Imagine this: you’re out in your backyard, enjoying the quiet afternoon, when a pesky squirrel decides your bird feeder is its personal buffet. Or maybe you’re a hunter looking for a humane way to manage squirrel populations in your garden. Whatever your reason, when it comes to dealing with these quick and clever critters, choosing the right .177 pellet for your air rifle can feel like a guessing game. It’s tough to know which pellet will be accurate, powerful enough, and most importantly, effective.
Many people get frustrated trying to figure out the best pellet. Some pellets are too light and won’t have enough power. Others might be too heavy and won’t shoot as fast. You want to make sure you’re using a pellet that’s both safe and humane, and that means understanding the details. Don’t worry, though! This blog post is here to help you cut through all the confusion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a .177 pellet for squirrels. We’ll explore the different types of pellets and explain why some work better than others. Get ready to learn how to pick the perfect pellet so you can take care of your squirrel situation with confidence and precision.
Our Top 5 .177 Pellets For Squirrels Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 .177 Pellets For Squirrels Detailed Reviews
1. Crosman DS177 .177-Caliber Destroyer Pellets (250-Count)
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to take your shooting to the next level with the Crosman DS177 .177-Caliber Destroyer Pellets. These pellets are designed for serious shooters who want excellent performance. They have a special shape that helps them fly straight and hit hard. You get a good amount in each tin, so you can practice and hunt without running out quickly.
What We Like:
- The unique design combines the best parts of pointed and hollow-point pellets.
- They offer great expansion and energy transfer, making them effective for small game.
- The 250-count tin means you have plenty of pellets for many shooting sessions.
- The .177 caliber is a popular choice for many air rifles.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 7.4-grain weight is good, some shooters might prefer a slightly heavier pellet for certain applications.
- The “dished rim” design, while innovative, might be less familiar to some users compared to traditional pellet shapes.
These Crosman Destroyer Pellets are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable performance. They deliver on their promise of powerful expansion, making them a great addition to your shooting gear.
2. Gamo 632270154 RED FIRE PELLETS .177 Cal. TINS of 150 –
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for some exciting shooting fun with the Gamo RED FIRE PELLETS! These .177 caliber pellets come in a tin of 150, offering plenty of shots for your target practice or plinking adventures. The bright red color makes them easy to spot, adding a cool visual element to your shooting sessions. They are designed for accuracy and consistent performance, making them a great choice for any airgun enthusiast.
What We Like:
- The bright red color makes spotting your shots easy and adds a fun element.
- You get 150 pellets per tin, so you have a good supply for practice.
- They are a good value for the price, making them accessible for many shooters.
- These pellets are designed to fly straight and hit your targets accurately.
What Could Be Improved:
- The tin packaging could be a bit sturdier to prevent pellet damage during transport.
- More color options would be a nice addition for those who like variety.
These Gamo RED FIRE PELLETS are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable and fun ammunition for their .177 caliber air rifle or pistol. They deliver good performance and a great shooting experience.
3. H&N Sport Hornet Pointed Airgun Pellets
Rating: 9.4/10
The H&N Sport Hornet Pointed Airgun Pellets are a great choice for airgun enthusiasts. These .177 caliber pellets weigh 9.57 grains and come in a 225-count pack. They are designed for hunting and offer excellent performance. The aerodynamic shape helps them fly straight and hit hard. A metal tip gives them controlled expansion, which means they do more damage when they hit their target. These pellets are a medium weight, making them accurate for shooting at medium distances.
What We Like:
- They have an aerodynamic design for high impact and penetration.
- The metal tip provides controlled expansion.
- They are medium-weight and accurate for medium ranges.
- These pellets are made from lead, a common and effective material.
What Could Be Improved:
- The gray color might not be ideal for all environments.
- This is a single pack, so you might need to buy more if you shoot a lot.
These H&N Sport Hornet pellets deliver impressive power and accuracy for your airgun. They are a solid option for serious hunters and plinkers alike.
4. Crosman Premier LHP77 .177-Caliber Hollow Point Pellets
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for some exciting adventures with the Crosman Premier LHP77 .177-Caliber Hollow Point Pellets! These metallic pellets come in a 500-count tin, perfect for all your recreational shooting needs. They are designed for fun and are a great choice for small game hunting. Crosman brings you quality airpower for your shooting fun, and these pellets are a great way to start your airgun journey.
What We Like:
- These .177-caliber hollow point pellets are designed for good expansion on impact.
- At 7.9 grains, they offer a balanced weight for accuracy in many airguns.
- The 500-count tin provides plenty of pellets for extended shooting sessions.
- They are ideal for recreational shooting and practice.
- These pellets are also suitable for small game hunting.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging may vary, which could be a minor inconvenience if you prefer a specific look.
- While good for general use, more advanced shooters might seek specialized pellets for extreme long-range accuracy.
The Crosman Premier LHP77 pellets deliver reliable performance for a wide range of airgun activities. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy their air rifle or pistol.
5. Rheinisch-Westfalische 2317409 RWS Superpoint Extra Air Gun Ammo .177 Field Line
Rating: 8.7/10
The Rheinisch-Westfalische 2317409 RWS Superpoint Extra Air Gun Ammo .177 Field Line is a fantastic choice for airgun enthusiasts. These pellets are designed to help you hit your targets with accuracy and power. They work great for both hunting small game and practicing your aim at the shooting range. You can trust them to perform well with your air rifle.
What We Like:
- The cone-shaped nose helps these pellets go through targets easily.
- They are good for hunting and target shooting with your airgun.
- These pellets don’t leave a lot of leftover stuff in your air rifle’s barrel. This means you spend less time cleaning and more time shooting.
- The .177 caliber pellets weigh 8.2 grains, giving them a good balance of speed and power.
- You get 300 pellets in a .177 caliber tin, so you have plenty for practice.
What Could Be Improved:
- The .22 caliber pellets weigh 14.5 grains, which might be a bit heavy for some airguns.
- You only get 200 pellets in a .22 caliber tin, which might run out faster if you shoot a lot.
Overall, the RWS Superpoint Extra pellets are a solid performer for airgun shooting. They offer good value and help you enjoy your time at the range or in the field.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: .177 Pellets for Squirrels
Choosing the Right Pellets for Responsible Squirrel Hunting
If you’re a fan of airgun hunting, you might be looking to take on squirrels. They can be a challenging and rewarding quarry. But to do it effectively and humanely, you need the right .177 pellets. This guide will help you pick the best ones.
1. Key Features to Look For
Weight Matters
Pellet weight is super important. Heavier pellets tend to hit harder and are less affected by wind. This means they fly straighter and are more accurate. For squirrels, pellets in the 10-15 grain range are usually a good choice. They offer a good balance of power and accuracy.
Shape and Design
There are a few pellet shapes.
- Domed (Round Nose): These are the most common. They fly well and are good for hunting.
- Pointed: These can penetrate better but might not be as accurate at longer distances.
- Hollowpoint: These are designed to expand on impact, which creates a bigger wound channel. This can lead to quicker takedowns.
Accuracy
You need pellets that fly straight. Poorly made pellets can wobble in the air, making it hard to hit your target. Look for brands known for making accurate pellets.
2. Important Materials
Lead is King
Most good hunting pellets are made of lead. Lead is soft, so it deforms on impact. This expansion helps the pellet do its job effectively. Some pellets are made from copper-plated lead or other alloys, but pure lead is often the best for hunting.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Consistency is Key
High-quality pellets are made very consistently. This means each pellet is almost identical in weight and shape. This consistency is what makes them accurate. Pellets with lots of imperfections or inconsistencies will fly all over the place.
Manufacturing Precision
The way pellets are made really matters. Good manufacturers use precise machinery to make sure every pellet is as perfect as possible. This attention to detail leads to better performance.
Storage
How you store your pellets also affects their quality. Keep them in a dry place. Moisture can cause lead pellets to corrode, which can hurt accuracy and even damage your airgun’s barrel. Keep the tin closed tightly.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
What Hunters Say
Experienced airgun hunters often prefer domed or hollowpoint pellets for squirrels. They find these types provide the best combination of penetration and expansion for a humane kill. They also stress the importance of practicing with your chosen pellet to know its trajectory.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before you go hunting, spend time at the range. Shoot your chosen pellets at different distances. This will help you understand how they fly and how to aim for a clean shot. A good shot placement is crucial for a quick and humane harvest.
Ethical Hunting
Using the right pellet is part of ethical hunting. It ensures you can take down your quarry quickly and with minimal suffering. Always be sure your airgun is powerful enough for the task and that you are skilled enough to make accurate shots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use .177 pellets for squirrels?
A: Yes, .177 pellets can be used for squirrels, but only with the right type of pellet and a powerful enough air rifle. You need to ensure the pellet has enough energy to humanely take down the animal.
Q: What is the best pellet weight for squirrels?
A: For squirrels, pellets weighing between 10 and 15 grains are generally recommended. Heavier pellets offer more downrange energy and are less affected by wind.
Q: Are hollowpoint pellets good for squirrels?
A: Yes, hollowpoint pellets are often recommended for squirrels. They are designed to expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel for a more effective takedown.
Q: Should I use pointed or domed pellets for squirrels?
A: Domed pellets are generally preferred for hunting squirrels due to their good aerodynamic properties and accuracy. Pointed pellets can offer deeper penetration but might be less accurate.
Q: What air rifle power is needed for squirrels?
A: A .177 air rifle should have a muzzle velocity of at least 800 feet per second (fps) with a pellet in the 10-15 grain range to be effective for squirrel hunting.
Q: How important is pellet accuracy for squirrel hunting?
A: Pellet accuracy is extremely important. You need to be able to hit a vital spot on the squirrel for a quick and humane kill. Poor accuracy leads to wounded animals.
Q: Can I reuse .177 pellets?
A: No, you should never reuse .177 pellets. Used pellets are deformed and can be inaccurate. They can also damage your air rifle’s barrel.
Q: What is the effective range for .177 squirrel hunting?
A: The effective range depends on your air rifle and pellet choice, but generally, accurate shots within 30-50 yards are considered ethical for .177 caliber.
Q: How do I store my .177 pellets?
A: Store your pellets in a cool, dry place in their original container. Keep the container sealed to prevent moisture and dirt from affecting them.
Q: Is it legal to hunt squirrels with a .177 air rifle?
A: Hunting regulations vary by location. Always check your local wildlife agency’s rules and regulations before hunting squirrels or any other game.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.