BB Guns are great for small game hunting, target practice, and having a good time.
Bring the range to your backyard with a BB gun.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Good BB Gun?
When shopping for a BB gun, you need to consider the caliber, velocity, and mechanism used to pick the best gun for you.
Caliber
BB guns come with a variety of caliber sizes to include .177, .22, or .25 BBs/pellets.
A .177 caliber round will be preferred for most shooters because they have a larger carrying capacity and more velocity.
.22 and .25 caliber rounds are heavier and have a harder impact.
Velocity
Velocity is how fast a round will travel, and is measured in feet per second (FPS).
The more velocity a round has, the more penetrating power it has, and it can change what an air rifle/pistol is good for.
High-velocity BB guns are great for small game hunting, but if a low-velocity weapon is used for hunting small game, it may inhumanely injure an animal.
Mechanism
There are various ways to power air rifles/pistols, including CO2, high air pressure, springs, and break barrels.
Based on the mechanism used, the number of rounds fired before recharging will change.
#1 Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500
- Caliber: .177, .22, .25
- Velocity: Up to 1,500 FPS
- Powered By: Break Barrel
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$299.99
The Benjamin Trail NP XL 1500 has an impressive 1,500 FPS with the .177 model and 900 FPS with the hefty .25 caliber pellet.
The XL 1500 has a gas piston power plant that provides a better overall shot than a steel spring.
It also includes a CenterPoint 3-9x40mm scope with a Mil-Dot reticle for pinpoint targeting.
Another excellent feature is the ambidextrous hardwood stock with a thumbhole grip.
The stock has a comfortable grip and a beautiful finish.
All the models are outstanding for small game hunting and target practice.
The .177 would be a better fit for most shooters because of the range and accuracy, but if you want a larger round for a bigger small game, go with the .22 or .25.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#2 Ruger Air Magnum
- Caliber: .22
- Velocity: Up to 1,200 FPS
- Powered By: Break Barrel
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use: Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price: $199.99
The Ruger Air Magnum has some serious power for a .22 caliber air rifle.
The rifle has a maximum velocity of 1,200 FPS and can be cocked with only 42 lbs of effort.
This air rifle withstands the elements with a synthetic Ambi Monte Carlo stock and an all-steel barrel.
It includes a crystal clear 4×32 fiber optic scope, 3.5 lb. adjustable two-stage trigger, and a rubber recoil pad for accurate long-range shooting.
The Ruger Air Magnum has impressive performance at an excellent value.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#3 Walther Reign UXT Air Rifle – .22
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.22‌ ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌1,070 ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌High Air Pressure ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$699.99
The Reign UXT Air Rifle by Walther can fire a chambered .22 caliber pellet up to 1,070 FPS.
With an RWS Hobby pellet, it will hit your target with 24.6 ft-lbs of energy, making it perfect for small game hunting or taking care of pests.
It comes with a few features that enhance your accuracy that will tighten your shot group.
With an adjustable 3 lb. two-stage trigger, you will hit the sweet spot.
It also has integrated Picatinny rails to attach your favorite scope or sight, and it has a fast cocking lever for near-instant follow-up shots.
With a 10 round rotary magazine, you can take down additional targets without reloading.
The Reign UXT Air Rifle by Walther is an excellent .22 caliber air rifle that delivers consistent performance.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#4 Umarex Origin Air Rifle – .22 Cal
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.22‌ ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌1,000 ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌High Air Pressure ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$349.99
Umarex’s Origin Air Rifle .22 caliber air rifle is packed full of features that make it unique.
A full tank allows you to fire up to 40 shots per fill, and it takes only 100 pumps to fill the tank.
The air rifle also comes with two 10 round rotary magazines, allowing more shots between reloading your mags.
It comes with a two-stage adjustable trigger and a combination of Picatinny and 11mm Dovetail mounting rails.
The Origin Air Rifle .22 caliber air rifle by Umarex is perfect for those who do not want to rely on air cartridges or external tanks.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#5 Tanfoglio Witness 1911 Blowback BB Pistol
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ 320 ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌CO2‌ ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$122.99
The Witness 1911 Blowback BB Pistol by Tanfoglio is an impressive replica of an authentic 1911.
With complete metal construction and a fully functional slide, it feels and works like the real deal.
Experience a blowback recoil with every shoot to have realistic training with a 1911 without a range.
With a .177 steel BB, the Witness 1911 has a maximum velocity of 320 FPS.
If you own a 1911 and need a replica to practice shooting drills in the backyard, the Witness 1911 Blowback BB Pistol by Tanfoglio is a must-buy.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#6 Umarex Glock 19 BB Gun
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌410‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌CO2‌ ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Target Practice, Plinking
- Price:‌‌ ‌$79.99
Umarex’s Glock 19 BB Gun has a max velocity of 410 FPS and is perfect for target practice and plinking.
It is a replica of a Glock 19 and gives you an authentic shooting experience.
It is ideal for practicing firing drills in your backyard with a metal slide and a realistic weight of 25.6 ounces.
If you want a Glock 19 experience, Umarex’s Glock 19 BB Gun is an excellent choice.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#7 Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X Gen2 .177 Pellet Rifle
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌1,300‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌Break Barrel ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$309.99
The Swarm Fusion 10X Gen2 .177 Pellet Rifle by Gamo comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide you with a unique and accurate shooting experience.
With a break barrel action and an Inert Gas Technology (IGT) gas piston, you get a combination of power, accuracy, and convenience not found in your standard air rifle.
On a single cock, you will get up to ten uninterrupted shots with a maximum velocity of 1,300 FPS.
The IGT power plant uses gas instead of a spring, which increases both accuracy and power.
It also comes equipped with a GAMO 3-9×40 air rifle scope, which is shockproof and fog proof.
The Swarm Fusion 10X Gen2 .177 Pellet Rifle by Gamo is a complete package with solid accuracy, power, efficiency, and value.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#8 Daisy Powerline Model 880 Pellet / BB Gun
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌750‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌Multi-pump
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet, BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$69.99
The Powerline Model 880 Pellet / BB Gun by Daisy comes with everything you need to shoot in your backyard.
It comes with ammunition, shooting glasses, and a 4×15 fixed scope.
A nifty feature of this rifle is that you can fire either pellets or BBs.
The heavier pellet will offer more penetration, making it better for small game or pests, while the BB will travel further and faster because of its weight.
At $69.99, the Powerline Model 880 Pellet / BB Gun by Daisy is a perfect gift for older children to introduce them to shooting.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#9 Benjamin Marauder, Synthetic
- Caliber: .177, .22, .25
- Velocity: Up to 1,100 FPS
- Powered By: High Air Pressure
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$499.99 – $629.99
The Benjamin Marauder has several build options to fit any shooter’s needs.
Besides the superior build quality of these air rifles, a convenient feature is the 215cc air reserve.
The reserve allows for uninterrupted shooting for an extended time than break barrel air rifles.
The Marauder is one of the quietest air rifles available, which is perfect for not disturbing your neighbors.
It is important to note that a scope needs to be purchased separately, which will add to the already high-end price point.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#10 Hatsan BullBoss
- Caliber: .177, .22, .25
- Velocity: Up to 1,170 FPS
- Powered By: High Pressure Air
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$529.99
The Hatsan BullBoss is a premium air rifle that is perfect for precision shooting.
With an ergonomic synthetic stock, checkered grip, rubberized buttpad, 23″ choked barrel, and two-stage adjustable Quattro trigger, you will have a precise shot while staying comfortable.
Another excellent feature is the anti-double feed upper receiver, which prevents pellets from chambering if one is already present.
They also equipped the air rifle with a 230cc detachable steel air cylinder with a built-in air gauge.
The Hatsan BullBoss is a high-end air rifle with premium features and is perfect for serious shooters.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#11 Crosman Full Auto R1 BB Gun
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌430 ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌CO2‌ ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Target Practice, Plinking
- Price:‌‌ ‌$209.99
Crosman’s Full Auto R1 is a unique and fun airgun experience, and the best full auto BB gun available right now.
It has an assault rifle design with included Picatinny rails and an adjustable buttstock.
The rifle advertises it can fire 1,400 rounds per minute at up to 430 FPS, but that would be hard to do with a 25 round magazine.
It does come with a semi-automatic mode in addition to the automatic mode.
The semi-automatic mode is great from plinking and target practice, but sometimes you just want to let loose.
If you are looking for an assault rifle-styled BB gun strictly for having fun, Crosman’s Full Auto R1 BB Gun is a blast.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#12 Smith & Wesson M&P 40 BB Pistol
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌410‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌CO2‌ ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$42.99
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 BB Pistol is an excellent replica of their M&P 40.
It gives you an authentic feel and handles beautifully.
It has a similar weight and features to an M&P 40 to include an adjustable front sight, fixed rear sight, an integrated accessory rail, and a drop-out magazine.
The BB gun is CO2 cartridge powered, semi-automatic, and has a double action trigger.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 BB Pistol is excellent for target practice, drills, or just having fun.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#13 Ruger Targis Hunter Max .22 Cal Air Rifle
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.22‌ ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌1,000 ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌Break Barrel ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Small Game Hunting, Target Practice
- Price:‌‌ ‌$229.99
The Targis Hunter Max .22 Cal Air Rifle by Ruger provides up to 1,000 FPS of hard-hitting power.
It has an all-weather design and will work flawlessly in the heat, snow, or rain.
With an ergonomic checkered rubber grip and recoil pads, you will have a firm grip in all environments.
This rifle is known for its stock accuracy with the included 3-9x32mm scope.
It also includes a non-removable suppressor, which provides enhanced noise reduction.
Ruger’s Targis Hunter Max .22 Cal Air Rifle is an excellent choice for beginners with its included attachments and power.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#14 Air Venturi V10 Target Air Pistol
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌400‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌Single Stroke ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌Pellet ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌10m Competition
- Price:‌‌ ‌$269.99
They designed the Air Venturi V10 Target Air Pistol for superior performance during 10m air pistol competitions.
The pistol is single-shot and single-stroke designed for precise shots.
All shots are recoil and vibration free for extreme accuracy.
If you are interested in getting into 10m air pistol competitions, the Air Venturi V10 Target Air Pistol has features found in air pistols hundreds of dollars more.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
#15 Daisy Red Ryder Model 1938 BB Gun
- Caliber:‌ ‌‌.177 ‌
- Velocity:‌ ‌‌Up‌ ‌to‌ ‌350‌ ‌FPS‌ ‌
- Powered‌ ‌By:‌ ‌‌Spring ‌
- Ammo:‌ ‌‌BB ‌
- Use:‌ ‌‌‌Plinking
- Price:‌‌ ‌$44.99
The Red Ryder Model 1938 BB Gun by Daisy is a classic spring-powered BB gun with a max velocity of 350 FPS.
It has a nice classic feel with the stained solid wood stock with a stamped metal receiver.
A full feature of this air rifle is that it comes with a 650 BB capacity and is ready to shoot after a single lever pump.
While this BB gun is not powerful enough for small game hunting, it is perfect for children to instill good shooting fundamentals.
The Red Ryder is the best budget BB gun on the market, and it has been a favorite for generations.
It is available at Dicks Sporting Goods. Here’s where to buy it: www.DicksSportingGoods.com
#16 Crosman Vigilante Combo
- Caliber: .177
- Velocity: Up to 465 FPS
- Powered By: CO2
- Ammo: Pellet
- Use: Target Practice
- Price: $62.99
The Crosman Vigilante Combo is Crosman’s best-selling air pistol.
With a .177 steel pellet, the Vigilante has a maximum velocity of 465 FPS.
It has a rifled steel barrel and a metal frame for superior durability.
The air pistol has a solid design, and the single and double action has an authentic feel to it.
The combo includes a holster and extra clips.
If you are looking for a revolver-style air pistol, the Crosman Vigilante Combo is an excellent choice.
It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com
References / Resources
Can Anyone Buy a BB Gun? Navigating the Legalities
BB Guns Vs. Airsoft What’s The Difference?
See Also
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He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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