Best pellet for .177 air rifle,  is just as important as the rifle itself. Whether you’re a precision target shooter, a small game hunter, or a casual plinker, the type, shape, weight, and quality of the pellet can dramatically impact your accuracy, power, and overall shooting experience. With a wide variety of .177 pellets available—from domed and wadcutters to hollow points and polymer-tipped designs—each is tailored for specific purposes. In this guide, we explore some of the best .177 caliber pellets on the market, highlighting their features, performance, and what makes them stand out for different shooting needs.

Best Pellets for .177 Air Rifle

.1.Air Gun Pellets EXACT.177 Caliber

 

 

If you’re serious about air rifle accuracy, especially in the .177 caliber class, the JSB Match Diabolo Exact Express 7.87 gr pellets deserve a top spot in your ammo collection. Renowned for their superior build quality and precision engineering, these pellets are a favorite among both competitive shooters and small game hunters.

Exceptional Accuracy and Build Quality

One of the most notable features of the JSB Exact Express pellets is their incredible accuracy. Slightly lighter and shorter than the standard JSB Exact, the 7.87 gr weight provides higher velocity and a flatter trajectory, which translates into tighter groupings at typical air gun distances. Whether you’re punching paper targets or practicing at longer ranges, these pellets maintain their course with minimal deviation, thanks to their consistent shape and weight.

Each pellet is hand-selected during JSB’s quality control process, and this attention to detail shows in performance. The classic round nose design and smooth skirt help stabilize flight, making them suitable for a wide range of air guns, from springers to PCPs.

Designed for Long-Range Precision

While many .177 pellets struggle beyond 30 yards, the JSB Exact Express holds up remarkably well at extended ranges. The aerodynamic shape, combined with precise manufacturing, provides both stability and knockdown power, making it a viable option for small game hunting in addition to target shooting. These pellets excel in rifles tuned for mid to high power output.

Versatility for Shooters of All Levels

Thanks to their consistency and forgiving nature, the Exact Express is a great match for both beginners and seasoned shooters. They perform well across a wide range of rifles, making them a reliable go-to for tuning, testing, or everyday shooting.

Specifications

• Brand: JSB

• Model Name: PREI-546257-500

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)

• Weight: 7.87 grains

• Shape: Diabolo (Round Nose)

• Pellets per Tin: 500

• Color: Standard Lead

• Application: Target Shooting, Plinking, Light Hunting

• Country of Origin: Czech Republic

Pros

• Incredibly accurate and consistent

• Lightweight for higher speed and flatter trajectory

• Excellent for both target shooting and small game hunting

• Performs well at longer ranges

• High-quality manufacturing with hand-picked QC

• Suitable for a wide range of .177 air rifles

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than budget pellets

Soft lead can deform if not stored carefully

2.RWS R10 Match Plus Premium Line .177 Caliber pellet

 

 

For shooters who demand Olympic-level precision, the RWS R10 Match 8.2 gr pellets are a premium option that combines world-class engineering with elite-level consistency. Manufactured by Umarex (UX) under the trusted RWS brand, these pellets are the product of meticulous German craftsmanship, designed for serious target shooters and competitive marksmen.

Built for Precision and Competitive Edge

These heavy-weight .177 caliber pellets (8.2 grains) are part of the R10 Match Premium Line, which has been refined through decades of expertise in competitive shooting. They are especially effective in 10-meter air rifle and pistol competitions, where every fraction of a millimeter counts. The R10’s classic wadcutter design produces clean, crisp holes in paper targets—an essential feature for scoring in official matches.

RWS subjects each batch of these pellets to stringent quality control, including optoelectronic inspection that checks for dimensional consistency, perfect surface finish, and weight uniformity. This attention to detail means fewer flyers, tighter groups, and more predictable performance—traits that elite and aspiring shooters both depend on.

Design, Stability, and Materials

The R10 pellets are made from a specially developed lead blend and feature a spotless silver finish. Their shape is the classic diabolo profile with an optimized head plate, tail section, and skirt design to ensure maximum stability in flight. The 4.50mm head size ensures a snug barrel fit, reducing air loss and improving shot-to-shot consistency in match-grade rifles and pistols.

Thanks to a surface treatment that protects against oxidation, these pellets are also ideal for long-term storage without performance degradation—something competition shooters appreciate when stocking up for a season.

Specifications

• Brand: Umarex / RWS

• Model Name: 2315014

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)

• Pellet Weight: 8.2 grains

• Pellet Shape: Wadcutter

• Head Size: 4.50 mm

• Material: Lead blend

• Pellet Quantity: 500 per tin

• Color: Silver

• Style: Heavy Match Grade

• Intended Use: Competitive target shooting (10m), paper and field targets

Pros

• Exceptionally consistent pellet size and weight

• High precision and tight groupings for competitive shooting

• Wadcutter shape delivers clean holes in paper targets

• Optoelectronic inspection ensures elite quality control

• Optimized for match air pistols and rifles

• Protective surface finish resists oxidation

Cons

• Premium pricing compared to general-use pellets

Soft lead construction requires careful storage to avoid damage

3.JSB Match Diabolo Exact .177 Cal, 8.44 Grains, Domed, 500ct, 4.53mm

 

 

The JSB Diabolo Exact 8.44 gr pellet is a true benchmark in the air gun world, known for its superior consistency, accuracy, and versatility. Designed for high-performance shooting, these domed pellets are trusted by target shooters, plinkers, and hunters alike, thanks to their reliable trajectory and unmatched build quality.

Engineered for Precision and Stability

What sets the JSB Exact 8.44 gr apart is its perfect balance of weight and shape. At 8.44 grains, this pellet sits in the ideal mid-weight range for .177 caliber rifles, providing excellent velocity without sacrificing stability. The domed (round nose) design enhances aerodynamics, helping the pellet maintain energy over longer distances and improving wind resistance.

With a head size of 4.53mm, this variant offers a snug fit for barrels with slightly larger bore diameters. This tight engagement with the rifling helps maximize shot-to-shot consistency, which is critical for competitive shooters and hunters targeting small game at medium ranges.

JSB Quality: Consistency in Every Tin

JSB (Josef Schulz Bohumin) is known globally for their meticulous manufacturing processes. Each pellet is crafted with premium-grade lead, then hand-sorted and inspected to ensure there are no inconsistencies or deformations. This quality control means fewer flyers and tighter groups—exactly what every serious shooter is after.

Whether you’re shooting from a high-end PCP rifle or a tuned springer, the JSB Diabolo Exact pellets have proven to perform reliably across a broad range of airgun platforms.

 

Specifications

• Brand: JSB (JSB Match Diabolo)

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)

• Pellet Weight: 8.44 grains

• Head Size: 4.53mm

• Pellet Shape: Domed (Round Nose)

• Material: Lead

• Color: Lead grey (Red label tin)

• Quantity: 500 pellets per tin

• Intended Use: Target shooting, field target, small game hunting

Pros

• Exceptionally accurate—tight groupings even at extended ranges

• Mid-weight design offers great balance of speed and energy

• Domed shape enhances flight stability and wind resistance

• Hand-sorted quality with minimal pellet-to-pellet variation

• Versatile—great for both paper targets and small game hunting

• Performs well in most types of .177 rifles (PCP, spring, gas ram)

Cons

• Premium price compared to bulk/budget pellets
• Soft lead can deform if not stored carefully

 

4.PREDATOR INTERNATIONAL Polymag Short Air gun Pellets, 177 Cal, 8 Grains, 200 ct/400 ct (1010-01)

 

 

When it comes to small- to medium-game hunting with an air rifle, few pellets deliver the combination of power, precision, and expansion like the Predator Polymag Short. Manufactured by Predator International, these hybrid pellets are built for serious air gun hunters who demand reliable terminal performance with each shot.

Hybrid Design for Devastating Impact

The Polymag Short features a unique polymer-tipped hollow point design, setting it apart from standard lead pellets. The red polymer tip promotes better aerodynamics and ensures deep penetration, while the underlying hollow point cavity expands upon impact, maximizing energy transfer and creating devastating wound channels. Weighing in at 8 grains, it hits the sweet spot for combining velocity with retained energy downrange.

The “Short” version of the Polymag is specially designed for use in magazine-fed PCP rifles, where longer pellets can sometimes jam or fail to index correctly. This compact size offers excellent compatibility with a variety of air gun models while preserving the hard-hitting performance Polymags are known for.

Accurate and Lethal at Distance

Polymags are not just about power—they’re also shockingly accurate. The aerodynamic shape, high ballistic coefficient, and careful manufacturing process ensure flat trajectory and repeatable precision even at extended ranges. This makes them ideal for hunters pursuing game like squirrels, rabbits, crows, or even foxes, where a single, well-placed shot is crucial.

Each pellet is hand-picked and quality-checked, ensuring consistency in weight, shape, and performance. Whether you’re shooting from a high-powered PCP or a well-tuned springer, these pellets are ready to deliver.

Specifications

• Brand: Predator International

• Model Name: 1010-01

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)

• Pellet Weight: 8 grains

• Pellet Shape: Polymer-Tip Hollow Point

• Color: Silver with Red Tip

• Material: Lead core with polymer tip

• Quantity: 200 or 400 pellets per pack (varies by option)

• Intended Use: Hunting small to medium game, pest control, long-range accuracy

Pros

• Devastating expansion due to hollow point design

• Polymer tip ensures reliable penetration and flight stability

• Shorter length improves magazine compatibility in PCP rifles

• Incredible accuracy, even at longer ranges

• Ideal for hunting — effective on squirrels, rabbits, crows, and similar targets

• Hand-sorted quality control minimizes fliers and improves consistency

Cons

• Premium price compared to standard pellets

• Not ideal for paper targets or plinking — overkill for casual use

5.Umarex RWS Superdome Field Line Pellet Gun Pellets.177 Caliber, 8.3 Grains

The Umarex RWS Superdome Field Line .177 Caliber Pellets are a standout choice for airgun enthusiasts who demand reliability, accuracy, and versatile performance in a pellet. With its iconic “English Bulldog” design featuring a rounded head and rifled skirt, the Superdome has become a favorite among hunters and target shooters alike. These pellets are engineered to deliver excellent knock-down power, making them ideal for both precision shooting and small game hunting.

What truly sets the Superdome apart is its classic diabolo shape, combined with German-engineered consistency. The rifled skirt design ensures tight engagement with your barrel’s rifling, resulting in superior spin stability and improved trajectory control. Whether you’re plinking targets at 25 yards or dispatching pests at longer distances, the Superdome offers an ideal balance between penetration and expansion.

This pellet was recognized by American Airgunner’s Round Table as one of the Top 3 Go-To Pellets, and for good reason. The high-quality lead construction and weight optimization (8.3 grains in .177) allow for reliable performance across a wide range of air rifles and pistols. It’s especially effective in spring-piston and gas-piston air rifles, where its slightly heavier weight provides excellent energy retention and knockdown impact.

 Specifications

• Caliber: .177 (4.5 mm)

• Weight: 8.3 grains

• Pellet Count: 300 pellets per tin

• Design: Rounded (domed) head, rifled skirt (“English Bulldog” design)

• Material: Lead

• Shape: Diabolo

• Use Case: Hunting, Target Shooting, Plinking

• Manufacturer: RWS / Umarex

Pros

• Exceptional accuracy even at longer distances

• Rifled skirt improves air seal and flight stability

• High knockdown power suitable for small game

• Well-balanced weight for springers and PCP rifles

• German quality control ensures consistency tin-to-tin

• Versatile — great for both hunting and paper targets

• Clean, polished finish for smooth chamber loading

• Recognized by experts as a top-performing pellet

 Cons

• Soft lead may deform if not stored properly

• Not ideal for ultra-high velocity PCPs (over 1000 FPS) due to potential instability

 

• see also;6 Best Gamo Air Rifle for Rabbit

• Factors to Consider When Choosing Pellets for .177 Air Rifle

1. Pellet Shape

Pellet shape directly impacts aerodynamics, accuracy, and terminal performance. Common shapes include domed (round nose) for balanced long-range accuracy, wadcutters for clean holes in paper targets, and hollow points or polymer-tipped pellets for expansion during hunting. For example, JSB Diabolo Exact uses a domed design for stability and range, while Predator Polymag combines a hollow point with a polymer tip for deep penetration and expansion—ideal for hunting.

2. Pellet Weight

Weight affects velocity, trajectory, and energy retention. Lighter pellets (around 7.0–7.5 grains) tend to have higher velocities and flatter trajectories, making them suitable for target shooting or pest control at shorter ranges. Mid-weight pellets (7.9–8.5 grains) like the JSB Exact 8.44 gr offer a balance between speed and knockdown power. Heavier pellets deliver more impact energy and perform better in windy conditions but may require more powerful air rifles to maintain flat trajectories.

3. Head Size and Barrel Fit

The head diameter of a pellet (e.g., 4.50mm, 4.52mm, 4.53mm) determines how snugly it fits in your rifle’s barrel. A proper fit ensures optimal engagement with the rifling, which stabilizes the pellet in flight. For instance, JSB Exact 8.44 gr (4.53mm) is ideal for barrels that are slightly looser, offering better sealing and more consistent accuracy. Testing different head sizes can help you find the best match for your airgun.

4. Accuracy and Consistency

Not all pellets are manufactured with the same level of quality control. Premium brands like JSB, H&N, and RWS are known for their tight production tolerances, resulting in consistent pellet size, shape, and weight. This reduces flyers and improves groupings. For example, H&N Finale Match and RWS R10 Match are used by competition shooters for their exceptional uniformity and accuracy.

5. Intended Use

Your purpose—target shooting, hunting, plinking, or competition—will largely determine the best pellet for you. Wadcutters like H&N Finale Match are ideal for scoring paper targets due to their clean cuts, while domed pellets such as Crosman Premier Dome are great for general use and longer ranges. For hunting, hollow points or hybrid-tipped pellets like Predator Polymag are best due to their expansion and terminal energy.

6. Air Rifle Type

Pellet performance can vary depending on whether you’re using a spring-piston, gas ram, PCP, or CO₂ air rifle. Some pellets are better suited to high-power PCPs due to their weight (e.g., JSB Heavy or Polymag), while others work well in lower-powered rifles. Domed and medium-weight pellets like JSB Exact tend to be versatile across most platforms, while longer or heavier pellets may not feed well in some rotary magazines.

7. Pellet Material and Surface Finish

Most .177 pellets are made of lead, but the quality of the lead and the surface finish can significantly influence performance. Smooth, clean pellets with a polished surface (like RWS R10 Match) reduce friction and improve barrel sealing. Some advanced pellets also feature non-lead alloys or polymer tips for specialized purposes. Always check for uniformity, oxidation resistance, and any visible defects that may affect shooting performance.

8. Packaging and Quantity

Pellets are usually sold in tins of 200 to 500 pieces, with premium pellets often having fewer per tin due to higher quality control. For example, Predator Polymag Short comes in 200 or 400-count tins due to its precision crafting, while Crosman Premier Dome offers a generous 500-count for budget-friendly practice. If you shoot frequently, cost per shot and availability become important, but for competition or hunting, quality often outweighs quantity.

Frequent Asked Question for the Best Pellets for .177 Air Rifle

1. What is the best pellet shape for .177 air rifles?

The best pellet shape depends on your intended use. Domed (round nose) pellets, like the JSB Diabolo Exact 8.44 gr, are ideal for general shooting and long-range accuracy due to their aerodynamic stability. Wadcutters, such as the H&N Finale Match, are best for target shooting because they punch clean holes in paper. For hunting, hollow point or polymer-tipped pellets like the Predator Polymag deliver maximum expansion and knockdown power.

2. Do heavier .177 pellets improve accuracy and power?

Heavier pellets (like 8.2–10 grains) often provide greater stability in flight and higher impact energy, especially in powerful PCP rifles. For example, RWS R10 Match 8.2 gr and Predator Polymag 8 gr are excellent for accuracy and stopping power. However, in lower-powered air rifles, heavy pellets may suffer from a drop in velocity and trajectory, so it’s important to match the pellet weight to your rifle’s power output.

3. How do I choose the right pellet for my specific air rifle?

Start by considering your rifle type, barrel size, and purpose. Test different head sizes (like 4.50mm vs 4.53mm) to see what fits your barrel best. For example, some rifles perform better with a tighter fit, improving accuracy. If you’re hunting, go for pellets designed for expansion and penetration, like Predator Polymag. For target shooting or competitions, choose high-precision options like JSB Exact or H&N Finale Match. Testing a variety of quality pellets is the best way to determine the perfect match.

conclusion

Selecting the best pellets for your .177 air rifle ultimately comes down to understanding your specific shooting goals and matching them with the right pellet characteristics. Factors like shape, weight, head size, and intended use all play a vital role in performance, whether you’re aiming for pinpoint accuracy on the range or maximum impact in the field. High-quality manufacturing, consistent dimensions, and proper fit with your air rifle can significantly enhance accuracy, consistency, and terminal effect. By carefully considering these elements and testing a few top-tier options, you can unlock the full potential of your air rifle and ensure reliable, effective shooting every time.