Effective squirrel hunting starts with .22 pellets that deliver consistent accuracy, suitable penetration, and reliable performance in your air rifle.
Options range from hollow point designs that promote expansion to domed pellets favored for consistent flight, giving hunters several choices for different rifles and hunting conditions.
In this guide, we’ll review the top picks, compare their key features, and cover the main buying factors, including pellet weight, design, rifle compatibility, and effective range. You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions to help you select suitable .22 pellets for your air rifle and small game hunting needs.
Below is a Summary of our Top Picks Best 22 Pellets for Squirrels
- Daisy Hollow Point .22 Cal Pellets: Best Budget Option
- Gamo Blue Bomber .22 Cal Pellets: Best for Impact Performance
- Gamo Red Fire .22 Cal Pellets: Best for Hunting Performance
- H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .22 Cal Pellets: Best for Hollow Point Expansion
- H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .22 Cal Pellets: Best Premium Hunting Option
- Crosman Hollow Point .22 Cal Pellets: Best Value for Everyday Hunting
Best 22 Pellets for Squirrels
1) Daisy Hollow Point .22 Cal Pellets
The Daisy Hollow Point .22 Cal pellets are a budget friendly option for airgun owners seeking an affordable pellet for squirrel hunting and small game use. Each pellet weighs 15.27 grains and features a hollow point design intended to expand on impact. This combination makes them worth considering for hunters who want practical performance without spending heavily on ammunition.
The hollow point design is the main attraction of these pellets. Its recessed tip is intended to promote expansion on impact, making the pellets suitable for small game hunting when paired with an air rifle that delivers sufficient energy and accuracy. Proper shot placement remains essential for an ethical harvest.
Accuracy is another reason to consider the Daisy Hollow Point pellets. They can perform well in compatible .22 caliber air rifles, with individual results depending on the rifle, barrel, and shooting conditions. Testing them at different distances will help determine their effective range before taking them into the field.
Affordability makes this option particularly appealing for frequent shooters. The 500 count tin provides plenty of pellets for sighting in, practicing, and preparing for hunting trips. Their relatively low cost per pellet helps keep ammunition expenses manageable compared with more expensive hunting alternatives.
Overall, the Daisy Hollow Point .22 Cal is a practical choice for budget conscious squirrel hunters who prioritize affordability, a hollow point design, and a generous pellet count. Its performance will depend on rifle compatibility and pellet consistency, so confirm accuracy and adequate energy at your intended hunting distance.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 15.27 grains
- Pellet type: Hollow point
- Shape: Round nose with a hollow tip
- Material: Lead
- Head size: 5.5mm
- Pellet count: 500 per tin
- Manufacturer: Daisy
- Model: PrecisionMax Hollow Point
- Container: Screw top tin
- Primary use: Small game hunting and target practice
- Price range: Approximately $8 to $15 per tin
Pros
- Offers an affordable option for squirrel hunting and regular practice.
- Features a hollow point design intended to expand on impact.
- Provides 500 pellets per tin for extended shooting sessions.
- Can deliver good accuracy in compatible .22 caliber air rifles.
- Works for both target practice and small game applications.
- Comes in a reusable screw top storage tin.
Cons
- Pellet skirts may be deformed in some tins.
2) Gamo Blue Bomber .22 Cal Pellets
The Gamo Blue Bomber .22 Cal pellets are designed for airgun owners who want a hunting pellet with dependable accuracy and expansion potential. Each pellet weighs 15.4 grains and combines a lead body with a distinctive blue, diamond shaped polymer tip. This design makes them an appealing option for squirrel hunters seeking a purpose built alternative to conventional lead pellets.
The polymer tip is designed to drive into the pellet body on impact, promoting expansion and energy transfer. This hydraulic expansion design makes the Gamo Blue Bomber suitable for small game hunting when used with a compatible air rifle that delivers adequate energy. Accurate shot placement remains essential for an ethical harvest.
Accuracy is another advantage worth considering. These pellets have performed well in compatible Gamo Swarm and Whisper air rifles, although results can vary between individual rifles and barrels. Testing them at different distances helps establish reliable grouping and the appropriate hunting range before heading into the field.
Weighing 15.4 grains, the Blue Bomber offers a practical balance between pellet weight and hunting performance for .22 caliber airguns. Its polymer tip and streamlined profile are designed to support consistent flight, while the lead body provides the mass needed for small game applications. Actual velocity, trajectory, and impact performance depend on the rifle used.
Overall, the Gamo Blue Bomber .22 Cal is worth considering for squirrel hunting if your air rifle groups these pellets consistently. Its expansion focused design and potential for accurate shooting are appealing.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 15.4 grains
- Pellet type: Polymer tip hunting pellet
- Design: Blue diamond shaped polymer tip with lead body
- Expansion mechanism: Tip driven expansion on impact
- Material: Lead with polymer tip
- Pellet count: 250 per tin
- Manufacturer: Gamo
- Model: Blue Bomber
- Primary use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Container: Pellet tin
- Price range: Approximately $15 to $20 per tin
Pros
- Features a polymer tip designed to promote expansion on impact.
- Can deliver excellent accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Performs well in some Gamo Swarm and Whisper models.
- Offers a specialized design for small game hunting.
- Provides a useful 15.4 grain weight for .22 caliber hunting applications.
- Has excellent accuracy and overall performance.
Cons
- Polymer tips may separate from the lead bodies in some tins.
3) Gamo Red Fire .22 Cal Pellets
The Gamo Red Fire .22 Cal pellets are designed for airgun hunters who want a specialized hunting projectile with good accuracy and expansion potential. Each pellet weighs 15.59 grains and features a lead body topped with a distinctive red polymer tip. This design makes them an appealing choice for squirrel hunters seeking an alternative to conventional lead pellets for small game and pest control.
The Red Fire uses a polymer tip designed to promote expansion on impact. The tip is intended to drive into the lead body, encouraging deformation and increasing the pellet’s diameter. This construction makes the Red Fire suitable for hunting applications when paired with a compatible air rifle that delivers adequate energy.
Accuracy is another reason to consider these pellets. They can produce tight groups in compatible .22 caliber air rifles, although performance varies between barrels and rifle models. Testing them at your intended hunting distance helps establish reliable accuracy before taking them into the field.
With a weight of 15.59 grains, the Red Fire offers a practical option for hunters seeking a balance between velocity and impact performance. Its streamlined profile is designed to support stable flight, while the lead body provides the mass needed for small game applications.
Overall, the Gamo Red Fire .22 Cal is a worthwhile option among the best .22 pellets for squirrels for hunters who prioritize an expansion focused design and practical accuracy. Its hunting oriented construction is appealing.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 15.59 grains
- Pellet type: Polymer tip hunting pellet
- Design: Red diamond shaped polymer tip with lead body
- Expansion mechanism: Tip driven expansion on impact
- Material: Lead with polymer tip
- Pellet count: 125 per tin
- Manufacturer: Gamo
- Model: Red Fire
- Primary use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Container: Pellet tin
- Price range: Approximately $12 to $18 per tin
Pros
- Features a polymer tip designed to promote expansion on impact.
- Can deliver tight groups in compatible .22 caliber air rifles.
- Offers a practical weight for small game hunting applications.
- Provides a specialized design for squirrel hunting and pest control.
- Can deliver useful penetration when matched to a suitable air rifle.
- Comes from an established airgun manufacturer.
Cons
- Costs more per pellet than conventional lead hunting pellets.
4) H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .22 Cal Pellets
The H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .22 Cal pellets are designed for airgun hunters who want a balance of penetration, expansion, and practical accuracy for small game. Weighing 13.73 grains, these lead pellets feature a distinctive hollow point with a raised central point and notched edges. This hunting focused design makes them worth considering for squirrel hunters seeking effective performance at close to moderate distances.
The Terminator’s hollow point design is intended to promote controlled deformation on impact, while its raised central point supports penetration. This combination makes the pellets suitable for small game hunting when used with a compatible air rifle that provides adequate energy. Accurate shot placement is essential for a humane harvest.
At 13.73 grains, these pellets offer a medium weight option for .22 caliber air rifles. Their weight can provide a useful balance between velocity and penetration, although actual performance depends on the rifle’s power, barrel characteristics, and pellet fit.
Accuracy is another consideration for hunters. The H&N Terminator can group well in compatible rifles, including some Gamo models, but hollow point pellets do not perform identically in every barrel. They are primarily intended for hunting, so checking grouping at your intended distance is important.
The H&N Terminator Hollowpoint .22 Cal is a strong option to consider among the best .22 pellets for squirrels. Its combination of a raised central point, notched hollow point design, and moderate weight suits close to medium range hunting when the pellet performs well in your rifle.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 13.73 grains
- Pellet type: Hollow point hunting pellet
- Design: Raised central point with notched edges
- Shape: Tapered hollow point
- Material: Lead
- Head size: 5.5mm
- Pellet count: 200 per tin
- Manufacturer: H&N Sport
- Model: Terminator Hollowpoint
- Model number: HNT55
- Primary use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Recommended application: Squirrel hunting with a suitable air rifle
- Price range: Approximately $12 to $18 per tin, depending on retailer and availability
Pros
- Combines a hollow point design with a raised central point for penetration.
- Features notched edges intended to promote controlled deformation.
- Offers a practical medium weight for .22 caliber hunting applications.
- Can provide good accuracy in compatible hunting air rifles.
- Works well in some Gamo Swarm and Arrow models.
- Comes from an established German airgun pellet manufacturer.
Cons
- May be less consistent for precision target shooting than some domed pellets
- Costs more per pellet than several budget hunting options.
5) H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .22 Cal Pellets
The H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .22 Cal pellets are designed for airgun hunters who want a heavier hunting pellet with strong penetration and expansion potential. Weighing 18.52 grains, these lead pellets feature a distinctive cross shaped hollow point intended to promote deformation on impact. Their heavier construction makes them worth considering for squirrel hunting with a powerful, compatible .22 caliber air rifle.
The deep cross shaped hollow point is designed to encourage expansion on impact, helping transfer energy to the target. This construction makes the Baracuda Hunter Extreme a specialized option for small game hunting when used with an air rifle that delivers suitable power and accuracy. Proper shot placement remains essential for a humane harvest.
At 18.52 grains, these pellets are heavier than many conventional .22 caliber options. The added weight can help retain momentum, depending on the rifle’s power and the pellet’s ballistic performance.
Accuracy depends heavily on rifle compatibility. The Baracuda Hunter Extreme can produce consistent groups in some air rifles, but results may vary considerably between models.
The H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme .22 Cal is worth considering among the best .22 pellets for squirrels if you own a powerful air rifle that handles heavier pellets well. Its cross shaped hollow point and substantial weight make it an appealing hunting option.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 18.52 grains
- Pellet type: Hollow point hunting pellet
- Design: Deep cross shaped hollow point
- Shape: Hollow point nose with cross shaped cavity
- Material: Lead
- Pellet count: 200 per tin
- Manufacturer: H&N Sport
- Model: Baracuda Hunter Extreme
- Primary use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Container: Pellet tin
- Price range: Approximately $15 to $20 per tin
Pros
- Features a deep cross shaped hollow point designed to promote expansion.
- Offers a heavier pellet option for compatible .22 caliber hunting rifles.
- Can deliver strong penetration when matched to a suitable air rifle.
- Produces consistent groups in some compatible rifle models.
- Provides 200 pellets per tin for hunting and accuracy testing.
- Comes from an established German airgun pellet manufacturer.
Cons
- May not feed reliably in some automatic loading magazines.
6) Crosman Hollow Point .22 Cal Pellets
The Crosman Hollow Point .22 Cal pellets are an affordable option for airgun hunters seeking practical accuracy and dependable performance for small game. Each pellet weighs 14.3 grains and features a traditional round nose hollow point design intended to promote expansion on impact. With 500 pellets per tin, they offer an economical choice for squirrel hunting and routine target practice.
The hollow point design makes these pellets suitable for hunting applications where expansion is desirable. Their lead construction and recessed nose are intended to support energy transfer on impact, making them worth considering for squirrel hunting with a compatible .22 caliber air rifle. Rifle power, shot placement, and impact conditions all influence hunting performance.
Accuracy is another advantage. The Crosman Hollow Point can produce consistent groups in compatible air rifles, although results vary between barrels and models. They have been used in rifles such as the Benjamin Armada, Gamo Swarm, and Crosman MAG-Fire. Testing pellet grouping at your intended distance helps determine whether they are suitable for your setup.
At 14.3 grains, these pellets offer a practical weight for many .22 caliber air rifles. Their balance of weight and traditional hollow point construction makes them a versatile option for hunters who want affordable ammunition for regular field use.
Value for money is a major advantage. The 500 count tin provides a generous supply for practice and hunting trips without the higher cost associated with many specialized hunting pellets. Their relatively low price per pellet makes them particularly attractive to budget conscious shooters.
The Crosman Hollow Point .22 Cal is a sensible option among the best .22 pellets for squirrels for hunters who want affordable ammunition with useful accuracy and an expansion focused design.
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
- Weight: 14.3 grains
- Pellet type: Hollow point
- Shape: Round nose with hollow point
- Material: Lead
- Head size: 5.5mm
- Pellet count: 500 per tin
- Manufacturer: Crosman
- Primary use: Small game hunting and pest control
- Compatible rifle examples: Benjamin Armada, Gamo Swarm, and Crosman MAG-Fire
- Container: Pellet tin
- Price range: Approximately $10 to $15 per tin
Pros
- Offers an affordable option for squirrel hunting and regular practice.
- Provides 500 pellets per tin for extended shooting sessions.
- Features a hollow point design intended to promote expansion.
- Can deliver consistent accuracy in compatible air rifles.
- Works in several popular magazine fed air rifle models.
- Offers a practical 14.3 grain weight for small game applications.
- Comes from an established airgun manufacturer.
Cons
- Accuracy may decline at longer distances depending on the rifle.
Read Also: 5 Best 22 Pellets for Accuracy
Advantages of Using the Best 22 Pellets for Squirrels
Improved Accuracy and Shot Placement
Quality .22 pellets can deliver consistent accuracy when matched with a compatible air rifle. Their weight, shape, and fit can help produce tighter groups at practical hunting distances, making it easier to place shots accurately. Testing different pellet types with your rifle helps identify the most consistent option for responsible squirrel hunting.
Effective Energy Transfer
Well matched .22 hunting pellets can provide the penetration and impact performance needed for small game hunting. Pellet weight, air rifle power, and impact velocity all influence how effectively energy is transferred to the target. Selecting a suitable pellet helps support humane results when combined with accurate shot placement.
Expansion for Hunting Performance
Hollow point pellets are designed to expand on impact under suitable conditions. This expansion can increase the pellet’s diameter and help transfer energy within the target. However, expansion depends on impact velocity and pellet design, so hunters should test performance with their specific air rifle rather than assume every pellet will expand reliably.
Better Performance at Practical Hunting Distances
The right .22 pellets can provide dependable performance at close to moderate distances when the rifle and ammunition work well together. Consistent pellet flight helps hunters maintain accuracy, while understanding trajectory and wind effects improves shot placement. Confirming your rifle’s grouping at the intended distance is essential before hunting.
Greater Versatility for Small Game Hunting
.22 pellets are available in several designs, including hollow point, domed, and pointed styles, allowing hunters to match ammunition to their rifle and intended use. Hollow points prioritize expansion, while domed pellets often offer useful accuracy and trajectory characteristics. Comparing these designs helps you select pellets suited to your hunting conditions and air rifle setup.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best .22 Pellets for Squirrels
Pellet Weight
Pellet weight affects velocity, trajectory, and energy delivery. Common .22 caliber hunting pellets range from lightweight options to heavier designs around 15 to 18 grains or more. The best weight depends on your air rifle’s power and how consistently it shoots a particular pellet. Test several weights to find one that delivers reliable accuracy at your intended hunting distance.
Pellet Shape and Design
Pellet shape influences flight characteristics and performance on impact. Hollow point pellets are designed to promote expansion at suitable impact velocities, while domed pellets are often favored for consistent flight and accuracy. Pointed pellets may also suit certain hunting applications. Choose a design that performs consistently in your rifle rather than relying on shape alone to determine effectiveness.
Accuracy and Consistency
Accuracy is essential for responsible squirrel hunting. Pellets that fit your rifle’s barrel well may produce tighter groups and more predictable points of impact. Test different options on paper targets at realistic distances, checking group size and consistency. A pellet that performs well in one air rifle may not deliver the same results in another, even when both use the same caliber.
Air Rifle Power and Compatibility
Not every pellet performs equally well in every air rifle. Your rifle’s power level, barrel characteristics, and operating system can influence pellet velocity, stability, and impact performance. Some heavier or expansion focused pellets may be better suited to certain PCP rifles, while other designs may work better in spring powered models. Consult your rifle’s specifications and test compatibility before hunting.
Effective Hunting Distance
Consider the distances at which you expect to encounter squirrels. Pellet trajectory, retained energy, wind drift, and accuracy can all affect performance as distance increases. A pellet that groups well at a short distance may not remain consistent farther away. Confirm your rifle’s accuracy and trajectory at the intended range, and avoid shots when you cannot confidently place them.
Penetration and Expansion
A suitable hunting pellet should provide appropriate penetration and, where its design allows, expansion at the expected impact velocity. Hollow point designs may expand under the right conditions, but expansion is not guaranteed at every speed. Pellet weight, construction, rifle power, and shot placement all influence results. Prioritize predictable performance and humane shot placement over claims of maximum expansion or stopping power.
Price, Pellet Count, and Quality Control
Compare the price per pellet, tin quantity, and consistency of manufacturing rather than judging value by the upfront cost alone. Premium pellets may offer careful shaping and consistent dimensions, while more affordable options can still perform well in a compatible rifle. Inspect pellets for damaged skirts, misshapen heads, or other visible defects, as these can affect accuracy. Choose a dependable option that fits both your budget and hunting needs.
FAQs About the Best 22 Pellets for Squirrels
Are .22 Hollow Point Pellets Good for Squirrel Hunting?
Yes, .22 hollow point pellets can be suitable for squirrel hunting because they are designed to promote expansion on impact at appropriate velocities. However, their performance depends on the air rifle’s power, pellet compatibility, and shot placement. Test accuracy and confirm suitability before hunting.
What Weight .22 Pellets Are Best for Squirrels?
Pellets weighing around 14 to 18 grains are common choices for .22 caliber air rifle hunting. The ideal weight depends on your rifle’s power, barrel characteristics, and the distance you plan to shoot. Test different weights to find the option that delivers consistent accuracy and appropriate performance in your air rifle.
How Far Can You Reliably Hunt Squirrels With .22 Pellets?
The reliable hunting distance depends on your air rifle’s power, pellet accuracy, trajectory, and environmental conditions. Close to moderate distances are generally more practical than extended ranges. Confirm your rifle’s grouping at the intended distance, account for wind and pellet drop, and take a shot only when you can achieve accurate, humane placement.
Conclusion
The best .22 pellets for squirrels combine accuracy, suitable penetration, and reliable performance to support responsible small game hunting.
Hollow point designs can promote expansion at appropriate impact velocities, while domed pellets may provide consistent flight and accuracy at practical distances. Before heading into the field, test different pellet weights and designs to identify the best match for your air rifle.
Consider compatibility, effective range, and price per pellet to find an option that meets your hunting needs and supports accurate, humane shot placement.