Best Air Guns and Pellets for Raccoon Hunting: Top Picks for 2026

Raccoon management often benefits from a reliable, humane air gun setup that delivers accurate shots at practical ranges. The following selections include precision pellets and high-powered rifles designed for small to medium game. Each option is chosen for accuracy, penetration, and consistency, helping ensure effective, ethical shots when used by qualified shooters in legal settings.

Product Brand Caliber Notable Feature
Hornet Pointed Airgun Pellets H&N Sport .22 Incredible penetration and precision in .22 caliber airguns
Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i Gamo .22 10-shot inertia-fed action for rapid follow-ups
Swarm Fusion 10X GEN3i Gamo .22 High power, quick follow-ups with GEN3i system
Barra TPR 1200 Bear River .177 1300 FPS with rifled barrel and scope
Hornet Pointed Pellets H&N Sport .177 Balanced performance in lighter caliber pellets

Note: The top selections focus on accuracy, penetration, and cycling speed in practical hunting and pest-control contexts. Always comply with local laws and safety guidelines when using air guns for wildlife or pest management.

Hornet Pointed Pellets: High Penetration .22 Cal

H&N Hornet Pointed Pellets

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The H&N Sport Hornet Pointed Airgun Pellets in .22 caliber are designed for high-velocity impact and deep penetration. The pointed brass tip helps maximize shaft integrity and expansion upon impact, delivering dense energy transfer. Shooters benefit from a snug match in the barrel, which enhances accuracy and consistency shot to shot. The Hornet is marketed as suitable for medium game and bird hunting, including raccoon, hare, fox, and other mammals typically within practical air rifle ranges. The pellets are offered in a 200-count package, suitable for long practice sessions and field use where consistent performance matters.

Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .22 Cal Rifle

Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i

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The Gamo Swarm Magnum is a .22 caliber break-barrel air rifle featuring 10-shot inertia-fed magazine technology (10X GEN3i). This design enables fast follow-up shots without reloading after every attempt, which can be advantageous when quick retakes are necessary for humane pest management. The rifle is rated for velocities up to 1,300 feet per second with alloy .22 pellets, offering substantial energy for targeted shots at common raccoon ranges. Its break-barrel action keeps the system simple and reliable for field use or controlled environments where mobility matters.

Swarm Fusion 10X GEN3i .22 Cal Rifle

Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X GEN3i

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The Swarm Fusion model also uses the 10X GEN3i inertia-fed system and fires .22 caliber pellets with up to 1,000 feet per second. This configuration emphasizes quick follow-up capability in a compact, high-powered package. The Fusion line emphasizes a balance between power and reliability, making it suitable for pest-control scenarios that require precise, rapid shooting. Its design supports sustained shooting sessions, with a focus on consistent velocity and predictable pellet performance across shots.

Barra TPR 1200 Air Rifle .177 Cal

Barra TPR 1200 Air Rifle

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The Barra TPR 1200 is a .177 caliber air rifle designed for small game and target shooting. It features a spring-piston action for a smooth trigger pull and a rifled 18-inch barrel. Paired with a 4×32 rifle scope and fiber optic sights, this model provides accuracy at moderate ranges. While its caliber is lighter than .22 options, the higher velocity can still be effective for certain pest management tasks, especially in open or controlled environments where shot placement and timing are critical.

Additional H&N Option

H&N Hornet Pointed Pellets .177 Cal

H&N Hornet Pointed .177 Pellets

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H&N Hornet Pointed Pellets in .177 caliber offer a different platform for shooters preferring lighter pellets with high penetration and accuracy. The pointed design aids in efficient energy transfer and penetration while maintaining consistent flight characteristics. This option is useful when a shooter is working within the constraints of a lighter rifle or when specific game, shooting distances, and hunting regulations favor .177 pellets. The package shown is 225 pellets, suitable for extended practice and field use where accuracy is a priority.

Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Air Guns And Pellets

When selecting an air gun and pellets for raccoon hunting or pest control, consider the following:

  • Caliber suitability: .22 caliber pellets generally offer a balance of power and precision for medium game; .177 is lighter and faster but may lack the stopping power for larger pests. Choose caliber based on target size, range, and legal guidelines.
  • Velocity and energy: Higher velocities can increase damage potential but may impact shot placement and accuracy. Look for a rifle with a reliable velocity range and consistent energy per shot.
  • Magazine and cycling: Inertia-fed or semi-automatic systems enable rapid follow-up shots, which can be advantageous in pest control scenarios requiring quick action.
  • Aim and optics: A quality scope or sights improve accuracy at typical pest-control distances. Ensure proper mounting and alignment with the rifle’s barrel.
  • Pellet design: Pointed or wadcutter designs influence penetration and expansion. Pointed pellets are often chosen for higher penetration, but consider your efficacy at your typical engagement range.
  • Field safety and legality: Verify local regulations regarding air gun use for wildlife and pest management. Follow safe handling practices, appropriate backstops, and humane targeting within legal limits.
  • Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection of the barrel and action help maintain accuracy. Store pellets and rifles in a dry, secure location to prevent damage and misfires.
  • Cost and availability: Consider pellet count per box, price per pellet, and long-term replacement costs, especially for frequent practice and field use.

For practical raccoon management, combine reliable equipment with responsible handling, accurate shot placement, and adherence to local wildlife and safety laws. The products listed provide a range of options—from precision pellets and high-velocity rifles to quick-reload systems—to help shooters choose a setup that aligns with their hunting environment and skill level.