accuracy
- Classic wood stock aesthetics
- Simple, reliable operation
Best for: Those who want no-cost operation, traditionalists, accurate shooting
Key Specs: .22 caliber | Up to 875 fps | Single shot | Multi-pump | ~5.5 lbs
Best Budget CO2 Rifle: Umarex Ruger 10/22
The Umarex Ruger 10/22 is a licensed replica of the iconic Ruger firearm. It’s a blast to shoot with its 10-round rotary magazine and semi-automatic action. Perfect for those who want the look and feel of a real rifle with affordable airgun operation.
What we like:
- Authentic Ruger 10/22 styling
- Semi-automatic CO2 action
- 10-round rotary magazine
- Accepts real Ruger 10/22 accessories
- Fun factor is off the charts
Best for: Ruger fans, recreational shooting, training
Key Specs: .177 caliber | 650 fps | 10-shot magazine | CO2 powered | ~4.5 lbs
Best Starter: Daisy Powerline 880
The Daisy Powerline 880 is the quintessential starter air rifle. Priced well under $50, it shoots both BBs and pellets, uses multi-pump power (no ongoing costs), and is light enough for younger shooters. It’s been a gateway to the hobby for generations.
What we like:
- Incredibly affordable
- Shoots both BBs and pellets
- Multi-pump means no CO2 costs
- Light weight, suitable for youth
- Includes 4×15 scope
Best for: First-time shooters, youth, maximum value
Key Specs: .177 caliber | 800 fps (BB) | Multi-shot BB/single pellet | Multi-pump | ~3.5 lbs
Quick Comparison Table
| Rifle | Power Type | Velocity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crosman 1077 | CO2 | 625 fps | Best overall value |
| Gamo Varmint | Spring | 1,250 fps | Pest control |
| Crosman 362 | Multi-pump | 875 fps | No-cost shooting |
| Umarex Ruger 10/22 | CO2 | 650 fps | Fun/replica |
| Daisy 880 | Multi-pump | 800 fps | Beginners/youth |
Buying Tips for Budget Air Rifles
CO2 vs. Spring vs. Multi-Pump: CO2 rifles are easiest to shoot but have ongoing powerlet costs (~$0.50-1.00 per session). Spring/gas piston rifles cost nothing to operate but require more technique. Multi-pumps offer free operation with adjustable power.
Velocity claims: Advertised velocities are typically with ultra-light alloy pellets. Expect 15-20% less with standard lead pellets, which are more accurate anyway.
Quality pellets matter: Don’t cheap out on ammo. Premium pellets like JSB Exact or H&N Field Target Trophy can double your accuracy.
Ready to spend more? Check out our Best Air Rifles by Price Range guide for options at every budget level.