Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control

5 Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control

Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control offer a powerful and practical solution for managing larger nuisance animals without the use of traditional firearms. Designed to deliver high-impact performance while remaining within airgun regulations, these rifles are ideal for ethically controlling pests such as coyotes, wild hogs, and raccoons. With calibers ranging from .357 to .50, they provide the stopping power necessary for humane dispatch, all while maintaining a quieter, more controlled shooting experience. Whether you’re a landowner, rancher, or outdoor enthusiast, investing in a reliable big bore air rifle ensures effective pest management with precision, safety, and confidence.

Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control

1. Benjamin Armada (.25 Caliber)

benjamin armada

 

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The Benjamin Armada (.25 Caliber) is a standout in the world of precision air rifles, earning its place among the best non-lethal big bore air rifles for pest control. Built with a tactical, modular design and powered by pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) technology, the Armada delivers reliable performance for both medium-sized pest dispatching and precision target shooting.

With its ability to fire pellets at speeds up to 900 feet per second, the Benjamin Armada offers more than enough knockdown power for raccoons, possums, groundhogs, and similar pests, while still being far quieter and safer to use in residential or semi-rural settings compared to firearms. Its .25 caliber rifled barrel ensures impressive accuracy, while a 4-16x50mm riflescope with multi-coated optics provides a crystal-clear sight picture for confident, humane shots at 50–75 yards.

The reversible bolt-action accommodates both right- and left-handed shooters, and the rifle’s machined receiver and extended 5-inch Picatinny rail give you plenty of real estate to mount accessories like lights, lasers, or alternate optics. The included bipod stabilizes your shots in the field or at the range, improving consistency even at longer distances. Its 8-round rotary magazine allows for multiple quick follow-up shots—an asset when dealing with more than one target or when a second shot is needed.

Whether you’re a seasoned airgunner or looking for a high-performance pest control solution, the Armada’s quiet operation, modular flexibility, and top-tier components make it a serious tool for the job.

Specifications:

  • Caliber: .25

  • Velocity: Up to 900 FPS

  • Power Source: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

  • Action: Reversible bolt-action

  • Magazine: 8-round rotary clip

  • Barrel: Rifled

  • Scope: 4-16x50mm with multi-coated lens

  • Rail: 5-inch Picatinny for optics and accessories

  • Included: Bipod, scope, magazine

  • Air Pressure Gauge: Onboard for easy monitoring

Pros:

  • High velocity (.25 cal @ 900 FPS) – ideal for mid-size pest control

  • Quiet and powerful – suitable for backyard or field use

  • Excellent scope included – clear optics for long-range precision

  • Modular build – compatible with AR-style accessories

  • Ambidextrous bolt – comfortable for right- or left-handed users

  • Stable shooting platform with included bipod

  • Multi-shot capability – 8-round rotary mag allows fast follow-ups

  • Trusted brand – Benjamin has a long-standing reputation in airguns

Cons:

  • Heavier than entry-level PCPs – may not be ideal for younger shooters

2.Benjamin Bulldog .357

benjamin bulldog

 

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The Benjamin Bulldog .357 represents a bold step forward in airgun innovation and power, making it a top contender among non-lethal big bore air rifles for pest control. Designed for serious airgunners who want high performance in a compact platform, the Bulldog blends power, portability, and tactical functionality in a rugged and surprisingly quiet package.

At just 36 inches overall, this bullpup-configured PCP rifle is built for maneuverability—perfect for tight spaces like barns, sheds, or thick brush. Its synthetic stock adds durability without unnecessary weight, and its reversible sidelever bolt-action allows for left- or right-handed use, a valuable feature for versatility in the field.

What sets the Bulldog apart is its baffle-less SoundTrap sound suppression system, which significantly reduces noise without compromising on power. With its .357 caliber rifled-steel barrel, the Bulldog launches projectiles at up to 910 feet per second, giving it more than enough punch to humanely dispatch medium to large pests such as coyotes, groundhogs, raccoons, or even feral hogs—without crossing into lethal firearm territory.

A 26-inch Picatinny rail provides ample space for mounting scopes, lights, or other accessories, and the included 5-shot magazine ensures quick follow-ups if needed. It even comes with a cleaning kit, adding value and readiness out of the box.

The Bulldog’s combination of tactical design, raw power, and surprising quietness makes it an ideal choice for pest control where discretion, control, and accuracy matter most.

Specifications:

  • Caliber: .357

  • Velocity: Up to 910 FPS

  • Power Source: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

  • Action: Reversible sidelever bolt

  • Barrel: Rifled steel

  • Magazine: 5-shot rotary magazine

  • Sound Suppression: Baffle-less SoundTrap system

  • Rail: 26-inch Picatinny for optics/accessories

  • Length: 36 inches overall (bullpup configuration)

  • Included: Magazine and cleaning kit

Pros:

  • Compact bullpup design – great for tight spaces and field use

  • High-velocity .357 caliber – suitable for larger pests and varmint control

  • Quiet operation – SoundTrap tech reduces report significantly

  • Reversible bolt – accommodates left- and right-handed users

  • Long Picatinny rail – customize with optics and accessories

  • Tough synthetic build – rugged and weather-resistant

  • Multi-shot capability – 5-shot magazine included

  • Ready-to-go – comes with a cleaning kit for maintenance

Cons:

  • Heavier recoil and air usage compared to smaller calibers

3.Seneca Dragon Claw II .50 Caliber PCP Dual Tank Air Rifle

Seneca Recluse .357 Caliber PCP Air Rifle

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The Seneca Dragon Claw II .50 Caliber PCP Dual Tank Air Rifle is a powerhouse designed for airgun hunters who need serious stopping power in a non-lethal format. Ideal for controlling larger pests and varmints, the Dragon Claw II merges classic design with impressive modern engineering. Whether you’re dealing with feral hogs, coyotes, or other medium-to-large nuisances, this rifle offers the precision, power, and flexibility to handle it all—without relying on traditional firearms.

This single-shot bolt-action rifle delivers a remarkable range of velocity options depending on the ammo type: up to 860 fps with 177-grain round balls, 340 fps with heavy 336-grain slugs, and up to 600 fps with Seneca Air Bolts. These varied options give you the ability to choose your projectile based on your target size and desired penetration. The longer cocking handle makes operating the bolt smoother, while the rifled barrel ensures solid accuracy, even at extended ranges.

The Dragon Claw II’s dual 500cc air tanks (1,000cc total) provide a robust air supply, with a max fill pressure of 3,000 psi, allowing for multiple high-powered shots before needing a refill. A built-in manometer keeps pressure monitoring convenient, and the Foster quick-disconnect fitting simplifies recharging. The hardwood Monte Carlo stock, with a raised cheekpiece and checkered forearm, adds a touch of classic elegance to this otherwise beastly air rifle.

Though this airgun is louder than some PCP models (rated 5 – High Loudness), it’s incredibly effective where legal and appropriate, especially for rural pest control scenarios where heavy-duty performance is more important than stealth. The 11mm dovetail rail allows compact scope mounting, while adjustable iron sights provide solid out-of-the-box targeting.

Specifications:

  • Caliber: .50

  • Velocity:

    • 177-grain round ball: up to 860 FPS

    • 336-grain slug: up to 340 FPS

    • Seneca Air Bolts: up to 600 FPS

  • Action: Single-shot bolt-action (longer cocking handle)

  • Propulsion: PCP with dual 500cc tanks (1,000cc total)

  • Fill Pressure: Max 3,000 PSI

  • Sights: Fixed front, adjustable/removable rear, 11mm rail

  • Stock: Hardwood Monte Carlo with raised cheekpiece

  • Barrel: Rifled steel

  • Overall Length: 42.1 inches

  • Weight: 8.5 lbs

  • Trigger Pull: 7.5 lbs

  • Loudness: 5 – High

  • Suggested Use: Pest control, medium/large game hunting

Pros:

  • Immense power – Ideal for large pests and heavy-duty pest control

  • Multiple ammo compatibility – Round balls, slugs, and air bolts

  • Dual air tanks – Longer shot count between fills

  • Classic wooden stock – Durable and comfortable

  • Rifled barrel – Enhanced accuracy

  • Adjustable sights & scope rail – Versatile aiming options

  • Smooth bolt-action – Longer handle for easy cocking

  • Quick-fill Foster fitting – Easy refilling process

Cons:

  • Loud report – Not ideal for quiet or suburban environments

4. Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Air Rifle

umarex

 

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The Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Air Rifle easily earns its place among the best big bore air rifles for pest control. Touted as the most powerful production air rifle on the planet, the Hammer delivers exceptional stopping power while maintaining safety and control—ideal for dealing with invasive or larger nuisance animals in rural environments.

The Hammer is designed with a focus on impact. Instead of carrying energy through the target, it dumps a massive amount of force directly into it, making for effective and humane dispatch of even the most resilient pests such as wild hogs, coyotes, and large ground predators. With its ultralight 4500 PSI, 24-cubic inch carbon fiber air tank, this rifle delivers four full-power regulated shots per fill, plus one follow-up finishing shot.

Despite the immense power (up to 1130 FPS with .50 cal pellets), the Hammer operates very quietly thanks to its advanced internal engineering, making it suitable for use in areas where discretion is key. The rifle also features a modern tactical stock with M-LOK slots for accessories and a full-length Picatinny rail for optics, offering versatility in field configurations.

The straight-pull bolt action is engineered for speed and ease of use, with a 2-pound trigger pull and 2 inches of travel—ideal for accurate follow-up shots. It comes with two 2-shot linear magazines, and built-in safeties include a magazine lock-out (preventing firing without a mag inserted) and a trigger block safety, ensuring confident and secure handling.

Specifications:

  • Caliber: .50

  • Velocity: Up to 1130 FPS with .50 cal pellets

  • Power Source: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

  • Air Tank: 4500 PSI, 24-cu in carbon fiber

  • Shot Count: 4 full-power regulated shots + 1 follow-up

  • Magazine: Two 2-shot linear mags included

  • Action: Straight-pull bolt, 2 lb. pull weight, 2” travel

  • Mounting: M-LOK accessory slots, Picatinny optics rail

  • Safety: Trigger block & mag lock-out

  • Sound: Very quiet operation

  • Compatible Spare Mag: Part #2252637

Pros:

  • Extreme power – One of the most powerful air rifles available

  • Efficient energy transfer – Ideal for humane pest dispatch

  • Quiet for its class – Reduced sound signature despite massive output

  • Regulated shots – Consistent power over four accurate shots

  • Modern tactical design – Includes M-LOK and Picatinny for accessories

  • Straight-pull bolt – Fast, smooth cycling

  • Enhanced safety – Two safeties for secure operation

  • Compact magazines – Quick reloads with included 2-shot mags

Cons:

  • Limited shot count per fill – Just 4 full-power shots per tank

5 Hatsan PileDriver .50 Cal Big Bore PCP Air Rifle

hatsan

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The Hatsan PileDriver .50 Cal Big Bore PCP Air Rifle is a commanding option. Designed for maximum impact with precision, this rifle stands out for its incredible muzzle energy, customizable ergonomics, and rugged build—all essential for managing larger nuisance animals in rural or remote areas.

The PileDriver features a genuine bullpup design, making it surprisingly compact for its power level. Though it’s manually loaded and uses a side-lever action, the handling remains smooth and intuitive. What makes this rifle truly unique is its gas piston hammer spring design, which not only boosts durability but also helps deliver consistent, powerful shots every time you pull the trigger.

At up to 850 feet per second and delivering an astonishing 800 ft/lbs of muzzle energy, the Hatsan PileDriver is more than capable of humanely taking down large pests such as wild hogs, coyotes, or even invasive exotics—without relying on traditional firearms. While overkill for small pests, this rifle excels in high-impact scenarios where raw energy and stopping power are critical.

The ergonomic customization is a major plus: the locking elevation-adjustable cheek rest and angle-adjustable, soft rubberized butt pad allow shooters to fine-tune the fit for comfort and stability. The long optics rail accommodates both 11mm and Picatinny scope mounts, ensuring compatibility with your favorite optics for long-range targeting.

Specifications:

  • Caliber: .50

  • Velocity: Up to 850 FPS

  • Muzzle Energy: 800 ft/lbs

  • Power Source: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

  • Action: Manual loading, side-lever bolt

  • Design: Bullpup configuration

  • Hammer Spring: Gas piston

  • Cheek Rest: Locking elevation adjustable

  • Butt Pad: Elevation & angle adjustable, soft rubberized

  • Optics Rail: Accepts 11mm and Picatinny mounts

  • Included: 1 x Hatsan PileDriver .50 Cal PCP Air Rifle

Pros:

  • Massive stopping power – Ideal for controlling large or dangerous pests

  • Compact bullpup design – Maneuverable despite its power

  • Gas piston hammer system – Reliable, consistent performance

  • Highly customizable fit – Adjustable cheek rest and butt pad

  • Flexible optics mounting – Supports 11mm and Picatinny rails

  • Solid build quality – Built for rugged field use

  • Quiet for its size – PCP system minimizes report for discreet shooting

Cons:

  • Single-shot loading – Slower follow-up shots

Also read;5 Best Scope for Big Bore Air Rifle

Factor to Consider when Choosing Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control

1. Caliber & Stopping Power

When choosing a big bore air rifle for pest control, caliber is crucial. Most effective models use calibers from .357 to .50, which deliver significant energy to humanely dispatch larger nuisance animals like coyotes, wild hogs, or raccoons. While non-lethal by firearm standards, these airguns can produce muzzle energy exceeding 700–800 ft/lbs, ensuring clean, ethical pest control. Match the caliber and energy output to the size of the pests you’re targeting to avoid under- or overkill.

2. Velocity & Projectile Compatibility

Velocity determines not only projectile speed but also accuracy and impact. Depending on the ammo, top big bore air rifles can shoot at 600–1130 FPS, allowing for excellent terminal performance. Some models are versatile enough to fire round balls, slugs, and even air bolts, giving you tactical flexibility depending on the environment and target. High velocity is particularly important when you need flatter trajectories or longer-range accuracy.

3. Shot Count & Air Efficiency

One of the biggest limitations of big bore airguns is the number of full-power shots per fill. Since most use pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) systems, models like the Umarex Hammer or Seneca Dragon Claw II offer 3–5 regulated full-power shots, which is generally enough for pest control engagements. Rifles with larger or dual air reservoirs, such as the Seneca Dragon Claw’s 500cc dual tank system, allow for more consistency and less frequent refills, which is essential in field conditions.

4. Noise Level & Sound Suppression

For pest control—especially in semi-rural or suburban areas—quiet operation is important. While big bore rifles are inherently louder than smaller calibers, features like baffle-less sound traps (Hatsan or Benjamin Bulldog) or internal suppression systems (Umarex Hammer) greatly reduce noise without compromising power. Lower sound levels not only protect your hearing but help prevent scaring off other pests or alarming nearby neighbors.

5. Ergonomics & Stock Adjustability

Ergonomics directly affect how well you handle the rifle in the field. Adjustable components like cheek rests, butt pads, and bullpup configurations (short overall length) make rifles more comfortable to carry and aim. The Hatsan PileDriver’s elevation-adjustable cheek rest and butt pad, for instance, allow shooters to dial in a perfect fit for consistent accuracy and control—even during long outings.

6. Optics & Mounting Options

Most big bore air rifles do not come with iron sights and require the use of scopes or red dots for accurate shooting. Therefore, a robust and versatile optics rail, such as a Picatinny or 11mm dovetail (or both), is essential. Whether it’s the long rail on the Benjamin Armada or the hybrid mounts on the Hatsan PileDriver, the ability to securely attach optics ensures you can dial in shots for humane, ethical pest removal.

7. Safety Features

Safety is paramount, especially when dealing with high-powered air rifles. The best models include mechanisms such as trigger block safeties, magazine lock-outs (won’t fire without a mag), and manual safeties. These features help prevent accidental discharge during transport or handling—critical when you’re moving through brush or working in dynamic pest control situations.

8. Ease of Maintenance & Support

Durability and ease of upkeep matter, particularly if you’ll be using your air rifle regularly. Models like the Benjamin Bulldog and Seneca Dragon Claw II come with cleaning kits, quick-disconnect fill ports, and are supported by widely available spare parts and accessories. Choosing a model from a reputable manufacturer ensures you’ll have long-term service support, parts availability, and a smoother ownership experience.

Frequent Asked Question Best Non-Lethal Big Bore Air Rifles for Pest Control

1. Are big bore air rifles truly non-lethal?

Answer: Big bore air rifles are considered non-lethal alternatives to traditional firearms, but they can still deliver lethal force to animals if used improperly. Their non-lethal classification refers to their use in pest control or hunting without firearm regulations in some areas. However, their high power (up to 800+ ft/lbs) can be fatal to medium or large animals, so they must be used responsibly, ethically, and within legal guidelines.

2. What size pests are big bore air rifles best suited for?

Answer: Big bore air rifles (.357 to .50 caliber) are best suited for medium to large nuisance animals, such as raccoons, coyotes, wild hogs, and groundhogs. They are overpowered for small pests like birds, rats, or squirrels and are generally not recommended for indoor or close-range pest control unless specialized ammunition or lower-powered models are used.

3. How many shots can I expect per air tank fill?

Answer: Shot count depends on the model and air tank capacity. Most powerful big bore air rifles, like the Umarex Hammer or Seneca Dragon Claw II, offer 3 to 5 full-power shots per 3000–4500 PSI fill. Some rifles with dual tanks or regulated valves provide better efficiency. For longer pest control sessions, a SCBA tank or portable compressor is recommended to quickly refill in the field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best non-lethal big bore air rifle for pest control requires careful consideration of power, precision, shot efficiency, and usability in real-world field conditions. These rifles offer a powerful yet firearm-free solution for managing larger nuisance animals, delivering ethical and effective results when used responsibly. From velocity and caliber to ergonomics and safety features, each element plays a vital role in ensuring both humane dispatch and user confidence. Whether you’re protecting property, livestock, or managing invasive species, the right air rifle offers a reliable, quiet, and practical tool for responsible pest control.