Looking for the best .22 pellets for hunting that deliver reliable accuracy, effective penetration, and consistent performance?
The right pellets can help you get the most out of your air rifle when hunting small game such as squirrels, rabbits, and rats where legally permitted.
In this guide, we review top options, highlights their key features, and explains the advantages of different pellet designs. You’ll also find a practical buying guide, along with FAQs to help you choose the right .22 pellets for your needs.
Below is a Quick Overview of our Top Picks
| Product | Best Category |
|---|---|
| RWS Superpoint Extra Field Line .22 Cal Pellets | Best for Penetration |
| Stoeger X-Hunt .22 Caliber Airgun Pellets | Best Budget Option |
| JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy .22 Cal Domed Airgun Pellets | Best for Accuracy |
| Daisy Hollow Point Pellets .22 Cal. | Best Hollow Point Option |
| H&N Baracuda Power Domed Airgun Pellets .22 Cal. / 21.14 Grains | Best Heavyweight Option |
| Crosman Copper Magnum .22 Caliber Domed Pellets | Best Copper Coated Option |
Best .22 Pellet for Hunting
1) RWS Superpoint Extra Field Line .22 Cal Pellets
The RWS Superpoint Extra Field Line .22 Cal Pellets are designed for air rifle shooters who want dependable accuracy and penetration for small game hunting and pest control. Their pointed design and 14.5 grain weight make them a practical option for hunters seeking consistent performance at suitable distances.
Made in Germany, these lead pellets feature a polished finish intended to help reduce barrel residue. The 200 count tin provides a convenient supply for hunting trips and regular practice sessions.
The pointed nose supports penetration, while the lightweight design suits compatible air rifles used for close to moderate range shooting. These pellets are worth considering for squirrels, rabbits, pigeons, and similar small game, provided the rifle delivers sufficient energy and accuracy.
Before buying, check your rifle’s magazine and chamber compatibility, as the pellet length may not suit every air rifle. Testing different pellet types in your rifle is also important for finding the best grouping and hunting performance.
Specifications
- Brand: RWS
- Model: Superpoint Extra Field Line
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5 mm)
- Pellet Weight: 14.5 grains
- Pellet Type: Pointed
- Material: Lead
- Finish: Polished
- Quantity: 200 pellets per tin
- Country of Manufacture: Germany
- Primary Use: Hunting and target shooting
- Design Purpose: Penetration and field performance
Pros
- Delivers useful penetration for small game hunting.
- Offers promising accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Pointed design suits field shooting applications.
- Lightweight construction supports fast pellet flight.
- German manufacturing provides an established quality pedigree.
- Polished finish helps limit excess barrel residue.
- Provides good value for regular hunting practice.
- Suitable for squirrels, rabbits, and pest control with adequate rifle power.
Cons
- Pellet length may cause magazine compatibility issues.
2) Stoeger X-Hunt .22 Caliber Airgun Pellets
The Stoeger X-Hunt .22 Caliber Airgun Pellets are designed for hunters who want reliable penetration, good accuracy potential, and value for small game hunting and pest control. Their pointed tip and medium weight offer a practical balance of velocity and downrange energy for compatible air rifles.
The pointed design supports penetration and helps maintain a useful trajectory at close to moderate hunting distances. These lead pellets are worth considering for squirrels, rabbits, and similar small game when paired with an air rifle that delivers sufficient energy.
Each tin contains 200 pellets, providing a convenient supply for hunting trips and target practice. With competitive value and a five year limited warranty listed for the product, the Stoeger X Hunt is an appealing option for hunters who want practical field performance without paying premium prices.
Specifications
- Brand: Stoeger
- Model: X Hunt 200 Pack
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5 mm)
- Pellet Weight: Medium weight
- Pellet Type: Pointed tip
- Material: Lead
- Quantity: 200 pellets per tin
- Package Style: Press on lid
- Tin Dimensions: 2.6 × 2.6 × 0.83 inches
- Intended Use: Hunting and target shooting
- Warranty: Five year limited warranty
Pros
- Delivers useful penetration for small game hunting.
- Can produce tight groups in compatible air rifles.
- Pointed tip supports effective field performance.
- Balances velocity and downrange energy.
- Offers good value in a 200 pellet tin.
- Suitable for close to moderate range pest control.
- Includes a five year limited warranty.
Cons
- Accuracy may decline beyond 30 yards.
3) JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy .22 Cal Domed Airgun Pellets
The JSB Exact Jumbo Heavy .22 Cal Domed Airgun Pellets are a premium choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy, penetration, and consistent performance in the field. Weighing 18.13 grains, these heavy pellets are designed for compatible mid to high power PCP air rifles and powerful break barrel rifles.
Their rounded dome profile supports stable flight and accurate shot placement at medium to longer distances. The heavyweight design also helps retain downrange energy, making these pellets worth considering for squirrels, rabbits, and other small game when the rifle delivers sufficient power.
Manufactured by JSB in the Czech Republic, the Exact Jumbo Heavy pellets feature careful quality inspection and precision focused construction. Each tin contains 500 pellets, providing a substantial supply for hunting and target practice.
For best results, match the pellet weight to your rifle and test grouping at your intended hunting distance. These pellets are generally better suited to powerful air rifles than low power models.
Specifications
- Brand: JSB
- Model: Exact Jumbo Heavy Match Diabolo
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5 mm)
- Pellet Weight: 18.13 grains
- Pellet Type: Domed
- Head Diameter: 5.52 mm
- Material: Lead with trace antimony
- Quantity: 500 pellets per tin
- Country of Manufacture: Czech Republic
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and field target shooting
- Recommended Rifles: Mid to high power PCP rifles and compatible powerful break barrels
- Quality Control: Hand inspected pellets
- Effective Range: Approximately 40 to 50 yards or beyond, depending on rifle and conditions
Pros
- Delivers excellent accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Heavyweight design supports strong downrange energy.
- Domed profile promotes stable flight.
- Suitable for small game hunting at appropriate distances.
- Precision manufacturing supports consistent performance.
- Hand inspection helps maintain pellet quality.
- Works with many powerful PCP air rifles.
- Large 500 pellet tin suits frequent shooters.
Cons
- Premium pricing exceeds many budget pellets.
4) Daisy Hollow Point Pellets .22 Cal.
The Daisy Hollow Point Pellets .22 Cal. are an affordable option for airgun hunters who want expansion focused performance for small game hunting and pest control. Their 15.27 grain weight and hollowpoint design make them worth considering for close range shooting with a compatible .22 caliber air rifle.
The hollow nose is designed to expand on impact, making these pellets suitable for squirrels, rabbits, and similar small game when the rifle delivers sufficient energy. Their relatively lightweight construction also supports fast flight at appropriate hunting distances.
Each screw top tin contains 500 lead pellets, offering excellent value for hunters who shoot regularly. The large quantity makes them useful for both hunting practice and recreational shooting without requiring frequent pellet purchases.
Accuracy can vary depending on the air rifle and pellet condition, so testing them before hunting is important. Inspect the skirts for deformation and confirm consistent grouping at your intended distance to get the best performance.
Specifications
- Brand: Daisy
- Model: Hollow Point Pellets
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5 mm)
- Pellet Weight: 15.27 grains
- Pellet Type: Hollowpoint
- Material: Lead
- Quantity: 500 pellets per tin
- Container: Screw top tin
- Country of Manufacture: Spain
- Intended Use: Small game hunting, pest control, and target practice
- Design Purpose: Expansion on impact
- Effective Range: Up to 50 yards under suitable conditions
Pros
- Offers excellent value with 500 pellets per tin.
- Hollowpoint design promotes expansion on impact.
- Delivers promising accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Lightweight construction supports fast pellet flight.
- Suitable for small game hunting and pest control.
- Convenient screw top tin simplifies storage.
- Works for both hunting practice and recreational shooting.
Cons
- Accuracy can become inconsistent at longer distances.
5) H&N Baracuda Power Domed Airgun Pellets .22 Cal. / 21.14 Grains
The H&N Baracuda Power Domed .22 Caliber Pellets are designed for airgun hunters who want strong penetration, consistent accuracy, and substantial impact energy. Their heavyweight 21.14 grain construction makes them a compelling option for compatible high power PCP air rifles and magnum springers used for small game hunting.
The rounded dome profile supports stable flight and dependable shot placement, while the copper coating helps reduce direct contact with the lead surface. These pellets are particularly worth considering for hunters targeting squirrels, rabbits, and similar game at suitable distances.
Each tin contains 200 pellets, providing a practical supply for hunting and accuracy testing. Their heavier design can retain useful energy downrange, but results depend on the rifle’s power, barrel compatibility, and individual pellet performance.
For best results, check that your air rifle can handle the pellet weight and test accuracy at your intended hunting distance.
Specifications
- Brand: H&N Sport
- Model: Baracuda Power Domed
- Caliber: .22 caliber
- Pellet Weight: 21.14 grains
- Pellet Type: Domed
- Material: Lead with copper coating
- Quantity: 200 pellets per tin
- Coating: Copper plated
- Intended Use: Hunting and pest control
- Recommended Rifle Type: High power PCP air rifles and compatible magnum springers
- Minimum Energy: Approximately 18.5 foot pounds, as specified in the supplied product information
Pros
- Delivers strong penetration for small game hunting.
- Heavyweight design supports substantial impact energy.
- Can produce tight groups in compatible air rifles.
- Domed profile supports stable flight.
- Copper coating reduces direct lead contact.
- Suitable for high power PCP hunting rifles.
- Offers dependable performance when properly matched to a rifle.
- Works well for hunting and pest control at suitable distances.
Cons
- Copper coating does not eliminate the lead core.
6) Crosman Copper Magnum .22 Caliber Domed Pellets
The Crosman Copper Magnum .22 Caliber Domed Pellets are designed for airgun hunters who want reliable accuracy, good penetration, and consistent performance for small game hunting. Their 14.4 grain weight provides a practical balance for compatible air rifles used for squirrels, rabbits, pigeons, and pest control.
The rounded dome profile supports stable flight, while the copper plated lead core combines a durable surface with the weight needed for effective field performance. These pellets are worth considering for hunters who prioritize accurate shot placement and dependable penetration at suitable distances.
Each box contains 150 pellets, making it a convenient option for hunting trips and regular practice. The copper coating also reduces direct contact with the lead surface during handling, although the pellets are not completely lead free.
Specifications
- Brand: Crosman
- Model: Copper Magnum
- Caliber: .22 caliber
- Pellet Weight: 14.4 grains
- Pellet Type: Domed
- Material: Copper plated lead
- Quantity: 150 pellets per box
- Design: Rounded dome profile
- Intended Use: Small game hunting and target shooting
- Coating: Copper plating to reduce direct lead contact
- Effective Range: Up to 50 yards under suitable conditions
- Warranty: Limited 30 day warranty
Pros
- Delivers excellent accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Provides useful penetration for small game hunting.
- Domed design supports stable flight.
- Copper coating helps reduce direct lead contact.
- Durable construction resists pellet skirt damage.
- Offers consistent dimensions for reliable performance.
- Provides good value for hunting and practice.
Cons
- Copper coating does not eliminate the lead core.
- Some pellets may fit tightly in certain rifles.
Also check out: 5 Best 22 Pellets for Accuracy
Advantages of Using the Best .22 Pellet for Hunting
Effective Energy Transfer
Quality .22 pellets can deliver effective energy transfer on small game when matched with a suitable air rifle. Their weight and design help provide the penetration needed for responsible hunting at appropriate distances.
Improved Accuracy
Well made .22 pellets can produce tighter groups and more consistent shot placement in a compatible air rifle. Better accuracy helps hunters make more precise shots and reduce the risk of wounding game.
Reliable Penetration
Pellet designs such as pointed and domed profiles can offer useful penetration for hunting. Selecting the right pellet for the target and rifle helps support effective performance in the field.
Suitable for Small Game Hunting
The .22 caliber is a practical option for hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and rats where legally permitted. Its range of pellet weights and designs allows hunters to match ammunition to their rifle and intended use.
Wide Selection of Pellet Designs
Hunters can choose from hollow point, domed, pointed, and other pellet styles to suit different needs. Testing several designs helps identify the option that delivers the best balance of accuracy and terminal performance in a specific air rifle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best .22 Pellet for Hunting
Pellet Weight
Pellet weight affects velocity, trajectory, and energy delivery. Heavier pellets may retain energy better over distance, while lighter pellets can travel faster in some air rifles. Choose a weight that suits your rifle’s power and produces consistent accuracy.
Pellet Shape
Pellets come in different shapes, including domed, hollow point, pointed, and flat head designs. Domed pellets often perform well for general accuracy, while hollow point designs may expand more readily under suitable conditions. Select a shape that matches your hunting needs and rifle performance.
Accuracy and Consistency
Accuracy is essential for responsible hunting because precise shot placement helps reduce the risk of wounding an animal. Look for pellets that produce tight, repeatable groups in your air rifle. Test different options at your intended hunting distance to determine which performs best.
Air Rifle Compatibility
Not every pellet performs equally well in every air rifle. Barrel dimensions, rifling, power level, and the rifle’s overall design can influence accuracy and velocity. Test suitable pellets in your specific rifle rather than relying only on general recommendations.
Penetration and Expansion
The balance between penetration and expansion affects how a pellet performs on impact. Some designs prioritize deeper penetration, while others are intended to expand more readily. Choose a pellet suited to the intended small game and your rifle’s capabilities, while prioritizing humane shot placement.
Effective Hunting Distance
Pellet performance changes as distance increases because velocity and energy decrease and the trajectory becomes more pronounced. Choose a pellet that remains accurate at the distances you expect to hunt. Practise at those distances and keep shots within the range where you can consistently place them accurately.
Price and Availability
Pellet prices vary according to material, design, manufacturing quality, and tin size. Consider the cost per pellet and whether you can reliably purchase the same type for continued practice and hunting. A reasonably priced pellet that performs consistently in your rifle can offer better value than a more expensive option that groups poorly.
FAQs About the Best .22 Pellet for Hunting
What Type of .22 Pellet Is Best for Hunting?
The best pellet depends on your air rifle, intended game, and shooting distance. Domed pellets are often a good choice for accuracy, while hollow point and pointed designs may suit particular hunting needs. Test different pellet types to find the one that performs most consistently in your rifle.
Are Heavier .22 Pellets Better for Hunting?
Heavier pellets can retain energy well and may offer greater penetration, depending on the rifle’s power and the pellet’s design. However, they can also travel more slowly and produce a different trajectory. Choose a weight that balances accuracy, energy, and consistent performance in your air rifle.
How Do I Choose Accurate .22 Pellets for Hunting?
Test several pellet types and weights at your intended shooting distance using a stable shooting position. Compare group sizes and consistency, then practise until you can place shots reliably. Always use a pellet suitable for your rifle and keep hunting shots within your proven effective range.
Conclusion
Choosing the best .22 pellets for hunting comes down to finding the right balance of accuracy, pellet weight, penetration, and compatibility with your air rifle.
Domed, hollow point, and pointed pellets each offer different advantages, so testing several options can help you identify the most consistent performer for your intended small game and shooting distance. Consider your rifle’s capabilities, the pellet’s performance, and overall value before making a decision.
With the right pellets and regular practice, you can improve shot placement and support more responsible, humane hunting where permitted by law.