The best 22 caliber air rifles stand out for their perfect power, accuracy, and versatility blend. Advancements in pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) systems, spring-piston designs, and modular configurations have made air rifles much more usable in many ways aside from target shooting.
Among the activities that air rifles are used for is hunting, and this requires a capable rifle, exactly where the .22 steps in. A .22 air rifle offers a solid middle ground between the lighter .177 and the heavier .25 caliber.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore some of the best .22 air rifles on the market today, discussing their features, pros, cons, and what makes each one stand out. Let’s dive in.
Why Choose a .22 Air Rifle?
Before jumping into the reviews, it’s worth understanding why many shooters opt for the .22 caliber.
- Compared to the .177, .22 pellets are larger and heavier, making them better suited for pest control and small game hunting.
- .22 rifles often operate more quietly, because they move at a slower velocity compared to the .177. A larger bow also allows for smoother air release, dampening the sound.
- While they may have a slightly more curved trajectory than .177s, .22s are deadly accurate up to 50 yards with the right setup.
- There’s a wide selection of .22 pellets available from hollow points to domed and pointed, giving shooters options tailored to their purpose.
Best .22 Air Rifles of 2025
Here are the top contenders based on performance, value, user reviews, and expert testing.
1) Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle.22 Caliber.
Not only does this rifle stand out for its powerful .22 caliber, it also stands out for its proprietary 10-round capacity, which allows follow-up shots in quick succession, which is a great deal when hunting, especially pests.
Additionally, it comes with an Inert Gas Technology (IGT) piston that allows higher velocity, less vibration, and a longer lifespan than traditional spring-powered air rifles. You also get a 2-stage trigger for enhanced precision and accuracy and better safety when handling the rifle.
The .22 caliber Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle also comes with a 1-year warranty, so you can use it with peace of mind.
Pros
- 10-shot magazine speeds up hunting and pest control
- Lesser vibrations courtesy of its IGT technology.
- Lightweight and user-friendly.
- Rugged build quality
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- It isn’t the quietest, as the name suggests.
2) Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i
This air rifle is quite similar to the Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle with features like an inert gas technology gas piston, and a 10-shot magazine that allows quick follow-up shots when hunting.
The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i, however, can deliver faster shots at 1300 fps compared to the 1000 fps on the Swarm Whisper. Although this results in noisier shots, it improves the long-range performance and also makes it better for adverse weather conditions.
The Magnum is also heavier and slightly pricier, and would appeal to someone willing to spend a little more for an air rifle with more energy and more impactful shots. For the price however you get a longer 5-year warranty for uninterrupted shooting
Pros:
- 10-shot magazine gives quick follow-up shots
- Powerful and fast rounds
- Two-stage adjustable custom action trigger
- Inert-gas technology reduces vibrations
- 5-year warranty.
Cons:
- Hefty cocking effort
3) Sig Sauer MCX Virtus PCP Pellet Air Rifle
This air rifle is ideal for the shooter who wants to enjoy the power of the .22 caliber round and doesn’t mind the additional inconveniences of a high-pressure tank. The Sig Sauer MCX is modeled after Sig’s real-steel MCX Virtus rifle to appeal to the rifle enthusiasts.
The build quality is solid, with a full-metal handguard and sturdy polymer lower receiver. It has a modern M-LOK handguard, folding and adjustable stock, and a 20-round belt-fed magazine, immediately setting it apart from more traditional air rifles.
The Virtus is, however, not built for long-range sniping, managing only a modest 700fps from the .22 caliber pellets. It’s, however, effective and powerful enough for close-range 15 to 40-yard shots
Pros
- High capacity (30-pellet) magazine
- Supports accessories with its M-LOK handguard
- Comes with a 2-stage trigger for better control
- Quieter than spring piston air rifles.
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- 700 fps is slightly underpowered
4) Umarex Notos Carbine
Another pre-charged pneumatic air rifle that delivers impressive power from its short 11.75-inch barrel, launching a 12-grain .22 caliber pellet at 780 fps. The rifle comes with a 7-shot rotary magazine and a quiet shooting side lever that allows a smooth transition to the next shot.
This PCP’s fixed high-pressure air tank fills to a maximum pressure of 3,625 psi. The compression pressure can easily be adjusted to 1900psi via an internal regulator for consistent shots.
The Umarex Notos Carbine is lightweight, which makes it easy to handle with proper ergonomics for long-term use. Thanks to its shrouded barrel and a proprietary SilencAir moderator, the Notos operates quietly.
In addition, there is a full-length Picatinny rail, which makes it convenient for attaching accessories to customize it according to your shooting requirements.
Pros
- Quiet operations
- Consistent accuracy within 30–45 yards
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- The Picatinny allows different customizations
- 7-shot auto indexing magazine allows follow-up shots
Cons
- Limited shot count per fill (approximately 21 shots)
5) Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo
The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo is a classic, designed air rifle for the shooter who wants to maintain the rustic feel when shooting. Complete with a Turkish walnut stock that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also provides a comfortable grip.
The ergonomics continues with its ambidextrous design and checkered pistol grip. At the base, you get a rubber recoil pad that complements the shock absorber system (SAS) to cushion your shoulders as the .22 rounds speed out of the barrel at 1000fps.
The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle has a solid steel barrel that gives a sturdy feel whenever the shooter is squeezing it to load the next shot. The build quality can be felt throughout the stock and even from the Quattro two-stage adjustable trigger, and this makes it a great rifle for everyday use.
Pros
- Classic design
- High-quality construction with a genuine Turkish walnut stock
- Adjustable Quattro Trigger for a customized shooting experience
- Powerful performance
- Effective recoil reduction with SAS
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- The scope that comes with it is of poor quality
6) Beeman Chief II PCP (2000 PSI)
The Beeman Chief II is a PCP powered air rifle that’s versatile for the shooter who wants power for shooting at close range, using .22 caliber rounds. The rifle’s versatility comes in the form of a simple-to-use, bolt-action mechanism that uses a 10-round rotary magazine for repeatable shots.
The rifle can also be pressurized using a foot pump, and the pressure inside the barrel is indicated on a gauge located at the top of the rifle. The tank is a 136cc air cylinder with a 2,000-psi pressure capacity and an ambidextrous hardwood, Monte Carlo stock with a raised cheekpiece.
This pressure will fire.22 rounds at 830fps, which is sufficient power for consistent accuracy, especially within 30 to 45 yards. Weighing around 6.8 pounds, the Chief II is also lightweight and easy to handle.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Two-stage trigger design enhances precision and safety.
- 10-shot magazine allows repeatable shots
- Great build quality
- The tank delivers a decent 35 shots per fill
- Comfortable bolt-action reloading system
Cons
- Some users have complained of an inaccurate pressure gauge.
7) Crosman C362 Classic
The Crosman C362 Classic Multi-Pump Pellet Rifle (.22 Caliber) is a single-shot, bolt-action, variable pump pneumatic air rifle that blends classic design with modern versatility. With its budget-friendly price range of around $100 to $120, the rifle will appeal to a large number of shooters.
This rifle is great for a beginner who wants to advance their marksmanship skills, because it’s easy to use, with a compact and rugged frame, and a fully adjustable rear sight. The .22 rounds also give a decent impact energy of up to 875 fps, which is great for hunting down small animals.
Pros
- Durable, featuring a synthetic water-resistant stock
- Comes with a two-stage trigger for safety
- Easy to use and great for beginners
- Includes an adjustable rear peep sight
- Comes at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- Slow for follow-up shots
What to Consider When Buying a .22 Air Rifle
Choosing the best rifle depends on your needs, and here are some things to consider;
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Purpose
If the air rifle’s purpose is hunting, one should prioritize the power and shot count. Quick follow-up shots mean that the rifle should be compatible with a magazine. If it’s to be used for target shooting, power doesn’t matter, just a good trigger and accurate, consistent shots. If an air rifle is just for plinking, affordability matters the most.
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Powerplant Type
Air rifles are powered differently, and one should know of the different types available, which include;
- Spring-piston- Self-contained, powerful, but can be hard to master.
- Gas-piston- Quieter and smoother than springers.
- PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) – Best performance but needs external air sources.
- CO2- Good for casual use, but weather-sensitive and has lower power.
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Accuracy
An accurate air rifle is very important for any type of shooting. One way to know this is to look at the rifles with high-quality barrels and an adjustable trigger, which plays a great deal in a shooter’s ability to adjust for a shot. When shopping, also test and consider a rifle that gives a consistent velocity of the projectile
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Noise Level
Test the noise level and decide what works for you. Models with lower velocity and PCPs tend to be much quieter. Some models also come with proprietary noise suppression tech, which is really helpful in managing noise.
Best .22 air rifles- FAQs
What is the effective range of a .22 air rifle for hunting?
The effective range of a 22 air rifle for hunting is determined by several parameters, including rifle power, pellet type, and shooter skill. Rifles with 10-20 ft-lbs of power are effective up to about 40 yards. Anything with more than 20 ft-lbs is effective up to 65- 70 yards.
Are .22 air rifles legal for hunting in Kentucky?
Yes, for some species and seasons, the .22 is legal for hunting, but the Kentucky hunting laws mostly prescribe a higher caliber > .25, for ethical kills.
Can a .22 air rifle kill a raccoon?
Yes, a .22 can kill a raccoon if properly placed, and if the rifle packs enough power. This is because a raccoon is a tough animal that needs around 20 ft-lbs. for a clean kill.
What’s the Best Budget .22 Air Rifle?
The best budget for a .22 air rifle would be between $150 and $200. The cost, however, depends on what exactly you’re looking for and the features it comes with. The price can, therefore, go slightly higher than the limit we have given
Conclusion
If you are looking to buy the best air rifle, the 22 caliber remains one of the most practical and rewarding choices, and there’s something for every shooter in this list.
Take your time evaluating what matters most. Whether you are considering the power, accuracy, weight, or budget, don’t hesitate to invest in a rifle that suits your needs. After all, the right air rifle can provide years of enjoyment, sport, and ethical hunting opportunities.
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