Introduction
Pump air rifles continue to be a favorite for both beginners and seasoned shooters in 2025. Their versatility, affordability, and ability to fire pellets or BBs without the need for CO₂ cartridges or compressed tanks make them a practical choice. But with so many models flooding the market, it can be tough to know which one’s worth your money.
So, I rolled up my sleeves, grabbed ten of the most popular pump air rifles this year, and tested them thoroughly for power, precision, ease of use, build quality, and overall value. Here are the top 10 pump air rifles of 2025—ranked, reviewed, and ready for your next backyard plinking session or small game hunt.
1. Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 Air Rifle .22 Caliber + Free Pack of Pellets
Features:
- Whisper Fusion noise-dampening technology reduces report significantly.
- Gas piston power plant (IGT Mach 1) delivers smoother cocking and shooting.
- .22 caliber pellets provide great stopping power—ideal for small game.
- Comes with a high-quality 3-9×40 scope included.
- Recoil-reducing rail (RRR) absorbs shock for improved accuracy.
- Synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant.
Why It Ranked #1:
Powerful, quiet, and precise. It’s not a traditional pump rifle, but the gas piston system gives it incredible performance and makes it worth the top spot.
2. Umarex Ruger Blackhawk Pellet Rifle .177 Caliber Kit
Features:
- Spring-piston powered for consistent shots.
- Ruger-branded synthetic stock is solid and weatherproof.
- Comes as a complete kit—includes pellets and a 4×32 scope.
- Fires .177 caliber pellets at up to 1,000 FPS.
- Rifled barrel ensures accuracy.
Why It Ranked #2:
An excellent entry-level option with everything you need to get started. Reliable performance and great value.
3. Daisy Powerline 880 Air Rifle .177 Caliber Kit
Features:
- Multi-pump pneumatic power system (2–10 pumps).
- Shoots both BBs and .177 caliber pellets.
- Muzzle velocity: up to 800 FPS with pellets.
- Scope included in kit, though iron sights are quite good too.
- Lightweight, making it great for beginners and younger shooters.
Why It Ranked #3:
The classic. Versatile, accurate, and budget-friendly—perfect for target shooting or pest control.
4. Hatsan 95 Air Rifle .22 Caliber Combo
Features:
- Vortex gas piston system provides smooth and powerful shots.
- Turkish walnut stock adds a premium feel.
- Quattro Trigger system offers an adjustable two-stage trigger.
- Fully shrouded barrel with built-in sound moderator.
- Included 3-9×32 scope enhances precision.
Why It Ranked #4:
A serious hunting rifle disguised as a plinker. It’s heavy but delivers performance and luxury at a reasonable price.
5. Gamo Raptor Whisper Air Rifle .177 Caliber Combo
Features:
- IGT gas piston for reduced vibration and improved accuracy.
- Whisper noise suppression system for quiet shooting.
- .177 caliber pellets fly at up to 1300 FPS with PBA ammo.
- Custom Action Trigger (CAT) for a crisp shooting experience.
- Includes 4×32 scope.
Why It Ranked #5:
Super quiet and lightning-fast, but the lightweight build may not appeal to everyone. Excellent for pest control.
6. Crosman Legacy 1000 Variable Pump Air Rifle .177 Caliber Kit
Features:
- Variable pump (3–10 pumps) allows adjustable power.
- Dual-ammo capable: fires both BBs and pellets.
- Fires up to 1000 FPS with pellets.
- Fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight.
- Lightweight and durable synthetic stock.
Why It Ranked #6:
A modern take on pump-action shooting. Great flexibility and power for a very fair price.
7. Gamo Wildcat Whisper Air Rifle .177 Caliber Kit
Features:
- Whisper noise-reduction technology.
- IGT gas piston system for reliability in cold weather.
- Lightweight, all-weather synthetic stock.
- Comes with a 4×32 scope and mount.
- Fires .177 caliber pellets at up to 1300 FPS with PBA Platinum ammo.
Why It Ranked #7:
Quiet, powerful, and accurate—but similar to others in Gamo’s lineup, making it slightly less unique.
8. Umarex Ruger Targis Hunter Max Pellet Rifle .22 Caliber with Scope
Features:
- .22 caliber barrel ideal for small game hunting.
- All-weather synthetic stock with rubber recoil pad.
- Includes adjustable 3-9×32 scope.
- SilencAir muzzle device significantly reduces noise.
- ReAxis gas piston system for smoother shots.
Why It Ranked #8:
A great hunting rifle at a reasonable price. A bit bulky, but it packs a punch and shoots quietly.
9. Gamo Swarm Whisper Air Rifle .22 Caliber
Features:
- 10X Quick-Shot rotary magazine allows fast follow-up shots.
- Whisper noise suppression.
- IGT gas piston for smoother shooting and improved accuracy.
- Synthetic ambidextrous stock.
- 3-9×40 scope included.
Why It Ranked #9:
Innovative quick-load system but a little more complex for beginners. Great if you want semi-rapid fire.
10. Daisy Adult Red Ryder BB Gun
Features:
- Classic lever-action design.
- Shoots .177 caliber BBs up to 350 FPS.
- Beautiful wood stock and forearm.
- Iron sights with adjustable rear notch.
- Lightweight and nostalgic.
Why It Ranked #10:
Let’s face it—it’s iconic. But it’s more for fun and nostalgia than power or precision.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the difference between a pump and gas-piston air rifle?
Pump rifles require manual air compression for each shot, while gas-piston rifles use a compressed gas cylinder and a single cocking motion to generate power.
Q2: Is .177 or .22 caliber better?
.177 is ideal for target shooting and pest control due to higher velocity, while .22 offers more stopping power, making it better for small game hunting.
Q3: Are scopes necessary on these rifles?
Scopes improve accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Most rifles on this list come with scopes, but iron sights are perfectly fine for short-range shooting.
Q4: Can children use these air rifles?
Some, like the Daisy Powerline 880 and Red Ryder, are beginner-friendly. However, always supervise young shooters and ensure they’re using appropriate models for their age and strength.
Q5: Which air rifle is best for small game hunting?
The Hatsan 95 and Umarex Targis Hunter Max in .22 caliber are excellent options for hunting due to their power and accuracy.
Conclusion
Testing these rifles made one thing clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all option. If you want power and silence, the Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 leads the pack. For budget-conscious beginners, the Daisy Powerline 880 or Crosman Legacy 1000 are fantastic. And if you’re after the nostalgic thrill of backyard plinking, the Red Ryder never fails to charm.
Each rifle on this list brings something unique to the table—whether it’s whisper-quiet tech, sheer velocity, or reliable multi-pump flexibility. Whatever your aim, there’s a perfect pump air rifle waiting for you in 2025.
