When it comes to finding the best break barrel air rifle, it’s clear why these versatile and powerful airguns have earned such a strong reputation. Known for their simplicity, reliability, and power, break barrel air rifles offer a perfect blend of performance and ease of use.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of break barrel air rifles, exploring what makes them stand out, the key features to consider, and a curated list of the best models available on the market today.
Best Break Barrel Air Rifles- Top Picks
| Air Rifles |
Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i
|
Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifles
|
| Crosman Air Rifle
|
| Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle
|
| Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500
|
| Ruger Blackhawk Pellet Gun
|
| Hatsan 95 Air Rifles
|
Lets look at the detailed reviews…
1) Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i
The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i from Gamo is a beast of a break barrel air rifle that promises high power, rapid follow-up shots, and backyard-friendly noise reduction.
Break barrels are traditionally single-shot, but this rifle uses a horizontal inertia-fed magazine that promises up to 10 shots. Making it a game-changer for quick successive shots.
Available in .177 (up to 1650 fps) and .22 (up to 1300 fps), this rifle’s gas-piston powerplant (Inert Gas Technology, or IGT) delivers serious punch around 28 ft-lbs. in .22 with lightweight alloy pellets.
This air rifle feels substantial but not unwieldy. The synthetic stock has a matte black finish with molded checkering on the grip and forearm. The rubber recoil pad is a nice touch, soaking up some of the kick from its hefty power output.
Highlights
- Whisper Fusion Noise Reduction
- Single cocking break barrel
-
10-shot magazine for follow up shots
- 1300 fps with .22 Alloy Pellets
-
Gas-piston design reduces vibration and spring wear.
-
High velocity and energy (28 ft-lbs in .22)
- Includes a Gamo 3-9×40 Scope
2) Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifles
The Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifle is an excellent contender in our list of break barrel pellet guns. The air rifle is a favorite for many shooters as it delivers exceptionally.
Equipped with Whisper Nose dampening technology, the air rifle ensures a quiet operation by compressing the noise. It is very accurate as it has Inert Gas Technology which ensures minimal vibration and more consistent power.
The pellet rifle weighs only 5.64 lbs. due to the fact that it uses the latest technologies, a polymer jacketed rifled barrel, and a premium-grade stock that is ambidextrous. This technically means it is very cushy to carry when in the field. Its stock is all-weather, ideal for use in all weather conditions.
In addition, this rifle has a 4×32 shockproof scope that makes it easy to spot smaller and moving targets.
Highlights
- Lightweight design
- Ambidextrous and all-weather stock
- The velocity of up to 1300 fps
- Whisper noise reduction technology
- .177 caliber pellet single cocking break barrel
- 4×32 scope to enhance accuracy
- Reduced vibration and increased consistent power
- Standard trigger with the adjustable second stage
3) Crosman Air Rifle
The Crosman Air Rifle is a powerful rifle that is another product in our list of break barrel pellet guns. It is designed to give you the best moments of your shooting activities.
With a stylish design, this air rifle is an excellent addition to your gun collection. It is designed to get the job done perfectly as it has a fairly light cocking force and a two-stage trigger that is adjustable and delivers speeds of 950 fps with alloy pellets. The barrel integrates a micro-adjustable rear sight and fiber optic front sight.
It also includes a 4x32mm precision scope that enhances accuracy when shooting smaller and moving targets.
Besides that, the air rifle has a beautiful hardwood stock that is ambidextrous so that left- and right-handed shooters can experience the fun of using this incredible tool.
Highlights
- Spring-powered break barrel that shoots up to 950 fps
- Light cocking force
- Two-stage adjustable trigger
- Perfect for target shooting and controlling pests
- Includes 4x32mm scope
- Pellet velocity of up to 800 fps
- Shoots .22 caliber pellets
4) Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle
The Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle has outstanding features. No wonder it is loved by many shooters worldwide. These features make it widely acceptable for various shooting sessions.
Firstly, the rifle’s stock is robust and all-weather, which means it withstands harsh weather conditions and abuses. The stock is ambidextrous and is carefully made to fit the shooter and align with the scope perfectly. It also has a lightweight design hence not a pain in your neck.
The air rifle includes a 4X32 scope that is shockproof and makes it stress-free to spot smaller targets with ultimate precision.
This .177 caliber pellet break barrel can shoot at 1250 fps using PBA Platinum pellets, making it one of the most potent air rifles. Because the velocity is high, you can aim at the target with incredible accuracy. It is powered by a spring piston that combines with the break barrel cocking mechanism to offer great power, rated at 30 pounds.
Besides that, it has a manual trigger safety that ensures that accidental misfiring is handled. The air rifle controls pets, recreational shooting, and other everyday uses.
Highlights
- Single cocking break barrel
- Standard trigger with the second stage that is adjustable
- Shockproof scope with mounts
- Ambidextrous and all-weather stock
- The durable piston offers 1250 fps of muzzle velocity
- Rubber pad for a more cushy recoil absorption
- Spring piston systems that can be depended on
5) Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500
Next up is this incredible Crosman Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 .177 Caliber Nitro Piston Air Rifle. The air rifle delivers velocities of up to 1500 fps which is one of the most powerful break barrel air rifles on the market and means that you will spot and hit your targets with accuracy. It also delivers pellet velocity of up to 1200 fps with alloy pellets. It is designed with a beautiful and checkered hardwood stock.
Thanks to its break barrel style, this rifle is made with a nitrogen gas piston that helps it make quick and powerful shots.
Also, its rifled steel barrel delivers less noise; hence it’s an excellent option for shooters who love to shoot quietly without disturbing neighbors.
Better yet, the smooth cocking and less recoil ensure easy handling in the field. It also includes a 3-9x40mm precision scope with an adjustable objective and range estimating reticle, so you will have no trouble getting clean shots for your target. It is perfect for target shooting, small game hunting, and control of pests.
Highlights
- .177 caliber piston-powered break barrel air rifle
- Hardwood stock that is beautiful and checkered
- Less noise
- Smooth cocking and less recoil
- Up to 1500 fps
- Includes a 3-9x 40mm scope
6) Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun Air Rifle
Power and accuracy make this rifle one of the best you can find. A spring piston powers it and has a single-shot capacity. The Ruger Blackhawk .177 Caliber Pellet Gun Air Rifle shoots pellets at a velocity of 1000 fps.
The air rifle has an ambidextrous stock and is thus ideal for both right and left-handed users. It includes a 4×32 scope for ultimate accuracy, even for moving targets.
Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, the air rifle is ideal to use in all weather conditions, even the harshest ones. It also has adjustable windage and elevation levels.
In addition, the rifle has great accuracy, which makes it sit perfectly even for amateur shooters. It is suitable for target practice and pest control.
The rifle allows you to shoot various .177 caliber pellets, unlike other conventional models that are only effective with one specific pellet type. Its high power makes getting rid of your target seamless with only one shot.
Along with that, the rifle delivers a noiseless operation so that you don’t end up scaring animals away as you hunt. It is a cost-effective rifle that is worth your consideration.
Highlights
- Ergonomic and comfortable design
- Adjustable windage and elevation
- Matte black finish
- Delivers a noiseless operation
- Includes scope and mounts
- Multiple lens coatings
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Durable construction
7) Hatsan 95
The Hatsan 95 Air Rifle Combo is a spring-piston break barrel that blends classic looks with solid functionality. The highlight of this rifle is the high-quality Turkish walnut stock known for its beauty. The stock further carries an ambidextrous design that makes shooting convenient for lefties
The checkered grip offers a firm hold, and the rubber butt pad adds a practical touch, softening the recoil nicely. The barrel is precision-rifled German steel, a nod to Hatsan’s attention to quality,
In addition, this air rifle is fitted with Hatsan’s SAS (Shock Absorber System) which works to reduce recoil and has a large muzzle brake for easy cocking. Moreover, it is available in multiple calibers .177, .22, or .25 with a max velocity of up to 1300 FPS. It also comes bundled with an Optima 3-9×32 scope, mounts, and a promise of precision
Highlights
-
Turkish Walnut Stock
- 2-stage fully adjustable Quattro Trigger
- Available in three calibers; .177, .22 and .25
- Precision rifled German steel barrel
- Includes a 3-9×32 Optima scope
Criteria for Choosing the Best Break Barrel Pellet Gun
Budget
Consider whether you are a spendthrift or a frugal person. The good news is that there is all kind of pellet guns out there that fit the bill. Ensure you get a gun that suits your budget rather than strains it. Also, remember not to settle for less while compromising on quality.
Intended use
It is important to remember what you plan to do with the break ballet pellet gun you are buying. The common uses include small game hunting, pest and rodent control, target shooting, and plinking. Knowing your intended purpose will greatly help you choose the best gun for you.
Pellet capacity
Break barrel air rifles differ in their pellet capacity. Some models hold only one pellet and hence need reloading after every shot. Others may hold as many as 50 pellets, so all you need to do is re-pump the piston between shots.
Aesthetics
This doesn’t affect the gun’s function directly but is pertinent to be aware of. Any serious hunter knows that a plain wooden rifle is just as dangerous as a tactical-looking military weapon. Consider the looks of your pellet gun when shopping. Consider something less intimidating if you intend to use the gun for plinking around the house. The aesthetic choice may be less impactful if you live in an isolated place or intend to use the gun for hunting.
Ammo caliber and velocity
These air rifles come in various calibers ranging from .177-to .58. The most common calibers are .11-22. Both are ideal for competition target shooting and small game hunting. You must go for a higher-caliber rifle if you intend to hunt large game.
Regarding velocity, the rifles can shoot anywhere from 600 to 1300 feet per second, depending on the model. The velocity is often inversely related to the caliber, with the higher caliber rifles shooting more slowly.
Best Break Barrel Air Rifle- FAQs
Should I choose a .177 caliber or .22 caliber pellet air gun?
.177 will generally serve your purposes best if you are a targets-only shooter, and a .22, on the other hand, will serve you well if you are a hunting shooter. A .177 air gun of adequate power will be more accurate for skill-based target shooting than a .22 caliber. There is less projectile wobble and friction to move the trajectory of the .177 caliber pellet.
Are all air rifle pellets similar?
No. Air rifle pellets come in various types that affect how they shoot and how much damage they do. There are roundheads, hollow points, pointed, wadcutters, and more. Some are better for taking shots at cans, while others are better for hunting or shooting long-distance targets.
Conclusion
If you are into air rifles, break barrel pellet guns are best for controlling pests, target shooting, and big game hunting. It is important to have the right gun, as the wrong one would be a complete waste of your money. The pellet guns explained above are worth spending on. You can be sure that they are undoubtedly the best of the best that you can find.
See Also