Best Quietest Air Rifle for Small Game hunting combines stealth, precision, and power into a single tool that allows hunters to take down targets humanely and effectively without alarming surrounding wildlife. Whether you’re pursuing rabbits, squirrels, or other small varmints, a quiet air rifle ensures you remain undetected while delivering accurate, high-energy shots. Today’s top air rifles feature advanced noise suppression technology, smooth triggers, and recoil-reducing designs that make them ideal for both seasoned hunters and beginners. Choosing the right model involves understanding key factors like powerplant type, caliber, and ergonomics — all of which contribute to a silent, efficient hunting experience.
Best Quietest Air Rifle for Small Game
1.Diana Stormrider Gen 2
The Diana Stormrider Gen 2 is a powerful and affordable entry-level pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle that delivers accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Engineered with precision and featuring upgraded components, the Gen 2 version offers a compelling mix of performance and features that make it a standout option for both beginners and experienced shooters alike.
At the heart of the Stormrider Gen 2 is its DIT (Diana Improved Trigger) — a two-stage adjustable trigger that provides a crisp, clean break, vastly improving shot control and accuracy. This refined trigger system is a significant upgrade from the Gen 1, enhancing the rifle’s responsiveness during precision shooting. The checkered beech stock with a raised cheekpiece caters well to right-handed shooters but remains ambidextrous enough for lefties, offering ergonomic comfort and solid grip.
With a velocity of 900 feet per second in .22 caliber, the Stormrider delivers solid power for small game hunting or pest control. It features a 7-shot rotary magazine and includes a single-shot tray for precision shooting. The fully adjustable rear sight, combined with an 11mm dovetail rail, allows users to install scopes or use iron sights as preferred. The rifle includes an integrated manometer (pressure gauge) and accepts up to 200 BAR/2900 psi of fill pressure, ensuring plenty of shots per fill.
This air rifle’s design promotes ease of use, especially with the included fill probe and male quick-disconnect fitting, making refills straightforward for users with standard PCP equipment. The Diana Stormrider Gen 2 represents a great balance of performance and price, making it one of the best .22 spring air rifle alternatives in the PCP category.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .22
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Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)
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Action: Bolt-action repeater
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Velocity: Up to 900 fps (.22 caliber)
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Trigger: DIT (2-stage adjustable)
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Magazine Capacity: 7-shot rotary magazine (.22), includes single-shot tray
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Stock: Checkered beech wood with raised cheekpiece
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Fill Pressure: 200 BAR / 2900 psi
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Sight Options: Fully adjustable rear sight, 11mm dovetail rail
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Pressure Gauge: Integrated manometer
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Safety: Manual
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Included Accessories: Fill probe with quick-disconnect fitting
Pros
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High accuracy with adjustable 2-stage trigger
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Comfortable and attractive checkered beech stock
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Multi-shot magazine and single-shot tray included
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Integrated pressure gauge for monitoring air supply
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Scope-ready with 11mm dovetail
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Quiet and smooth operation
Cons
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Requires external air pump or tank (sold separately)
2. Benjamin Trail NP XL 1100
The Benjamin Trail NP XL 1100 stands out as one of the best in the .177 class. Although this model is available in .25 caliber, it’s the .177 version with Benjamin’s Nitro Piston technology that truly captures the attention of serious small game hunters and backyard marksmen alike.
The Trail NP XL features a beautifully crafted checkered hardwood stock and a rifled steel barrel, making it both a functional hunting tool and a visually appealing piece. The design ensures not only stability and comfort while shooting, but also gives the rifle a premium, traditional feel that many enthusiasts will appreciate.
What sets this rifle apart from traditional spring-powered models is its Nitro Piston powerplant. This innovation reduces noise by up to 70% and significantly cuts down on recoil and cocking effort. As a result, users enjoy a smoother, quieter shooting experience that’s ideal for extended use in the field or backyard. With velocities reaching up to 900 feet per second, the Benjamin Trail NP XL delivers a powerful shot capable of dispatching small game and pests with ease, while maintaining consistent accuracy.
Included with the rifle is a CenterPoint Optics 3-9x40mm scope, complete with an adjustable objective and range-estimating reticle. Mounted on a Picatinny rail, this scope provides excellent precision for both close and mid-range shooting, making the rifle hunt-ready right out of the box. Whether you’re setting up for a day of squirrel hunting or target shooting, the Benjamin Trail NP XL 1100 is built to deliver performance shot after shot.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177 (also available in .25)
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Powerplant: Nitro Piston (Gas-piston technology)
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Action: Break barrel
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Velocity: Up to 900 fps (.177)
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Muzzle Energy: 28 ft-lbs (varies by caliber)
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Stock: Checkered hardwood
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Barrel: Rifled steel
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Scope: CenterPoint Optics 3-9x40mm with AO and range-estimating reticle
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Noise Reduction: Up to 70% quieter than spring-piston models
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Rail: Picatinny rail for optics and accessories
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Recoil: Reduced recoil for improved handling
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Use Case: Small game hunting, backyard shooting
Pros
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Nitro Piston tech delivers quieter shots with less recoil
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High velocity ideal for pest control and hunting
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Smooth cocking and excellent trigger control
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Precision 3-9x40mm scope included
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Classic hardwood stock with durable checkering
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Picatinny rail allows scope and accessory customization
Cons
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Heavier than many synthetic stock models
3.GAMO Swarm Whisper .177
the GAMO Swarm Whisper .177 Caliber Air Rifle is a standout option. Combining cutting-edge technology with practical features, this rifle offers high performance with minimal noise, making it a top choice for both novice and experienced shooters.
At the heart of the GAMO Swarm Whisper is the IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston, which replaces the traditional spring mechanism with a pneumatic cylinder. This innovation delivers smoother cocking, reduced vibration, and consistent power — perfect for precision shooting. The rifle boasts impressive velocity, capable of firing .177 caliber pellets at speeds up to 1,300 FPS with Gamo PBA Platinum pellets, and 1,000 FPS with lead ammunition.
Another major highlight is the 10X Quick-Shot Technology, allowing for fast follow-up shots via a 10-round rotary magazine. This multishot capability is especially useful in the field when targeting multiple small game or needing rapid reloading.
In terms of noise control, the Swarm Whisper lives up to its name with Whisper Noise Dampening Technology, reducing the sound signature significantly without sacrificing power. While not completely silent, it’s among the quietest in its class — a major advantage for hunters who want to stay discreet.
The Swarm Whisper is built with comfort and usability in mind. It features a lightweight synthetic thumbhole stock, designed for better grip and stability. Weighing in at only 5.28 lbs, it’s easy to carry through dense woods or over long distances. The two-stage adjustable Smooth Action Trigger (SAT) provides crisp and consistent pulls, with a measured 3.79 lb trigger pull that improves accuracy and control.
A 4×32 scope with mount comes included, giving users enhanced long-range visibility, while the fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight offer quick target acquisition and easy adjustment for windage and elevation.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Velocity: Up to 1,300 FPS with alloy pellets (1,000 FPS with lead)
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Powerplant: IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas piston
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Action: Single-shot breakbarrel with 10X rotary magazine
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Stock: Synthetic thumbhole
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Trigger: 2-stage adjustable SAT, 3.79 lbs
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Length: 46 inches
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Weight: 5.28 lbs
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Sights: Fiber optic front & adjustable rear
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Scope: 4×32 scope with mount
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Safety: Automatic cocking and manual trigger safety
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Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Pros
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Whisper Noise Reduction for discreet shooting
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10X Quick-Shot rotary magazine for fast follow-up shots
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IGT piston provides high velocity, consistency, and longevity
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Smooth Action Trigger for better control and precision
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Comes with a 4×32 scope and fiber optic open sights
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Lightweight and ergonomic synthetic stock
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Ideal for small game hunting and plinking
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Safety features include automatic cocking and manual trigger safety
Cons
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Noise levels still vary with pellet choice — lighter alloy pellets are louder
4. Benjamin Marauder
the Benjamin Marauder .22 Caliber PCP Air Rifle. A favorite among small game hunters and target shooting enthusiasts, the Marauder blends cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design to deliver a superior shooting experience. With virtually no recoil, whisper-quiet operation, and repeatable tack-driving accuracy, this air rifle is a true original in its class.
The Benjamin Marauder is powered by Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) technology, operating at up to 3,000 PSI. This gives you up to 30 consistent shots per fill, with each .22 caliber pellet reaching velocities up to 1,000 FPS and delivering 31 foot-pounds of energy (FPE) — more than enough for ethically taking down small game like rabbits, squirrels, or birds.
What really sets the Marauder apart is its integrated sound suppression system housed within the shrouded rifled steel barrel. It’s so quiet that the loudest sound you’ll hear is the pellet hitting the target — making it perfect for stealthy hunts or discreet backyard practice. Coupled with virtually zero recoil, it offers unmatched control for precise shooting.
The air rifle features a 10-shot rotary magazine and bolt-action single-shot capability, enabling fast follow-up shots. The two-stage, adjustable match-grade trigger provides a smooth and predictable pull for maximum accuracy.
The Marauder sports a lightweight, all-weather synthetic stock with an adjustable raised comb cheekpiece, offering comfort and improved sight alignment. Whether you’re a left- or right-handed shooter, the reversible bolt handle adds convenience. The stock’s balanced design makes it easy to carry in the field for long hunts or trekking through the woods.
A built-in pressure gauge and quick-disconnect Foster fitting make refilling easy and intuitive (note: an air compressor or hand pump is required but not included).
This rifle isn’t just built for performance — it’s designed with practicality and comfort in mind, offering the kind of field-ready features hunters truly value.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .22
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Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)
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Action: Bolt-action with 10-shot rotary magazine
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Velocity: Up to 1000 FPS
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Energy: 31 FPE
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Stock: Synthetic, all-weather with adjustable cheekpiece
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Barrel: Rifled steel, shrouded with built-in sound suppression
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Trigger: Two-stage, adjustable match-grade
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Shots Per Fill: Up to 30 (at 3000 PSI)
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Recoil: Virtually none
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Noise Level: Extremely quiet (shrouded barrel design)
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Weight: Lightweight and field-balanced
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Extras: Built-in pressure gauge, quick-disconnect Foster fitting
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Ideal Use: Small game hunting, target shooting, skill development
Pros
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Exceptionally quiet – built-in sound suppression makes it one of the quietest PCP rifles available
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Tack-driving accuracy with match-grade two-stage trigger
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10-shot rotary magazine allows quick follow-up shots
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High-powered performance – 1000 FPS and 31 FPE for small game
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Ergonomic and ambidextrous stock design with adjustable comb
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Virtually no recoil – improves comfort and shot placement
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Easy refill system with pressure gauge and Foster fitting
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All-weather synthetic build – rugged and lightweight for field use
Cons
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Requires external air source (compressor or pump not included)
5.GAMO Whisper Fusion Mach 1 .
the GAMO Whisper Fusion Mach 1 .22 Caliber Air Gun offers a winning combination of innovative technology and user-friendly features. Designed specifically for small game hunting and target shooting, this rifle delivers exceptional performance while minimizing noise and recoil — making it a top contender for the quietest air rifle in its class.
At the core of the Whisper Fusion Mach 1 is the advanced IGT Mach 1 gas piston power plant. This gas piston system uses a larger 33mm cylinder to propel pellets up to 1,020 FPS (.22 caliber) with less vibration and smoother cocking compared to traditional spring-powered rifles. The gas piston also ensures higher muzzle velocity and greater consistency shot after shot.
Paired with this is the patented Whisper Fusion sound dampening technology, which uses two separate compression chambers to significantly reduce noise by compressing and preventing sound expansion. This makes the rifle remarkably quiet — perfect for hunters wantingstealth during small game pursuits or backyard plinking.
The rifle comes equipped with a 3-9×40 Gamo shock- and fogproof scope mounted with rings for quick target acquisition and durability in various weather conditions. Additionally, it features fiber optic adjustable front and rear sights for versatile aiming options.
The synthetic ambidextrous stock includes a comfortable cheek piece that fits naturally for both left- and right-handed shooters. The CAT (Custom Action Trigger) lets you adjust the 1st and 2nd stage trigger pull to your preference, enhancing shot control and accuracy.
The rifle’s Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) absorbs nearly 100% of recoil energy, dramatically reducing stress on the scope and enhancing stability for follow-up shots.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .22
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Velocity: Up to 1,020 FPS (.22 Cal), up to 1,420 FPS (.177 Cal)
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Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 gas piston with 33mm cylinder
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Noise Reduction: Whisper Fusion patented dual-chamber sound dampening
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Scope: Gamo 3-9×40 shock- and fogproof with rings
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Sights: Fiber optic front and adjustable rear sight (windage & elevation)
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Stock: Synthetic ambidextrous with raised cheek piece
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Trigger: CAT adjustable 1st and 2nd stage
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Recoil System: Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR)
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Included Pellets: TS-22 x 200, Hunter x 250, Magnum x 250, Master Point x 250
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Ideal Use: Small game hunting, target shooting, plinking
Pros
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Exceptional quietness with Whisper Fusion dual-chamber sound dampening
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Powerful velocity up to 1,020 FPS for .22 caliber pellets
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Smooth and adjustable trigger with CAT system for precision shooting
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Durable, fogproof 3-9×40 scope included for clear sight picture
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Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) virtually eliminates recoil and protects scope
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Ambidextrous synthetic stock with comfortable cheek piece
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Assorted pellet bundle provides versatile shooting options
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Less vibration and smoother cocking than traditional spring rifles
Cons
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Premium price point due to advanced technology and included accessories
Also read;5 Best .177 Spring Air Rifle
Factor Consider when Choosing Best Quietest Air Rifle for Small Game
1Noise Suppression Technology
One of the most important factors when selecting a quiet air rifle is the level of noise suppression it offers. Sound-reducing systems like Gamo’s Whisper Fusion Technology or shrouded barrels with built-in suppressors help significantly lower the sound signature of each shot. These technologies are especially beneficial for small game hunting where stealth is crucial. The quieter the rifle, the less likely it is to spook surrounding wildlife, giving you more opportunities for follow-up shots.
2 Powerplant Type (Gas Piston vs PCP vs Spring)
The choice between gas piston (like Gamo’s IGT Mach 1), pre-charged pneumatic (PCP), or spring-piston powerplants impacts noise levels, smoothness, and performance. Gas pistons and PCP systems tend to be quieter and produce less vibration than traditional spring-piston rifles. PCP rifles like the Benjamin Marauder offer near-silent operation with consistent power delivery, making them excellent for small game hunting. Gas pistons also offer smoother cocking and longer life spans with quieter shooting compared to springs.
3 Caliber and Pellet Type
The caliber of your air rifle plays a role in both sound output and effectiveness. For small game, .22 caliber is typically preferred over .177 for its greater knockdown power, even though it may shoot slightly slower. Heavier pellets like hollow points or domed types also produce less noise upon firing compared to lighter alloy pellets, which can crack at higher speeds and make more noise. Selecting the right combination ensures ethical hunting while maintaining lower noise levels.
4 Velocity and Foot-Pounds of Energy (FPE)
Velocity is often advertised, but it’s important to also consider the foot-pounds of energy (FPE) the rifle delivers. For small game, you’ll want a rifle that produces at least 12–20 FPE to ensure clean, humane kills. While higher velocities (like 1,000+ FPS) can be beneficial, they may increase noise if paired with light pellets. Look for rifles like the Whisper Fusion Mach 1 or Benjamin Marauder, which balance velocity and energy for effective and quiet hunting.
5 Trigger Quality and Adjustability
A good trigger makes a major difference in shot accuracy and control. Look for air rifles with adjustable two-stage triggers, like the Custom Action Trigger (CAT) system or match-grade triggers found on high-end models. These allow you to fine-tune the trigger pull to your preference, which is essential for steady, precise shots — especially when aiming at small and sometimes fast-moving targets.
6 Recoil Management
Recoil in air rifles can affect accuracy and shooter comfort. While air rifles generally have less recoil than firearms, spring-piston models tend to exhibit more noticeable kick. Gas piston and PCP rifles offer smoother shooting with little to no recoil. Features like the Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) also help absorb shock and protect optics, enhancing overall shooting stability. Less recoil means better accuracy, especially for follow-up shots in the field.
7 Optics and Sighting System
Good optics are critical for small game hunting, where precision is key. Many high-quality air rifles come with included scopes, such as the 3-9×40 Gamo scope found on the Whisper Fusion Mach 1. Adjustable fiber optic iron sights are also helpful for close-range shooting or as backups. Ensure your scope is shockproof and holds zero well, especially if using a spring or gas piston rifle that might cause optic stress over time.
8Stock Design and Ergonomics
A comfortable and well-designed stock enhances your ability to take steady, accurate shots. Look for features like an ambidextrous design, raised cheekpieces, and textured grips. Synthetic stocks, often featured on models like the Benjamin Marauder and Whisper Fusion Mach 1, are weather-resistant and lightweight — ideal for extended hunting sessions. An ergonomic stock also reduces fatigue and improves control during aim and firing.
Frequent Asked Question Best Quietest Air Rifle for Small Game
1. What is the quietest type of air rifle for small game hunting?
The quietest air rifles are typically PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) and gas piston-powered models with built-in noise suppression technology. Rifles like the Benjamin Marauder (PCP) and Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 (gas piston) are known for their whisper-quiet operation thanks to features such as shrouded barrels and dual-chamber noise dampening systems. These minimize the sound of each shot, making them ideal for stealthy small game hunting.
2. Is .177 or .22 caliber better for quiet small game hunting?
For small game hunting, .22 caliber is generally better. While .177 caliber pellets can reach higher velocities, they tend to be louder due to sonic cracking and offer less stopping power. The .22 caliber delivers more energy (FPE) at lower speeds, which results in quieter shots and more humane kills. Combined with heavier pellets and noise-dampening tech, .22 caliber rifles strike the best balance between quiet operation and hunting effectiveness.
3. How much power (FPS/FPE) do I need to ethically hunt small game?
To humanely take down small game like rabbits, squirrels, or birds, an air rifle should produce at least 12–20 foot-pounds of energy (FPE). Many of the best quiet air rifles, such as the Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 or Benjamin Marauder, offer up to 30+ FPE and velocities of 900–1,000 FPS (.22 cal). This ensures clean, ethical kills with minimal suffering — especially when paired with the correct pellet type and shot placement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the Best Quietest Air Rifle for Small Game requires careful consideration of several key features, including noise suppression, power output, trigger quality, and overall ergonomics. A well-chosen air rifle should offer a balance of accuracy, minimal sound, and sufficient energy to ensure ethical and effective hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, prioritizing quiet performance and reliable functionality will enhance your success in the field while promoting responsible and humane hunting practices