Buyer’s Guide to Air Gun Pellets
If you’re buying a new air weapon, it’s important to invest in the best airgun pellets. Good (or bad) ammunition can make a huge difference in the accuracy and performance of your shooting. Whether you’re plinking or hunting, it’s worth doing your research if you want to make that perfect shot every time.
Air gun pellets come in many shapes, calibres, weights and materials. The right choice depends largely on what kind of gun you own, and what you’re using it for. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of air gun pellets and how to choose the right ones for your weapon.
Air Gun Pellet Types
When choosing pellets for your air gun, the first factor to consider is the type (or shape).
The most common type of airgun pellet you will see is the diabolo. With a narrow ‘waist’ for stability and accuracy, diabolo pellets are much more popular than round balls and slugs. They can be divided into four main head shapes:
- Pointed pellets, which are designed for hunting.
- Hollow points spread on impact, doing more damage – these are less accurate and best used at close range.
- Round head pellets (also called domed pellets) are great all-rounders. They are more aerodynamic and less affected by air resistance, meaning they are more precise and lose less energy as they travel.
- Flat head pellets (also known as wadcutters) are perfect for plinking and target practice. They are designed to leave a clean, round hole in the paper target, making scoring easier.
Air Gun Pellet Sizes
Next, you’ll need to consider the size of the pellet. The two most popular airgun calibres are .177 (4.5mm) and .22 (5.5mm).
- .177 calibre pellets are smaller and travel faster with a flatter trajectory. They generally offer superior accuracy, especially at short range. They also tend to be lighter in weight
- .22 calibre pellets are larger, heavier and slower. They hit harder, making them perfect for pest control and longer distances
All of the best airgun pellet brands, such as RWS, H&N and JSB, offer pellets in both .22 and .177 calibre. However, it’s important to note that .177 calibre pellets won’t work in a .22 gun, and vice versa. So, this is a decision you’ll need to make before buying your weapon. You can check out our buyer’s guide to air rifles here.
Air Gun Pellet Materials and Weights
The weight of an air gun pellet is measured in grain. .177 air gun pellets typically weigh 8-10gr on average. Being much larger in diameter, .22 air gun pellets are generally heavier at around 15-18gr.
However, the material the pellet is made of can also affect its weight. Lead-free airgun pellets, typically made from zinc alloy, are lighter than traditional lead pellets (and arguably better for the environment).
Heavy pellets are more powerful – ideal for airguns with a greater muzzle energy. They are also less affected by wind, meaning they are often a better choice for long-range shooting. However, low-powered airguns will struggle to handle their weight, resulting in an inaccurate shot.
How to Choose the Best Airgun Pellets
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of ‘what are the best air gun pellets’. The right choice depends upon two main factors: what kind of gun you have, and what you do with it.
Heavy lead airgun pellets work well for PCP air rifles as these tend to boast a higher muzzle energy. If you have a spring piston or CO2-powered model, it may be best to pick a lightweight pellet such as JSB Exact Express .177.
For plinking and target shooting, flat head .177 pellets are a great choice. They’re fast, accurate and will punch a neat hole in the target for easy scoring. For pest control, however, a heavy, high-impact pellet such as the pointed H&N Hornet .22 will help ensure a clean kill.
If you’re unsure, why not order one or two sample packs? This will allow you to experiment with different air gun pellets and find your favourite.
Shop The Wolfman: Airgun Pellets at Great Prices
If you’re looking for air gun pellets for sale, visit The Wolfman. We carry a wide selection of air gun ammunition including .177 and .22 calibre pellets, lead-free airgun pellets and steel BBs.
On our website, you’ll also find a fantastic range of air pistols, air rifles, gun care products and other shooting accessories. We’re proud to work with some of the best brands in the industry and only stock products we’d use ourselves.
Order from The Wolfman today for free delivery and same-day dispatch on all orders placed before 11am. For any questions about our products or website, contact us through our enquiry form or call 01473 806 280.