Airguns are ideal for hunting all kinds of game. Small game, medium game, and even large game are all on the table. Airguns provide an effective, ethical, and quiet option for hunters across all seasons. But what are some of the best options for each? That’s what we are going to talk about today. Because there are so many options, and we don’t want this article to become a novel, we’ll give a couple of our top picks for each class. So, if you want more options or have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out and give us a call.
Top Small Game Airguns
To get the ball rolling, we’ll look at a multi-shot break barrel from Gamo USA. The Gamo Bone Collector 10x Gen 3i is a .22 cal break barrel that features a 10-shot magazine. It can deliver over 25 foot-pounds of energy and is accurate to 50+ yards in the hands of the right shooter. It doesn’t need CO2, high-pressure air, or anything other than some elbow grease to cock the barrel between shots. If you are looking for an affordable, self-contained small game hunting machine, then this is it.
For those looking for maximum power and range for small game, let’s take a look at the .25 cal Seneca Eagle Claw. This lever-action PCP features a large air cylinder, variable power, a shrouded barrel, and a Picatinny optics rail. Set in a gorgeous wood stock and capable of 100-yard plus accuracy, the .25 Cal Seneca Eagle Claw has the power and range to get the job done with one clean shot.
Top Medium Game Airguns
Medium game takes a little more punch to take down with one clean shot. Let’s start by looking at an entry-level PCP airgun that has medium game power while still being affordable. The new JTS Airacuda MAX .30 cal regulated big bore airgun features a traditional hunting profile, sporting a metal receiver and beautiful wood stock. Able to push lead pellets up to 70 foot-pounds with 100-yard accuracy, it’s an ideal airgun for those looking at medium game and some predators.
The next option is way on the other end of the price spectrum, but it delivers massive adjustability, power, range, and accuracy. The Impact M3 .35 can be fine-tuned to run pellets or slugs and can push past 150 foot-pounds when needed. The dual regulators, along with the dual hammer spring adjusters, allow shooters to squeeze every ounce of performance of the Impact M3. The action, trigger, and overall shooting experience are exceptional as well.
Top Big Game Airguns
It’s time to bring out the big guns. If you are looking to take big game, then you need an airgun that can deliver power on target. However, before you go out and buy a big game airgun, be sure to check your local laws governing hunting with airguns. Many states have minimum caliber and power requirements. You’ll want to make sure that you meet or exceed those requirements.
Our first airgun shouldn’t have any issues meeting those requirements as it’s one of the most powerful airguns on the market. The .510 caliber Umarex Hammer can deliver up to 750 foot-pounds. It’s also a regulated multi-shot big bore. That means it can deliver several powerful shots with consistent accuracy and power. Simply put, it’s a beast.
Our final top big game airgun is the one that transformed the airgun market, breaking the power ceiling that had existed for decades. The .45 AirForce Texan originally hit the scene delivering energy north of 400 foot pounds. Our pick for this article is the .45 cal AirForce Texan LLS with Carbon Fiber Tank. This variant delivers up to 700 foot-pounds and features a fully moderated barrel system, highly efficient valve, and two-pound trigger. The AirForce Texan line of airguns are available in firearm calibers starting at .257 and topping out at .510, making it an ideal platform for slug shooters. It’s an amazing feat of engineering that just keeps getting better and better.
That’s a Wrap
That’s it for this article. Remember, if you have questions about what airgun, pellet, and optic combination is best for your airgun hunting needs, just give us a ring. We are always here to help.
