5 Best Air Rifle for Backyard Shooting

1.Benjamin Marauder 

 

The Benjamin Marauder .22-Caliber PCP Air Rifle should be at the top of your list. Known for its whisper-quiet operation, high accuracy, and solid build quality, the Marauder continues to be a benchmark in the PCP airgun world—perfect for both small game hunting and target shooting in your own backyard.The latest Marauder features a balanced all-weather synthetic stock that’s not only durable but also designed for comfort. The adjustable raised comb allows you to customize your cheek weld for precise aiming, while the reversible bolt handle caters to both right- and left-handed shooters. This thoughtful design makes it ideal for long shooting sessions, whether you’re at the range or roaming the field.

Powered by pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) technology, the Marauder offers up to 30 consistent shots per 3000 PSI fill, making it efficient and reliable. Firing .22 caliber pellets at up to 1000 FPS, it delivers a solid 31 foot-pounds of energy (FPE)—enough for ethical small game hunting and long-range target shooting. The rifled steel barrel ensures excellent accuracy, and its shrouded design with integrated sound suppression keeps noise to a minimum, making it backyard-friendly.One of the standout features is the two-stage adjustable match-grade trigger, providing a crisp, clean break that makes precision shooting effortless. The 10-shot rotary magazine enables quick follow-up shots without the need for frequent reloading. With bolt-action operation and a built-in pressure gauge, managing the rifle is intuitive even for newer shooters.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: .22

• Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

• Velocity: Up to 1000 FPS

• Energy: 31 FPE

• Shots per Fill: Up to 30 at 3000 PSI

• Barrel: Rifled steel, shrouded with sound suppression

• Stock: All-weather synthetic with adjustable cheek piece

• Trigger: Two-stage adjustable

• Magazine: 10-shot rotary

• Action: Bolt-action, single shot

• Noise Level: Very low (pellet impact is louder than firing)

Pros

• Extremely quiet – great for suburban backyard use

• High accuracy – match-grade trigger and rifled barrel

• Adjustable stock and ambidextrous bolt – ergonomic and versatile

• 10-shot magazine – allows quick, repeat shots

• Powerful enough for small game – yet backyard safe

• Easy to fill – built-in gauge and Foster quick-disconnect fitting

Cons

• Requires external air source – hand pump or compressor sold separately

2.Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 

 

The Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 stands out as one of the best air rifles for backyard shooting, combining incredible power, low noise, and refined shooting performance in a sleek, modern package. Whether you’re looking to eliminate pests, practice marksmanship, or just enjoy some quiet target shooting in your backyard, this .22 caliber air rifle delivers the goods—quietly and with authority.

At the heart of the Mach 1 is Gamo’s IGT Mach 1 (Inert Gas Technology)—a gas piston system that replaces the traditional spring power plant. The massive 33mm gas cylinder launches pellets at speeds up to 1020 fps in .22 caliber, providing true knockdown power without the buzz, twang, and vibration of spring-based rifles.Paired with the Whisper Fusion sound suppression system, this is Gamo’s quietest air rifle ever. The technology forces the pellet through two integrated noise-dampening chambers, significantly reducing noise and making the rifle backyard-friendly even in suburban environments. While no air rifle is completely silent, the Mach 1 is impressively discreet—especially when using heavier pellets.

For shooters who demand control and accuracy, the CAT (Custom Action Trigger) allows independent adjustment of the 1st and 2nd stages, so you can fine-tune the pull to your liking. This level of trigger customization is rare at this price point and greatly enhances the rifle’s precision potential. The included Gamo 3-9×40 scope ensures you’re equipped to make accurate shots right out of the box.The Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) is another key feature—absorbing nearly 100% of the recoil stress on the scope, which not only preserves your optics but also helps maintain zero over time.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: .22

• Velocity: Up to 1020 FPS (with lead pellets)

• Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 Gas Piston (33mm cylinder)

• Trigger: CAT (Custom Action Trigger) – adjustable 2-stage

• Scope: Gamo 3-9×40 included

• Stock: All-weather synthetic, ambidextrous cheek piece

• Noise Dampening: Whisper Fusion (dual chamber sound suppression)

• Rail System: RRR (Recoil Reducing Rail)

• Warranty: 5-Year Limited Warranty

Pros

• Extremely quiet – ideal for backyard shooting with Whisper Fusion

• Powerful .22 caliber performance – up to 1020 fps

• Smooth, consistent shooting – gas piston eliminates vibration

• Customizable trigger – CAT system allows personal tuning

• RRR system protects scope from recoil

• Includes high-quality 3-9×40 scope

• Durable and weather-resistant stock

• Excellent for both small game hunting and target shooting

Cons

• Single-shot break barrel – slower follow-up shots than magazine-fed rifles

3.Umarex Gauntlet 2 PCP

 

The Umarex Gauntlet 2 in .30 caliber is a serious upgrade to an already iconic air rifle platform. Building on the overwhelming success of the original Gauntlet, the Gauntlet 2 introduces more air capacity, more shot count, higher energy output, and greater customization—all while keeping the features that made the original a fan favorite for backyard shooting, hunting, and target practice.One of the most impressive aspects of the Gauntlet 2 is its ability to launch .30 caliber pellets at up to 1000 fps, delivering up to 100 foot-pounds of energy—which is serious stopping power in an airgun. It’s built around a 4,500 PSI air tank regulated at 2,800 PSI, providing up to 25 consistent shots per fill. This consistent power output is thanks to its state-of-the-art pressure regulator, ensuring each shot hits with reliable strength and accuracy.

Whether you’re plinking in the backyard or hunting medium-sized game, this rifle provides the performance and range you need—with the quiet and recoil-free operation that makes PCP air rifles ideal for backyard use.The Gauntlet 2 brings a new level of modularity to PCP shooting. With slots for M-LOK accessories, an adjustable cheek piece, and a tunable hammer spring, you can customize the rifle’s feel and performance to suit your preferences. It also includes a threaded muzzle for additional suppression or muzzle devices.The large, knurled bolt handle is easy to grip and operate, and the quick-disconnect sling mount adds convenience for hunters on the move. It comes standard with two 7-round rotary magazines, a single-shot tray, and a degassing tool, offering flexibility for every shooting style.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: .30

• Velocity: Up to 1000 FPS

• Energy: Up to 100 ft-lbs

• Powerplant: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

• Max Fill Pressure: 4,500 PSI

• Regulated Pressure: 2,800 PSI

• Shot Count: Up to 25 consistent shots per fill

• Magazine Capacity: 7-shot rotary (includes 2 mags + single-shot tray)

• Trigger: Adjustable single-stage

• Stock Features: Adjustable cheek rest, M-LOK slots

• Other Features: Threaded muzzle, degassing tool, sling mount

Pros

• Extremely powerful – perfect for backyard big bore shooting and small-to-medium game

• Highly customizable – adjustable trigger, cheek rest, and hammer spring

• Consistent shot performance – regulated pressure keeps FPS steady

• Includes essential accessories – rotary mags, single-shot tray, degasser

• Ergonomic and tactical design – comfortable, easy to handle, M-LOK compatible

• Smooth operation – large bolt handle and pre-tuned mods for better user experience

Cons

• Requires high-pressure air fill (4500 PSI) – may need a dedicated compressor or tank

4.Gamo Swarm Maxxim G2

 

 

The Gamo Swarm Maxxim G2 stands out as one of the most innovative and reliable break barrel air rifles available for backyard plinking and small game hunting. Engineered with Gamo’s cutting-edge technology, this rifle combines power, accuracy, and convenience in a sleek, modern design that’s both lightweight and user-friendly. Whether you’re managing pests or enjoying target shooting, the G2 delivers a smooth and satisfying shooting experience.

At the core of the Gamo Swarm Maxxim G2 is its 10X GEN2 Quick-Shot Technology, a significant upgrade from the first generation. This revolutionary system uses a horizontally mounted 10-round rotary magazine, allowing for rapid-fire shooting without the need to reload between each shot. It’s as simple as breaking the barrel and firing—ideal for fast-paced shooting scenarios where time counts.

The IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas piston replaces the traditional coiled spring, resulting in smoother cocking, reduced vibration, and increased consistency shot after shot. In .22 caliber, it delivers a potent velocity of up to 1000 feet per second, making it perfect for dispatching pests like squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and other small game with ease and precision. For those who prefer higher velocities for lighter targets, the .177 caliber version clocks in at 1300 FPS.

Gamo’s proprietary Whisper Maxxim sound suppression system features two noise-dampening chambers, significantly reducing the rifle’s sound signature—ideal for backyard use where noise levels are a concern. The SWA (ShockWave Absorber) recoil pad further enhances comfort, reducing recoil impact and making long shooting sessions more enjoyable.

Key Specifications

• Caliber Options: .177 Cal (1300 FPS), .22 Cal (1000 FPS)

• Powerplant: IGT Gas Piston

• Magazine: 10-shot rotary, horizontal magazine (GEN2)

• Trigger: CAT (Custom Action Trigger) – 2-stage adjustable

• Scope Included: Gamo 3-9×40 (shockproof and fogproof) with mounts

• Noise Dampening: Whisper Maxxim Technology

• Recoil Reduction: Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) and SWA Recoil Pad

• Energy Output: Approx. 17.8 foot-pounds (in .22 cal)

• Weight & Dimensions: 30 lbs cocking effort, 15” length of pull

• Made in: Barcelona, Spain

• Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

Pros

• Rapid Reloading – 10-shot rotary magazine enables fast, follow-up shots without reloading.
• Powerful and Accurate – Delivers high energy and pinpoint precision, especially in .22 caliber.
• Quiet Operation – Whisper Maxxim makes it backyard-friendly by reducing noise levels.
• Smooth Cocking – IGT gas piston provides consistent and low-vibration shooting.
• Comfortable Shooting – SWA pad and customizable CAT trigger improve user control and experience.
• Durable and Reliable – Comes with a solid 3-9×40 scope and Gamo’s Recoil Reducing Rail.
• Compact Design – Low-profile magazine integration keeps the rifle sleek and balanced.
• Integrated Magazine Storage – Built-in stock compartment for spare magazines.

Cons

• Scope Quality is Average – Included scope may need upgrading for serious long-range accuracy.

5.Air Venturi Avenger