The best .177 pellets for squirrel hunting combine reliable accuracy, suitable pellet weight, and dependable performance to help you get the most from your air rifle.
With options ranging from hollowpoint and polymer tipped designs to accurate domed pellets, finding the right ammunition can make a noticeable difference in shot consistency and performance at appropriate hunting distances.
In this guide, we explore the key features of squirrel hunting pellets, reviews top picks for different needs and budgets, and provides a practical buying guide to help you choose the right option for your rifle. You’ll also find useful tips on pellet weight, accuracy, effective range, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Best Pellet Weight for a .177 Air Rifle
Pellet weight plays an important role in the accuracy, trajectory, and energy of a .177 air rifle. The right weight depends on the rifle’s power output, barrel characteristics, and the type of pellet being used. While lighter pellets can achieve higher velocities in some rifles, heavier pellets may retain momentum differently and perform more consistently in certain setups.
For small game applications, .177 pellets commonly range from around 7 to 10 grains. Lighter pellets may offer a flatter trajectory at certain velocities, while heavier options can provide different stability and energy retention characteristics. However, neither weight category is automatically better, as performance varies between air rifles and pellet designs.
When selecting pellet weight, consider the rifle manufacturer’s recommendations and test several suitable options for accuracy. Shoot groups from a stable position at known distances and compare consistency rather than relying solely on advertised velocity. The best pellet weight is the one that performs reliably in your particular rifle and is appropriate for the intended use.
For squirrel hunting, accurate shot placement and suitable impact performance are more important than choosing a specific grain weight. Always verify your rifle’s capabilities, keep shots within a distance where you can shoot accurately, and follow local hunting regulations.
Below are our top picks for the Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting
- H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177, 7.25gr (800 Count, 2 Pack – Best Overall
- H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollow Point .177, 9.57gr (400 Count) – Best Heavyweight Option
- JSB Predator Polymag .177, 8.0gr (200 Count) – Best Polymer Tipped Option
- JSB Diabolo Exact .177, 8.4gr (500 Count) – Best for Accuracy
- Barra Airguns Bowie Hollow Tipped .177, 8.18gr (250 Count) – Best Alternative Hunting Pellet
- Crosman/Benjamin Premier Hollow Point .177, 7.9gr (750 Count) – Best Budget Option
Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting
1) H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177, 7.25gr (800 Count, 2 Pack)
The H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177 pellets are an excellent option for airgun owners seeking dependable performance for small game hunting. Their 7.25 grain weight combines a lightweight profile with a specialized hollowpoint design, making them worth considering for squirrel hunting at close range. Manufactured by H&N Sport in Germany, these pellets are designed to deliver a balance of accuracy, penetration, and impact performance.
One of the main attractions is the distinctive raised point surrounded by a hollowpoint cavity and notched edges. This design is intended to promote expansion on impact while retaining useful penetration. When paired with an air rifle that shoots them accurately, the Terminator pellets can offer the precision needed for consistent shot placement. Individual rifle performance will vary, so testing their grouping at your intended distance is important.
Accuracy is another reason to consider this pellet. They have tight groupings at 25 yards, including groups around the size of a dime under suitable conditions. Their 7.25 grain weight also suit certain .177 caliber break barrel and other air rifles, although the best pellet weight depends on the rifle’s power and barrel characteristics.
The two pack contains 800 pellets in total, providing a convenient supply for regular practice and field use. This bulk quantity can also offer good value for hunters who want a specialized hollowpoint pellet without purchasing multiple small tins.
With their hunting oriented design, German manufacturing, and reported accuracy at shorter distances, the H&N Terminator Hollowpoint is a strong candidate for close range squirrel hunting when used with an appropriate air rifle and in compliance with local hunting regulations.
Specifications
- Brand: H&N Sport (Haendler & Natermann)
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: 7.25 grains
- Pellet Design: Raised point hollowpoint with notched edges
- Material: Lead
- Shape: Hollowpoint with partition style design
- Package Quantity: 800 pellets
- Packaging: Two packs of 400 pellets
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Suitable Targets: Squirrels, rabbits, and other appropriate small game
- Accuracy: Rifle dependent
- Testing Distance: Begin at 10 to 25 yards and verify grouping before hunting
Pros
- Specialized hollowpoint design intended to promote expansion on impact.
- Lightweight 7.25 grain construction may suit a range of .177 caliber air rifles.
- Tight groupings at shorter hunting distances.
- Raised point design aims to balance penetration and expansion.
- Suitable for evaluating accuracy and performance on small game.
- German manufacture from an established airgun ammunition brand.
- Bulk package supplies 800 pellets for practice and field use.
- Good value for hunters who prefer hollowpoint ammunition.
Cons
- Accuracy and impact performance vary between air rifles, so pellet testing is necessary.
2) H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollow Point .177, 9.57gr (400 Count)
The H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollow Point .177 pellets are designed for hunters who want a combination of accuracy, impact performance, and dependable penetration for small game. Weighing 9.57 grains, these pellets offer a heavier option for .177 caliber air rifles, making them worth considering for squirrel hunting when the rifle has sufficient power. Their specialized construction and German manufacturing make them an appealing choice for shooters seeking purpose built hunting ammunition.
A key feature is the distinctive four notch hollowpoint head, which is designed to expand on impact. This construction aims to combine penetration with increased deformation, helping transfer energy to the target. For squirrel hunters, consistent shot placement is just as important as pellet design, so pairing these pellets with an air rifle that produces tight groups is essential for responsible hunting.
Accuracy is another reason to consider the Baracuda Hunter Extreme. They show tight groupings at distances around 30 yards, although results depend on the individual rifle, pellet fit, and shooting conditions. The 9.57 grain weight work particularly well in suitable higher powered air rifles, but it is important to test accuracy and confirm the pellet’s trajectory before taking it into the field.
The 400 count tin provides a practical supply for sighting in, testing groups, and preparing for hunting trips. Their specialized hollowpoint design appeal to hunters who prioritize hunting performance over the lowest price per pellet. Overall, the H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme is a strong candidate for squirrel hunting when it performs accurately in your rifle and the setup provides sufficient energy for an ethical shot.
Specifications
- Brand: H&N Sport
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: 9.57 grains
- Head Design: Four notch hollowpoint
- Material: Lead
- Package Quantity: 400 pellets
- Minimum Muzzle Energy: Approximately 12 ft lbs
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 745 fps
- Intended Use: Small game hunting
- Suitable Game: Squirrels and other appropriate small game
- Accuracy: Rifle dependent, with reports of tight groups at around 30 yards
- Manufacturer: H&N Sport (Haendler & Natermann)
Pros
- Four notch hollowpoint design intended to promote expansion on impact.
- Heavier 9.57 grain weight may suit compatible higher powered .177 air rifles.
- Tight groupings at typical short range hunting distances.
- Designed for small game hunting, including squirrels.
- Potential for effective penetration and energy transfer when matched to a suitable rifle.
- German manufacturing from an established airgun ammunition brand.
- A 400 pellet tin provides a useful supply for practice and field preparation.
- Worth considering for hunters who prioritize specialized pellet performance over budget pricing.
Cons
- The heavier pellet may not perform optimally in lower powered air rifles.
3) JSB Predator Polymag .177, 8.0gr (200 Count)
The JSB Predator Polymag .177 pellets are a premium hunting option for airgun owners who prioritize accuracy and effective performance on small game. Weighing 8.0 grains, these pellets combine a practical weight for .177 caliber air rifles with a specialized polymer tipped design. They are worth considering for squirrel hunting, particularly for shooters who want consistent grouping and a pellet developed specifically for hunting applications.
Their defining feature is the sharp polymer tip integrated into a hollowpoint head. This construction is designed to improve penetration and promote expansion on impact, supporting effective energy transfer when the pellet strikes the target. The streamlined profile also aims to provide favorable flight characteristics.
Accuracy is another reason these pellets attract attention. We can verify tight groupings and consistent results across different air rifle platforms, including PCP rifles. The 8.0 grain weight can be a useful option for squirrel hunting, but no pellet performs equally well in every rifle.
Overall, the JSB Predator Polymag is a great premium choice for squirrel hunting when your air rifle feeds it reliably and produces accurate results.
Specifications
- Brand: JSB
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: 8.0 grains
- Head Design: Polymer tipped hollowpoint
- Material: Lead with polymer tip
- Package Quantity: 200 pellets
- Nose Design: Sharp polymer tip
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and varmint control
- Suitable Game: Squirrels, rats, and other appropriate small game
- Flight Characteristics: Streamlined profile designed for aerodynamic performance
- Accuracy: Rifle dependent, with reports of tight groupings
- Testing Distance: Begin at 5 to 25 yards and verify accuracy with your rifle
Pros
- Polymer tipped hollowpoint design intended to combine penetration with expansion.
- 8.0 grain weight offers a useful option for compatible .177 caliber hunting air rifles.
- Excellent accuracy and consistent grouping in some air rifle platforms.
- Streamlined design intended to support favorable flight characteristics.
- Specifically developed for hunting applications.
- Suitable for evaluating performance in squirrel and other small game hunting.
- Premium construction from an established pellet manufacturer.
Cons
- Premium pricing makes these pellets considerably more expensive per shot than many conventional .177 pellets.
4) JSB Diabolo Exact .177, 8.4gr (500 Count)
The JSB Diabolo Exact .177 pellets are a great option for airgun shooters who prioritize precision and consistent grouping for small game hunting. Weighing approximately 8.4 grains, they offer a useful balance of weight and accuracy for compatible .177 caliber air rifles. Their carefully shaped diabolo profile is designed to support stable flight, making them worth considering for squirrel hunting when reliable shot placement is the main priority.
The rounded head and streamlined pellet shape help provide predictable flight characteristics, while the lead construction is designed for consistent performance.
Accuracy is one of the main reasons to consider the JSB Exact. They exhibit tight groups in different rifles, including groups around the size of a nickel under favorable conditions. They also have useful accuracy at 50 yards and beyond, although performance depends on the air rifle, wind, pellet condition, and shooting technique.
The 500 count tin offers a practical quantity for regular practice, pellet testing, and hunting preparation. With a price of around $15 to $20 per tin, the cost per pellet is relatively competitive for a premium brand. Overall, the JSB Diabolo Exact is worth considering for squirrel hunting if your rifle produces consistent groups.
Specifications
- Brand: JSB
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: Approximately 8.4 grains
- Head Design: Domed or round nose for the standard Exact Diabolo variant
- Material: Lead
- Package Quantity: 500 pellets
- Pellet Shape: Diabolo
- Head Size: Approximately 4.52 to 4.53mm, depending on the specific variant
- Intended Use: Target shooting and small game hunting where legally permitted
- Suitable Game: Squirrels and other appropriate small game, subject to rifle suitability and local regulations
- Accuracy: Rifle dependent, with reports of tight groupings
- Price: Approximately $15 to $20 per tin
- Manufacturer: JSB
Pros
- Excellent accuracy across several air rifle platforms.
- 8.4 grain weight offers a useful balance for compatible .177 caliber rifles.
- Domed profile supports stable flight and predictable trajectory.
- Tight groups at 25 yards and useful accuracy at longer distances.
- 500 pellet tin provides a generous supply for practice and testing.
- Competitive cost per pellet compared with many specialized hunting pellets.
- Established manufacturer with a reputation for precision airgun ammunition.
Cons
- Deformed pellets can produce inconsistent flight and unwanted flyers.
5) Barra Airguns Bowie Hollow Tipped .177, 8.18gr (250 Count)
The Barra Airguns Bowie Hollow Tipped .177 pellets are a specialized option for airgun owners who want a hunting focused design for small game. Weighing 8.18 grains, they offer a useful balance of weight and precision for compatible .177 caliber air rifles. Their distinctive hollow tipped construction makes them worth considering for squirrel hunting, particularly for shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistent performance at shorter distances.
The Bowie pellets feature a pentagonal hollow tip with a lead projection, a design intended to support penetration and expansion on impact. This construction distinguishes them from conventional round nose pellets and gives them a purpose built profile for hunting applications. When paired with a rifle that groups them consistently, they can be a practical choice for hunters seeking dependable performance on small game.
Accuracy is another advantage of these pellets. Some have achieved tight groups at around 20 yards and the pellets are well made, with few deformation concerns. Their 8.18 grain weight suit many .177 caliber break barrel air rifles, although the ideal pellet depends on the rifle’s power, barrel, and individual preferences.
Specifications
- Brand: Barra Airguns
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: 8.18 grains
- Head Design: Pentagonal hollow tip with lead projection
- Material: Lead
- Package Quantity: 250 pellets
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Suitable Game: Squirrels and other appropriate small game
- Accuracy: Tight grouping reported at around 20 yards
- Testing Distance: Begin at 10 to 25 yards and verify grouping with your rifle
- Price: Approximately $12 to $18 per tin
- Manufacturer: Barra Airguns
- Country of Manufacture: United States
Pros
- Specialized pentagonal hollow tip designed to promote expansion on impact.
- 8.18 grain weight offers a useful option for compatible .177 caliber hunting air rifles.
- Accurate shooting and tight grouping at shorter distances.
- Lead construction with well formed pellets and minimal deformation.
- Designed for hunting applications rather than target practice alone.
- Suitable for squirrel hunting when the rifle delivers consistent accuracy and appropriate performance.
Cons
- Premium pricing results in a higher cost per pellet than budget alternatives.
6) Crosman/Benjamin Premier Hollow Point .177, 7.9gr (750 Count)
The Crosman/Benjamin Premier Hollow Point .177 pellets are an excellent budget friendly option for airgun owners who want practical performance for small game hunting. Weighing 7.9 grains, they offer a useful balance of weight and accuracy for compatible .177 caliber air rifles. Their combination of a hunting focused design, generous pellet count, and accessible price makes them appealing to squirrel hunters who want reliable ammunition for regular practice and field use.
The hollowpoint head is designed to promote expansion on impact, helping transfer energy to the target. Combined with their 7.9 grain weight, this design makes the Premier Hollow Points worth considering for close to medium range squirrel hunting. Actual impact performance depends on the rifle’s power, pellet velocity, and target conditions, so testing them in your own setup is important before relying on them for hunting.
Accuracy is another advantage. They have good grouping in compatible air rifles, with consistent results at distances around 30 yards. The pellets can be a practical choice for hunters who want to develop repeatable shot placement without spending more on specialized premium ammunition.
The 750 count container provides excellent value for shooters who use their air rifles frequently. At a price of around $10 to $15 per tin, the cost per pellet is lower than many specialized hunting options. Overall, the Crosman/Benjamin Premier Hollow Point is a strong budget choice for squirrel hunting when it groups consistently and performs appropriately in your rifle.
Specifications
- Brand: Benjamin, part of Crosman
- Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
- Pellet Weight: 7.9 grains
- Head Design: Hollowpoint
- Material: Lead
- Package Quantity: 750 pellets
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Suitable Game: Squirrels, rabbits, and other appropriate small game
- Accuracy: Rifle dependent, with reports of tight grouping
- Testing Distance: Begin at 15 to 30 yards and verify grouping before hunting
- Price: Approximately $10 to $15 per tin
- Manufacturer: Crosman Corporation
Pros
- Hollowpoint design intended to promote expansion on impact.
- 7.9 grain weight offers a useful option for compatible .177 caliber hunting air rifles.
- Good accuracy and tight grouping in suitable rifles.
- 750 pellet container provides an ample supply for practice and hunting preparation.
- Affordable cost per pellet compared with many premium hunting alternatives.
- Suitable for shooters seeking an economical pellet for small game applications.
- Established airgun ammunition brand with a long manufacturing history.
- Good potential value for frequent shooters who find that their rifle performs well with these pellets.
Cons
- Pellet fit and accuracy can vary between air rifle barrels.
Read Also: 6 Best .177 Pellets for Hunting Rabbits
Advantages of Using the Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting
Improved Accuracy and Shot Placement
High quality .177 air rifle pellets can help deliver consistent accuracy when paired with a compatible rifle. Well made pellets with uniform shapes and weights can produce tighter groups, making it easier to aim precisely at appropriate distances. Consistent shot placement is especially important for squirrel hunting, where the target is relatively small and a responsible shot requires careful control.
Effective Energy Transfer at Suitable Hunting Distances
Pellets designed for small game hunting can offer useful terminal performance when their weight and shape match the air rifle’s power output. Hollowpoint and other purpose designed hunting pellets may expand or deform on impact under suitable conditions, helping transfer energy to the target. Actual performance depends on pellet design, impact velocity, and the rifle setup.
Better Consistency Between Shots
Consistent pellet dimensions and weight can help reduce variations in a rifle’s point of impact. This makes it easier to establish reliable zeroing and understand how the rifle performs at different distances. Testing several pellet types at the range helps identify which option groups most consistently in a particular air rifle.
Suitable Performance for Lightweight Air Rifles
The .177 caliber is widely used in air rifles and offers a practical option for hunters who value a relatively light pellet and a flatter trajectory at appropriate velocities. Depending on the rifle’s power and the pellet’s weight, this can make it easier to estimate holdover over short distances. Hunters should verify actual accuracy and impact energy rather than assuming every .177 setup is suitable for hunting.
A Choice of Pellet Designs for Different Rifles
.177 pellets are available in several designs, including domed, hollowpoint, and polymer tipped options. Each design can behave differently in flight and on impact, giving shooters a way to test which pellet best matches their rifle and intended use. The most effective choice is the one that combines dependable accuracy with appropriate performance, rather than simply having the most aggressive looking design.
Cost Effective Practice and Hunting Preparation
Many .177 pellets are available in relatively large tins, allowing hunters to practise regularly without excessive ammunition costs. Consistent practice helps improve trigger control, range estimation, and shot placement before any hunting trip. Testing pellets at realistic distances also helps establish the limits of a rifle and supports more responsible decisions in the field.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting
Pellet Weight
Pellet weight affects velocity, trajectory, and the energy delivered at the target. Lightweight pellets can travel faster in some air rifles, while heavier pellets may retain energy differently and perform better in certain setups. Common .177 hunting pellet weights range from around 7 to 10 grains, but the best option depends on the rifle’s power and how consistently it shoots that weight.
Pellet Design
Pellet shape influences flight stability, accuracy, and impact behavior. Domed pellets are often valued for consistent accuracy, while hollowpoint designs are intended to expand or deform under suitable impact conditions. Polymer tipped hunting pellets offer another design option. The most suitable shape is the one that produces reliable groups in your rifle while delivering appropriate performance for small game.
Accuracy and Consistency
Accuracy is essential when hunting a small target such as a squirrel. Look for pellets with consistent dimensions, uniform weight, and a shape that works well with your rifle’s barrel. Test different options by shooting groups from a stable position at realistic distances. Choose the pellet that repeatedly places shots where you aim rather than relying solely on its advertised features.
Rifle Compatibility
Not every pellet performs equally well in every air rifle, even when the caliber is correct. Barrel design, rifling, power output, and the rifle’s preferred pellet fit can all influence accuracy. Test several suitable pellet weights and designs to determine which one groups best. Always check the rifle manufacturer’s recommendations and make sure the pellet caliber matches the rifle.
Muzzle Velocity and Energy
Muzzle velocity affects trajectory, while the pellet’s weight and velocity together determine its kinetic energy. A higher advertised velocity does not automatically mean better hunting performance, because lightweight pellets may lose speed quickly and different rifles produce different results. Consider the rifle’s actual performance with the chosen pellet and verify that it is appropriate for the intended use and local hunting regulations.
Effective Shooting Distance
The useful range of a .177 pellet depends on accuracy, trajectory, retained energy, wind conditions, and the air rifle’s power. A pellet that performs well at short range may become less predictable as distance increases. Practise at different distances to understand your rifle’s grouping and trajectory, and keep shots within a range where accurate placement and appropriate impact performance can be reliably achieved.
Pellet Quality and Cost
Pellet quality can influence consistency from shot to shot, while price determines how affordable regular practice will be. Look for pellets with minimal visible damage, consistent shapes, and reliable manufacturing quality. Larger tins may offer better value, but the cheapest option is not necessarily the best choice if it produces inconsistent groups. Prioritize dependable accuracy and suitable performance, then compare cost per pellet.
FAQs About the Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting
What grain .177 pellet is best for squirrel hunting?
The best grain weight depends on your air rifle’s power, barrel characteristics, and preferred pellet design. Many .177 hunting pellets weigh between 7 and 10 grains. Rather than choosing by weight alone, test several options to find the one that delivers the most consistent accuracy and appropriate performance in your rifle.
Are hollowpoint pellets better than domed pellets for squirrel hunting?
Hollowpoint pellets are designed to expand or deform under suitable impact conditions, while domed pellets are often favored for their stable flight and accuracy. Neither design is automatically superior in every air rifle. The right choice depends on how accurately the pellet shoots and how it performs at the intended distance.
What is the effective range of .177 pellets for squirrel hunting?
There is no single effective range for every .177 air rifle. The rifle’s power, pellet weight, accuracy, wind conditions, and remaining impact energy all affect performance. Test your setup at different distances and use only a range where you can consistently place shots accurately and achieve appropriate performance. Always follow local hunting laws and prioritize a humane outcome.
Conclusion
Choosing the best .177 pellets for squirrel hunting comes down to finding the right balance of accuracy, pellet weight, design, and performance for your air rifle.
Hollowpoint, polymer tipped, and domed pellets each offer different advantages, so testing several options is the best way to identify which delivers consistent groups and suitable performance at your intended shooting distance. Consider pellet quality and overall value, but prioritize dependable accuracy over advertised velocity alone.
With the right pellet and regular practice, you can improve shot consistency and make more informed decisions in the field. Always follow local hunting regulations and ensure your equipment and shooting distance are appropriate for a humane outcome.