5 Best .177 Pellets for Pigeons​

About Pigeons

Pigeons are medium sized birds commonly found in cities, farms, gardens, and rural areas. They feed on seeds, grains, and other food sources, and often gather around buildings, livestock feeding areas, and grain storage facilities.

Although they play a role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and providing food for predators, large pigeon populations can create problems through droppings, property damage, and contamination of stored feed.

Managing pigeon populations starts with prevention, including removing accessible food sources, securing grain storage, and blocking nesting or roosting sites where appropriate. Where pigeon control is necessary, use humane, lawful methods and check local wildlife regulations before taking action.

Any pest management approach should also consider public health, animal welfare, and the safety of people and other wildlife.

1. JSB Predator Polymag .177, 8.0 Grains — Best Overall
2. H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .177, 9.57 Grains — Best Heavyweight Option
3. H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177, 7.25 Grains — Best Lightweight Option
4. Benjamin Hollow Point .177, 7.9 Grains — Best Budget Hunting Pellet
5. Crosman Premier Hollow Point .177, 7.9 Grains — Best Affordable All Rounder

1) JSB Predator Polymag .177, 8.0 Grains

The JSB Predator Polymag .177, 8.0 Grains is a premium hunting pellet designed for air rifle shooters who want precise shot placement and effective terminal performance. Its pointed polymer tip and hollow head combine penetration with an expanding design, making it an option for pest control and lawful pigeon hunting where permitted.

With its aerodynamic profile and 8.0 grain weight, this pellet is worth considering for shooters who prioritize accuracy at typical air rifle hunting distances. It is particularly suited to single shot rifles and compatible PCP platforms.

The polymer tipped design distinguishes the Polymag from conventional lead pellets. Its pointed nose is designed to aid penetration, while the hollow cavity behind the tip supports expansion on impact. Actual results depend on the rifle’s power, pellet fit, impact velocity and shot placement, so testing accuracy with your own air rifle is essential.

Priced above many standard .177 pellets, the JSB Predator Polymag is best suited to shooters who value precision over low cost per shot. A tin contains 200 pellets, making it a practical option for focused hunting sessions rather than extensive target practice.

Specifications

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
• Pellet Weight: 8.0 grains
• Design: Polymer tipped hollow head
• Material: Lead core with polymer tip
• Pellet Style: Pointed polymer tip with hollow cavity
• Quantity: 200 pellets per tin
• Intended Use: Hunting and pest control
• Flight Profile: Aerodynamic design
• Accuracy: Rifle dependent; test for consistent grouping
• Effective Range: Approximately 25 to 50 yards, depending on rifle power and conditions
• Compatibility: Compatible single shot and selected PCP or spring piston rifles
• Price Range: Approximately $24 to $28 per tin

Pros

• Polymer tipped design combines a pointed nose with a hollow cavity.
• Can deliver excellent accuracy in air rifles that suit its pellet design.
• Suitable for hunting applications where lawful and appropriate.
• 8.0 grain weight offers a useful option for .177 air rifles.
• Aerodynamic profile supports stable flight when matched to the rifle.
• Great accuracy and terminal performance.

Cons

• Premium pricing makes it more expensive than many conventional pellets.

3) H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177, 7.25 Grains

The H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .177, 7.25 Grains is a hunting pellet designed for air rifle shooters who want a balance of accuracy, speed, and impact performance. Its lightweight construction makes it an option for pigeon control at moderate distances, while its specialized head design distinguishes it from conventional round nose pellets.

The Terminator features a notched hollowpoint with a raised center point. This design combines a pointed central section with a hollow cavity intended to encourage expansion on impact. For shooters who need a dedicated hunting pellet, this configuration offers an alternative to standard lead pellets, although actual performance depends on the rifle and impact conditions.

Accuracy is another reason to consider this pellet. Its 7.25 grain weight may work well in suitable break barrel, spring piston, and PCP rifles, but it is important to test grouping and trajectory with your own setup before relying on it in the field.

Each package contains 800 pellets across two 400 count tins, giving you a generous supply for practice and occasional hunting. Its relatively affordable cost per pellet makes it appealing to budget conscious shooters.

Specifications

• Caliber: .177 (4.5mm)
• Pellet Weight: 7.25 grains
• Head Design: Notched hollowpoint with raised center point
• Material: Lead alloy
• Expansion Design: Hollowpoint with notched edges
• Quantity: 800 pellets in two 400 count tins
• Intended Use: Hunting and pest control
• Hunting Range: Approximately 20 to 40 yards
• Accuracy: Rifle dependent
• Compatibility: Suitable break barrel, spring piston, and PCP rifles, subject to testing
• Price Range: Approximately $20 to $28 per 800 pellet package

Pros

• Specialized hollowpoint design intended to promote expansion on impact.
• Lightweight 7.25 grain construction may suit moderate distance hunting.
• Can produce tight groups in compatible air rifles.
• Compatible with a range of air rifle platforms.
• 800 pellets per package offer good quantity for practice and hunting.
• Relatively affordable cost per pellet compared with many premium hunting options.

Cons

• Lightweight design may lose energy more quickly at longer distances than heavier alternatives.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best .177 Pellets for Pigeons

Pellet Weight

Pellet weight affects velocity, trajectory, and how consistently a pellet performs in your air rifle. Common .177 hunting pellets range from lightweight designs to heavier options intended for more powerful rifles. Choose a weight suited to your rifle’s power and test its accuracy at the distances you intend to shoot.

Pellet Design

Pellets come in several shapes, including hollowpoint, domed, pointed, and wadcutter designs. Hollowpoint pellets are designed to expand on impact, while domed pellets are often favored for consistent accuracy across different distances. Consider the intended use and prioritize dependable accuracy over appearance or shape alone.

Accuracy and Consistency

Accuracy is essential when selecting pellets for any shooting application. A pellet that produces tight, repeatable groups on paper is generally a better choice than one that performs inconsistently. Test different pellet types from a stable position and compare group sizes at realistic distances before settling on one.

Air Rifle Compatibility

Not every pellet performs equally well in every air rifle, even when the caliber matches. Differences in barrel design, power, and pellet fit can affect accuracy and consistency. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations and test a few suitable options to determine which pellets work best with your specific rifle.

Shooting Distance

The distance between the shooter and the target affects pellet trajectory and accuracy. Lightweight pellets may lose velocity more quickly in some conditions, while heavier pellets may produce a different trajectory depending on muzzle energy. Test at the distances you expect to shoot, and avoid taking shots beyond the range at which you can maintain reliable accuracy.

Pellet Quality and Manufacturing Consistency

Uniform pellet shape, weight, and dimensions can help produce more predictable results. Poorly formed pellets may fit inconsistently or cause larger groups. Inspect pellets for obvious damage, deformed skirts, or irregular shapes, and store them in a dry place to help prevent damage before use.

Price and Quantity

Pellet prices vary according to brand, design, weight, and tin size. Larger tins can offer better value for regular practice, while smaller tins let you test different pellet types before buying in bulk. Compare the cost per pellet, but make accuracy and compatibility the priority rather than choosing solely on the lowest price.