5 Best Air Rifle with over 1200 FPS

Best Air Rifle with over 1200 FPS models are designed for shooters who demand exceptional power, speed, and performance. These high-velocity air rifles are capable of delivering flat trajectories, deep penetration, and impressive energy—making them ideal for small game hunting, pest control, and long-range target shooting. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a serious target shooter, rifles in this category offer advanced features like gas piston powerplants, noise suppression systems, and multi-shot capabilities to elevate your shooting experience to the next level.

Best Air Rifle with over 1200 FPS

1. Umarex Octane Elite

The Umarex Octane Elite is a powerhouse among modern break barrel air rifles, engineered for shooters who demand both speed and stability. As an upgraded version of the original Umarex Octane, this model integrates advanced features that enhance performance, shooting comfort, and stealth—making it an ideal choice for small game hunting, pest control, and precision target shooting.

At the heart of the Octane Elite lies the Umarex ReAxis Power System, a uniquely engineered gas piston that reverses the traditional orientation of the piston mechanism. This innovative design allows for increased power stroke, resulting in higher impact force and a velocity of up to 1400 FPS with .177 caliber alloy pellets. Whether you’re hunting or honing your marksmanship skills, this power translates into flatter trajectories and extended effective range.

One of the standout features is the Umarex StopShox™ anti-recoil and anti-vibration system, which minimizes felt recoil and internal vibration. This technology makes the rifle more comfortable to shoot over longer sessions and helps preserve the integrity of the included 3-9x40mm rifle scope. The optic, along with mounting rings, comes standard with the rifle, making it range-ready right out of the box.

In terms of noise suppression, the Octane Elite doesn’t disappoint. The 5-chamber SilencAir sound dampener is permanently affixed to the barrel and dramatically reduces the report. This makes it an excellent option for shooters who value stealth and want to avoid disturbing neighbors or scaring away small game.

The newly designed rugged composite stock ensures durability in the field while maintaining a balanced and ergonomic feel. Whether in wet or rough terrain, this rifle holds up well and offers a reliable grip and stable shooting stance.

Specifications:

• Caliber: .177

• Powerplant: ReAxis Gas Piston System

• Velocity: Up to 1400 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Sound Suppression: 5-Chamber SilencAir Dampener

• Stock: Rugged synthetic composite

• Optics: Included 3-9x40mm scope with mounting rings

• Recoil Reduction: Umarex StopShox Anti-Recoil Technology

• Action: Break barrel, single-shot

Pros:

• Impressive 1400 FPS velocity ideal for pest control and hunting

• Advanced StopShox technology reduces recoil and improves shooting comfort

• Integrated SilencAir suppressor keeps shooting discreet and quiet

• Durable composite stock suitable for all weather and terrain conditions

• Includes high-quality scope for long-distance precision

• ReAxis gas piston offers smooth cocking and consistent power

 Cons:

• Slightly heavy compared to basic break barrels

2.Crosman Valiant SBD

The Crosman Valiant SBD in .177 caliber stands out as one of the best air rifles delivering over 1200 FPS, making it a perfect companion for small game hunting, backyard pest control, and high-speed plinking. Built with both tradition and innovation in mind, the Valiant fuses classic materials like hardwood with modern technologies like SBD Gold sound suppression, offering shooters the best of both worlds—power, precision, and discretion.

This breakbarrel air rifle boasts a rifled steel barrel and a clean hardwood stock, giving it both rugged durability and a traditional, comfortable feel. The rifled barrel ensures improved accuracy by imparting proper spin to pellets, while the hardwood design adds weight and stability for more controlled aiming, especially useful when lining up shots on fast-moving targets.

At its core, the Valiant is all about speed and silence. It can fire .177 caliber alloy pellets at speeds of up to 1400 FPS, providing ample knockdown power for small game. Thanks to the SBD Gold (Silencing Barrel Device), it remains one of the quietest rifles in its class. This market-leading sound suppression system significantly reduces downrange noise, making it a smart option for discreet backyard use or stealthy hunting scenarios.

Another highlight is the adjustable two-stage Clean Break Trigger, which provides a crisp, predictable pull—essential for delivering tight groupings and precision shots. To round out the performance package, Crosman includes a CenterPoint 4x32mm scope, giving shooters a clear, magnified view for better accuracy and target tracking at varying ranges.

 Specifications:

• Caliber: .177

• Powerplant: Breakbarrel, Nitro Piston Elite

• Velocity: Up to 1400 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Barrel: Rifled steel

• Trigger: Adjustable two-stage Clean Break Trigger

• Stock: Hardwood

• Noise Suppression: SBD Gold (Silencing Barrel Device)

• Scope: CenterPoint 4x32mm with mounting rings

• Purpose: Small game hunting, pest control, target shooting

 Pros:

• High velocity (1400 FPS) ideal for hunting and long-range shots

• SBD Gold offers market-leading sound suppression for stealth shooting

• Clean Break Trigger enhances shooting control and accuracy

• Comes with CenterPoint 4x32mm scope for better target acquisition

• Hardwood stock provides durability and classic styling

• Easy-to-use breakbarrel design with smooth cocking action

• Great choice for small game hunting and backyard shooting

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than synthetic stock models

3.Benjamin Trail NP XL Magnum

The Benjamin Trail NP XL Magnum in .177 caliber is a high-performance break barrel air rifle that packs serious punch with speeds reaching up to 1500 FPS. Designed for seasoned hunters and accuracy-focused shooters, this rifle is part of Benjamin’s legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. It’s built to deliver exceptional speed, power, and precision—all while significantly reducing noise and recoil for a smoother shooting experience in the field.

This air rifle features a checkered hardwood stock paired with a rifled steel barrel, giving it both a premium feel and lasting durability. The classic wood finish adds aesthetic appeal, while the checkering provides a firm, slip-resistant grip—crucial for steady aiming in various weather conditions. The rifled barrel ensures tight pellet groupings, improving accuracy even at extended distances.

What sets the Trail NP XL apart is its Nitro Piston (NP) technology, which allows for smoother cocking, less vibration, and up to 70% less noise compared to traditional spring-piston rifles. This makes it more enjoyable to shoot, especially during extended sessions or stealth hunting trips. And with up to 1500 FPS velocity, it easily handles small game hunting, varmint control, and long-range target shooting with authority.

Enhancing its precision is the included CenterPoint 3-9x40mm scope, which comes with an adjustable objective and range-estimating reticle. Whether you’re dialing in for close-range accuracy or long-distance shots, this scope makes the Trail NP XL field-ready straight out of the box. Additionally, a built-in Picatinny rail allows you to mount extra accessories like lasers or flashlights for more tactical applications.

Specifications:

• Caliber: .177

• Velocity: Up to 1500 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Powerplant: Break barrel with Nitro Piston technology

• Barrel: Rifled steel

• Stock: Checkered hardwood

• Noise Suppression: 70% quieter than spring-powered models

• Recoil: Reduced for smoother handling

• Scope: CenterPoint Optics 3-9x40mm with AO and range-estimating reticle

• Rail: Picatinny for accessories

• Best For: Small game hunting, pest control, target shooting

Pros:

• Blazing 1500 FPS velocity perfect for small game and long-range shooting

• Significantly reduced noise and recoil thanks to Nitro Piston technology

• Rugged hardwood stock adds classic styling and improved grip

• High-quality CenterPoint 3-9x40mm scope enhances long-range accuracy

• Picatinny rail allows for easy attachment of accessories

• Smooth cocking action improves usability in the field

Cons:

• Slightly heavier due to wood construction and scope

4.Hatsan MOD 125 Sniper Vortex QE

The Hatsan MOD 125 Sniper Vortex QE in .177 caliber is an elite breakbarrel air rifle that delivers incredible velocity—up to 1550 FPS—making it one of the most powerful in its class. Designed for serious shooters and hunters, it combines raw speed, noise reduction, and customizability, all while packaged in a rugged, camo-finished design. Whether you’re targeting small game or honing your skills on the range, this rifle offers serious performance right out of the box.

Included in the package is everything a shooter needs to get started: 100 paper targets, a 500-count pack of .177 caliber lead pellets, and of course, the MOD 125 Sniper Vortex QE air rifle itself. This bundle not only adds value but also ensures you’re equipped for immediate field or range action.

The heart of this rifle is its Vortex Gas Piston system, which provides smoother cocking, consistent power, and better cold-weather performance compared to spring-piston rifles. Combined with a fully shrouded QuietEnergy barrel and integrated sound moderator, the MOD 125 is up to 50% quieter, allowing for stealthier shooting—ideal when hunting or shooting in noise-sensitive environments.

Another standout feature is the Quattro Trigger, Hatsan’s fully adjustable two-stage match-grade trigger. It allows for precision tuning of pull weight, travel, and release point, giving shooters greater control and accuracy. Additionally, the rifle comes equipped with a combo scope rail (11mm and 22mm), providing flexible mounting options for optics of your choice.

Specifications:

• Caliber: .177

• Max Velocity: Up to 1,550 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Powerplant: Vortex Gas Piston

• Barrel: QuietEnergy fully shrouded barrel with sound moderator

• Stock: Tactical camo synthetic, Sniper-style design

• Trigger: Quattro 2-stage adjustable trigger

• Rail: Combo 11mm and 22mm dovetail/weaver

• Included Accessories:

  • 1x Pack of 100 Paper Targets

  • 1x Pack of 500x .177 Cal Lead Pellets

  • 1x Hatsan MOD 125 Sniper QE Air Rifle (Camo)

 Pros:

• Incredible 1550 FPS power ideal for small game and long-range shooting

• QuietEnergy barrel significantly reduces shooting noise

• Vortex Gas Piston provides smoother operation with less vibration

• Quattro Trigger allows precision tuning for improved accuracy

• Tactical camo stock is rugged, durable, and field-ready

• Complete starter bundle includes pellets and targets

• Dual-rail system accommodates a wide range of scopes and accessories

 Cons:

• Heavier than average air rifles—may not suit smaller or younger shooters

5.Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i is one of the most advanced and powerful break barrel air rifles available today, delivering up to 1,650 FPS in .177 caliber with alloy pellets. Designed with innovation in mind, this rifle is a perfect fusion of power, precision, and cutting-edge technology, making it a standout choice for small game hunters, pest controllers, and serious target shooters.

What truly sets the Swarm Magnum apart is its 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed Magazine, Gamo’s third-generation rapid-reload technology. Unlike traditional rotary magazines, this horizontal inertia-fed system uses the recoil energy of the shot to cycle the next pellet smoothly into the breech. The result is a more compact and low-profile system that enables faster, more reliable follow-up shots—without interrupting your shooting rhythm. You get 10 shots without reloading, a huge advantage in the field.

Powering this beast is Gamo’s IGT Mach 1 gas piston, housed in a massive 33mm cylinder that delivers more energy, less vibration, and greater consistency than standard spring-piston systems. This next-generation propulsion system not only improves terminal velocity but also enhances shooting comfort by reducing recoil and noise. Speaking of noise, the rifle comes equipped with Whisper Fusion, Gamo’s quietest sound suppression technology, which uses a dual-stage moderator to dramatically reduce report—making it ideal for quiet shooting environments.

Accuracy is enhanced through the CAT (Custom Action Trigger) system, which lets shooters independently adjust both the first and second trigger stages to suit personal preference. To top it all off, the rifle includes a Gamo 3-9x40mm shockproof and fogproof scope, mounted on a Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR) to protect optics from powerful recoil while improving accuracy.

 Specifications:

• Caliber: .177

• Velocity: Up to 1,650 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Powerplant: IGT Mach 1 Gas Piston

• Action: Single cocking break barrel

• Magazine: 10X GEN3i Inertia Fed, 10-shot capacity

• Trigger: CAT – Custom Action Trigger, 2-stage adjustable

• Scope: Gamo 3-9x40mm (shockproof & fogproof) with Recoil Reducing Rail

• Noise Suppression: Whisper Fusion Technology

• Energy Output: 26.6 FPE (Foot Pounds of Energy)

• Trigger Pull: 3.2 lbs (1st stage) / 2.6 lbs (2nd stage)

• Cocking Effort: 41 lbs

• Length of Pull: 15 inches

Pros:

• Extremely high velocity (1650 FPS) – among the fastest in its class

• 10X GEN3i magazine allows for quick 10-shot follow-up without reloading

• IGT Mach 1 gas piston provides smoother shooting with less vibration

• Whisper Fusion sound suppression makes it Gamo’s quietest model

• Adjustable CAT trigger improves shot control and precision

• Durable 3-9x40mm scope and RRR mount included for enhanced accuracy

• Ideal for small game hunting, pest control, and serious target shooting

Cons:

• Heavier cocking effort (41 lbs) may be challenging for smaller shooters

Alsoread;5 Best Ultra Powerful Airgun

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Air Rifle with Over 1200 FPS

1. Caliber Selection (.177 vs .22)

While .177 caliber pellets often achieve higher velocities (up to 1600+ FPS), .22 caliber pellets offer more stopping power. Choose .177 for flatter trajectory and speed, and .22 for more impact and knockdown energy—especially for hunting.

2. Powerplant Type (Gas Piston vs Spring vs PCP)

For high FPS air rifles, gas piston (IGT, Nitro Piston) and PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) systems are ideal. They provide smoother shots, reduced recoil, and better performance in cold weather than traditional spring-piston models.

3. Noise Suppression Technology

High-velocity shots are often loud. Look for rifles with integrated sound dampeners like Whisper Fusion, QuietEnergy, or SBD Gold to reduce noise for stealthy hunting and backyard use.

4. Accuracy and Barrel Quality

At over 1200 FPS, pellet stability becomes critical. Opt for a rifle with a rifled steel barrel and high-quality manufacturing to maintain accuracy despite high speeds. Too much speed can actually reduce accuracy without the right design.

5. Trigger Quality and Adjustability

A good trigger (like Gamo’s CAT or Hatsan’s Quattro) improves shot precision. Look for rifles with adjustable two-stage triggers to fine-tune your shooting experience.

6. Optics and Scope Compatibility

Many high-FPS air rifles come with scopes. Choose models with recoil-resistant, adjustable scopes and Picatinny or dovetail rails for mounting. A quality scope is essential for long-range accuracy.

7. Recoil and Cocking Effort

High-powered air rifles tend to have more recoil and may require greater cocking effort (40+ lbs). Look for models with recoil-reducing systems and ensure you can handle the cocking strength comfortably.

8. Intended Use: Hunting vs Target Shooting

Match the air rifle to your primary purpose. For small game hunting, prioritize power and energy (FPE). For target shooting, prioritize accuracy and shot consistency. The right balance ensures better performance for your specific needs.

Frequnt Asked Question Best Air Rifle with Over 1200 FPS