The pellet gun makes for a perfect hunting rifle when it comes to small game. When getting started with squirrel hunting, it is absolutely imperative to know certain things about pellet guns. This article here highlights the thoughts and features that need to be considered before you select a pellet gun for your squirrel hunting endeavors.
Types of Pellet Guns
There are mainly two types of pellet guns suitable for squirrel hunting:
- Spring-Piston Rifles: These rifles are usually characterized with terms such as simplicity and reliability. A spring-piston gun compresses an internal spring every time the gun is cocked, hence propelling the pellet with immense force. They tend to appeal to first-time buyers of air rifles due to their new-user friendly traits as well as due to the fact that they usually only require simple maintenance.
- Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) Rifles: PCP rifles offer great amount more power and accuracy in their shots, which is why this gun is more appreciated among professional hunters. Inside their air tank, these rifles use compressed air to launch the pellets through the muzzle. While they might comparably be pricier than spring-piston-powered rifles, its performance makes it a one-time investment for more serious hunting.
Factors to Consider
- Accuracy: Essential for hitting small targets like squirrels. Look for guns with a proven track record of precision.
- Caliber: Common calibers for squirrel hunting are .177 and .22. While .177 pellets have a higher velocity, .22 pellets provide more impact.
- Noise Level: Important for not startling wildlife. Some pellet guns come with integrated suppressors to reduce noise.
- Scope Compatibility: A good scope can significantly enhance accuracy at longer ranges.
So, the choice of the right pellet gun itself sets the first footing towards successful squirrel hunting. Whether it be the simplicity of the spring-piston rifle or the advanced features of the PCP rifle, having a basic understanding of each type will definitely help to make a refined selection.
Top 3 Pellet Guns for Squirrel Hunting
1. Benjamin Marauder PCP Air Rifle
The Benjamin Marauder PCP air rifle is perfect for squirrel hunting as it offers high power and unsurpassed accuracy. The rifle comes in .177 and .22 calibers, but the latter one is good for small games like the squirrels. And with an adjustable, two-stage trigger and quiet-shooting internal shroud, this rifle clearly aims at addressing lots of hunting scenarios.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .177, .22 |
| Velocity | 1100 FPS (.177), 1000 FPS (.22) |
| Mechanism | Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) |
| Price (Approx.) | $600 |
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High velocity | Relatively heavy |
| Two-stage adjustable trigger | Higher price point |
| Internal shroud for quieter shooting | – |
| Durable synthetic stock | – |
2. Umarex Origin PCP Air Rifle
The Umarex Origin PCP Air Rifle is beginner-friendly and usually comes with a hand pump to make refilling easy to handle by new users. Comes with a two-stage adjustable trigger and shoots up to 1075 FPS. It is designed to be easy to use and accurate, thus even the novice hunter can use it.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22, .25 |
| Velocity | 1075 FPS (.22), 950 FPS (.25) |
| Mechanism | Pre-charge pneumatic (PCP) |
| Price (Approx.) | $360 |
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High velocity | Short length of pull |
| Includes a hand pump for easy filling | Unregulated |
| Quiet operation with suppressor | Requires proprietary fill probe |
| High shot count | – |
3. Hatsan Flashpup PCP Air Rifle
The Hatsan Flashpup PCP Air Rifle is a compact, lightweight, and powerful option for squirrel hunting. Its bullpup design and shrouded barrel make it easy to handle and quiet to shoot. The adjustable trigger and high velocity ensure accuracy and effectiveness in the field.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .25 |
| Velocity | 1100 to 900 fps |
| Mechanism | Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) |
| Price (Approx.) | Pricing varies |
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight (6.1 pounds) | Proprietary fill probe |
| High velocity (1100 to 900 fps) | Sidelever situated below cheekpiece |
| Bullpup design for ease of handling | – |
| Quiet and accurate | – |
Things to Remember when Squirrel Hunting
Hunting Seasons and Regulations
The hunting of squirrels is usually regulated through some seasons set specifically for this purpose by the wildlife agencies. These seasons are given to conserve the population of the squirrel as well as to ensure that the practice is sustainable. In this respect, it is essential to know dates required for one to hunt in an area specified.
Licenses and Permits
Furthermore, a hunting license of some kind would typically be required to chase squirrels for the purpose of hunting. The nature of the license and its costs could vary depending on factors such as residence, age, and the kind of game. Special permits or the fulfillment of a hunter’s education course might also be necessary in some jurisdictions.
Best Time of Year for Squirrel Hunting
Understanding the behavior and patterns of squirrels is key to determining the best times for hunting. The most favorable periods for squirrel hunting often align with their most active seasons.
Seasonal Behavior of Squirrels
- Spring and Summer: In spring and summer, squirrel activity is generally high, in some instances shielded by dense foliage cover, hence making hunting difficult.
- Fall: This perhaps the prime time to go hunting squirrel. Since, during this time, squirrels are busy gathering food for winter, and they are more visible and chance of spotting them is better.
- Winter: In the winter season, ground squirrels go to ground more and are less active but can still be hunted especially on warmer days when they come out in search of food.
Weather Conditions
During mild weather when it is not humid outside, squirrels are by far the most active. Usually the best time of the day for hunting it is early morning or late afternoon when outside is cooler.
But squirrel hunting with success is more than the equipment. It involves an understanding of the prey, a dedication to ethical hunting, and the sense of wildlife and nature. Combining all these attributes with the right equipment, your hunting trip can be sustainable, responsible, and enjoyable at the same time.
Leave a Reply