5 Best .177 Air Rifle

Best .177 Air Rifle delivers reliable accuracy for target shooting and small game hunting across skill levels daily. Whether you are a beginner learning the basics or an experienced shooter looking for dependable performance, the best .177 air rifle offers an excellent balance of precision, velocity, and ease of use. Available in break barrel, PCP, and multi-pump designs, these rifles are suitable for target practice, backyard plinking, pest control, and small game hunting where legal. By comparing factors such as power, accuracy, build quality, noise reduction, and overall value, you can choose a model that matches your shooting style and delivers consistent performance for years to come.

Best .177 Air Rifle

1.Benjamin Trail XL Magnum NP Break Barrel Air Rifle with Scope

 

The Benjamin Trail XL Magnum NP Break Barrel Air Rifle with Scope – Hardwood combines a powerful break-barrel platform with a traditional hardwood stock and included optics. Designed around Benjamin’s Nitro Piston technology, this .177-caliber air rifle replaces the conventional metal spring with a gas piston intended to provide a smoother shooting experience while reducing noise and recoil. Its substantial construction and classic appearance make it an appealing option for shooters looking for a full-sized air rifle with a traditional feel.

Key Features

Nitro Piston Technology

One of the main features of the Benjamin Trail XL Magnum NP is its Nitro Piston system. Instead of relying on a traditional metal spring, the rifle uses a gas piston designed to reduce operating noise by up to 70% and minimize recoil. This can contribute to smoother operation and a more comfortable shooting experience, particularly during extended recreational shooting sessions.

High-Velocity .177 Caliber Performance

The rifle fires .177-caliber pellets at speeds of up to 1,500 feet per second, depending on pellet type and shooting conditions. This high advertised velocity gives the rifle a powerful performance profile within the .177-caliber airgun category. Actual velocity can vary, so shooters should consider manufacturer-rated figures as maximum specifications rather than guaranteed performance with every pellet.

Hardwood Rifle Stock

The heavy hardwood stock gives the rifle a traditional appearance and a solid, substantial feel. Its checkering provides additional grip around the stock, while the ventilated rubber recoil pad helps absorb some of the movement generated when the rifle is fired. The combination of the hardwood construction and recoil pad is designed to provide a stable shoulder fit and comfortable handling.

Included 3-9x40mm Scope

The package includes a 3-9x40mm CenterPoint scope, giving shooters adjustable magnification for different target distances. The scope features an adjustable objective, while the Picatinny rail provides a mounting platform for the included optic and compatible accessories. Having an optic included makes the package convenient for shooters who want a ready-to-use sighting system.

Long Break-Barrel Design

The long barrel contributes to the rifle’s full-size profile and is intended to make cocking more manageable despite its powerful break-barrel action. As with other magnum break-barrel air rifles, the cocking effort can still be substantial, so the rifle is better suited to users who are comfortable handling a heavier, full-sized airgun.

Benjamin Heritage

Benjamin has been involved in airgun manufacturing since 1882, giving the brand more than 150 years of experience in airgun design and development. The Trail XL Magnum NP reflects that traditional approach by combining a conventional hardwood stock with modern gas-piston technology and an included optical sight.

Specifications

• Brand: Benjamin
• Model: Trail XL Magnum NP
• Caliber: .177
• Action: Break-barrel
• Powerplant: Nitro Piston gas piston
• Advertised maximum velocity: Up to 1,500 fps
• Stock: Hardwood
• Stock features: Checkering
• Recoil pad: Ventilated rubber
• Included scope: CenterPoint 3-9x40mm
• Scope features: Adjustable objective
• Mounting system: Picatinny rail
• Intended use: Recreational target shooting and general airgun use

Pros

• Nitro Piston system is designed to reduce noise and recoil.
• High advertised velocity for a .177-caliber air rifle.
• Attractive and durable-looking hardwood stock.
• Checkering provides additional grip.
• Ventilated rubber recoil pad helps improve shoulder comfort.
• Includes a 3-9x40mm CenterPoint scope.
• Adjustable-objective scope offers useful sighting flexibility.
• Picatinny rail allows compatible optics and accessories to be mounted.
• Long barrel contributes to the rifle’s full-size design.
• Backed by Benjamin’s long history of airgun manufacturing.

Cons

• The magnum break-barrel design can require significant cocking effort.
• Hardwood construction makes it less convenient to carry than a lightweight air rifle.

2. Daisy Powerline 880 Multi-Pump Pneumatic Air Rifle Kit with 4×15 Scope – .177 Caliber BB or Pellet Gun, 800 FPS.

The Daisy Powerline 880 Multi-Pump Pneumatic Air Rifle Kit has earned its place as one of the best .177 air rifles thanks to its affordability, versatility, and decades-long reputation for dependable performance. Designed for beginners and recreational shooters, this multi-pump pneumatic rifle offers adjustable power, the ability to shoot both BBs and pellets, and a lightweight design that makes it easy to handle. Whether you’re plinking in the backyard, learning marksmanship, or practicing target shooting, the Powerline 880 provides excellent value for the money.

One of the rifle’s standout features is its multi-pump pneumatic power system. Shooters can vary the number of pump strokes to adjust the rifle’s power based on the shooting distance and intended use. At maximum pressure, it can propel .177 caliber ammunition at speeds of up to 800 FPS, giving it enough power for target practice and light pest control where permitted. The adjustable pumping system also allows quieter, lower-powered shots for casual backyard shooting.

The dual-ammunition capability adds another level of versatility. The built-in 50-shot BB reservoir allows for rapid shooting with steel BBs, making it ideal for casual plinking sessions. When greater precision is required, the rifle easily switches to single-shot pellet mode, taking advantage of the rifled steel barrel for improved accuracy. This combination gives shooters the flexibility to enjoy both high-volume shooting and more accurate target practice without purchasing a separate air rifle.

Accuracy is enhanced by the rifled steel barrel, which helps stabilize pellets for tighter shot groups at longer distances. The included 4×15 scope provides basic magnification for easier target acquisition, making it easier for new shooters to develop consistent accuracy. For those who prefer iron sights, the rifle also includes a blade and ramp front sight along with an adjustable rear sight for elevation and windage.

The Powerline 880 features a lightweight synthetic stock with molded checkering and a woodgrain finish that offers a classic appearance while remaining durable and easy to carry. Weighing just under five pounds, it is comfortable for younger shooters and adults alike. A crossbolt trigger block safety adds an extra level of security, while the proven design has remained popular for more than three decades because of its simplicity and reliability.

Overall, the Daisy Powerline 880 remains one of the best entry-level .177 air rifles available. Its combination of adjustable power, dual-ammunition capability, dependable construction, and included scope makes it an excellent choice for beginners, families, and anyone looking for an affordable air rifle for recreational shooting.

Specifications

• Model: Daisy Powerline 880 Multi-Pump Pneumatic Air Rifle Kit
• Caliber: .177
• Action: Multi-pump pneumatic
• Maximum Velocity: Up to 800 FPS
• Ammunition: .177 steel BBs and .177 pellets
• BB Reservoir Capacity: 50 BBs
• Pellet Capacity: Single-shot
• Barrel: Rifled steel
• Scope: 4×15 scope included
• Front Sight: Blade and ramp
• Rear Sight: Adjustable
• Safety: Crossbolt trigger block
• Overall Length: 37.6 inches
• Weight: 4.97 lbs.
• Stock: Synthetic with molded checkering and woodgrain finish

Pros

• Adjustable multi-pump power system for different shooting applications
• Shoots both .177 steel BBs and .177 pellets
• Maximum velocity of up to 800 FPS
• Rifled steel barrel improves pellet accuracy
• Includes a 4×15 scope for easier target shooting
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Large 50-shot BB reservoir for extended shooting
• Proven, reliable design with over 30 years of success
• Affordable option for beginners and recreational shooters
• Simple operation with minimal maintenance requirements

Cons

• Requires manual pumping before every shot
• Included 4×15 scope offers limited magnification and optical quality

3.Benjamin Marauder PCP Air Rifle, Synthetic Stock air Rifle

 

The Benjamin Marauder PCP Air Rifle with Synthetic Stock is a versatile .177-caliber precharged pneumatic air rifle designed around adjustable performance, repeat-shot capability, and a relatively quiet shooting experience. With an advertised velocity of up to 1,100 feet per second, a 10-shot auto-indexing magazine, adjustable trigger, and ambidextrous synthetic stock, it offers a feature-rich platform for recreational target shooting and general airgun use.

Key Features

Precharged Pneumatic Power

The Benjamin Marauder uses a precharged pneumatic (PCP) power system, operating from compressed air in the 2,000 to 3,000 psi range according to the supplied specifications and user manual. Its adjustable power system allows the shooter to tune velocity, giving the rifle greater flexibility for different shooting situations. A built-in pressure gauge helps monitor the remaining air pressure.

.177-Caliber Performance

Chambered in .177 caliber, the Marauder has an advertised velocity of 1,100 fps. The .177 caliber is widely used for recreational target shooting because of its relatively flat trajectory and broad availability of pellets. Actual velocity and shot performance can vary depending on pellet selection, air pressure, and power settings.

10-Shot Auto-Indexing Magazine

The rifle features a 10-shot preloaded pneumatic repeater with an auto-indexing mechanism. This allows multiple shots to be fired without manually loading an individual pellet into the barrel after every shot. The raised aluminum stock area is designed to provide additional clearance for loading the round magazine.

Quiet Shooting Design

One of the Marauder’s notable characteristics is its internally shrouded barrel, which is designed to make the rifle very quiet compared with many conventional air rifles. This makes the platform particularly attractive for shooters who value reduced report during recreational shooting, although users should always comply with applicable noise and airgun regulations.

Adjustable Two-Stage Metal Trigger

The two-stage adjustable trigger allows the shooter to customize the trigger characteristics to suit personal preferences. The trigger itself is made from metal, while the rear-mounted trigger position is designed to provide a more natural hand position. This emphasis on trigger adjustability can be useful for shooters who prioritize consistency during precision target shooting.

Ambidextrous Synthetic Stock

The synthetic stock is designed for both right- and left-handed users. Its vertically adjustable comb can be positioned to improve cheek alignment with the sights. The synthetic construction also makes the rifle almost a pound lighter than comparable wood-stock versions, according to the supplied information.

Reversible Controls and Sling Studs

The Marauder includes reversible components that make it easier to configure for left- or right-handed use. The reversible screw and sling studs allow the rifle to accommodate different shooting preferences. This adds flexibility for households or shooting groups where users may have different dominant hands.

Built-In Air Pressure Gauge

A built-in 215cc air-pressure gauge (manometer) allows the shooter to monitor the rifle’s air supply. The system uses compressed air and requires an appropriate filling solution, such as a compatible hand pump or scuba tank with the necessary adapter. The rifle also incorporates an improved valve designed to increase the number of usable shots between fills.

Specifications

• Brand: Benjamin
• Model: Marauder PCP Air Rifle
• Caliber: .177
• Powerplant: Precharged Pneumatic (PCP)
• Advertised velocity: Up to 1,100 fps
• Magazine capacity: 10 shots
• Action: Bolt-action repeater
• Magazine: Auto-indexing
• Operating pressure: 2,000–3,000 psi
• Stock: Synthetic
• Stock configuration: Ambidextrous
• Comb: Vertically adjustable
• Trigger: Adjustable two-stage metal trigger
• Barrel: Internally shrouded
• Air gauge: Built-in 215cc manometer
• Warranty: One-year limited warranty
• Scope: Not included
• Filling equipment: Hand pump or scuba tank adapter required
• Left/right configuration: Reversible controls and sling studs

Pros

• Accurate and versatile .177-caliber PCP platform.
• Advertised velocity of up to 1,100 fps.
• 10-shot auto-indexing magazine provides convenient repeat shooting.
• Adjustable power allows velocity to be tuned.
• Internally shrouded barrel helps reduce shooting noise.
• Two-stage metal trigger can be adjusted to the shooter’s preference.
• Ambidextrous synthetic stock accommodates left- and right-handed users.
• Vertically adjustable comb helps improve cheek and sight alignment.
• Built-in air-pressure gauge makes monitoring air supply convenient.
• Improved valve is designed to increase the number of shots per fill.
• Synthetic stock is lighter than the wood-stock configuration.
• Reversible sling studs and controls add versatility.

Cons

• Does not include a scope.
• Requires a separate hand pump, scuba tank, or compatible PCP filling system.

4. Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Break Barrel Pellet Air Rifle 

The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Break Barrel Pellet Air Rifle is one of the best .177 air rifles for shooters who want exceptional power, fast follow-up shots, and modern shooting technology. Combining Gamo’s powerful IGT Mach 1 gas piston system with an innovative 10-shot inertia-fed magazine, this air rifle is designed for hunters and target shooters who demand high performance without stepping up to a PCP platform. Its impressive velocity, quiet operation, and reliable accuracy make it an outstanding choice for small game hunting and long-range shooting.

One of the rifle’s biggest highlights is the IGT Mach 1 gas piston power plant. Built around a large 33mm compression cylinder, this system generates outstanding energy while producing smoother shooting characteristics than traditional spring-powered rifles. In the .177 caliber version, it reaches velocities up to 1,650 FPS with alloy pellets, delivering excellent downrange energy, flat trajectories, and hard-hitting performance for hunting rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, crows, and other small game where legal.

Another standout feature is the 10X GEN3i Inertia Loading System. Unlike conventional single-shot break barrel rifles, this patent-pending design uses the rifle’s recoil to automatically rotate the 10-shot magazine after each shot. The low-profile magazine feeds pellets smoothly and consistently, allowing shooters to take rapid follow-up shots without manually loading a pellet after every discharge. This innovative system increases shooting efficiency while maintaining excellent reliability and accuracy.

The Whisper Fusion sound suppression system makes the Swarm Magnum noticeably quieter than many high-powered break barrel air rifles. Using a dual-chamber moderator, the technology traps and disperses muzzle noise before it exits the barrel. While the rifle still produces the report expected from a magnum-powered airgun, the reduced noise level makes it more comfortable to shoot and less disruptive during hunting or backyard practice where permitted.

Accuracy is further enhanced by the Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR), which helps protect the included 3-9×40 scope from the heavy recoil generated by the powerful gas piston system. By absorbing most of the vibration before it reaches the optic, the RRR system helps the scope maintain its zero over extended use. Combined with the rifle’s excellent barrel quality and smooth trigger, this feature contributes to consistent shot placement at varying distances.

The rifle arrives ready to shoot with an included 3-9×40 riflescope, one-piece scope mount, and a 10-shot rotary magazine. These accessories allow shooters to begin using the rifle immediately while taking full advantage of its long-range capabilities. With its blend of power, innovative loading technology, and proven hunting performance, the Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i stands out as one of the most advanced break barrel air rifles in its class.

Specifications

• Model: Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i
• Caliber: .177 (also available in .22)
• Action: Break barrel
• Power Plant: IGT Mach 1 gas piston
• Maximum Velocity: Up to 1,650 FPS with alloy pellets (.177)
• Compression Cylinder: 33mm
• Magazine Capacity: 10-shot inertia-fed rotary magazine
• Loading System: 10X GEN3i Inertia Loading Technology
• Noise Reduction: Whisper Fusion dual-chamber moderator
• Optics: 3-9×40 scope included
• Scope Mount: Recoil Reducing Rail (RRR)
• Stock Color: Black
• Recommended Use: Target shooting, pest control, and small game hunting

Pros

• Extremely powerful gas piston system with up to 1,650 FPS velocity
• Innovative 10X GEN3i automatic inertia-fed magazine
• Fast follow-up shots without manual pellet loading
• Whisper Fusion technology significantly reduces muzzle noise
• Recoil Reducing Rail helps protect the included scope
• Smooth and durable IGT Mach 1 gas piston power plant
• Includes a quality 3-9×40 riflescope and one-piece mount
• Excellent choice for hunting and long-range target shooting
• Reliable accuracy with strong downrange energy
• No external air tank or CO₂ cartridges required

Cons

• Higher cocking effort due to the powerful magnum gas piston
• Alloy pellet velocity is significantly higher than standard lead pellet velocity

5. Crosman Legacy 1000 Variable Pump .177-Caliber Dual Ammo Air Rifle with 4×15 Scope – Shoots Pellets and BBS – 1000 FPS – Black

The Crosman Legacy 1000 Variable Pump .177-Caliber Dual Ammo Air Rifle is one of the best .177 air rifles for shooters seeking versatility, affordability, and dependable performance. Designed to fire both steel BBs and .177 pellets, this multi-pump pneumatic rifle adapts easily to everything from backyard plinking to target shooting and light pest control where legal. With adjustable power, a lightweight synthetic stock, and an included scope, the Legacy 1000 is an excellent option for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

One of the rifle’s most appealing features is its variable pump pneumatic system, which lets shooters customize power by using 3 to 10 pump strokes for normal operation. At maximum power, the rifle delivers velocities of up to 800 FPS with steel BBs and 1,000 FPS with alloy .177 pellets, while lead pellets can reach approximately 750 FPS. This adjustable power allows users to choose quieter, lower-powered shots for casual practice or higher velocities for improved range and impact.

The dual-ammunition capability adds impressive versatility. The rifle features a large 850-round built-in BB reservoir and a 17-round spring-loaded BB magazine that automatically feeds steel BBs into the chamber for quick follow-up shots. For greater precision, shooters can use the convenient side-loading single-shot pellet chamber, taking advantage of the rifled steel barrel for improved accuracy. This flexible design allows one rifle to handle a variety of shooting applications without requiring additional accessories.

Accuracy is enhanced by the rifled steel barrel, which stabilizes pellets for tighter groups at longer distances. The rifle comes equipped with a 4×15 scope that mounts directly to the integrated dovetail rail, providing magnification for easier target acquisition. A fiber-optic front sight is also included, giving shooters the option to use open sights when preferred. These sighting options make the Legacy 1000 suitable for both beginners learning proper shooting techniques and experienced users looking for dependable target performance.

Built for outdoor use, the Legacy 1000 features an all-weather synthetic stock and forearm that resist moisture and rough handling. Weighing only 4.8 pounds, it is lightweight enough for younger shooters while remaining comfortable for adults during extended shooting sessions. The addition of a crossbolt safety provides an extra level of confidence when carrying or storing the rifle.

Overall, the Crosman Legacy 1000 offers an excellent combination of flexibility, reliability, and value. Its adjustable power, dual-ammunition capability, lightweight construction, and included optics make it one of the best .177 air rifles for recreational shooting, skill development, and casual pest control.

Specifications

• Model: Crosman Legacy 1000 Variable Pump Air Rifle
• Caliber: .177
• Power Source: Variable multi-pump pneumatic
• Pump Range: 3–10 pumps (up to 12 pumps for full power according to manufacturer guidance)
• Maximum Velocity:
  • Up to 1,000 FPS with alloy pellets
  • Up to 750 FPS with lead pellets
  • Up to 800 FPS with steel BBs
• Ammunition: .177 pellets and .177 steel BBs
• BB Reservoir Capacity: 850 BBs
• BB Magazine Capacity: 17-round spring-loaded clip
• Pellet Loading: Single-shot side-loading chamber
• Barrel: Rifled steel
• Scope: 4×15 scope included
• Front Sight: Fiber-optic
• Scope Mount: Integrated dovetail rail
• Stock: All-weather synthetic
• Weight: 4.8 lbs.
• Safety: Crossbolt safety

Pros

• Adjustable variable pump system for customized power
• Shoots both .177 pellets and steel BBs
• High velocity of up to 1,000 FPS with alloy pellets
• Large 850-round BB reservoir reduces frequent reloading
• 17-round BB feeding system allows quick follow-up shots
• Rifled steel barrel improves pellet accuracy
• Includes a 4×15 scope for immediate use
• Lightweight synthetic stock is weather resistant
• Easy to carry at only 4.8 pounds
• Excellent value for beginners and recreational shooters

Cons

• Manual pumping is required before each shot
• Pellet loading remains single-shot despite BB repeating capability

Also read: Best Beginner Air Rifle Under $300

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best .177 Air Rifle