The Best 22 air rifles for rats offer a useful combination of power, accuracy, manageable noise, and dependable performance, making the .22 caliber a popular choice for dealing with rats around suitable properties.
Both PCP and break barrel options are included, giving you different choices depending on your preferred setup.
In this guide, I’ll cover the key features and performance of each top pick, including power, accuracy, magazine capacity, noise reduction, and overall usability. I’ll also provide a buying guide covering the most important factors to consider before choosing a .22 air rifle for rats.
Below is a quick summary of the Best 22 Air Rifle for Rats
- Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle — Best Compact Option
- Stoeger XM1 PCP Air Rifle .22 Cal — Best Versatile Option
- Stoeger S4000-E .22 Cal Break Barrel Gas Ram Air Rifle — Best Break Barrel Option
- Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock PCP .22 Cal — Best Overall
- Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .22 Cal Air Rifle — Best High Power Option
- Beeman Raider 1331 .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle — Best Lightweight Option
Rats and .22 Air Rifles
Rats can become persistent pests around homes, farms, barns, and other properties, particularly where food and shelter are readily available.
For situations where air rifle pest control is legal and appropriate, a .22 air rifle can provide a useful combination of power, accuracy, and manageable noise for dealing with rats at suitable distances.
The larger .22 pellet can deliver more energy than smaller calibers, while features such as scopes, rifled barrels, and multi shot magazines can make precise pest control easier. Proper shot placement, an appropriate pellet, and responsible use are essential for humane and effective rat control.
Best 22 Air Rifle for Rats
1) Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle
The Umarex Notos Carbine .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle is a compact PCP air rifle that is particularly well suited to rat control around properties, barns, gardens, and other areas where a lightweight and quiet setup is useful.
It produces around 13 to 20 ft lbs of energy depending on pellet choice, giving it adequate power for rats at appropriate distances. Its compact design and relatively low weight also make it easy to handle during extended pest control sessions.
The Notos uses a regulated PCP system with a 3,625 PSI air cylinder and a side lever action. Its 7 shot rotary magazine automatically indexes the next pellet, allowing quick follow up shots without manually loading the rifle after every shot. The adjustable trigger and rifled steel barrel also help provide the accuracy needed for small targets such as rats.
Noise reduction is another advantage for property pest control. The rifle uses an integral three baffle SilencAir system that keeps the report relatively subdued. Combined with its lightweight 4.15 lb design, the Notos is convenient for moving around a property and dealing with rats from different shooting positions.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Umarex USA |
| Model | Notos Carbine CRK Gen 2 |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | PCP |
| Velocity | 700 to 825 fps with 12 grain pellets |
| Energy | Approximately 13 to 20 ft lbs |
| Action | Side lever |
| Magazine | 7 shot rotary |
| Air Pressure | 3,625 PSI |
| Barrel | 11.75 inch rifled steel |
| Weight | 4.15 lbs |
| Trigger | Adjustable |
| Cocking Effort | 18 lbs |
| Suppression | Three baffle SilencAir integral suppressor |
| Stock | Adjustable synthetic |
| Rail | Picatinny |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty |
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Well suited to rat control
- Quiet operation
- Regulated PCP system
- 7 shot automatic indexing magazine
- Adjustable trigger
- Low recoil
- Good accuracy
- Picatinny mounting rail
- Good value
Cons
- Limited power compared with larger PCP rifles
- PCP pump or compressor required
2) Stoeger XM1 PCP Air Rifle .22 Cal
The Stoeger XM1 PCP Air Rifle .22 Cal is a versatile PCP platform that offers the power, accuracy, and magazine capacity useful for rat control. It can produce up to 1,000 fps with alloy pellets and around 800 fps with lead pellets, although pellet weight and actual muzzle energy are more important indicators of performance than advertised velocity alone.
The XM1 uses a regulated PCP system with a bolt action and a 7 shot rotary magazine. It also includes a single shot tray, giving shooters the option of loading individual pellets when preferred. The bolt action is straightforward to operate, while the adjustable two stage trigger allows the shooter to tailor the trigger feel.
For pest control, the rifle also offers good shooting versatility. It features an integrated four baffle S4 suppressor, fiber optic sights, a Picatinny rail, and a 4×32 scope. The magnetic magazine storage system on the side of the rifle provides space for additional magazines, which can be useful when dealing with multiple rats.
The synthetic Realtree Edge stock includes interchangeable grips and cheekpieces, allowing the rifle to be adjusted for a more comfortable shooting position.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Stoeger |
| Model | XM1 S4 |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | PCP |
| Velocity | Up to 1,000 fps with alloy pellets |
| Lead Pellet Velocity | Approximately 800 fps |
| Action | Bolt action |
| Magazine | 7 shot rotary |
| Barrel | Alloy steel |
| Stock | Synthetic Realtree Edge |
| Trigger | Adjustable two stage |
| Suppression | Integrated S4 four baffle suppressor |
| Scope | 4×32 included |
| Sights | Fiber optic |
| Rail | Picatinny |
| Weight | Approximately 8.99 lbs with scope |
| Warranty | 5 year manufacturer warranty |
Pros
- PCP power system
- Suitable for rat control
- 7 shot rotary magazine
- Single shot tray included
- Quiet integrated suppressor
- Adjustable two stage trigger
- Scope included
- Fiber optic sights included
- Comfortable adjustable stock
- Magnetic spare magazine storage
- 5 year warranty
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- PCP pump or compressor required
3) Stoeger S4000-E .22 Cal Break Barrel Gas Ram Air Rifle
The Stoeger S4000-E .22 Cal Break Barrel Gas Ram Air Rifle provides a different approach to rat control by using a gas ram power plant rather than a PCP system. It can produce up to 1,000 fps with alloy pellets and approximately 800 fps with lead pellets. Because it is a break barrel rifle, it does not require a pump, compressor, or air tank, making it a convenient self contained option for pest control.
The gas ram system provides consistent power without the need to maintain a reservoir of compressed air. It also produces less vibration than many traditional spring piston rifles. The rifle uses a single shot break barrel action, so each pellet must be loaded manually, but this simple design can be advantageous for shooters who want a straightforward rat control rifle.
Noise reduction is provided by the integrated S3 Sound Moderator, which uses internal baffles and a decompression chamber to reduce the report. The rifle also includes adjustable fiber optic sights and a 4×32 scope, giving users both open sight and scoped shooting options.
Its self contained design, .22 caliber, scope package, and noise reduction make it a practical option for rat control where a PCP setup is not preferred.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Stoeger |
| Model | S4000-E |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | Gas ram break barrel |
| Velocity | Up to 1,000 fps with alloy pellets |
| Lead Pellet Velocity | Approximately 800 fps |
| Action | Break barrel |
| Magazine | Single shot |
| Barrel | Rifled alloy steel |
| Trigger | Adjustable two stage |
| Suppression | Integrated S3 Sound Moderator |
| Sights | Adjustable fiber optic |
| Scope | 4×32 included |
| Rail | Dovetail |
| Length | 46.85 inches |
| Weight | 8.5 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty |
Pros
- Self contained gas ram system
- No PCP pump or compressor required
- .22 caliber suitable for rats
- Quiet S3 Sound Moderator
- Scope included
- Fiber optic sights included
- Adjustable trigger
- Reduced vibration compared with many spring piston rifles
- Good value
- Durable synthetic stock
Cons
- Heavy at 8.5 lbs
- Long overall length
4) Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock PCP .22 Cal
The Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock PCP .22 Cal is a powerful and proven PCP air rifle that offers plenty of capability for rat control. It can produce up to 1,000 fps and as much as 31 ft lbs of energy, depending on pellet selection and configuration. That gives the Marauder considerably more power than compact .22 PCP rifles, although shooters should select an appropriate pellet and avoid using more power than necessary for the intended pest control application.
The rifle uses a bolt action with a 10 shot rotary magazine, allowing quick follow up shots when dealing with multiple rats. Its two stage adjustable match grade trigger can be tuned to the shooter’s preference, while the rifled, shrouded barrel helps with both accuracy and noise reduction.
The Marauder also has a number of features designed for comfortable shooting. It includes an adjustable ambidextrous cheekpiece, reversible bolt handle, and a synthetic stock designed for use in different weather conditions. The quick disconnect Foster fitting and built in pressure gauge make monitoring and filling the PCP reservoir straightforward when the appropriate air source is available.
Its greater power and 10 shot magazine make it a strong choice for dedicated property pest control. Its virtually recoil free PCP operation also makes it easier to maintain a consistent sight picture when taking careful shots at rats.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Benjamin |
| Model | Marauder BP2264S |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | PCP |
| Velocity | Up to 1,000 fps |
| Energy | Up to 31 ft lbs |
| Fill Pressure | 3,000 PSI |
| Shots per Fill | Up to 30 |
| Action | Bolt action |
| Magazine | 10 shot rotary |
| Barrel | Rifled steel, shrouded |
| Trigger | Two stage adjustable match grade |
| Stock | Synthetic ambidextrous |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs |
| Length | 48.25 inches |
| Scope Rail | Dovetail |
| Fill System | Quick disconnect Foster fitting |
| Warranty | 5 year limited manufacturer warranty |
Pros
- High power output
- Up to 31 ft lbs of energy
- Excellent choice for rat control
- 10 shot rotary magazine
- Quiet shrouded barrel
- Adjustable match grade trigger
- Virtually recoil free
- Adjustable cheekpiece
- Reversible bolt handle
- Good accuracy
- Up to 30 shots per fill
- 5 year warranty
Cons
- Heavier than compact PCP rifles
- PCP pump or compressor required
5) Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .22 Cal Air Rifle
The Gamo Swarm Magnum 10X GEN3i .22 Cal Air Rifle is a high powered break barrel air rifle designed for demanding pest control and small game applications. It uses Gamo’s IGT Mach 1 gas piston with a 33mm cylinder, producing up to 1,300 fps with alloy pellets and around 26.6 ft lbs of energy. That level of power gives the .22 caliber rifle considerably more capability than many standard break barrel models.
One of its most useful features for rat control is the 10 shot GEN3i inertia fed rotary magazine. The system automatically indexes the next pellet after each shot, allowing faster follow up shots without manually loading the barrel. This can be particularly useful when dealing with multiple rats or when a quick second shot is needed.
The rifle also features Gamo’s Whisper Fusion double chamber noise reduction system, which helps reduce the report compared with conventional break barrel designs. Combined with the gas piston power plant, the rifle offers less vibration than many spring piston rifles. The 11mm Recoil Reducing Rail also helps protect the included scope from the rifle’s significant recoil.
For accuracy, the Swarm Magnum comes equipped with an adjustable CAT trigger and a Gamo 3 9×40 shockproof and fogproof scope. The rifled steel barrel and adjustable first and second trigger stages provide a good platform for precise shooting, while the ambidextrous stock makes the rifle suitable for either right or left handed shooters.
With approximately 26.6 ft lbs of energy, the Swarm Magnum provides considerably more power than is typically needed for rats. This makes it a capable option for rat control at appropriate distances when paired with a suitable .22 pellet and used with careful shot placement. As with any air rifle used for pest control, actual muzzle energy, shooting conditions, local regulations and humane practices should be considered.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Gamo |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | IGT Mach 1 Gas Piston, 33mm cylinder |
| Velocity | Up to 1,300 fps with alloy pellets |
| Energy | 26.6 ft lbs |
| Action | Break barrel, single cock |
| Magazine | 10 shot inertia fed rotary GEN3i |
| Trigger | CAT, adjustable first and second stage |
| Trigger Pull | 3.2 / 2.6 lbs |
| Cocking Effort | 41 lbs |
| Length of Pull | 15 inches |
| Weight | 6.9 lbs |
| Barrel | Rifled steel |
| Rail | 11mm Recoil Reducing Rail |
| Noise Suppression | Whisper Fusion double chamber |
| Stock | Ambidextrous |
| Scope | Gamo 3 9×40 shockproof and fogproof scope with mounts |
| Warranty | 5 year manufacturer warranty |
Pros
- High power output for a break barrel .22
- 26.6 ft lbs of energy
- 10 shot automatic indexing magazine
- Whisper Fusion noise reduction system
- Adjustable CAT trigger
- Gamo 3 9×40 scope included
- Recoil reducing scope rail
- IGT gas piston provides consistent power and reduced vibration
- Ambidextrous stock
- 5 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- 41 lb cocking effort can be demanding
- 6.9 lb weight may cause fatigue during extended use
6) Beeman Raider 1331 .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle
The Beeman Raider 1331 .22 Cal PCP Air Rifle is a lightweight and versatile option for rat control and other small pest applications. Its PCP power plant, adjustable power system, and 10 shot rotary magazine provide a combination of consistent performance and quick follow up shots. At only 4.9 pounds, it is also considerably easier to carry around a property than many larger .22 PCP air rifles.
The bolt action design works with a 10 shot rotary magazine, allowing multiple shots without manually loading each pellet. Its adjustable power system also gives the shooter some flexibility to balance power, accuracy, and air consumption. This makes the Raider practical for pest control at typical rat shooting distances.
Accuracy is another reason the Raider works well for rat control. Customer feedback describes it as very accurate, including positive results around 50 yards. The rifled barrel is also threaded with a 1/2″ 20 muzzle thread, making it suppressor ready for shooters who want to further reduce noise.
The hardwood stock gives the rifle a traditional appearance, while its ambidextrous design accommodates both left and right handed shooters. The 11mm / 3/8″ dovetail rail allows a scope to be mounted, which is particularly useful because the 10 shot magazine can interfere with the iron sights.
For rat control, the Beeman Raider is a practical choice thanks to its .22 caliber, adjustable PCP power, low noise, good reported accuracy, and 10 shot magazine. It is especially well suited to property pest control where carrying a lightweight rifle and making quick follow up shots are important. A quality scope and suitable air supply will add to the overall cost, but the Raider offers good value for a dedicated small pest control setup.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Beeman |
| Model | Raider 1331 |
| Caliber | .22 |
| Power Plant | PCP |
| Max Fill Pressure | 3,500 PSI |
| Action | Bolt action |
| Magazine | 10 shot rotary |
| Weight | 4.9 lbs |
| Barrel | Rifled, 1/2″ 20 threaded muzzle |
| Power | Adjustable |
| Scope Rail | 11mm / 3/8″ dovetail |
| Stock | Hardwood |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Sport Type | Hunting |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer warranty |
| Manufacturer | S/R Industries, Inc. |
| Date Available | January 27, 2024 |
| Part Number | 1331 |
Pros
- Lightweight 4.9 lb design
- Adjustable PCP power
- 10 shot rotary magazine
- Good reported accuracy
- Low noise level
- Suppressor ready threaded barrel
- Traditional hardwood stock
- Ambidextrous design
- Good air retention
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Magazine can interfere with the iron sights
- No scope included
Read Also: 7 Best 22 Air Rifle for Raccoons
Why Use the Best 22 Air Rifle for Rats
Effective Power for Rat Control
A .22 air rifle provides a useful balance of power and accuracy for rat control. Compared with lower powered air rifles, the larger pellet can deliver more energy on target, making it suitable for dispatching rats when used within the rifle’s effective range. Proper shot placement remains essential for humane pest control.
Good Accuracy at Practical Distances
Most quality .22 air rifles can provide the accuracy needed for pest control at typical rat shooting distances. Rifled barrels, adjustable triggers and suitable optics can make it easier to place shots precisely. This is particularly important when shooting smaller targets where accuracy matters more than simply having high velocity.
Quieter Than Many Firearms
Air rifles generally produce much less noise than conventional firearms, especially models equipped with an integrated moderator or other noise reduction system. This can make them more practical for controlling rats around properties where excessive noise could be a concern. However, no air rifle should be considered completely silent.
Multiple Power Plant Options
The .22 caliber is available in several air rifle designs, including PCP, gas piston and spring piston models. PCP rifles can offer consistent power and easier follow up shots, while break barrel and gas piston rifles provide self contained operation without requiring an external air tank or pump. This gives users flexibility to choose a system that suits their shooting environment and maintenance preferences.
Suitable for Repeated Pest Control
A quality .22 air rifle can be a practical tool for dealing with recurring rat problems. Multi shot magazines can speed up follow up shots, while durable construction and consistent power make these rifles suitable for regular pest control use. Choosing an accurate rifle and pairing it with an appropriate .22 pellet can improve consistency over repeated shooting sessions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best 22 Air Rifle for Rats
Power and Muzzle Energy
Power is one of the most important factors when selecting a .22 air rifle for rat control. Look beyond advertised velocity and consider the rifle’s actual muzzle energy with the pellets you intend to use. A suitable level of power can provide reliable performance at practical pest control distances, while excessive power may add unnecessary recoil, noise, and cocking effort.
Accuracy
Accuracy is critical because rats are relatively small targets, and humane pest control depends on precise shot placement. Look for features such as a quality rifled barrel, consistent power delivery, and an adjustable trigger. A rifle that groups pellets consistently will generally be more useful than one that simply produces a higher advertised velocity.
Power Plant
The power plant affects how the rifle operates and what maintenance it requires. PCP rifles generally provide consistent power and easy follow up shots but require an external air source, while gas piston and spring piston rifles are self contained and can be used without a pump or tank. Consider where you will use the rifle and whether you prefer convenience, consistency, or simpler equipment.
Magazine Capacity
A multi shot magazine can be useful when dealing with rats, particularly when several pests are present or a follow up shot is required. Higher capacity systems reduce the need to reload after every shot and can make pest control more efficient. Single shot rifles can still work well, but they require more time between shots.
Noise Level
Noise can be an important consideration when controlling rats around homes, farms, barns, or other occupied areas. Air rifles with integrated moderators, suppressors, or other noise reduction systems can produce a quieter report than conventional designs. However, noise reduction does not make an air rifle completely silent, so the shooting environment and local regulations should still be considered.
Cocking Effort and Weight
For repeated pest control, the rifle should be comfortable enough to handle and operate for extended periods. Break barrel models with high cocking efforts can become tiring, while heavier rifles may be less convenient to carry around a property. PCP rifles are generally easier to cycle between shots, but they require an external air supply.
Optics and Mounting Options
A good scope or suitable mounting system can make it easier to identify the target and place shots accurately, especially in low light or at longer pest control distances. Check whether the rifle includes a scope, has compatible mounting rails, and can handle the recoil produced by the action. A reliable optic can be particularly useful because precise shot placement is more important than simply having high power.
FAQs
Is a .22 air rifle good for rats?
Yes, a .22 air rifle can be an effective choice for rat control because it offers a good balance of pellet size, power, and accuracy. With suitable energy and proper shot placement, it can provide effective performance at practical pest control distances.
How much power does a .22 air rifle need for rats?
The required power depends on the shooting distance, pellet choice, and accuracy of the rifle. Rather than focusing only on advertised FPS, consider the rifle’s actual muzzle energy with the pellet being used and ensure it provides enough performance for a humane shot at the intended range.
Is a PCP or break barrel better for rat control?
Both can work well, but they offer different advantages. PCP air rifles generally provide consistent power, lower operating effort, and faster follow up shots, while break barrel models are self contained and do not require an external air tank or pump. The better choice depends on how frequently you shoot, your preferred setup, and where you plan to control rats.
Conclusion
The .22 air rifles covered here offer a practical combination of power, accuracy, manageable noise, and easy handling for rat control. PCP models provide consistent performance and convenient follow up shots, while break barrel and gas piston options offer self contained operation without the need for an external air source.
Overall, the best choice depends on your preferred power plant, shooting distance, accuracy, magazine capacity, and budget. With the right rifle, suitable .22 pellets, and careful shot placement, these air rifles can be effective tools for responsible rat control.