Best Air Rifle Ammo for Small Game delivers the precision, power, and consistency hunters need for ethical and effective results. The right ammunition can mean the difference between a clean, humane harvest and a missed opportunity, making pellet choice just as important as rifle selection. With options varying in caliber, weight, design, and terminal performance, selecting the ideal pellet ensures accurate shot placement, optimal energy transfer, and reliable results in the field. Whether you’re targeting small vermin, pest birds, or woodland game, matching your air rifle with the right ammo is key to consistent hunting success.
Best Air Rifle Ammo for Small Game
1. RWS Superdome .22 caliber pellets
The RWS Superdome .22 caliber pellets are a trusted favorite among airgun enthusiasts, delivering the perfect balance of accuracy, power, and versatility. Designed in the classic bulldog or round-headed style, these pellets provide stable flight paths and consistent groupings, making them equally effective for small game hunting and precision target practice. Each pellet is manufactured with the same high-quality standards that have made RWS a respected name in the shooting world for decades.
The unique dome-shaped head ensures excellent aerodynamics, allowing the pellet to maintain velocity over longer distances. This design also helps with deeper penetration, ensuring clean and humane kills when hunting small game. Whether you’re aiming to improve your target scores or take on pest control, the RWS Superdome offers a reliable solution that performs well in a wide variety of air rifles.
Each tin contains 500 pellets, giving you plenty of shots for extended practice sessions or multiple hunting trips. Consistency in size, weight, and finish ensures dependable results shot after shot, allowing shooters to focus more on their aim and less on worrying about ammunition quality. For anyone who values precision, performance, and dependability, the RWS Superdome .22 is a top-tier choice.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: 0.22 (5.5 mm)
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Pellet Type: Bulldog / Roundhead (Domed)
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Quantity: 500 pellets per tin
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Use Case: Target practice, small game hunting, pest control
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Material: Lead
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Brand: RWS
Pros
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Excellent accuracy and tight grouping
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Classic dome shape for stable flight and improved aerodynamics
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Works well in a wide range of air rifles
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Ideal for both hunting and target shooting
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Consistent manufacturing quality from RWS
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Large 500-pellet count for extended use
Cons
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Slightly more expensive than generic pellets
2. Hornet .177 caliber airgun pellets
The Hornet .177 caliber airgun pellets are engineered for hunters who demand accuracy, penetration, and controlled expansion in every shot. Crafted from high-quality lead and designed with a unique aerodynamic profile, these medium-weight pellets excel at mid-range hunting and pest control. Whether you’re targeting small to medium-size game such as raccoon, fox, prairie birds, hare, pheasant, or goose, the Hornet delivers the lethal performance you need for a clean, ethical harvest.
Each pellet is manufactured to exacting standards, ensuring minimal deviation in size, shape, or weight. This precision results in consistent groupings and a dependable shooting experience every time you load your rifle. The snug fit in the .177 caliber barrel creates an excellent seal, maximizing velocity and ensuring a stable, predictable flight path.
With its exceptional impact and penetration, the Hornet offers the best of both worlds: stopping power and accuracy. The controlled expansion design makes it especially effective for humane kills while maintaining energy transfer deep into the target. Packaged in a convenient single pack containing 225 pellets, these gray-colored, lead projectiles are ready for serious fieldwork.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: 0.177 inches (4.5 mm)
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Quantity: 225 pellets
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Style: Single Pack
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Item Type: Hornet Airgun Pellets
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Material: Lead
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Color: Gray
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Dimensions: 2.64 x 1.26 inches
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Ideal Use: Mid-range hunting & pest control
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Game Targets: Raccoon, fox, prairie birds, duck, hare, pheasant, goose
Pros
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Exceptional accuracy and tight groupings
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Designed for high impact and penetration
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Controlled expansion for humane kills
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Precision manufacturing ensures consistent performance
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Excellent seal in barrel for improved velocity and stability
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Ideal for a variety of small to medium-size game
Cons
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Smaller pellet count compared to bulk packs
3.Crosman .22 caliber pellets
The Crosman .22 caliber pellets are a dependable choice for hunters and target shooters looking for consistent performance and excellent value. Manufactured to precise standards, these lead pellets provide reliable accuracy, making them suitable for a wide range of small game hunting and pest control applications. With their balanced weight of 14.3 grains, they deliver a great combination of velocity, penetration, and impact energy, ensuring effective results in the field.
Each tin contains 500 pellets, giving shooters plenty of ammunition for extended practice sessions and multiple hunting trips. Designed for compatibility with most .22 caliber air rifles and pistols, Crosman pellets are a versatile option for those who need dependable shot-to-shot consistency. Whether you’re working on improving your accuracy at the range or pursuing small game in the field, these pellets offer the performance and quantity you need without breaking the bank.
As with all lead-based ammunition, proper handling is important. These pellets contain a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Avoid inhaling dust, never put pellets in your mouth, and wash your hands thoroughly after use to ensure safe handling practices.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: 0.22 inches (5.5 mm)
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Manufacturer: Crosman
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Ammo Type: Pellets
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Condition: New
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Weight: 14.3 grains
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Quantity: 500 pellets per tin
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Material: Lead
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Use Case: Small game hunting, pest control, target shooting
Pros
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Good balance of weight and velocity for versatile performance
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Compatible with most .22 caliber air rifles and pistols
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Large 500-count tin offers excellent value
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Consistent manufacturing for reliable accuracy
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Effective for both hunting and target shooting
Cons
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Lead-based—requires safe handling and storage
4. H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .177 caliber pellets
The H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .177 caliber pellets are engineered for hunters who demand both pinpoint accuracy and devastating terminal performance. Weighing 9.57 grains and designed with a unique cross-shaped hollowpoint tip, these pellets deliver controlled expansion and shocking impact on target. Upon striking prey, the mushrooming head spreads precisely to maximize energy transfer, making them exceptionally effective for small game and pest control.
Manufactured to the highest German quality standards, each pellet offers consistent size, weight, and balance, ensuring tight groupings and predictable shot placement. This precision, combined with their aerodynamic profile, makes them ideal for hunting small vermin and bird species such as mice, rats, squirrels, chipmunks, sparrows, magpies, pigeons, and snipes.
Optimized for use in magnum air rifles, the Baracuda Hunter Extreme is capable of delivering high muzzle velocity and significant downrange energy. At 25 yards, these pellets retain 66% of their initial energy, ensuring lethal force well beyond typical backyard pest control ranges. Whether you’re stalking squirrels in the woods or clearing pests from your property, these pellets perform with lethal efficiency.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: .177 inches (4.5 mm)
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Weight: 9.57 grains
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Pellet Type: Hollowpoint (cross-shaped tip)
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Quantity: 400 pellets per tin
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Material: Lead (metal)
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Minimum Muzzle Energy: 12 ft-lbs
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Muzzle Velocity: 745 fps
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Maximum Distance: 50 m / 55 yds
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Energy at 25 YDS: 8 ft-lbs (607 fps) – 66% of initial value
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Energy at 50 YDS: 5 ft-lbs (502 fps) – 45% of initial value
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Tested Penetration: 8.5 cm (3.35 in) in ballistic soap at 843 fps, 11 yds
Pros
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Exceptional accuracy for precision hunting
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Cross-shaped hollowpoint delivers devastating expansion
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Excellent energy retention at medium range
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Ideal for small vermin and bird game
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Precision manufacturing ensures consistency shot after shot
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Works well in magnum-powered air rifles
Cons
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Lead-based—requires safe handling and storage
5. JSB Hades .22 caliber pellets
The JSB Hades .22 caliber pellets are engineered for hunters who demand exceptional accuracy and devastating terminal performance. Each pellet weighs 15.89 grains and is crafted with JSB’s renowned manufacturing precision to deliver consistent size, shape, and weight for pinpoint shot placement. Designed specifically for hunting, the Hades pellet features a unique hollowpoint head with a fragmented, petal-like structure that promotes rapid expansion upon impact, ensuring maximum energy transfer and humane kills.
With a 5.50 mm diameter, these pellets form a perfect seal in your air rifle’s barrel, optimizing velocity, stability, and consistency. The aerodynamic design reduces drag, maintaining energy over longer distances, making them ideal for mid- to long-range small game hunting. Each tin contains 250 pellets, giving you a substantial supply for multiple hunts without sacrificing quality for quantity.
Whether you’re targeting squirrels, rabbits, or pest birds, JSB Hades pellets are designed to perform in real-world hunting conditions. Their combination of accuracy, expansion, and stopping power has earned them a reputation among airgun enthusiasts as one of the most effective hunting pellets available today.
Key Specifications
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Caliber: 0.22 inches (5.50 mm)
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Pellet Type: Hollowpoint with fragmenting tip
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Weight: 15.89 grains
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Quantity: 250 pellets per tin
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Material: Lead
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Use Case: Small game hunting, pest control, mid- to long-range shooting
Pros
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Exceptional manufacturing quality for consistent accuracy
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Unique hollowpoint design ensures rapid expansion and high energy transfer
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Excellent seal in barrel for improved velocity and stability
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Maintains energy and accuracy over longer distances
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Ideal for a wide range of small game and pest species
Cons
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Higher cost per pellet compared to basic target ammo
Also read;5 Best Non-Lead Air Rifle Pellet
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Air Rifle Ammo for Small Game
1. Caliber Size and Compatibility
The caliber size of your air rifle ammo is one of the most important considerations because it directly affects performance, penetration, and the overall suitability for small game hunting. Common calibers for small game include .177, .20, and .22, with .22 being the most popular due to its heavier weight and increased knockdown power. Before purchasing any ammo, you must ensure it matches the specifications of your air rifle. Using the wrong caliber can lead to accuracy issues, reduced velocity, and even damage to your gun. For example, while .177 caliber pellets offer higher velocity and flatter trajectories, they may lack the stopping power needed for quick, humane kills on small animals. On the other hand, .22 caliber pellets deliver more impact force, making them better for squirrels, rabbits, and similar-sized targets. Always confirm the caliber printed on your rifle barrel or in the manufacturer’s manual before selecting your ammo.
2. Pellet Shape and Design
Pellet shape determines how the ammo flies through the air, how it impacts the target, and how much damage it inflicts. There are several designs to choose from, each suited for different scenarios. Domed pellets are excellent for long-range accuracy and retaining energy, making them ideal for hunting. Hollow point pellets expand upon impact, delivering maximum shock and quick kills, which is crucial for ethical small game hunting. Pointed pellets penetrate deeply but may over-penetrate on very small animals, while wadcutter pellets are generally better for target shooting due to their flat heads and sharp cutting edges. Your choice should balance accuracy with terminal performance, ensuring you can hit vital areas and dispatch game quickly and humanely. Experimenting with a few pellet shapes in your rifle can help determine which one offers the best combination of precision and stopping power.
3. Pellet Weight
Pellet weight plays a crucial role in velocity, penetration, and accuracy. Lighter pellets (around 7–8 grains in .177 caliber) travel faster and maintain flatter trajectories but can be more susceptible to wind drift and may not have sufficient stopping power for larger small game. Heavier pellets (14–18 grains in .22 caliber) move slower but hit harder, making them more effective for humane kills. The ideal weight depends on your rifle’s power output and the type of game you’re targeting. High-powered rifles can handle heavier pellets, maintaining good velocity and impact energy, whereas lower-powered rifles benefit from lighter pellets to maintain speed and accuracy. When hunting small game, aim for a balance—choose a weight that your rifle can propel effectively without sacrificing too much velocity, ensuring accurate shots at vital zones.
4. Material Composition
The material your pellets are made from can affect not only performance but also environmental impact. Traditionally, most pellets are made from lead because it is dense and offers excellent energy transfer. However, non-lead options, often made from alloys such as tin or copper, are becoming more popular due to environmental concerns and hunting regulations in some areas. Non-lead pellets are generally lighter, which can increase velocity but may reduce penetration unless well-designed. If you hunt in areas where lead ammunition is banned, or you prefer eco-friendly options, look for high-quality non-lead pellets that still provide consistent accuracy and energy retention. The material also affects barrel wear and fouling—soft lead pellets generally cause less wear but can leave residue, requiring regular cleaning.
5. Accuracy and Consistency
No matter how powerful your rifle is, inaccurate ammo will result in missed shots or poor hits that can injure rather than humanely kill game. Accuracy depends on the uniformity of the pellet’s size, weight, and shape. High-quality pellets from reputable brands undergo strict quality control, ensuring minimal variations between each round. Consistency in manufacturing means each pellet behaves similarly in flight, producing tighter groupings and more reliable point-of-impact. Test different brands and batches with your specific rifle, as some combinations of barrel rifling and pellet design perform better together. Remember, what’s accurate in one rifle might not be in another, so a little experimentation is often necessary to find your rifle’s “favorite” pellet.
6. Impact Energy and Terminal Performance
When hunting small game, you want pellets that deliver sufficient energy to quickly dispatch the animal without excessive suffering. Terminal performance refers to what happens upon impact—whether the pellet expands, penetrates deeply, or both. Hollow points are generally favored because they expand inside the target, transferring more energy quickly. This expansion reduces the chance of the pellet passing through without causing enough damage to vital organs. On the other hand, domed pellets offer a balance of penetration and energy transfer, making them versatile for both short- and long-range shots. Always match your ammo’s terminal performance to the size of the game and your hunting distance to ensure quick, ethical kills.
7. Environmental and Legal Considerations
Different regions have varying laws and regulations regarding air rifle ammunition, particularly when it comes to hunting small game. Some areas ban the use of lead pellets due to environmental concerns, while others may specify minimum calibers or energy levels for legal hunting. Always check your local wildlife regulations before heading out, as using the wrong ammo can result in fines or confiscation of your equipment. Environmental considerations also extend to where you hunt—if you’re in sensitive habitats or around waterfowl nesting areas, choosing non-toxic pellets can help protect the ecosystem. Responsible hunters ensure their ammo choice aligns with both legal requirements and environmental stewardship.
8. Cost and Availability
While premium pellets often deliver better performance, the cost can add up quickly—especially if you spend time practicing before hunting trips (which you should). Consider the price per pellet and whether the brand is readily available in your area or online. Choosing an ammo type that’s too rare or expensive can limit your ability to practice consistently, which is essential for maintaining accuracy. Sometimes, a mid-range pellet that you can purchase easily in bulk offers better long-term value than an expensive “match-grade” pellet you can’t restock regularly. Balance your budget with the performance you require, and remember that consistent practice with your chosen ammo is just as important as the ammo’s inherent quality.
Frequent Asked Question Best Air Rifle Ammo for Small Game
1. What type of pellet is best for small game hunting?
Hollowpoint pellets are generally considered the best for small game because they expand on impact, transferring maximum energy for a quick, humane kill. However, domed pellets are also effective due to their accuracy and penetration, especially at longer ranges.
2. Does pellet weight affect hunting performance?
Yes. Heavier pellets hit harder and retain more energy over distance, making them better for medium-sized small game. Lighter pellets travel faster and are better for short-range shots but may lack penetration on tougher targets.
3. Can the same pellet be used for both target shooting and hunting?
Some pellets, like domed designs, perform well in both roles, offering a balance of accuracy and stopping power. However, if your primary focus is hunting, it’s better to choose a pellet designed for expansion and energy transfer, such as a hollowpoint or specialty hunting pellet.
Conclusion
Choosing best air rifle ammo for small game is about finding the perfect balance between accuracy, power, and terminal performance. The best options will deliver consistent shot placement, retain energy over the distance you typically hunt, and provide the expansion or penetration needed for quick, ethical kills. By considering factors like caliber, pellet design, weight, and quality of manufacturing, you can ensure every shot counts—whether you’re in the field pursuing game or managing pests on your property.