Air Rifle Calibers For Hunting: Choosing The Right One
Choosing the right air rifle caliber for your hunting needs is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience.
The three main calibers available for air rifles are .177, .20, and .22. Each caliber has unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of airgunning. As you increase the caliber size, the precision required for a humane kill decreases, making it easier to achieve success in the field.
Selecting the appropriate caliber for your hunting needs will not only improve your accuracy but also the animal’s welfare. As you continue your journey into the world of air rifle hunting, keep these calibers in mind to make informed decisions and get the most out of your hunting experience.
Air Rifle Calibers for Small Game Hunting
Identifying Suitable Calibers
When it comes to small game hunting, pest control, and varmint hunting, two popular calibers dominate the air rifle market: .177 and .22. The .177 caliber is great for lightweight, compact air rifles, offering accuracy and a flatter trajectory, making it suitable for targets like squirrels, rabbits, and small varmints up to 2 pounds. The .22 caliber, on the other hand, packs more energy and is ideal for taking down larger small game like hares and prairie dogs, delivering an effective range up to 60 yards.
Choosing the Right Air Rifle
There are various air rifle brands and models to choose from, including Gamo, Crosman, and the AirForce Texan. Selecting the right air rifle depends on your hunting needs and preferences like range, power, weight, size, and quietness. Additionally, consider if the air rifle can be fitted with a scope, as this can greatly improve your accuracy in the field.
Importance of Pellets
Choosing the right pellets is crucial for both accuracy and power. While lead pellets are widely used due to their weight and consistency, steel pellets are also an option, as they offer better penetration and less deformation. Keep in mind that pellet weight can affect your air rifle’s overall performance, especially when it comes to trajectory and energy.
Common Small Game Targets
Common small game targets for air rifle hunters include squirrels, rabbits, hares, and varmints such as prairie dogs. When hunting these small game, aim for the head to minimize damage to the meat and ensure a clean, quick kill.
Air Rifle Calibers for Big Game Hunting
Big Bore Air Rifles
When it comes to hunting big game with air rifles, you’ll want to consider using big bore air rifles. These airguns are available in several calibers, ranging from .257 up to .50, and even up to .615 caliber. Some popular big bore airguns include the Umarex Hammer, FX Impact, Hatsan Piledriver, and AirForce Texan. These PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifles provide more power and range than traditional pellet guns, making them suitable for hunting big game such as deer, bear, bison, and hogs.
Choosing the Right Caliber
Selecting the right caliber for your big game hunting needs is crucial. Different calibers offer varying levels of energy, range, and performance. While smaller calibers like .30 may be suitable for predators and medium-sized game, you’ll want to consider using a .357, .45, or even a .50 caliber for larger game such as bear, bison, or wild hogs. The larger calibers deliver more energy for deeper penetration and improved lethality, especially on big, tough animals.
Projectile Options
Big bore airguns can shoot a variety of projectiles depending on the caliber and gun. These may include BBs, pellets, lead slugs, and other types of ammunition specifically designed for airgun hunting. Make sure to choose the right projectile based on your target big game species, as this will affect accuracy and terminal performance.
| Caliber | Projectile |
|---|---|
| .30 | BB, Pellet |
| .357 | Pellet, Slug |
| .45 | Slug |
| .50 | Slug |
Common Big Game Targets & Caliber To Use
With a powerful big bore air rifle in hand, you can effectively hunt a variety of big game species. Here are some common targets to consider:
- Deer: White-tail and mule deer can be effectively hunted with calibers ranging from .357 and up.
- Bear: Larger calibers like .45 or .50 are recommended for hunting wild bears for optimal performance.
- Bison: Some states allow airgun hunting for bison, but ensure to check local regulations and use a high-powered air rifle.
- Hogs: Wild hogs, javelina, and feral hogs are all viable targets for big bore airgun hunting.
- Predators: Air rifles can also be used to hunt predators like bobcats and coyotes- calibers like .30 and .357 are suitable for these targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective caliber for hunting small game with an air rifle?
The ideal caliber depends on your personal preference, but usually, a .22 or .25 caliber is considered to be effective for taking down small game like squirrels, rabbits, and birds. These calibers provide a balance of power, accuracy, and pellet penetration necessary to ensure a humane harvest of your quarry.
Can a .45 caliber air rifle be used for hunting larger game?
Yes, a .45 caliber air rifle can be used for hunting larger game like wild boar, deer, or even predators like coyotes. However, it’s vital to ensure that the air rifle has sufficient power to deliver responsible and ethical shots when hunting larger animals. Typically, .45 caliber air rifles with 200-300ft/lbs of energy are suitable for such purposes. Remember, shot placement and accuracy are critical factors when hunting larger game with an air rifle.
Is a .30 cal air rifle suitable for deer hunting?
A .30 caliber air rifle can be used for deer hunting, but it’s essential to use a rifle with sufficient energy, and proper shot placement is crucial. While state regulations may vary, generally, a .30 caliber air rifle with at least 75-100ft/lbs of energy is suitable for deer hunting. Additionally, it is essential to verify whether your local laws permit using air rifles for deer hunting before venturing into the field.
How does the hunting performance vary between air rifle calibers?
Hunting performance varies between air rifle calibers due to factors such as pellet weight, energy, and accuracy. Smaller calibers, like .177 and .22, are useful for shorter ranges and smaller game, offering a flatter trajectory and faster velocities. On the other hand, larger calibers like .30 or .45 provide more energy and increased pellet stability at longer distances, making them suitable for medium to large-sized game. As a general rule, it’s essential to choose a caliber suited to the specific game you’re targeting and practice your shot placement for optimal results.
