Best CO₂ Air Rifle for Target Shooting combines quiet operation, consistent performance, easy handling, and accurate pellet placement. Choosing the right model requires considering factors such as caliber, barrel quality, trigger performance, CO₂ capacity, magazine design, sights, ergonomics, and noise level. A well-designed CO₂ air rifle can provide a smooth shooting experience with minimal recoil, making it suitable for recreational practice and improving shooting consistency. Whether you prefer a single-shot setup for deliberate practice or a repeating rifle for faster follow-up shots, understanding these features can help you select an option that matches your target-shooting needs.
Best CO₂ Air Rifle for Target Shooting
1. Umarex Fusion 2 Quiet .177 Caliber Pellet Gun Air Rifle
The Umarex Fusion 2 Quiet .177 Caliber Pellet Gun Air Rifle combines quiet CO₂ operation, comfortable ergonomics, and accurate performance in a platform designed for recreational shooting and target practice. Its permanently attached SilencAir noise dampener helps reduce muzzle noise, while the included 4×32 scope provides a practical aiming solution for shooters who prefer a scoped setup.
Key Features
Quiet SilencAir Noise Dampener
One of the main features of the Fusion 2 is its enhanced five-chamber SilencAir noise dampener. The permanently affixed system is designed to reduce downrange muzzle noise, making the rifle particularly appealing for shooters who want a quieter target-shooting experience. The reduced report can also make extended shooting sessions more comfortable.
Accurate Target-Shooting Performance
The Fusion 2 is built around .177 caliber pellets and a rifled barrel, providing the characteristics expected from a pellet rifle intended for target practice. It can reach velocities of up to 700 feet per second, while the included scope gives the shooter a clearer aiming reference for working on consistency and shot placement.
Flexible CO₂ System
The rifle can operate using two 12-gram CO₂ cartridges, and the supplied adapter can be removed when using an 88-gram CO₂ cylinder. According to the supplied specifications, shooters can expect more than 70 shots from a pair of 12-gram cartridges and upwards of 250 shots from a single 88-gram cylinder. CO₂ cartridges are not included, and Umarex recommends using its own CO₂ cartridges for proper sealing and performance.
Easy-Loading 9-Shot Magazine
The included 9-shot magazine is designed for straightforward loading, allowing shooters to spend less time preparing pellets between shooting sessions. A spare magazine is also available using part number 2251366, which can be useful for shooters who want additional loaded magazines available during practice.
4×32 Scope Included
The Fusion 2 comes with a 4×32 scope featuring a duplex reticle. The scope mounts to the integrated Nucleus/Picatinny-style rail, providing a practical sighting system for target shooting. Unlike some air rifles, this model does not include open sights, so the supplied scope is an important part of the package.
Ergonomic Synthetic Stock
The synthetic stock is designed with ergonomics and durability in mind. Its rugged construction is intended to withstand regular use, while the shape provides a comfortable shooting position. The rifle also incorporates M-LOK slots on both sides, adding mounting options for compatible accessories.
Specifications
• Brand: Umarex
• Model: Fusion 2 Quiet
• Caliber: .177
• Power source: CO₂
• CO₂ configuration: Two 12-gram cartridges or one 88-gram cylinder
• Maximum velocity: Up to 700 fps
• Magazine capacity: 9 pellets
• Scope: 4×32 with duplex reticle
• Barrel: Rifled
• Noise reduction: SilencAir five-chamber noise dampener
• Stock: Synthetic
• Mounting rail: Picatinny/Nucleus-style rail
• Accessory mounting: M-LOK slots on both sides
• Open sights: None
• CO₂ included: No
• Spare magazine: Compatible with part number 2251366
• Estimated shot count: 70+ shots with two 12-gram cartridges; up to 250+ shots with one 88-gram cylinder
Pros
• Very quiet operation with the five-chamber SilencAir noise dampener
• .177 caliber is well suited to target practice
• Rifled barrel supports pellet accuracy
• Includes a 4×32 scope
• Easy-loading 9-shot magazine
• Can use either two 12-gram CO₂ cartridges or an 88-gram cylinder
• High shot capacity from the available CO₂ configurations
• Comfortable ergonomic synthetic stock
• Durable stock construction
• M-LOK slots provide accessory mounting options
Cons
• CO₂ cartridges are not included
• Does not have open sights
2. Diana Trailscout CO2 Air Rifle air Rifle
The Diana Trailscout CO₂ Air Rifle is a bolt-action pellet rifle designed for recreational shooting and target practice. Its combination of a rifled barrel, adjustable trigger, multiple-shot magazine, and three-cartridge CO₂ system gives shooters a convenient platform for practicing accuracy without the need for manual cocking between every shot. In .177 caliber, it can reach velocities of up to 660 FPS.
Key Features
Three-Cartridge CO₂ System
One of the defining features of the Diana Trailscout is its patented three-cartridge carriage system. The rifle uses three 12-gram CO₂ cartridges simultaneously, providing a higher gas capacity than rifles designed around a single cartridge. According to the supplied specifications, this configuration provides approximately 100 shots per fill. CO₂ cartridges are not included, so they need to be purchased separately.
Rifled 19-Inch Barrel
The Trailscout features a 19-inch rifled barrel designed for use with pellets. Rifling imparts spin to the pellet as it travels through the barrel, which is an important characteristic for a pellet rifle intended for target shooting. The rifle has an overall length of 38.9 inches and weighs approximately 5 pounds, giving it a relatively manageable size and weight for recreational shooting.
Bolt-Action Operation
The bolt-action system provides a straightforward shooting cycle while giving the rifle a traditional sporting-rifle feel. The Trailscout can fire from either its included single-shot tray or a 9-shot magazine in .177 caliber. The single-shot tray can be useful for shooters who want to concentrate on deliberate target practice, while the magazine allows faster follow-up shots.
Adjustable Trigger
The adjustable trigger allows shooters to tailor the trigger characteristics to their preferences. A predictable trigger can be particularly useful during target practice because it allows the shooter to concentrate on maintaining a consistent sight picture and trigger technique.
Adjustable Sights and Optics Rail
The rifle comes with a fixed blade front sight and an adjustable rear notch sight. Shooters who prefer optical sights can mount an appropriate optic using the integrated 11mm dovetail rail. This gives the Trailscout flexibility for both traditional sighted shooting and scoped target practice.
Comfortable Stock Design
The checkered pistol grip and forearm provide additional grip texture and help the shooter maintain a secure hold. The stock design is intended to provide a comfortable shooting position during extended practice sessions.
Specifications
• Brand: Diana
• Model: Trailscout
• Power source: CO₂
• Caliber: .177
• Action: Bolt action
• Magazine capacity: 9 shots (.177)
• Single-shot tray: Included
• CO₂ cartridges: Three 12-gram cartridges
• Maximum velocity: 660 FPS (.177)
• Maximum power: 11.5 FPE
• Barrel length: 19 inches
• Overall length: 38.9 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Barrel: Rifled
• Trigger: Adjustable
• Front sight: Fixed blade
• Rear sight: Adjustable notch
• Optics rail: 11mm dovetail
• Grip/forearm: Checkered
• Included accessories: One magazine and single-shot tray
• CO₂ cartridges included: No
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
Pros
• Three-cartridge CO₂ system provides a high gas capacity
• Approximately 100 shots per CO₂ fill according to the supplied specifications
• Rifled 19-inch barrel
• 9-shot magazine for convenient follow-up shots
• Includes a single-shot tray for deliberate target practice
• Adjustable trigger
• Fixed front and adjustable rear sights
• 11mm dovetail rail allows an optic to be mounted
• Comfortable checkered pistol grip and forearm
• Relatively manageable 5-pound weight
Cons
• Requires three CO₂ cartridges at a time
• CO₂ cartridges are not included
3. Diana Chaser CO2 Air Pellet Pistol
The Diana Chaser CO₂ Air Pellet Pistol is a CO₂-powered bolt-action repeater designed for recreational shooting and target practice. Its rifled barrel, adjustable trigger, adjustable rear sight, and compatibility with optional drum magazines give shooters several useful features for practicing accuracy. Although it is technically an air pistol rather than a full-size air rifle, it can be included in a broader target-shooting category because of its pellet-shooting design and sighting options.
Key Features
CO₂-Powered Bolt-Action Repeater
The Diana Chaser uses a CO₂ powerplant and bolt-action operating system. In .177 caliber, it can produce velocities of up to 525 feet per second, while the .22-caliber version reaches up to 460 feet per second. The CO₂ system provides a convenient shooting experience without requiring the shooter to manually compress a spring or pump the gun for every shot.
Rifled Barrel
The Chaser features a rifled barrel designed to stabilize pellets as they travel toward the target. This makes the pistol suitable for shooters who want to practice deliberate pellet placement and improve their shooting consistency. The available .177 caliber is particularly appropriate for target practice where lighter pellets and a flatter trajectory can be useful.
Adjustable Two-Stage Trigger
The DIANA Improved Trigger (DIT) is a two-stage trigger with adjustable take-up. This gives the shooter an opportunity to adjust the trigger feel to suit their preferences. A consistent trigger can be valuable during target practice because it helps the shooter develop repeatable shooting technique.
Single-Shot and Repeating Options
The Chaser is supplied with a single-shot insert, allowing shooters to load and fire individual pellets. For faster follow-up shots, it can also be used with an optional 7-shot or 9-shot drum magazine. The pistol is compatible with Diana Stormrider magazines, providing additional flexibility for shooters who want a repeating configuration.
Adjustable Sights and Optics Rail
The pistol comes with a fixed front sight and adjustable micrometer rear sight. These sights allow shooters to make adjustments when zeroing the pistol for target practice. An 11mm dovetail/milled prism rail is also provided for mounting a suitable optic.
CO₂ Storage in the Grip
A useful design feature is the ability to store a spare CO₂ capsule inside the grip. This provides a convenient place to carry an additional cartridge during a shooting session. Each CO₂ cartridge provides approximately 50 shots according to the supplied specifications. CO₂ cartridges are not included.
Specifications
• Brand: Diana
• Model: Chaser
• Type: CO₂-powered pellet pistol
• Power source: CO₂
• Action: Bolt action
• Calibers: .177 and .22
• Maximum velocity: 525 FPS (.177); 460 FPS (.22)
• Trigger: DIT two-stage adjustable trigger
• Barrel: Rifled
• Magazine: Optional 7-shot/9-shot drum magazine
• Single-shot tray: Included
• Front sight: Fixed
• Rear sight: Adjustable micrometer
• Optics rail: 11mm dovetail/milled prism rail
• CO₂ capacity: Approximately 50 shots per cartridge
• Spare CO₂ storage: Inside grip
• Magazine compatibility: Diana Stormrider magazines
• CO₂ cartridges included: No
Pros
• CO₂-powered operation provides convenient shooting
• Rifled barrel supports pellet accuracy
• Available in .177 and .22 calibers
• Adjustable two-stage DIT trigger
• Single-shot tray included
• Optional 7-shot or 9-shot drum magazine available
• Compatible with Diana Stormrider magazines
• Fixed front and adjustable micrometer rear sights
• 11mm rail allows suitable optics to be mounted
• Spare CO₂ capsule can be stored in the grip
• Approximately 50 shots per CO₂ cartridge
Cons
• It is an air pistol rather than a full-size air rifle
• CO₂ cartridges are not included
4. Umarex 850 M2 Pellet Gun Air Rifle, .177 Caliber
The Umarex 850 M2 Pellet Gun Air Rifle, .177 Caliber combines accuracy, performance, and convenient CO₂ operation in a German-made platform designed for recreational shooting and target practice. Its 8-shot repeating action, adjustable trigger, fiber-optic sights, and durable polymer stock give shooters a well-equipped rifle for practicing consistent shot placement.
Key Features
Accurate 8-Shot Repeating Action
The Umarex 850 M2 uses an 8-shot rotary magazine that is designed for quick and straightforward loading. The repeating system allows shooters to take successive shots without manually loading an individual pellet after every shot. This makes the rifle convenient for target practice and recreational shooting sessions.
CO₂-Powered Performance
The rifle is powered by a single 88-gram CO₂ cartridge. According to the supplied specifications, one cartridge can provide up to approximately 200 shots. This high-capacity CO₂ system makes the 850 M2 suitable for extended shooting sessions without needing to replace the cartridge frequently. The CO₂ cartridge is not included, and Umarex-brand CO₂ is recommended for proper sealing and performance.
Adjustable Trigger
An adjustable trigger gives the shooter greater control over the trigger feel. This can be particularly useful for target shooting, where consistent trigger control plays an important role in maintaining accuracy. The combination of the adjustable trigger and repeating action gives the rifle a practical setup for recreational precision shooting.
.177 Caliber Pellet Performance
The 850 M2 fires .177 caliber pellets and is specified to launch 7-grain pellets at up to 650 FPS. The .177 caliber is commonly used for target shooting because of its relatively flat trajectory and wide availability of pellets. The supplied specifications also indicate that the rifle produces sufficient muzzle energy for small-game applications where legally permitted.
Fiber-Optic Sights
The rifle features a hooded fiber-optic front sight and an adjustable fiber-optic rear sight. These sights are designed to help the shooter acquire the target more easily, particularly in varying lighting conditions. For shooters who prefer magnified aiming, the rifle also has an 11mm dovetail rail for mounting a suitable scope.
Durable All-Weather Stock
The 850 M2 uses a durable polymer stock designed to withstand regular use and changing weather conditions. Unlike some traditional wood stocks, the polymer construction does not require the same level of care to protect a wood finish. Checkering on the pistol grip and forearm also provides additional texture for maintaining a secure hold.
Specifications
• Brand: Umarex
• Model: 850 M2
• Caliber: .177
• Power source: CO₂
• CO₂ cartridge: One 88-gram cartridge
• Maximum velocity: Up to 650 FPS
• Pellet weight referenced: 7 grains
• Magazine capacity: 8 shots
• Action: Repeating
• Trigger: Adjustable
• Front sight: Hooded fiber-optic
• Rear sight: Adjustable fiber-optic
• Optics rail: 11mm dovetail
• Stock: Durable polymer
• Grip: Checkered pistol grip and forearm
• CO₂ cartridge included: No
• Estimated shot count: Up to approximately 200 shots per 88-gram cartridge
Pros
• Accurate .177 caliber pellet platform
• 8-shot rotary magazine
• Easy-loading repeating action
• Adjustable trigger
• Up to approximately 200 shots from an 88-gram CO₂ cartridge
• Fiber-optic front and rear sights
• Adjustable rear sight
• 11mm dovetail rail for mounting an optic
• Durable all-weather polymer stock
• Checkering on the pistol grip and forearm
• Suitable for extended recreational target-shooting sessions
Cons
• 88-gram CO₂ cartridge is not included
• Requires relatively large 88-gram CO₂ cartridges
5. Crosman 1077 RepeatAir Semi-Automatic CO2-Powered .177-Caliber Pellet Air Gun
The Crosman 1077 RepeatAir Semi-Automatic CO₂-Powered .177-Caliber Pellet Air Gun is a lightweight repeating pellet rifle designed for recreational shooting, target practice, and backyard plinking where permitted. Its rifled steel barrel, semi-automatic operation, CO₂ power, and durable synthetic stock make it a convenient option for shooters who want quick follow-up shots without manually cocking the rifle between shots.
Key Features
Semi-Automatic CO₂ Operation
The Crosman 1077 RepeatAir uses a 12-gram CO₂ cartridge to power its shooting cycle. The CO₂ system allows the rifle to deliver repeated shots without the need for manual pumping or spring cocking after every shot. It can reach velocities of up to 780 feet per second, depending on pellet and shooting conditions.
Rifled Steel Barrel
The rifle features a rifled steel barrel designed to improve pellet stability as the .177-caliber projectile travels toward the target. This is an important characteristic for target shooting because consistent pellet stabilization can help shooters work on accuracy and repeatable shot placement at appropriate distances.
Fast Follow-Up Shots
One of the main attractions of the RepeatAir design is its semi-automatic action. Instead of manually cycling the action between individual shots, the rifle allows the shooter to fire successive shots more quickly. This makes it particularly convenient for recreational target practice and informal plinking sessions.
.177-Caliber Pellet Compatibility
The rifle fires .177-caliber pellets, a popular caliber for target shooting. The supplied information also highlights hollow-point pellets with an expanding-tip design. For pure target practice, however, shooters should select pellets appropriate for their intended target and follow applicable range and safety requirements.
Durable Synthetic Stock
The water-resistant synthetic stock is designed for regular outdoor use. Its construction makes the rifle less sensitive to moisture than many traditional wood-stock designs, which can be useful when shooting in changing outdoor conditions. The synthetic construction also keeps the platform practical for recreational use.
Crosman Heritage
Crosman has a long history in the airgun industry, with the company tracing its airgun development back to 1924. The brand produces air rifles, air pistols, ammunition, CO₂ products, and shooting accessories, giving the 1077 a place within a broad range of airgun products.
Specifications
• Brand: Crosman
• Model: 1077 RepeatAir
• Type: Semi-automatic pellet air gun
• Caliber: .177
• Power source: CO₂
• CO₂ cartridge: One 12-gram cartridge
• Maximum velocity: Up to 780 FPS
• Barrel: Rifled steel
• Stock: Water-resistant synthetic
• Pellet type: .177-caliber pellets
• CO₂ included: No
• Origin: Made in the USA and imported
Pros
• Semi-automatic operation allows quick follow-up shots
• Rifled steel barrel
• .177 caliber is well suited to target practice
• CO₂-powered system eliminates manual pumping between shots
• Up to 780 FPS velocity under stated conditions
• Durable water-resistant synthetic stock
• Lightweight and practical design for recreational shooting
• Suitable for target practice and backyard plinking where permitted
• Well-established Crosman airgun platform
Cons
• 12-gram CO₂ cartridge is not included
• CO₂ performance can vary with temperature and cartridge pressure
Also read: Best CO₂ Air Rifle for Beginners
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best CO₂ Air Rifle for Target Shooting
1. Accuracy and Barrel Quality
Accuracy is one of the most important factors when choosing a CO₂ air rifle for target shooting. Look for a rifle with a rifled barrel, as rifling helps stabilize pellets during flight and can contribute to consistent shot placement. The quality of the barrel, pellet selection, and overall rifle construction can all affect accuracy, so shooters should consider how consistently the rifle performs at their intended target distance.
2. CO₂ System and Shot Capacity
Consider how the rifle uses CO₂ and how many shots it can provide before the cartridges need replacement. Different models use different configurations, such as a single 12-gram cartridge, two 12-gram cartridges, three 12-gram cartridges, or an 88-gram cylinder. For example, the Diana Trailscout uses three 12-gram cartridges, while the Umarex 850 M2 uses an 88-gram cartridge. A larger CO₂ capacity can be convenient for longer target-shooting sessions.
3. Caliber and Pellet Compatibility
For target shooting, .177 caliber is a popular choice because it is widely available and commonly used for recreational and formal target practice. When selecting a rifle, check which pellet types and weights it performs well with. The rifle should also have a barrel designed specifically for pellets rather than BBs if your primary goal is pellet target shooting.
4. Trigger Quality and Adjustability
Trigger characteristics can have a significant effect on shooting consistency. A good target-shooting rifle should have a trigger that is predictable and consistent, allowing the shooter to maintain proper sight alignment while applying pressure. Adjustable triggers, such as the ones found on the Diana Trailscout and Diana Chaser, provide additional flexibility because the shooter can adjust aspects of the trigger feel to suit their preferences.
5. Sights and Optics
The sighting system should match the type of target shooting you plan to do. Some CO₂ rifles have fixed front and adjustable rear sights, while others include fiber-optic sights or a scope. An optics rail is useful if you want to install a suitable scope later. For example, the Umarex 850 M2 has fiber-optic sights and an 11mm dovetail rail, while the Umarex Fusion 2 includes a 4×32 scope.
6. Magazine Capacity and Loading System
Magazine capacity affects how frequently you need to reload during a shooting session. Repeating rifles with larger magazines allow more shots before reloading, while single-shot trays can encourage slower and more deliberate target practice. The Crosman 1077, Diana Trailscout, Diana Chaser, and Umarex 850 M2 all offer repeating configurations, but their magazine capacities and loading systems differ.
7. Stock, Ergonomics, and Weight
A comfortable stock and manageable overall weight can make a significant difference during extended target sessions. Look for an air rifle that provides a comfortable grip, stable shoulder position, and good balance. Checkered grips and forearms can provide additional traction, while synthetic stocks can offer durability and resistance to moisture. A rifle that feels comfortable in your shooting position can make it easier to maintain consistent technique.
8. Noise Level and Shooting Environment
Noise is another factor worth considering, particularly when shooting in environments where reducing the sound of the rifle is important and where shooting is legally permitted. Models such as the Umarex Fusion 2 incorporate a SilencAir noise-dampening system designed to reduce muzzle noise. A quieter rifle can make recreational practice more comfortable, but shooters should still follow local laws, range rules, and appropriate safety precautions.