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Best Air Pistol for Shooting Squirrels: Top 11 Picks for 2026

Ideal for gardeners and homeowners, the best air pistol for shooting squirrels is your ticket to a pest-free yard. Experience superior precision, impressive range, and consistent performance with our top picks.

Keeping your garden or yard free of pests like squirrels can be quite a task. Enter the best air pistol for shooting squirrels - your ultimate solution. Designed for precision and power, these pistols are suited for both novice and experienced shooters. So, get ready to reclaim your outdoor space as we introduce you to the top 11 choices of 2026.

1
  • ARS Mark

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    9.2
  • Brand
    Crosman
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  • ARS Mark

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    9.2
  • Brand
    Crosman
3
  • ARS Mark

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    9.2
  • Brand
    Crosman
4
  • ARS Mark

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    9.2
  • Brand
    Do-All Outdoors
5
  • ARS Mark

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    9.0
  • Brand
    Daisy
6
  • ARS Mark

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    9.0
  • Brand
    Crosman
7
  • ARS Mark

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    8.8
  • Brand
    Umarex
8
  • ARS Mark

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    8.6
  • Brand
    Barra
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  • ARS Mark

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    8.6
  • Brand
    Umarex
10
  • ARS Mark

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    7.8
  • Brand
    Umarex
11
  • ARS Mark

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    7.0
  • Brand
    Umarex

Last update on 2023-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

1. Why are air pistols recommended for shooting squirrels? Air pistols are usually the go-to option for shooting squirrels due to their precise targeting and quiet operation. They're perfect for dealing with these fast, agile creatures without disturbing your neighbors or harming other wildlife.

2. Are these air pistols suitable for beginners? Absolutely! The best air pistols for shooting squirrels are user-friendly. They come with adjustable sights and easy-to-use mechanisms, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced users.

3. What should I consider when choosing an air pistol for shooting squirrels? When selecting an air pistol, it's essential to consider factors like accuracy, power, and ease of use. Also, it's worth checking the pistol's noise level to avoid disturbing your surroundings.

4. How do air pistols compare to other methods for controlling squirrels? Air pistols offer a humane and effective method for controlling squirrels. Unlike traps or poison, air pistols can selectively target pests without causing undue suffering or risking harm to other wildlife.

Why Trust Us? We're committed to providing you with reliable, unbiased, and well-researched information. Our recommendations for the best air pistols for shooting squirrels are based on thorough analysis and user reviews.

Delve into this topic further, Best vortex rifle scopes

Please note that the actual effectiveness of air pistols can depend on various factors, including the shooter's skill and the specific characteristics of the pistol. Always ensure you're complying with local regulations and handling firearms responsibly.

Explore further:

Glock 19 Gen3 CO2 .177 Air Gun Pistol

The Glock 19 Gen3 CO2 air pistol is an excellent option for pest control and recreational shooting. Here is an in-depth review highlighting the key pros and cons of this air gun:

Outstanding Accuracy and Power: With its rifled steel barrel and quality sights, the Glock achieves excellent accuracy for an air pistol. It can propel .177 cal steel BBs at up to 410 FPS, generating enough force to humanely dispatch pests like squirrels while minimizing ricochets. The smooth trigger pull and ergonomic grip also aid precision.

Highly Durable and Reliable: Glock is renowned for durability, and this model follows suit. The rugged polymer frame can withstand abuse that would damage a lesser pistol. The blowback action cycles smoothly and reliably after thousands of shots, making this an air gun you can trust for the long haul.

Authentic Glock Design: This CO2 pistol convincingly replicates the look and handling of the iconic Glock 19 centerfire pistol. The similarity extends internally as well, with operational features like the firing mechanism, takedown lever, and drop-free magazine. Familiarity with the real Glock translates seamlessly to confidently using this air gun.

Excellent Powered by CO2: CO2 power provides strong shot-to-shot consistency and reduces recoil versus spring pistols. The 12g CO2 capsules are inexpensive and widely available. Integrated picatinny rails allow adding accessories like flashlights and lasers.

High Ammo Capacity: The faithful 15-round magazine means you can fire many shots before reloading, handy for dealing with pest infestations. The magazines drop free smoothly when the release is pressed.

Safety Features: An integrated trigger safety helps prevent unintentional discharges. The included Allen key safely de-pressurizes the CO2 capsule for storage.

Not Ideal for New Shooters: With its blowback action and stronger recoil, this model may prove too heavy for smaller shooters. The cost is also on the higher end.

Overall, the Glock 19 Gen3 CO2 pistol combines excellent power and precision in a familiar, reliable, and durable package. For intermediate to advanced recreational shooters and pest control, it's one of the top .177 cal CO2 air pistols available today. The authenticity to its firearm namesake further enhances its appeal. Just be aware it's overbuilt and overpowered for beginning shooters.

Crosman Phantom P10KT CO2 Air Pistol Kit

The Crosman Phantom P10KT is a feature-packed CO2 powered BB pistol that delivers excellent performance right out of the box. Here is an in-depth look at the key benefits and potential drawbacks of this airgun kit for recreational shooting and pest control:

Superb Accuracy: The rifled steel barrel, adjustable rear sight, and fiber optic front sight combine to provide pinpoint accuracy. The smooth trigger break also contributes to precise shot placement. Equipped shooters can reliably hit small targets at 10-20 yards.

Semi-Auto Operation: The realistic blowback action cycles BBs rapidly with each trigger pull. The 10-shot rotary magazine enables quick follow up shots on multiple targets. Semi-auto fire is ideal for fast-paced plinking fun.

Excellent Power: Running on 12g CO2 cartridges, the P10KT can launch copper BBs at velocities up to 480 fps. This generates plenty of stopping power for pesting applications while minimizing noise. Two CO2 cartridges are included.

Quality Kit Contents: The kit contains safety glasses for eye protection, 500 Copperhead BBs ideal for accuracy, and two CO2 cartridges to start shooting immediately. Great value for a complete setup.

Easily Customizable: The Picatinny accessory rail under the barrel allows adding lasers, lights, and other accessories. Users can customize the P10KT for different applications. The replaceable grip panels enable further personalization.

Good Trigger Feel: The trigger has a smooth takeup and crisp break. This allows for precision shot timing and rapid fire. The grip shape and texturing provide a secure hold.

Not Ideal for Young Shooters: With its blowback action and power, the P10KT works best for teens and up. The grip may be too large for small hands. Proper adult supervision is still required.

For intermediate recreational and pest control use, the Crosman Phantom P10KT bundles a robust, customizable CO2 pistol with accessories to start shooting immediately. Its accuracy, power and rapid fire capabilities make it one of the top choices for controlling squirrels and other pesky critters. Just bear in mind it's not suitable for young children.

Colt Defender BB Air Pistol

The Colt Defender BB air pistol is a high quality spring-piston air gun that offers excellent power, accuracy and reliability for recreational shooting and pest control applications. Here is an in-depth review of its key features:

All-Metal Construction: The Defender has a substantial metal frame and slide rather than plastic, giving it a realistic weight and feel. This durable build can withstand years of regular use. The metal-on-metal slide action provides a satisfying recoil sensation.

Efficient CO2 Power: Powered by easy to find 12g CO2 cartridges, the Defender gets approximately 150 shots per cartridge. The hidden grip compartment makes changing CO2 fast and convenient. No tools are needed to puncture capsules.

Accurate Sights: The fixed front blade and adjustable rear notch sight line up precisely for consistent accuracy. At 10-15 yards, 1” groups are attainable offhand. The sights also aid quick target acquisition.

16-Round Capacity: The substantial built-in mag holds 16 steel BBs so you can fire multiple shots before reloading. Use of a speed loader makes reloads fast and easy.

Great for Practice: With its medium weight and realistic controls, the Defender excels for practicing gun handling skills like drawing from a holster and firing accurately under stress.

Powerful Shooting: It generates muzzle velocities up to 400 fps using steel BBs. This provides plenty of power for pest control while minimizing noise.

Smooth, Crisp Trigger: The trigger has minimal takeup and breaks cleanly for precision timing of shots. The grip shape and texturing provide a secure hold.

Easy to Operate: Features like the spring-loaded grip release, flip-open puncture knob, and slide-back opening make loading BBs and CO2 fast and hassle-free.

For shooters wanting a premium quality BB pistol with versatile capabilities, the Colt Defender hits the mark. It has the power and precision to effectively control pests while also excelling as a training tool. The all-metal construction ensures lasting durability. This is one of the best BB pistols available for the money.

ASG Dan Wesson BB Revolver

The Dan Wesson BB revolver by ASG is a quality CO2 powered air pistol with excellent accuracy and power. Here is an overview of its key pros and cons:

Pros:

- All-metal construction for durability and authentic weight

- Rotating 6-shell cylinder provides realistic operation

- Generates 318 fps velocity for pest control capabilities

- Rubberized grips allow a secure hold and absorb recoil

- Licensed Dan Wesson markings on frame and barrel

- Easy to access CO2 compartment just slide back grip

- Adjustable rear sight and fixed front for dialing in accuracy

- Single action trigger provides crisp and consistent release

- Compact 2.5" barrel length for maneuverability

Cons:

- Limited 6-shot capacity requires frequent reloading

- Fairly heavy double action trigger pull

- Shell ejector rod can jam if not lined up properly

- Loud report may exceed noise restrictions in some areas

- Shorter barrel reduces velocity compared to 4-6” models

Overall, the ASG Dan Wesson delivers outstanding quality and power in a licensed replica BB revolver. For pest control or accurately plinking cans, its blend of precision, compact size, authenticity and stopping power make it an excellent choice. Just be mindful of the limited capacity and heavy trigger when target shooting.

Umarex 9XP BB Air Pistol

The Umarex 9XP is a .177 caliber CO2 powered BB pistol packing impressive power and features for the price. Here is an overview of its main pros and cons:

Pros:

- Generates up to 400 fps velocity for taking small game

- Satisfying blowback action mimics recoil of a real firearm

- 20-round drop free magazine allows rapid fire sequences

- Fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight for accuracy

- Undermount picatinny rail to add accessories like lasers

- Ergonomic grip shape fits the hand nicely

- Realistic weight and controls taken from a duty pistol

- Good power and accuracy make it suitable for pest control

- Can fire hundreds of shots from a 12g CO2 cartridge

Cons:

- Loud discharge may exceed noise ordinances in some areas

- Double action trigger pull is quite heavy and gritty

- Build quality feels a bit cheap plastic in some areas

- Blowback action reduces CO2 efficiency somewhat

- Not compatible with lead pellets, steel BBs only

- May develop leak down barrel if not cleaned and oiled periodically

For a low cost blowback action BB pistol, the Umarex 9XP hits the mark with authority. It packs impressive power and rapid fire capabilities into an ergonomic platform. Just be mindful of the heavy trigger and louder report. With proper maintenance, it will provide hours of high velocity plinking fun.

4.5
4 ratings
Anthony Bartlett
WRITTEN BY
Anthony Bartlett
I'm a hunting editor and outdoor writer. I'm passionate about sharing my knowledge of hunting and the outdoors with others. Specially, ''m always on the lookout for the latest tips, tricks, and news on all things hunting