Understanding airgun calibers is essential for any hunter looking to ethically and effectively pursue game with air power. From tiny .177 pellets to massive .50 caliber slugs, each caliber serves a specific role in the hunting world. Choosing the right one means balancing power, trajectory, penetration, and the legal requirements of your state.

This guide breaks down the best airgun calibers for hunting everything from squirrels to wild hogs—helping you make the smartest choice for your next hunt.

What you’ll learn:

• Breakdown of airgun calibers and their typical power
• Recommended game types for each caliber
• Legal thresholds and ethical considerations
• Best airguns chambered in each caliber

.177 Caliber – Best for Small Game and Plinking

• Energy: 7–15 ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 10–35 yards
• Ideal for: Rats, pigeons, starlings, and backyard pest control

Pros: Flat trajectory, inexpensive ammo, minimal recoil
Cons: Limited knockdown power, small margin for error

Recommended Rifle: Umarex Notos or Umarex Embark for youth shooters

.22 Caliber – The Small Game Standard

• Energy: 15–30 ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 20–50 yards
• Ideal for: Squirrels, rabbits, raccoons

Pros: Excellent balance of power and accuracy
Cons: Not suitable for predators or big game

Recommended Rifle: Umarex Gauntlet 2 in .22 or Umarex Synergis

.25 Caliber – Small Game with a Punch

• Energy: 25–45 ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 30–60 yards
• Ideal for: Groundhogs, large squirrels, urban predators (where legal)

Pros: Heavier pellets deliver deeper penetration
Cons: More pellet drop, increased air usage

Recommended Rifle: Umarex Gauntlet 2 in .25

.30 Caliber – Stepping Into Medium Game

• Energy: 60–100 ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 40–75 yards
• Ideal for: Coyotes, groundhogs, large raccoons (check state laws)

Pros: More stopping power, flatter trajectory at range
Cons: Not yet legal for deer in all states

Recommended Rifle: Umarex Gauntlet 2 in .30 cal

.35 Caliber – Entry-Level Big Bore

• Energy: 120–200 ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 50–90 yards
• Ideal for: Small-bodied deer, hogs, javelina

Pros: Legal for deer in several states
Cons: May require premium slugs for expansion

Recommended Rifle: AirForce Texan or similar PCP platform

.45–.50 Caliber – True Big Game Power

• Energy: 300–700+ ft-lbs
• Effective Range: 60–100+ yards
• Ideal for: Whitetail deer, wild hogs, exotics, bear (where legal)

Pros: Devastating power and penetration
Cons: Heavy, fewer shots per fill, more recoil

Recommended Rifle: Umarex Hammer

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Always confirm your state’s minimum caliber and energy requirements
• Use appropriate slugs—not pellets—for big game
• Take only high-probability shots with confirmed range and rest

Final Thoughts

The best caliber for airgun hunting is the one matched to your quarry, shooting skill, and local laws. Don’t over- or under-gun yourself. Start with .22 for small game, move to .25 or .30 for tougher targets, and step into .45–.50 when you’re ready for big game.

With high-performance airguns like the Umarex Gauntlet 2 and Umarex Hammer, hunters now have precision platforms for every level of game. Choose wisely—and hunt ethically.

Disclaimer: Always verify airgun hunting regulations and caliber restrictions with your state wildlife agency before hunting.