Looking for the Best Home Defense air rifles? Our Best Air Rifle for Self Defense guide is comprehensive for all your needs.
Modern air rifles are powerful and suitable for a wide range of applications. Today, you can use an air rifle for recreational shooting, small game hunting, target practice, and plinking. Some people also use air rifles for self-defense.
However, with hundreds of air rifles choose finding a model that works for you isn’t easy. It can be overwhelming once you start browsing and comparing the different options. To help, we have made a detailed list of the best air rifles for self defense available on the market today.
Without wasting any more time, let’s dive right in.
Best Air Rifle for Self Defense-Our Top Picks
Gamo Raptor Whisper Air Rifle
The Gamo Raptor Whisper Air Rifle is one of the best self-defense air rifles for the money. It is easy to use, versatile and powerful. It features the IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston which provides higher velocity, minimal vibration, and a longer lifespan. It also features the famous Whisper noise dampening technology which allows you to shoot quietly. This pellet rifle is available in either .22 or .177 caliber pellets. When you are shooting the.177 pellets, you get 1300fps and 975fps with the .22 caliber pellets. Thanks to the Smooth Action Trigger, you are able to control your shots very well. It ensures that every shot you make hits the target accurately. Furthermore, the air rifle comes with a shockwave absorber recoil pad which absorbs up to 74% of recoil for a comfortable shooting experience. In terms of construction, this rifle is built to last. It features a high-grad, weatherproof ambidextrous stock for use in any weather conditions. It is very easy to cock and has a lightweight design which makes it easy to carry. Other remarkable features found in the air rifle are an automatic cocking safety system for safe cocking, a 4×32 scope for accurate shooting, and a standard trigger with a jacketed steel barrel. Features
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Benjamin Armada Air Rifle
This Benjamin Armada Air Rifle is a great air rifle for self-defense and other applications like hunting. It delivers speeds up to 1100FPS with 21 to 32-foot pounds of energy. This makes it ideal for other applications like target practice and small game hunting, not just self-defense. Other than that, the rifle has a rifled barrel for added accuracy and a machined receiver with 5 inches Picatinny rail space for mounting any accessory of your choice. The air rifle is fairly light and easy to carry. It has an on-board gauge for tracking the air pressure and a two-stage trigger which lets you know exactly when the firing will take place. Other features include the modular, versatile design and a 10-shot magazine which allows for fast follow-up shots. If you are a firearm fanatic, this is a worthy addition to your firearm collection. Features
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Sig Sauer MPX .177 Cal Air Rifle
When it comes to accuracy and performance, it’s hard to beat the Sig Sauer MPX .177 Cal Air Rifle. This air rifle is specially designed to put accurate shooting more accessible. It comes with a SIG2R red dot sight for improved accuracy at night and flip-up front and rear sights for great accuracy as well. The air rifle is easy to use and fun to shoot as well. The air rifle is powered by a 90g CO2 cartridge. It shoots .177 caliber pellets with a muzzle velocity of up to 575fps. However, the speed can vary based on ammo weight, altitude, and temperatures. The 30-round RPM pellet magazine provides quick-follow-up shots, while the 8” rifled steel barrel enhances your accuracy. This rifle also features a tactical front grip, Picatinny rail, and a synthetic handguard. Features
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Black Ops Sniper Rifle S
If you prefer spring-piston air rifles, the Black Ops sniper Rifle S is your ideal option. This classic break barrel air rifle shoots .177 caliber pellets up to 1250fps. It’s highly consistent and great for shooting targets at a distance. Thanks to the adjustable comb design, the rifle is very comfortable to hold and shoot. If you are shooting for a long period of time, you can use the adjustable bipod included. You can adjust the legs from 8” to 10” for a snug shooting then fold them up when not in use. Other than that, this rifle comes with an integrated suppressor to keep noise to a minimum and 4×32 scope which helps you identify small targets easily. The rifle also features a 6-inch tactical rail where you can mount any accessories or scope of choice. Features
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Umarex Ruger Targis Hunter Max Air Rifle
This Ruger Targis Hunter Max is a hard-hitting air rifle from Umarex. It shoots .22 caliber pellets at a maximum velocity of 800fps. The gas piston inside the air rifle uses break barrel action for smooth and accurate shooting. The air rifle also features built-in SilencAir for reduced noise and maximum stealth. Weighing only 1 pound, this rifle is amazingly light, easy to carry, and easy to shoot. This air rifle is built to last. It is made with high-quality materials for long-lasting durability. It features an ergonomic, weatherproof stock and body for use in all weather conditions. The stock has checkered rubber inserts for a comfortable, non-slip grip even in wet weather conditions. Better yet, the rifle is fitted with a rubber recoil butt pad for a comfortable shooting experience. Overall, it’s a great air rifle that has everything you need for self-defense. Features
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Crosman Full Auto CO2-Powered Air Rifle
If you are on a budget, the Crosman Full Auto CO2-Powered Air Rifle is your best option. This modern air rifle is designed to give you the best shooting experience. It is powered by two CO2 cartridges and shoots BBs up to 430FPS and over 1400 rounds per minute. Besides, it has a 28-round drop-out magazine that houses 2 CO2 cartridges if you want rapid-fire action. Another impressive feature that you’ll certainly love about the air rifle is the lightweight design. You can carry it on your hands for hours of shooting and it won’t weigh you down. Besides, it features a durable synthetic design that’s sturdy and smooth to feel. Apart from that, it has a foldable/adjustable buttstock to provide the most comfortable shooting experience. It’s a stylish air rifle designed for multiple outdoor applications, not just self-defense. Features
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See Also
- 8 Best Hunting Air Rifles
- 9 Best Scopes for Air Rifles
- 5 Best Air Rifles for Hunting Medium Game
- 6 Best Air Rifles for Small Game Hunting
- 7 Best Air Rifles for Varmint Control
- 7 Best Air Rifles under $100
Choosing the Best Air Rifle for Self Defense
These are the important factors you should consider when shopping for the best air rifle for self-defense.
- Caliber
Most air rifles use .177 caliber pellets which are the standard 4.5mm BBs. These pellets are travel fast which makes them suitable for shooting targets at a distance. They are also readily available.
The .22 caliber pellet is the second most popular rifle caliber. These pellets are larger in size and heavier than the .177. As a result, they produce more muzzle velocity but have a slower speed.
They are suitable for general target shooting and hunting. Other calibers you can find in the market are .20, .25, .30 on the smaller side and .357, .45, .50, and .58 on the bigger side. Large-sized caliber pellets are ideal for large-game hunting.
- Durability
The other important factor you should look for in an air rifle for self-defense is durability. You’ll want an air rifle that’s durably made so it will last for long.
It should be crafted with high-quality materials for great strength and long-lasting durability. If you’ll be using the rifle outside, make sure that the air rifle has a weather-proof stock so you can use it in any weather condition.
- Loading Mechanism
Which loading mechanism do you prefer. Do you want an air rifle that allows you to load only one pellet at a time or are you looking for a rifle with a large capacity magazine that allows for continuous shooting? Air rifles that load a single pellet at a time mostly have the break barrel action air.
Such rifles are easy to shoot, but it consumes a lot of time loading a pellet every time you want to shoot. On the other hand, bolt action air rifles allow multiple shots, but they are slow to load and hard to maintain.
- Aiming Aids
Air rifles come with several types of aiming aids. The most basic ones are front and rear sights which are found in most air rifles. They improve your shooting accuracy by providing clear image views.
Some high-end air rifles may include a red dot sight for accurate shooting at night or an adjustable scope to help with accurate shot placement.
- Recoil Pad
Though most air rifles don’t produce heavy recoil like their powder firearms counterparts, an air rifle with a recoil pad will let you shoot comfortably.
When shooting for long hours, the rifle becomes uncomfortable on the shoulder. This can interfere with your accuracy because of the discomfort. Choosing an air rifle with a recoil pad solves such a problem.
- Cost
Air rifles vary greatly in terms of quality, features, and powers. The prices also vary significantly. If you are on a budget or looking for an entry-level air rifle, there are multiple models available for under $100. Though these rifles are cheap, they don’t compromise on their quality.
For $100 and above, your options increase steadily. Plus, air rifles in this price category and great in terms of performance, power, and quality. If you are looking for a high-caliber and high-velocity air rifle, be prepared to spend anywhere from $400 and above.
Best Air Rifles for Self Defense FAQs
- How far can an air rifle shoot?
This depends on the air rifle that you are using. Modern high-powered air rifles are capable of shooting up to 300 meters and above All you need is the correct air rifle and the right caliber pellet to reach such a range.
- Do I have to get a license for an air rifle for home defense?
No. In most states, there are no federal laws that restrict the purchase and use of an air rifle. However, some states do have restrictions on buying, use, and transfer of air rifles. So, check with your local jurisdiction and see what’s legal and what is restricted.
- Are air rifles good for home defense?
Yes. Modern air rifles are a fantastic firearm alternative for self-defense. They are practical for almost everyone. You don’t require a background check to own one and you can use it to introduce your kids to firearm safety.
Conclusion
We hope that this Best Air Rifle for Self Defense guide has helped you understand the different air rifles for self defense options better. When it comes to self-defense, an air rifle is cheaper compared to a standard firearm. All the air rifles listed above are quality and suitable for home defense. Invest in any one of them and use it to keep your family safe.