Should i get a .177 or a .22 cal air rifle for squirrels, rabbits, & other small game?

Question

Should i get a .177 or a .22 cal air rifle for squirrels, rabbits, & other small game?

Answer 1

I used a .177 caliber on squirrels and rabbits growing up cuz its all i had till I got a 22. If you can hit em on the eye every time a 177 will drop em like a bad habit. A 22 cal would probably be better though.

Answer 2

.22 is bigger and better.

Answer 3

As long as you take head shots within reasonable ranges, either will work.  The .22 will be a bit better as it is a heavier pellet and will create a larger wound channel.

Answer 4

>>Should I get a .177 or .22 caliber air rifle for small game hunting?<<

It depends.

What rifle(s) are you looking at?

Some rifles, such as the RWS 34 come in both .177 & .22 - In that case the "fpe" will be nearly identical, so your choice is between. Do I want the higher velocity and flat trajectory of the .177 or the heavier .22

One other advantage of the .177 is that a tin(500 pellets) of good quality pellets, is on average around $3 cheaper

If you are looking at a very powerful air rifle, such as the RWS 350 Magnum(25fpe +) then in that case I highly recommend that you get the .22 - Because, even with the heavier .22 pellet you will still have the velocity(fps) necessary for a flat trajectory.

FPS - Keep in mind that all of the manufacturer "claims" of >up to< 1,000fps(or whatever) are achieved with light weight and or ultra light weight pellets.  

Answer 5

benjamin sheridan .22 is awesome for small game and rodents

.177 just don't have what it takes

!

Answer 6

.22 ammo is a lot cheaper, and does the job wonderfully.

Answer 7

If your looking for humaine kills get the 22 cal. More takedown power due to larger pellet.

Answer 8

Good quality air, .22 best -