Best .177 air rifles under 500 offer an ideal balance of performance, affordability, and versatility for shooters of all experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your marksmanship, a backyard plinker, or a small game hunter, these air rifles provide high velocity, consistent accuracy, and reliable build quality without breaking the bank. Available in various powerplants—spring-piston, gas-piston, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)—these rifles cater to different preferences and shooting applications. With features like adjustable triggers, sound suppression, scope compatibility, and multi-shot capabilities, the sub-$500 category has evolved into a competitive space that delivers exceptional value for hobbyists and seasoned marksmen alike.
Best .177 Air Rifles Under 500
1.Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .177
The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i deserves top consideration. Blending cutting-edge engineering with robust power, this rifle is built for serious airgun enthusiasts—perfect for target shooting, pest control, and small game hunting.
At the heart of the Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is Gamo’s IGT MACH 1 gas piston powerplant, a 33mm pneumatic cylinder capable of delivering up to 1650 fps with alloy pellets. This translates to 26.6 ft-lbs of energy—enough for confident shots at longer ranges with consistent knockdown power.
The standout innovation is Gamo’s third-generation 10X GEN3i inertia-fed magazine. Unlike traditional rotary mags, this patented system uses the recoil energy to index the next pellet, enabling rapid follow-up shots without manual reloading. It’s smoother, more reliable, and now sleeker than previous designs.
Noise matters—especially for backyard or suburban shooters. Gamo’s Whisper Fusion is their quietest technology yet, channeling sound through dual chambers for reduced report, making it ideal for discreet shooting.
Equipped with the CAT (Custom Action Trigger), shooters can independently adjust the first and second stages for a personalized, crisp break. Included in the package is a Gamo 3-9×40 scope, shockproof and fogproof, mounted on a Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR)—which minimizes internal scope damage from heavy recoil.
The all-weather synthetic stock is made from glass-filled nylon used in high-end automotive applications, offering both strength and comfort. It features a thumbhole design for enhanced grip and alignment, and a SWA recoil pad to absorb shock during firing.
Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Velocity: Up to 1650 fps (with alloy pellets)
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Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 Gas Piston (33mm)
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Action: Single-cocking break barrel
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Magazine: 10-shot inertia-fed GEN3i
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Trigger: CAT (adjustable 1st & 2nd stage)
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Scope: Gamo 3-9×40 (included)
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Noise Suppression: Whisper Fusion technology
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Stock: Glass-filled all-weather synthetic
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Energy: 26.6 ft-lbs
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Cocking Effort: 41 lbs
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Trigger Pull: 3.2 lbs (1st stage), 2.6 lbs (2nd stage)
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Warranty: 1-year limited
Pros
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Extreme power for a break barrel in .177 caliber (1650 fps)
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10-shot magazine for fast follow-up shots
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Advanced recoil-activated reloading system
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Whisper Fusion tech makes it quiet for its power level
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IGT Mach 1 piston offers less vibration and smoother operation than springs
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Adjustable CAT trigger for custom feel
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Scope and mount included (value-packed)
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Durable, ergonomic stock for all-weather use
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Recoil Reducing Rail protects optics from damage
Cons
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Cocking effort is high (41 lbs)—not ideal for younger or smaller shooters
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Loud with lightweight pellets (common with high-velocity .177 rifles)
2.Diana 34 EMS Break Barrel Air Rifle
The Diana 34 EMS (Easy Modular System) deserves serious attention. This German-made classic has been reimagined with modular customization in mind, delivering premium build quality, reliable performance, and upgradeable features—all while maintaining the time-tested accuracy and reliability the Diana brand is known for.
The Diana 34 EMS is built in Germany and stands out with its Easy Modular System. This new design allows you to customize and upgrade the rifle—from swapping out iron sights to changing the powerplant from spring-piston to N-TEC gas piston (sold separately). For airgunners who like to tweak or future-proof their setup, the EMS platform is a standout.
Crafted with a classic beech wood stock, the Diana 34 EMS offers a traditional look and feel with ergonomic shaping for comfortable shooting. It’s solid, durable, and perfectly balanced for both target shooting and field use.
Out of the box, this rifle includes a fiber optic front sight and a micrometer-adjustable rear sight, giving you accurate shooting even without optics. It also features Diana’s world-renowned T06 two-stage adjustable trigger, known for its crisp, consistent pull—ideal for both beginners and experienced marksmen
With a spring-piston powerplant, the Diana 34 EMS achieves up to 1050 fps with alloy pellets, and around 900 fps with lead in .177 caliber—offering the perfect balance between velocity and accuracy. This makes it ideal for target shooting and small game hunting.
The removable 1/2″ UNF threaded barrel allows for the addition of a moderator or muzzle device, and the adjustable barrel alignment system gives you the option to fine-tune your barrel for maximum precision. This is not just a rifle—it’s a platform for airgun enthusiasts.
Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Velocity: Up to 1050 fps (alloy), 900 fps (lead)
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Powerplant: Spring-piston (convertible to N-TEC gas piston)
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Action: Break barrel, single-shot
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Stock: Beech wood
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Barrel: Removable, 1/2″ UNF threaded
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Sights: Fiber optic front, micrometer rear (adjustable)
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Trigger: T06 adjustable two-stage
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Mounting Rail: 11mm dovetail for optics
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Length: 45.5 in.
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Weight: 7.4 lbs
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Warranty: 2-year limited
Pros
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🇩🇪 Made in Germany – Excellent craftsmanship and materials
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Modular design – Convertible to gas piston, interchangeable parts
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Highly accurate – Ideal for plinking, target shooting, and pest control
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Elegant wood stock – Traditional feel with modern performance
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Removable threaded barrel – Easy to clean or add a suppressor
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Excellent trigger – T06 trigger is one of the best in class
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Adjustable sights and barrel alignment – Fine-tuned for precision
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Upgrade-friendly – Future-proof your setup with available parts
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Smooth, consistent shot cycle – Minimal vibration and solid feel
Cons
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Spring-piston only out of box – Gas piston upgrade sold separately
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Single-shot only – No magazine system
3.Air Venturi Avenger Caliber Regulated PCP Air Rifle
the Air Venturi Avenger is an undisputed standout. Delivering features often found in rifles twice its price, the Avenger is an innovator’s rifle — built for those who want full control over their shooting experience.
At the heart of the Avenger is its externally adjustable regulator, capable of fine-tuning pressure up to 3,000 PSI (210 BAR). Combined with a max fill pressure of 4,351 PSI (300 BAR), this gives shooters the freedom to customize the rifle’s velocity and shot count with extreme precision — a rare feature in this price class.
The smooth sidelever cocking mechanism complements the 10-shot magazine in .177 caliber (8 rounds in .25), making rapid follow-up shots easy. Whether you’re hunting pests or competing in benchrest shooting, this rifle delivers fast, reliable cycling and repeatable accuracy.
Beyond the regulator, the Avenger includes an easily accessible hammer spring adjustment screw, a two-stage adjustable trigger, and a manual safety. Want more power? More shot count? Lighter trigger? The Avenger lets you tailor it to your needs.
A fully shrouded barrel helps suppress report while maintaining accuracy. Mount your favorite optics with the 11mm dovetail/Weaver combo rail, or attach accessories like bipods or lasers to the Picatinny rail on the fore-end — a rare bonus in this category
Weighing only about 6 lbs, the Avenger is perfect for long hunting trips or extended range sessions. It includes holes in the stock for sling swivel studs, making it highly portable. Dual gauges let you track both fill pressure and regulated pressure at a glance.
Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Velocity: ~1000+ fps (varies based on tune and pellet)
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Powerplant: Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP)
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Action: Sidelever repeater
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Regulator: Externally adjustable up to 3,000 PSI
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Max Fill Pressure: 4,351 PSI (300 BAR)
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Barrel: Fully shrouded
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Stock Options: Synthetic or Wood
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Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds (.177)
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Included: 2 magazines + single-shot tray
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Trigger: Two-stage adjustable
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Rails: 11mm dovetail/Weaver combo + Picatinny fore-end
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Weight: ~6 lbs
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Gauges: Dual — Reg Pressure (right), Fill Pressure (left)
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Fill Connection: Male quick disconnect
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Safety: Manual
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Warranty: 1–2 years (varies by retailer)
Pros
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High-powered and customizable — incredible for tuning enthusiasts
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Externally adjustable regulator and hammer spring — fine-tune performance easily
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Accurate and consistent — ideal for target shooting and small game
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Sidelever action — smooth cycling and repeat shots
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Two-stage adjustable trigger — crisp and tunable
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Shrouded barrel — quieter than most unmoderated PCPs
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Picatinny & dovetail combo — excellent scope and accessory flexibility
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Sling-ready — great for hunting trips
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Dual gauges for pressure monitoring — more control
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Includes magazines and single-shot tray — ready to go out of the box
Cons
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Requires external pump or compressor — added cost for first-time PCP users
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Learning curve for tuning — ideal for intermediate to advanced shooters
4.Hatsan Mod 95 Vortex Combo QuietEnergy QE Air Rifle
The Hatsan MOD 95 Vortex Combo QE is a top-tier choice under $500. From its Turkish walnut stock to the QuietEnergy integrated moderator, this rifle is ideal for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting with style and precision.
This model features Hatsan’s QuietEnergy barrel system, a fully shrouded design with an integrated sound moderator that reduces down-range noise by up to 50%. Whether you’re hunting squirrels or plinking in the backyard, you’ll appreciate the reduced report and stealthy performance.
Unlike traditional spring-piston rifles, the MOD 95 QE uses a Vortex gas piston that provides smoother cocking, less vibration, and better cold-weather performance. This results in improved longevity, more consistent power, and a crisp, quieter shot cycle.
The included Optima 3-9×32 scope mounts securely to the 11mm dovetail rail, allowing for precise long-range accuracy. Paired with the rifled barrel and TruGlo fiber optic open sights, the MOD 95 QE gives you multiple sighting options right out of the box
Crafted with a classic ambidextrous Turkish walnut stock, this rifle not only performs beautifully but looks the part, too. It features a comfortable Monte Carlo cheekpiece and a ventilated rubber buttpad for enhanced shooting comfort.
With a two-stage Quattro trigger, manual and automatic cocking safeties, and an anti-beartrap mechanism, this rifle emphasizes safe handling. Hatsan’s SAS (Shock Absorber System) also helps reduce felt recoil and improve accuracy.
Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Max Velocity: 1100 FPS (with alloy pellets)
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Powerplant: Vortex Gas Piston
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Shot Capacity: Single-shot
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Barrel: Rifled, 10.6″ (fully shrouded)
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Noise Level: Medium (QuietEnergy design)
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Trigger: Two-stage adjustable (Quattro)
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Safety: Manual + Automatic Cocking Safety
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Stock: Ambidextrous Turkish Walnut
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Scope: Optima 3-9×32 included
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Mount: 11mm Dovetail
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Sights: TruGlo fiber optics (front and rear, micro-adjustable)
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Weight: 8.4 lbs
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Overall Length: 44.3″
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Accessories:
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Pack of 100x Paper Targets
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500x .177 Cal Lead Pellets
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Pros
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Exceptionally quiet for a break barrel, thanks to QE technology
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Vortex gas piston offers smoother, more durable performance than springers
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Beautiful walnut stock — rare in this price range
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Scope and sights included — ready for out-of-box accuracy
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Clean, crisp two-stage Quattro trigger
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Consistently accurate at 30–50 yards for small game or target shooting
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Includes pellets and targets — a full starter bundle
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Safety-focused features like anti-beartrap and auto safety
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Ideal for pest control and backyard plinking
Cons
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Heavier than many rifles at 8.4 lbs — not ideal for young shooters
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Cocking effort may be stiff for some users
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Single-shot design means slower follow-up shots
5.Diana Stormrider Gen2 Multi-Shot PCP Air Rifle
The Diana Stormrider Gen2 delivers high-performance shooting in a lightweight, affordable platform, making it one of the most accessible and feature-rich PCP air rifles under $500. This compact, multi-shot repeater offers consistent power, precision, and excellent value — perfect for backyard plinking, target shooting, or small game hunting.
Powered by a PCP air reservoir, the Stormrider Gen2 offers smooth, recoilless shooting with velocities up to 1050 FPS in .177 and 900 FPS in .22. It delivers up to 20 foot-pounds of energy (FPE) in .177, giving it the punch for small game as well as long-range accuracy.
Equipped with a 9-round rotary magazine in .177 caliber, the Stormrider enables quick follow-up shots without manual pellet loading each time. The bolt-action mechanism is smooth and reliable, and a single-shot tray is also included for precision training.
One of the standout features of Gen 2 is the DIT (Diana Improved Trigger) — a crisp, fully adjustable two-stage trigger that enhances control and accuracy, making it feel like a much higher-end rifle.
The elegant hardwood beech stock includes checkering for grip and a raised cheekpiece, optimized for right-handed shooters but fully usable for left-handed users. Its classic rifle aesthetics make it a favorite among traditionalists.
The Stormrider includes fully adjustable open sights and an 11mm dovetail rail for mounting scopes, giving shooters flexible aiming options. An integrated pressure gauge (manometer) helps you monitor air levels with ease.
Specifications
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Caliber: .177
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Action: Bolt-action repeater
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Shot Capacity: 9 (rotary magazine)
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Max Velocity: 1050 FPS (.177 lead pellets)
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Max Energy: 20 FPE (.177)
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Trigger: DIT Two-stage adjustable
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Safety: Manual
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Stock: Checkered beech wood, raised cheekpiece
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Barrel: Rifled steel
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Sights: Fully adjustable rear, fiber-optic front
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Optics Mount: 11mm dovetail
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Fill Pressure: 200 BAR / 2900 PSI
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Manometer: Integrated
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Weight: ~5.5 lbs
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Included Accessories:
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Fill probe with male quick-disconnect
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9-shot magazine (.177)
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Single-shot tray
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Pros
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Extremely accurate and consistent for a budget PCP
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Multi-shot capability improves shooting efficiency
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DIT trigger feels high-end with clean break and adjustability
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Beautiful hardwood stock with solid ergonomics
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Quiet and recoilless shooting — ideal for backyard or field use
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Lightweight and easy to carry at just over 5 lbs
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Unbeatable value for under $500 in the PCP category
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Includes both magazine and single-shot tray
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Upgradeable platform for beginners and tinkerers
Cons
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Limited shot count per fill (~25–30 effective shots)
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No regulator, so minor FPS variance toward end of fill
Read also;5 Best .22 Air Rifle for Hunting
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best .177 Air Rifles Under 500
1. Powerplant Type: Spring-Piston vs Gas-Piston vs PCP
The power source of an air rifle greatly impacts its performance, feel, and maintenance. Spring-piston rifles, like the Diana 34 EMS, are simple and reliable but can have more recoil. Gas-piston rifles, such as the Hatsan Mod 95 Vortex, provide smoother cocking and reduced vibration. PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifles like the Air Venturi Avenger and Diana Stormrider Gen2 offer recoilless shooting, high consistency, and multi-shot capabilities but require a separate air filling method (e.g., hand pump or compressor). Your preferred shooting style, budget for accessories, and convenience will help determine the right choice.
2. Accuracy and Velocity
Velocity is a good indicator of power, but it should always be balanced with accuracy. For .177 air rifles, velocities over 900 FPS are ideal for target shooting and small game hunting. PCP models like the Avenger and Stormrider offer excellent velocity and consistency for pinpoint accuracy, while springers like the Diana 34 EMS and Hatsan 95 deliver impressive power with proper technique. Consider rifles with adjustable triggers and solid barrel construction for tighter groupings at longer distances.
3. Trigger Quality
A quality trigger can dramatically improve shooting precision. Most high-performing air rifles under $500 now come with adjustable two-stage triggers. The Diana 34 EMS features the renowned T06 trigger, known for its crisp break and customization. The Stormrider Gen2 includes the DIT (Diana Improved Trigger), offering better control over each shot. A well-tuned trigger reduces user fatigue and enhances overall accuracy, making this an essential feature to evaluate.
4. Noise Level
If you’re shooting in a backyard or noise-sensitive area, the rifle’s sound level becomes a critical factor. Models like the Hatsan Mod 95 QE and Air Venturi Avenger include features such as shrouded barrels and integrated sound moderators, which reduce report by up to 50%. A quiet rifle enhances user comfort, prevents disturbing neighbors, and increases stealth in hunting scenarios. Opting for rifles with noise-reduction technology provides a more enjoyable shooting experience overall.
5. Stock Material and Ergonomics
The feel of the rifle in your hands can affect how comfortable and accurate you are. Stocks come in synthetic, wood, or laminate, with each offering distinct benefits. Beech wood stocks, like those on the Diana and Hatsan rifles, offer classic looks and solid weight for stability. The Avenger’s synthetic stock provides a lightweight, weather-resistant option for rugged use. Ergonomic design features such as checkering, raised cheekpieces, and ambidextrous contours also contribute to ease of handling and prolonged use.
6. Sight and Optics Mounting Options
Many rifles in this range come equipped with fiber-optic open sights and an optics rail for scopes. All four rifles discussed include 11mm dovetail mounts, and some, like the Avenger, even offer a Weaver/Picatinny rail combo for greater accessory compatibility. A good optics-ready platform allows shooters to upgrade to scopes for long-range accuracy or stick with iron sights for quick target acquisition. Always check compatibility with your preferred sighting system.
7. Shot Capacity and Repeating Mechanism
While traditional break-barrel rifles are typically single-shot, PCP rifles like the Avenger and Stormrider offer multi-shot rotary magazines (up to 9-10 shots per fill). This makes follow-up shots quicker and more convenient, especially in hunting or target shooting scenarios. For users who value efficiency, a repeating action is a significant advantage over manual reloads. Always consider magazine capacity and whether the rifle includes a single-shot tray for training.
8. Included Accessories and Value for Money
Under $500, value-added bundles make a big difference. Some rifles, like the Hatsan Mod 95 Vortex Combo, include scopes and starter kits (targets and pellets), offering great value for beginners. The Avenger comes with two magazines and has built-in accessory rails. Factoring in what comes in the box — scopes, mounts, magazines, or fill adapters — can save you money and time later on. Always weigh the total package, not just the rifle alone, when evaluating value.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best .177 Air Rifles Under 500
1. Are .177 air rifles under $500 powerful enough for hunting or just target shooting?
Yes, many .177 air rifles under $500 are powerful enough for both target shooting and small game hunting. While the .177 caliber is typically favored for target accuracy due to its flat trajectory, models like the Air Venturi Avenger, Diana 34 EMS, and Hatsan Mod 95 Vortex QE offer velocities ranging from 900 to over 1100 FPS and energy outputs up to 20 FPE or more — sufficient for ethically dispatching pests like squirrels, rabbits, and birds at reasonable distances. For hunting, opt for rifles with consistent power, accuracy, and quiet operation, and always pair them with high-quality lead pellets for better terminal performance.
2. What’s the difference between spring-piston, gas-piston, and PCP air rifles?
The main difference lies in how each type generates air pressure to propel the pellet. Spring-piston rifles (like the Diana 34 EMS) use a coiled spring and piston and are known for their simplicity and self-contained nature. Gas-piston rifles (like the Hatsan 95 Vortex) replace the spring with a gas-filled cylinder, offering smoother cocking, reduced vibration, and better cold-weather performance. PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifles like the Air Venturi Avenger and Diana Stormrider use pre-compressed air from an external source (pump or compressor), allowing for multiple shots per fill, higher accuracy, and virtually no recoil. Each type has its strengths depending on your needs, with PCP rifles offering superior performance at the cost of requiring more accessories.
3. Do I need a scope for my .177 air rifle, and is one included?
While not strictly necessary, a scope can greatly enhance your accuracy, especially at longer distances. Many air rifles under $500 come optics-ready with 11mm dovetail or combo rails, allowing for scope installation. Some models, like the Hatsan Mod 95 Vortex Combo, even include a scope in the bundle (e.g., Optima 3-9×32), providing a ready-to-shoot package. Others like the Diana Stormrider or Avenger include rails but require separate scope purchases. If you plan to shoot beyond 25 yards or want the tightest possible groupings, investing in a good scope or choosing a rifle that includes one is a smart decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best .177 air rifles under $500 provide a powerful and affordable entry point into the world of airgunning. These rifles are equipped with impressive features such as adjustable triggers, enhanced sound suppression, reliable accuracy, and durable construction, making them suitable for target shooting, pest control, and small game hunting. Whether powered by gas-piston, spring, or PCP mechanisms, each model offers a unique combination of performance and user-friendly design. With the right selection based on your needs—be it power, quiet operation, or ease of maintenance—you can enjoy a satisfying and effective shooting experience without exceeding your budget.