Best PCP Air Rifle for Squirrel

Best PCP air rifle for squirrel is the perfect balance of accuracy, power, and stealth to humanely and effectively take down small game. Squirrels are fast, alert, and often positioned high in trees, which makes shot precision and quiet operation critical. Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles stand out for their consistent power output, low recoil, and multi-shot capabilities—ideal for hunters who need reliability in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, the best PCP rifles for squirrel hunting offer adjustable features, efficient air usage, and smooth handling to ensure clean, ethical kills and an enjoyable hunting experience.

Best PCP Air Rifle for Squirrel

1.Benjamin Marauder

 

 

The Benjamin Marauder is one of the most respected names in the world of PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifles—and for good reason. Designed with serious airgunners and small game hunters in mind, this .22-caliber powerhouse offers tack-driving accuracy, minimal noise, and exceptional build quality, making it one of the best PCP air rifles for squirrel hunting and beyond.

At the heart of the Marauder is a PCP powerplant capable of delivering speeds up to 1000 fps and 31 foot-pounds of energy (fpe)—more than enough stopping power for small game like squirrels and rabbits. The rifled steel barrel is fully shrouded with integrated sound suppression, making this rifle one of the quietest in its class. In fact, the loudest sound you’ll hear is the pellet hitting the target.

Designed for field comfort and all-weather reliability, the Marauder features a lightweight synthetic stock with an ambidextrous raised comb and reversible bolt handle, making it equally comfortable for right- and left-handed shooters. The balanced stock ensures easy carry during long hunts, and the adjustable two-stage match-grade trigger guarantees smooth, controlled shooting.

The rifle is fed by a 10-shot rotary magazine, allowing for quick follow-up shots when it matters most. With a single fill of up to 3000 PSI, you’ll get up to 30 consistent shots, and topping off the air reservoir is simple thanks to the built-in pressure gauge and quick-disconnect Foster fitting.

Whether you’re honing your skills on the range or quietly stalking squirrels in the woods, the Benjamin Marauder is a trusted, time-tested platform that delivers reliability and precision every time you pull the trigger.

Key Features

• PCP-Powered .22-Caliber Rifle – Consistent power and accuracy with virtually no recoil

• All-Weather Synthetic Stock – Balanced design with adjustable raised comb for better cheek weld

• Shrouded Rifled Barrel – Integrated sound suppression for whisper-quiet operation

• 10-Shot Rotary Magazine – Rapid follow-up shots for small game hunting

• Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger – Match-grade feel for precision shooting

• Reversible Bolt Handle – Configurable for left- or right-hand use

• Up to 30 Shots per Fill – Delivers consistent performance up to 3000 PSI

• Built-In Pressure Gauge and Foster Fitting – Easy refilling and air management

• ster quick-disconnect

Pros

• Extremely quiet – excellent for backyard and stealth hunting

• High shot count and consistency per fill

• Ergonomic and weather-resistant stock

• Match-grade trigger for accuracy

• Easy to refill and maintain

• Ambidextrous design for all shooters

• Proven, time-tested reliability

Cons

• Requires external air compressor or hand pump (not included)

2.Air Venturi Avenger

 

 

The Air Venturi Avenger has quickly risen to the top of the PCP air rifle market by combining high-end features with budget-friendly pricing. Lightweight, powerful, and loaded with adjustable components, the Avenger is a serious small-game hunting rifle that delivers performance far above its price point. For hunters targeting squirrels, rabbits, or other small game, it offers the perfect blend of accuracy, customizability, and field-ready practicality.

With a fully shrouded barrel for quiet operation and maximum fill pressure of 4,351 PSI (300 BAR), the Avenger delivers consistent power and precision, shot after shot. The externally adjustable regulator allows for fine-tuning of air output up to 3,000 PSI, letting you customize velocity and power depending on your pellet choice and hunting environment. The easily accessible hammer spring adjustment screw gives you even more control over the rifle’s power curve—features typically found only on rifles twice the price.

Weighing in at just about 6 pounds, the Avenger is easy to carry and shoulder in the field, making it ideal for extended squirrel hunts. It features a sidelever action, a two-stage adjustable trigger, and manual safety for a smooth, controlled shooting experience. Its dual gauges (one for regulator pressure, the other for fill pressure) help ensure safe and efficient operation. Whether you choose the synthetic or wood stock, both options are ergonomic and durable.

Key Features

• Externally Adjustable Regulator – Fine-tune your performance up to 3,000 PSI (210 BAR)

• Max Fill Pressure – Up to 4,351 PSI (300 BAR) for high shot count and consistency

• Sidelever Cocking Mechanism – Smooth, fast, and intuitive cycling

• Fully Shrouded Barrel – Reduces noise for stealthy hunting

• Hammer Spring Adjustment Screw – Customize power curve without disassembly

• Dual Pressure Gauges – Regulator (right side) and Fill Pressure (left side)

• Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger – Crisp, tunable trigger for precise shooting

• Manual Safety – Simple and secure operation

• 11mm Dovetail/Weaver Scope Rail – Compatible with most optics

• Picatinny Fore-End Rail – Ideal for bipods, lights, or laser sights

• Swivel Stud Mounting Holes – Ready for sling attachment

• Includes – 2 magazines and single-shot tray

• Available in Synthetic or Wood Stock

Pros

• Highly adjustable regulator and hammer spring—rare at this price

• Lightweight and easy to carry in the field

• Quiet shooting thanks to shrouded barrel

• Compatible with most scopes and accessories

• Excellent value for features offered

• Comes with multiple mags and single-shot tray

• Dual gauges make tuning and safety easier

• Ideal for squirrel hunting and small game

Cons

• Requires external compressor or pump (not included)

3.Hatsan FlashPup QE

 

 

The Hatsan FlashPup QE in .25 caliber delivers high-performance airgun technology in a compact and maneuverable bullpup design. Weighing just over 6 pounds and measuring a mere 32 inches in length, this pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle is a top-tier choice for small game hunters, particularly those targeting squirrels and similar quarry. Its lightweight frame and short overall length make it ideal for navigating through brush, climbing stands, or stalking in tight terrain.

Despite its compact size, the FlashPup QE is no lightweight in the power department. Capable of generating up to 40 foot-pounds of energy (FPE), it delivers enough knockdown force to cleanly and ethically dispatch squirrels and other small game at moderate to long distances. The rifle comes equipped with two spring-loaded rotary magazines that automatically index pellets with each cycle of the smooth sidelever action, making follow-up shots fast and intuitive.

The rifle also features Hatsan’s QuietEnergy (QE) technology, which includes a fully shrouded barrel and integrated sound moderator for significantly reduced muzzle noise—crucial for not spooking game or bothering neighbors during backyard plinking. Hatsan’s Quattro Trigger, a fully adjustable two-stage match trigger, gives shooters precise control and a crisp break to aid accuracy.

For customization, the FlashPup QE includes both a scope rail and a fore-end accessory rail, allowing hunters to easily mount optics, bipods, or lights. The ergonomic bullpup stock gives a solid, comfortable hold while maintaining a short overall length. Whether you’re trekking through the woods or shooting targets from the bench, the FlashPup QE delivers big power in a small package at a price point that won’t empty your wallet.

Key Features

• Compact Bullpup Design – Only 32 inches long and weighs just over 6 lbs.

• QuietEnergy (QE) Technology – Fully shrouded barrel with integrated sound moderator

• Up to 40 FPE (.25 Caliber) – Plenty of power for ethical small game hunting

• Sidelever Action – Smooth cycling with automatic magazine indexing

• 2 Included Rotary Magazines – Spring-loaded for reliable, fast shooting

• Quattro Trigger – Adjustable 2-stage match trigger for crisp control

• Dual Accessory Rails – Built-in rails for mounting scopes and bipods

• Ambidextrous Bullpup Stock – Ergonomic and field-ready

4.Beeman Commander

 

 

The Beeman Commander delivers precision, power, and performance in a beautifully crafted, budget-friendly PCP air rifle that is especially effective for squirrel hunting and other small game pursuits. Built around a 3,000 PSI fill pressure, this bolt-action repeater offers up to 80 shots per fill, making it an excellent option for extended shooting sessions in the field or on the range.

Designed for accuracy and comfort, the Commander features a European hardwood stock with a classic finish that appeals to both traditionalists and hunters. The rifled steel barrel, paired with fiber optic open sights, gives you the flexibility to shoot accurately with or without a scope. A built-in pressure gauge allows you to monitor air levels easily, while the manual safety and adjustable trigger ensure both safety and precision.

The Commander uses compressed air instead of springs, eliminating recoil and increasing accuracy—a big advantage when trying to hit small, fast-moving targets like squirrels. The bolt-action system is smooth and intuitive, and there’s no need to break the barrel; just cock the bolt, insert a pellet, and shoot. It also features an integrated sound suppressor, helping keep noise to a minimum for discreet shooting in the woods or backyard.

Affordable and well-balanced, the Beeman Commander is a solid entry point into the world of PCP airguns without compromising on power or reliability. It’s a rifle that performs well beyond its price tag and gives small game hunters exactly what they need: accuracy, consistency, and enough power to get the job done cleanly.

Key Features

• Max Fill Pressure: 3,000 PSI

• Bolt Action Repeater – No break-barrel design for smoother operation

• 10-Shot Rotary Magazine – High capacity for follow-up shots

• Up to 80 Shots Per Fill – Great for extended field use

• Integrated Sound Suppressor – Quieter shots for hunting stealth

• Built-In Pressure Gauge – Monitor air levels at a glance

• Adjustable Trigger – Tune for your shooting style

• Manual Safety – Added protection for safer handling

• Fiber Optic Open Sights – Ideal for close to mid-range targeting

• Rifled Steel Barrel – Delivers consistent accuracy

• European Hardwood Stock – Elegant and ergonomic design

Pros

• High shot count per fill for a PCP rifle in its price range

• Smooth bolt-action system with no recoil

• Quiet operation thanks to integrated sound suppressor

• Beautiful hardwood stock with traditional styling

• Very affordable for a regulated PCP platform

• Ready to shoot with open sights—no optics required out of the box

• Ideal power and accuracy for squirrel and small game hunting

Cons

• Heavier than some synthetic-stocked models

5.Diana Stormrider

 

 

The Diana Stormrider is a compact, powerful, and impressively affordable PCP air rifle, perfectly suited for small game hunting—especially squirrels. Combining classic styling with modern PCP performance, the Stormrider offers a lightweight platform with up to 26 FPE in .22 caliber, easily enough power for ethical, one-shot small game takedowns.

As a bolt-action repeater, the Stormrider features a 7-shot rotary magazine (.22 cal) and manual safety, making it quick to reload while maintaining user control and safety. The second-generation model comes equipped with Diana’s DIT (Diana Improved Trigger)—a 2-stage adjustable trigger that gives you a crisp, clean break for improved accuracy.

Its checkered beechwood stock adds a touch of elegance and natural grip, while the raised cheekpiece (optimized for right-handed shooters) helps with consistent eye alignment when aiming through scopes or iron sights. A fully adjustable rear sight and 11mm dovetail rail offer flexibility whether you’re using optics or shooting with open sights.

With a max fill pressure of 200 BAR / 2,900 PSI and an integrated manometer (pressure gauge), it’s easy to monitor and refill the rifle for optimal shot performance. All of this makes the Diana Stormrider an ideal companion for hunters who want a dependable, quiet, and precise PCP rifle that won’t break the bank.

Key Features

• Bolt-Action PCP Repeater – Reliable, simple operation

• Up to 26 FPE – Ideal for squirrels and small game

• 900 FPS Velocity (.22 cal with lead pellets)

• DIT 2-Stage Adjustable Trigger – Crisp and customizable

• 7-Shot Rotary Magazine (.22 caliber)

• Manual Safety – Enhances safe handling

• Checkered Beech Stock – Traditional design with natural grip

• Raised Cheek Piece – Better aiming alignment for right-handed shooters

• Fully Adjustable Rear Sight – Fine-tune your point of impact

• Integrated Manometer – Built-in pressure gauge

• 11mm Dovetail Rail – For scope mounting

• Max Fill Pressure: 200 BAR / 2,900 PSI

Pros

• Great value PCP—high performance at an affordable price

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver in the field

• Quiet operation makes it excellent for squirrel hunting

• Crisp and adjustable trigger enhances accuracy

• Compatible with optics or open sights

• Elegant hardwood stock adds aesthetic and handling value

• Reliable bolt-action operation

Cons

• No integrated sound suppression (can be louder than suppressed PCPs)

• Smaller shot count per fill compared to higher-end PCP rifles

Also read;5 Best Scopes Springer Air Rifles

Factors to Consider when Choosing Best PCP Air Rifle for Squirrel

1. Power and Foot-Pounds of Energy (FPE)

When hunting small game like squirrels, the rifle must deliver enough energy to ensure humane, ethical kills. For squirrels, a PCP air rifle producing 20 to 30 FPE (foot-pounds of energy) is ideal. This level of power ensures sufficient penetration and impact without excessive overkill or risk of overpenetration in wooded areas. A rifle like the Diana Stormrider (~26 FPE) or Beeman Commander (~30–35 FPE) fits perfectly in this range.

2. Accuracy and Trigger Quality

Accuracy is everything in small game hunting. Squirrels are small, agile targets that often require precision shots to the head or vital organs. A PCP air rifle with a rifled barrel, a two-stage adjustable trigger, and minimal recoil (which PCPs naturally offer) enhances your ability to make accurate shots. Models with refined triggers—like the Diana Stormrider’s DIT trigger or the Avenger’s two-stage trigger—allow better control and more predictable shot release.

3. Shot Count Per Fill

Hunting often involves trekking through woods or fields where access to air tanks or compressors isn’t possible. A high shot count per air fill ensures more opportunities to take game without needing to refill. Look for rifles that offer 50+ shots per fill, such as the Beeman Commander (up to 80) or Air Venturi Avenger, which have efficient air systems suitable for extended outings.

4. Weight and Portability

Since squirrel hunting typically involves stalking through woods or sitting for long periods, a lightweight and portable air rifle is essential. Rifles weighing around 6 to 7 pounds are easier to carry, aim, and shoot offhand or with minimal support. Bullpup designs like the Hatsan FlashPup QE, or traditional rifles like the Diana Stormrider, are compact and maneuverable for field use.

5. Noise Level / Suppression

Squirrels are skittish creatures—one loud shot can scatter an entire area. PCP rifles with integrated sound suppression, like the QuietEnergy system on the Hatsan FlashPup QE or shrouded barrels on models like the Avenger, reduce the report of the rifle. This allows for more discreet hunting and the potential to take multiple squirrels without spooking others nearby.

6. Magazine Capacity and Repeating Action

In situations where quick follow-up shots are needed, a multi-shot magazine with a repeating action provides a significant advantage. Bolt- or sidelever-action repeaters with rotary magazines, such as the Avenger (10-shot) or Diana Stormrider (7-shot), allow you to stay on target and reload faster compared to single-shot rifles, increasing your efficiency in the field.

7. Scope and Accessory Compatibility

Many successful squirrel hunters rely on optics for better target acquisition at varying ranges. Look for rifles with 11mm dovetail or Picatinny rails for mounting scopes and other accessories like bipods or lasers. Rifles like the Avenger offer both types of mounting options, ensuring versatility whether you’re using iron sights or specialized optics.

8. Budget and Value for Features

PCP rifles vary widely in price, but higher cost doesn’t always mean better value. Consider what features you’re getting for the price: adjustable regulators, suppressors, shot count, magazine system, and build quality. Affordable rifles like the Beeman Commander or Diana Stormrider offer excellent performance for the money, while higher-end models like the Avenger provide tunability and advanced features at still-reasonable prices.

Frequently Asked Question for Best PCP Air Rifle For Squirrel

1. What caliber is best for squirrel hunting with a PCP air rifle?

The most commonly recommended calibers for squirrel hunting are .22 and .177.

.22 caliber is ideal due to its better stopping power, increased energy, and less susceptibility to wind drift, making it effective for humane kills at typical hunting ranges.

.177 caliber is also capable and offers flatter trajectories, but it requires more precise shot placement due to its lower energy.
For most hunters, .22 caliber strikes the right balance between power and precision for small game like squirrels.

2. How much FPE (foot-pounds of energy) do I need to hunt squirrels humanely?

To ethically and effectively hunt squirrels, your PCP air rifle should deliver at least 15–20 FPE, with 20–30 FPE being ideal. This ensures you can take down a squirrel cleanly with a well-placed shot, even at longer ranges (30–50 yards). Air rifles like the Air Venturi Avenger and Diana Stormrider fall into this power range and are excellent choices.

3. Do I need a silenced or suppressed air rifle for squirrel hunting?

While not strictly necessary, having a shrouded barrel or integrated suppressor is a big advantage when hunting squirrels. Squirrels are extremely alert, and a loud shot can scare them off before you get a second chance. Suppressed PCP rifles, such as the Hatsan FlashPup QE or Avenger with shrouded barrel, allow for quieter shooting, helping you stay stealthy in the woods and increasing your chances for multiple harvests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best PCP air rifle for squirrel hunting comes down to selecting a rifle that offers the right combination of power, accuracy, and practical features tailored for small game. A quiet operation, lightweight build, multi-shot capability, and adjustable components all contribute to a more efficient and ethical hunting experience. Whether you’re navigating dense woods or taking aim from a distance, the right PCP rifle ensures clean kills, reliability, and comfort in the field. With so many capable options available, the ideal rifle will ultimately align with your hunting style, preferred caliber, and performance expectations.