Best .177 Air Rifle for Rabbit combines precision, power, and ease of use to deliver quick, humane kills. The .177 caliber is favored by many hunters for its flatter trajectory and high velocity, making it ideal for targeting small, fast-moving animals at moderate ranges. Whether you’re navigating dense brush or scanning open fields, a reliable air rifle can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. Choosing the right model involves balancing factors like accuracy, noise suppression, shot consistency, ergonomics, and overall handling. With the right .177 air rifle in hand, you can enjoy a more efficient, ethical, and rewarding rabbit hunting experience
Best .177 Air Rifle for Rabbit
1.Benjamin Trail NP XL
The Benjamin Trail NP XL is a standout contender among .177 caliber air rifles, designed specifically for hunters and backyard marksmen seeking power, precision, and reliability. Crafted with performance in mind, this break barrel air rifle combines classic design with modern technology, making it one of the best choices for rabbit hunting and small game pursuits.
Featuring a checkered hardwood stock and a rifled steel barrel, the Trail NP XL boasts not only rugged durability but a traditional aesthetic that appeals to both seasoned and beginner airgun users. The handsome wooden stock provides a solid grip and enhanced control during shooting. With Benjamin’s Nitro Piston technology, this rifle offers a smooth cocking action, reduced recoil, and 70% less noise than traditional spring-piston models, ensuring a more pleasant shooting experience.
With muzzle velocities reaching up to 900 feet per second, the Benjamin Trail NP XL delivers enough speed and punch to humanely take down rabbits and similar-sized small game. Its 28 foot-pounds of muzzle energy ensures deep penetration and effective terminal performance when paired with quality hunting pellets. The Nitro Piston system also performs better in cold weather compared to springs and lasts longer with fewer moving parts.Included with the rifle is a CenterPoint 3-9x40mm scope with an adjustable objective and a range-estimating reticle—a great addition that enhances precision for mid-range shots. Whether you’re hunting rabbits at 30 yards or targeting pests from afar, the optics offer excellent clarity and adaptability. Additionally, the integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy mounting of accessories like lasers or flashlights, boosting its versatility in different shooting environments.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Powerplant: Nitro Piston
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Velocity: Up to 900 FPS (with lead pellets)
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Muzzle Energy: ~28 FPE
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Stock: Hardwood, checkered grip
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Barrel: Rifled steel
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Noise Reduction: 70% quieter than spring guns
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Optics: CenterPoint 3-9x40mm scope included
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Rail Type: Picatinny
Pros
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Excellent for small game hunting like rabbits
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Powerful muzzle energy and velocity for clean kills
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Reduced recoil and quieter operation
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Durable and attractive hardwood stock
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Smooth cocking mechanism
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High-quality scope included
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Versatile accessory rail system
Cons
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Heavier than some competitors, which may affect long treks
2. Benjamin Marauder
The Benjamin Marauder .177 stands as a flagship PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifle, earning its place as one of the best air rifles for rabbit hunting and small game. Known for its pinpoint accuracy, quiet operation, and powerful performance, the Marauder delivers a premium experience for hunters and precision shooters alike.The Marauder features a balanced, all-weather synthetic stock, engineered for durability and comfort in the field. It’s equipped with an adjustable raised comb cheek-piece and a reversible bolt handle, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters. The ergonomic design ensures a secure hold and comfortable shooting position for extended use. Whether you’re navigating rough terrain or braving unpredictable weather, the synthetic stock is built to endure it all.
One of the standout features of the Marauder is its rifled steel barrel with integrated sound suppression, making it one of the quietest air rifles in its class. The shrouded barrel significantly reduces report noise, ensuring stealth in the field. Combined with virtually no recoil and a two-stage, match-grade adjustable trigger, the Marauder offers a smooth and highly accurate shooting experience, ideal for humane and effective rabbit hunting.This PCP-powered rifle can deliver pellets up to 1000 feet per second with a maximum pressure of 3000 PSI, producing up to 31 foot-pounds of energy (FPE)—more than enough stopping power for rabbits and other small game. With a 10-shot rotary magazine and bolt-action operation, you can enjoy fast follow-up shots with minimal effort. Expect up to 30 consistent shots per fill, thanks to the rifle’s efficient air management system.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Powerplant: Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP)
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Velocity: Up to 1000 FPS
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Muzzle Energy: Up to 31 FPE
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Stock: Synthetic, all-weather, adjustable cheek piece
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Barrel: Rifled steel, shrouded, sound-suppressed
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Trigger: Two-stage adjustable match-grade
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Magazine: 10-shot rotary
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Action: Bolt-action (reversible)
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Shot Count: Up to 30 shots per fill at 3000 PSI
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Refill: Quick-disconnect Foster fitting with built-in pressure gauge
Pros
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Outstanding accuracy and minimal recoil
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Whisper-quiet operation, ideal for stealthy hunting
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High muzzle energy for ethical small game hunting
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Comfortable and durable all-weather stock
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Adjustable match-grade trigger for precision shooting
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Reversible bolt handle for left or right-handed users
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Excellent consistency with 30 shots per fill
Cons
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Requires external air source (pump or compressor not included)
3.Air Venturi Avenger
The Air Venturi Avenger has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best value-packed .177 PCP air rifles available today. Lightweight, highly adjustable, and power-packed, the Avenger is an ideal companion for rabbit hunting, pest control, and precision target shooting. With an impressive list of features and customizability often found only on high-end rifles, it offers exceptional performance at a surprisingly accessible price point
Weighing in at just 6 pounds, the Avenger is easy to carry during long hunts or hikes. Available in either a synthetic or wood stock, it suits shooters who prefer either a tactical look or a more traditional feel. The fully shrouded barrel not only improves accuracy but also reduces noise, which is a big plus when hunting skittish game like rabbits. With holes in the front and rear of the stock for sling swivel studs, this rifle is built with the hunter’s needs in mind.Where the Avenger really shines is its tuning flexibility.
The Avenger is capable of delivering high velocities (up to and over 1000 FPS in .177 caliber) with excellent consistency, making it deadly accurate and highly effective for small game hunting like rabbits. The 10-shot magazine allows for quick follow-up shots, and the rifle includes two magazines and a single-shot tray, making it versatile for both hunting and target practice.Equipped with a dual-purpose 11mm dovetail/Weaver combo scope rail, the Avenger supports a wide range of optics. A Picatinny rail section on the fore-end allows you to attach bipods, lights, or lasers, adapting your setup to different shooting conditions. The male quick-disconnect fitting makes refilling straightforward, and the degassing screw allows for safe depressurization when needed.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)
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Max Fill Pressure: 4,351 PSI (300 BAR)
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Regulator Pressure: Adjustable up to 3,000 PSI (210 BAR)
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Barrel: Fully shrouded
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Trigger: Two-stage adjustable
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Stock: Synthetic or Wood
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Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds (.177)
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Cocking: Sidelever
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Scope Rail: 11mm Dovetail/Weaver Combo
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Additional Features: Dual gauges, sling mount holes, Picatinny accessory rail, manual safety, quick disconnect fitting, degassing screw
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Weight: ~6 lbs.
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Includes: 2 magazines, single-shot tray
Pros
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Excellent power and precision for rabbit hunting
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Highly adjustable for velocity, shot count, and tuning
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Lightweight and well-balanced for easy field carry
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Quiet operation with fully shrouded barrel
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Smooth sidelever cocking and quality trigger
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Accessory-ready with combo rail and Picatinny mount
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Exceptional value for the features offered
Cons
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Requires a high-pressure air source (not included)
4.Umarex Gauntlet 2
The Umarex Gauntlet 2 is a powerhouse PCP air rifle that takes everything great about the original Gauntlet and elevates it to a new level. With higher velocity, more shot capacity, and enhanced ergonomics, this second-generation rifle is one of the best choices in the .177 caliber class for rabbit hunting and small game control. It’s ideal for those seeking consistency, power, and modern tactical features in a reliable package.
The Gauntlet 2 offers a significant leap forward in performance over its predecessor. With a larger onboard air tank and improved pressure regulator, it delivers increased shot count, higher muzzle velocity, and greater energy on impact—making it a serious tool for hunters. The state-of-the-art regulator ensures consistent pressure for every shot, resulting in tighter groups and greater effectiveness in the field. The rifle can fire .177 pellets at velocities approaching 985 FPS, more than sufficient for ethically and humanely taking rabbits.
These additions make the Gauntlet 2 not just a hunting tool, but a platform that can be customized for different shooting environments and preferences.The Gauntlet 2 comes equipped with an auto-indexing 8-round rotary magazine, allowing for quick follow-up shots during fast-paced hunting. It also includes a single-shot tray for those who prefer precision shooting, and a degassing tool for safe depressurization when needed. The rifle’s bolt-action system is responsive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)
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Velocity: Up to 985 FPS
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Magazine Capacity: 8-round rotary (auto-indexing)
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Included Accessories: Single-shot tray, degassing tool
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Air Tank: Increased capacity for more shots
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Pressure Regulator: Consistent shot strength
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Features: Adjustable cheek piece, M-LOK slots, quick-disconnect sling mount, large bolt handle
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Action: Bolt-action
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Weight: Approx. 8.5 lbs
Pros
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Higher velocity and impact energy than the original Gauntlet
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Very consistent shot-to-shot performance
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Increased air capacity for extended shooting sessions
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Magazine and single-shot tray included
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Customizable with M-LOK accessories
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Adjustable stock for improved comfort and control
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Quiet operation and smooth bolt-action cycling
Cons
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Heavier than many other .177 PCP rifles
5. Stoeger S6000-E Combo
The Stoeger S6000-E Combo offers a compelling blend of precision, comfort, and user customization, making it one of the best .177 air rifles for rabbit hunting. This underlever spring-piston air rifle stands out with a fixed barrel for maximum consistency, an ergonomic stock with grip customization, and a 4×32 scope included—making it ready for both the field and the range right out of the box.At the heart of the S6000-E’s precision is its fixed barrel, which eliminates the movement common in break-barrel designs. This ensures superior mechanical consistency, shot after shot—a major advantage when targeting small, agile game like rabbits. The underlever cocking system is smooth and requires less effort, while the lever locks securely beneath the barrel when not in use, adding a balanced feel to the rifle.
One of the standout features of the S6000-E is Stoeger’s Multi-Grip System. It allows users to choose between an embossed grip or ProAdaptive Checkering panels, tailoring the feel of the rifle to your hand and shooting style. This is especially valuable for extended sessions or when fine control matters most. The rifle is also fitted with a recoil-absorbing buttpad and non-slip checkering, offering improved control and reducing felt recoil with every shotSafety is a priority with the automatic, ambidextrous safety mechanism—ideal for both left- and right-handed shooters. The safety engages automatically after cocking, giving hunters extra peace of mind when navigating through wooded areas or prepping for a shot. Its placement and texture ensure quick, secure operation in any condition.
The Stoeger S6000-E Combo includes a 4×32 mm scope for improved accuracy at range. While the scope is not factory-mounted, it provides an excellent starting point for shooters looking to enhance their aim for pest control or small game hunting. The rifle also features fully adjustable target-style iron sights if you prefer traditional aiming.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Powerplant: Spring-piston (underlever)
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Barrel: Fixed, for consistent accuracy
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Cocking Mechanism: Long underlever, locks securely
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Stock: Synthetic with customizable grip inserts
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Grip Options: Embossed or ProAdaptive Checkering
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Recoil Control: Recoil-absorbing buttpad
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Safety: Automatic, ambidextrous
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Scope: 4×32 mm (included in combo version)
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Sights: Fully adjustable rear target sight
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Warranty: 5-year limited warranty
Pros
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Fixed barrel offers superior consistency for precision shooting
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Customizable grip system for better comfort and control
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Smooth underlever cocking with balanced design
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Ambidextrous safety for user-friendly operation
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Recoil-reducing buttpad improves shooting comfort
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Comes with 4×32 scope for improved accuracy
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Backed by a generous 5-year warranty
Cons
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Scope is not pre-mounted; some setup required
Also read;5 Best Air Rifle for Rabbit Hunting
Factors to Consider when Choosing Best Air Rifle for Rabbit
1. Accuracy and Barrel Type
Precision is critical when hunting small game like rabbits, which have small vital zones and are quick to react. A rifle with a fixed barrel, like the Stoeger S6000-E or the Air Venturi Avenger, offers superior shot-to-shot consistency compared to break-barrel designs. Rifled steel barrels also enhance pellet stability in flight, resulting in tighter groupings and increased likelihood of a clean, humane kill.
2. Power and Velocity
A .177 air rifle should deliver adequate power and velocity to ensure humane kills while maintaining accuracy. Most effective rabbit-hunting air rifles in this caliber reach velocities between 900–1,000 FPS, such as the Benjamin Trail NP XL or Umarex Gauntlet 2. While .177 isn’t as heavy-hitting as .22 or .25, its flatter trajectory and high velocity make it ideal for small, quick targets at moderate ranges.
3. Trigger and Shot Control
A good trigger allows for smooth, controlled firing, which is essential when hunting wary animals. Models like the Air Venturi Avenger and Benjamin Marauder feature two-stage adjustable triggers, giving shooters the ability to fine-tune trigger pull to their preference. This can significantly improve accuracy and confidence, especially in hunting scenarios where every shot counts.
4. Cocking Mechanism and Ease of Use
The rifle’s cocking system directly affects shooting comfort and speed. Underlever systems like the Stoeger S6000-E offer mechanical consistency and balance, while side-lever PCPs like the Avenger provide quick follow-up shots with minimal physical effort. Springers and break-barrels might require more effort to cock, making ease of use an important factor for frequent field use.
5. Noise and Recoil Management
When hunting rabbits, stealth is critical. Many modern air rifles come with shrouded barrels or integrated sound suppression, such as the Benjamin Trail NP XL or Marauder, which operate much quieter than traditional spring-piston models. Additionally, rifles with recoil-absorbing pads or nitro piston systems reduce kick, improving accuracy and comfort—especially useful for younger or smaller shooters.
6. Magazine Capacity and Reload Speed
For hunting situations where quick follow-up shots may be needed, a multi-shot magazine can be a game-changer. PCP rifles like the Umarex Gauntlet 2 and Air Venturi Avenger often include rotary magazines that hold 8–10 pellets. Single-shot rifles can be highly accurate but may slow your response in fast-moving scenarios. Consider your preferred balance of precision versus rapid fire capability.
7. Ergonomics and Stock Design
A comfortable, well-balanced rifle helps maintain accuracy and reduces fatigue. Features like adjustable cheek rests, customizable grips, and ambidextrous controls, as found on the Stoeger S6000-E and Gauntlet 2, allow shooters to adapt the rifle to their body and style. If you’re carrying the rifle for extended periods, lighter models like the Air Venturi Avenger (6 lbs.) are easier to manage.
8. Scope and Optics Compatibility
A quality scope enhances longer-range accuracy, essential when taking precise shots at smaller game. Many air rifles, including combo packages like the Stoeger S6000-E, come with pre-included scopes, while others feature Picatinny or dovetail rails for aftermarket scope mounting. Always ensure your rifle can accommodate optics that suit your hunting style and environmental conditions.
Frequent Asked Question Best Air Rifle for Rabbit
1: Is a .177 caliber air rifle powerful enough for rabbit hunting?
Yes, a .177 caliber air rifle can be powerful enough for rabbit hunting if it produces sufficient velocity and energy—ideally above 900 FPS with around 15 foot-pounds of energy or more. While .22 and .25 calibers deliver greater stopping power, the .177 offers a flatter trajectory and higher velocity, making it more forgiving at longer ranges. Models like the Benjamin Trail NP XL or Air Venturi Avenger demonstrate that when properly tuned and paired with the right pellets, .177 air rifles can reliably and humanely take down rabbits within 30–50 yards.
2: What type of barrel is best for consistent accuracy when hunting rabbits?
A fixed barrel, such as those found in underlever rifles like the Stoeger S6000-E, is generally more accurate than a break-barrel because it maintains alignment and reduces mechanical variability between shots. When hunting rabbits, every bit of consistency counts, as you’re often targeting small vital zones at a distance. Rifled steel barrels are also crucial, as they impart spin to the pellet, stabilizing its flight path for tighter groupings and more predictable downrange behavior.
3: Should I choose a single-shot or multi-shot air rifle for rabbit hunting?
This depends on your hunting style. Single-shot rifles tend to be more precise and are a great choice for hunters who value deliberate, well-placed shots. However, multi-shot PCP rifles like the Umarex Gauntlet 2 or Benjamin Marauder are excellent for scenarios where you might need a quick follow-up shot. Their rotary magazines allow you to reload swiftly without taking your eyes off the target. For rabbit hunting, multi-shot capability adds convenience and speed, especially when rabbits appear in small groups or when your first shot doesn’t land perfectly.
Conclusion
Choosing the best .177 air rifle for rabbit hunting comes down to understanding your specific needs and hunting environment. Whether you prioritize accuracy, low noise, quick follow-up shots, or adjustable ergonomics, the right rifle will enhance your effectiveness and overall experience in the field. Key features like a consistent trigger, sound suppression, a reliable cocking mechanism, and comfortable handling can make all the difference when targeting quick, elusive game. With thoughtful consideration of these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to select an air rifle that offers both performance and precision for ethical and successful rabbit hunting.