Best PCP Air Rifles
Air-powered rifles are a type of rifle that takes regular air--the kind that's everywhere--and compresses it to create the pressure needed to propel ammo from its barrel. Rifles like this use different methods to accomplish this, but one of the best kinds is the pre-charged pneumatic air rifle, or the PCP air rifle for short.
Many people are surprised to learn that PCP air rifles are not a recent development. In fact, some of the earliest air rifles were PCPs, such as the legendary Girardoni repeating air rifle that was one of the first-ever repeating rifles of any type, and was made all the way back in the late 1700s.
What can you do with a PCP? So many things, including backyard plinking, pest control and small-game hunting, target practice and shooting competitions, and hunting of medium and larger game, depending on the type of rifle you get. No matter what you plan to do with your PCP rifle, make sure to get the right one to fit your needs and intended use.
A great place to start is with this list, starting with our overall best, and then looking at the list of the best we've picked out for specific uses.
PCP air rifles are perfect for:
- Pest control and hunting, depending on energy and size of game
- Backyard plinking
- Training, target practice, and competition
We sell a wide variety of high-quality PCPs suitable for many different uses, but our best picks start with these:
How We Picked These Products
When picking products to feature, we rely on the deep expertise and hands-on experience of our expert Insyders, who continuously test and use the products out in the field. Our recommendations are a combination of carefully curated top sellers, best reviewed and hand-picked products that our experts want to highlight. Drawing on more than 20 years of expertise, we understand the features that matter - from performance metrics to crucial model-specific nuances. When we recommend a product, you can trust that these picks come from experts who have extensive product knowledge and understand the equipment inside and out.
Top 5 Expert Picks
1. FX Impact M4
Adjustability is the name of the game when it comes to the FX Impact M4. It has a large variety of adjustments you can make to the performance and shooting characteristics of the air rifle, including the Quick Tune System for reliable and consistent macro and micro power adjustments to the hammer spring, as well as the externally-adjustable AMP MKII regulator for tuning, an external valve adjuster for power control, the adjustable Quick Set Trigger, and more.
In addition, you can also purchase barrel liners to use different calibers or different twist rates, allowing you to get the best possible performance for a specific combination of ammo and use, which pairs perfectly with the adjustability and tuning options.
If you're looking for the ultimate degree of control over your PCP air rifle's performance and tuning characteristics, consider the FX Impact M4.
"This rifle is 5+ star in every category. Tunability, power, caliber changing and accuracy are unprecedented."
Why We Like It
Precision, power, tunability, innovation--this air rifle has it all. It's one of the most complete and feature-filled PCP air rifles available. It has improved ergonomics because of its upgraded grip and its updated stock that features a forward mounted reversible cocking lever.
Finally, the Power Plenum and the Power Block combine to deliver consistent and efficient use of air and power.
Things to Consider
This air rifle typically requires a chronograph and extensive tuning to achieve the type of results that shooters praise so highly. In addition, it is a high-end PCP air rifle designed for demanding shooters, and because of this it is perhaps more than is needed for beginners and casual shooters. Also, you will need a reliable source of high-pressure air to keep this air rifle working at its best.
2. RAW HM1000X Mini Chassis
The RAW HM1000X Mini Chassis takes what worked from the bigger model and puts it into a smaller and lighter body. It uses an updated dual-ported barrel design to achieve similar power even though it is smaller.
The aircraft-grade aluminum chassis gives shooters tactical features and styling, with plenty of M-LOK slots for adding accessories.
"The Mini is a very well built gun and accurate right out of the box. Fit and finish is awesome."
Why We Like It
This air rifle is powerful and accurate like the larger version, but uses an efficient design to get this as well as added maneuverability. It also features a versatile AR-compatible A-B Arms grip and buttstock that provide adjustability, and they can be swapped out for other AR-compatible parts if desired.
In addition, it is built using a trusted and successful action and is proudly made in the USA.
Things to Consider
Shooters say that this PCP air rifle could be a little louder than desired without a moderator. In addition, some reviews say it is not quite as easy to adjust and tune for performance as some people might want, although most shooters say it has excellent performance without needing any adjustments. Finally, it is best used for small-game and larger-game hunting, depending on caliber, and is not best suited for casual shooters.
3. EDgun Leshiy 2 Long
This PCP air rifle is an improvement on the previous successful model and features the addition of an 8-round rapid-change magazine instead of the single-shot capability of the older version. In addition, the Long version delivers additional power compared to the smaller models, and the air rifle is extremely accurate and easy to shoot.
"One of the best airguns made very minimum O-rings in this airgun easy to fix highly recommend it."
Why We Like It
It has an improved hammerless design for smooth shooting, better air efficiency, and effortless semi-auto operation. The air rifle offers compact portability because of the folding stock, while providing the performance of a larger air rifle. Also, the match-grade Alfa Precision barrel with integrated moderator and air stripper delivers quiet and accurate shots.
Things to Consider
Some shooters say it should be adjusted and tuned to work best. The trigger isn't adjustable, and some shooters mention a learning curve involved in getting the best accuracy. Due to the price and number of features it has, it is possibly more airgun than desired for casual shooters or beginners.
4. Skout EVO
The Skout EVO represents the next step after the surprising and successful introduction of the previous Skout airgun, with a hammerless valve system and an upgraded computer interface. It has three pressure gauges that make it easy to monitor the valve pressure, the regulator pressure, and the air cylinder pressure, which provides peace of mind about the expected performance of each shot.
In addition, it has a wide variety of adjustments available on the interface, as well as a fully-adjustable electronic two-stage match trigger.
Why We Like It
The air rifle is very accurate, with the ability to provide competition-quality precision that rivals the very best PCP air rifles available. It features high-quality construction and components, with incredible attention to detail. Finally, it offers amazing adjustability, with the ability to modify settings such as valve dwell time that most other PCP air rifles don't allow.
Things to Consider
Even experienced shooters will find it can be useful to read the manual very thoroughly and watch related videos to get the most out of the air rifle. Some shooters find the default settings with voice feedback enabled takes time to get used to, but it can be disabled. Some reviews mention that because of the number of adjustments, it can be slightly confusing for newer shooters.
5. FX King
This air rifle offers incredible performance for hunting, with the expected innovations and accuracy that have made FX famous. It has an attractive stock made by the renowned stock makers from Norway that provides ergonomics that lead to exceptional comfort and control.
Rounding out the highlights of this air rifle are the tuning adjustments made possible by the AMP MKII regulator and the Quick Tune System for micro and macro hammer spring adjustments. This air rifle immediately became one of the go-to PCP air rifles for anyone looking for a premium hunting experience.
"Power and accuracy is incredible."
Why We Like It
It offers many tuning features for hunting performance that make it especially useful for heavier slugs. The over-the-barrel Dynamic Plenum and the Dynamic Block work together to provide consistency and extreme accuracy. The GRS stock is handsome, has an ergonomic offset and angled GRS grip, and features tool-free adjustments for maximum convenience and customization.
Things to Consider
The included grip is designed for right-handed shooters, meaning it might not work as well or be very comfortable for left-handed shooters. Not all shooters will want to tune and tweak an air rifle to achieve the best results. The price and options for this PCP air rifle make it better suited to experienced shooters rather than beginners.
Best PCP Air Rifle for Small Game Hunting: Umarex Notos
Upon its release, the Umarex Notos quickly became a favorite PCP air rifle for anyone looking for a convenient small-game hunting and pest control experience. It has many desirable features to go along with its excellent value, including a regulator for consistent performance, and an adjustable length of pull for a customized fit.
"It's so light! And so quiet! Love it."
Why We Like It
It is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry all day for small-game hunting, or quickly pick up and aim for pest control. It is also accurate and powerful (13 FPE with 12-grain pellets), while staying quiet enough (3 out of 5 loudness rating) because of the three-baffle SilencAir System not to disturb other game or the neighbors.
In addition, it provides up to 40 shots per fill from the 66cc cylinder for extended plinking sessions, and 21 shots at consistent, regulated velocity for dependable pest control and small-game hunting.
Things to Consider
For longer distances and bigger game, shooters might want to think about a PCP air rifle with more power for ethical shots on game. Some shooters have reported a need to tune the air rifle for better performance. Because it does not have open sights, it requires a scope or other optic for better aiming accuracy.
Best PCP Air Rifle for Big Game Hunting: AirForce Tex Rex Carbine
The AirForce Tex Rex Carbine was created to provide incredible precision and power in a carbine package, with a Lothar Walther barrel and an adjustable two-stage trigger for improved accuracy and customization. It is designed for hunting, and unlike some other high-powered hunting air rifles, it can get up to five shots per fill, allowing hunters to get more than one shot without needing to refill the air bottle.
Why We Like It
It has extreme power and accuracy. It's one of the most powerful PCP air rifles on the market, and at .510 caliber, it's definitely a big bore. As a carbine, it is overall more compact and weighs less than other larger models from AirForce while delivering plenty of power. It's proudly made in the USA from high-quality components and materials for reliability.
Things to Consider
It's very powerful and best suited to hunting big game, so it could be more than many casual shooters are looking for. It gets fewer shots per fill because of its high power, leading to more frequent refills. As a big bore PCP air rifle with a large 500cc carbon fiber air tank and a 4500 PSI/310 BAR fill pressure, it needs a robust filling solution.
Best PCP Air Rifle for Beginners: Gamo Arrow
The Gamo Arrow provides a lot for beginning shooters to like, including high value, the reliable accuracy and lack of recoil of a PCP air rifle, and the convenience of 10X Quick-Shot technology with a numbered wheel on the magazine that shows the shot number. It also has a fiber optic front sight and an adjustable fiber optic rear sight, meaning it offers aiming accuracy out of the box without requiring additional purchases.
"I am extremely pleased with the Gamo Arrow. This is my first PCP air gun, but my second Gamo. The Arrow is easy to use, very accurate and quiet."
Why We Like It
It's affordable, especially for the performance and features it provides, making it a good entry point to the world of PCP air rifles. It has a 125cc air cylinder that can provide up to 60 shots on a full fill (and our testing found 50 shots in .177 and 30 shots in .22 within 10% of max. velocity) for extended shooting sessions. Lightweight and durable, it makes a great PCP air rifle for light pest control and small-game hunting.
Things to Consider
Serious shooters and hunters may want to consider an air rifle that has better long-range performance. Some shooters report that the straight-pull cocking system requires an adjustment period, but it becomes intuitive with use. Some shooters may prefer a PCP air rifle with a wood stock instead of the synthetic stock on this air rifle.
Best PCP Air Rifle for Long Range: FX Impact M4
The FX Impact M4 is making its second appearance on this list because it is just that good. The adjustability of this platform from FX provides shooters with the ability to tailor this PCP air rifle to their needs, especially when using the Quick Tune System for micro and macro hammer spring adjustments, which combine with the externally-adjustable AMP MKII regulator to enable precise and reliable tuning for specific ammo and long-distance use.
It also allows shooters to purchase barrel liners that further help to optimize the use of specific ammo because they are available in different twist rates, and to switch calibers. The FX Impact M4 enables shooters to control many aspects of the shooting process, which makes it perfect for the shooter who demands the best in terms of control and long-range performance.
Why We Like It
It offers so many features and options for tuning to go along with its power and accuracy, making it ideal for long-distance performance. The Power Plenum and the Power Block work together to provide a better application of air power and extreme accuracy, especially important with heaver slugs at longer distances. The updated grip and better ergonomics of the stock are appreciated, including the forward mounted reversible cocking lever for convenience.
Things to Consider
This air rifle might be more than casual or beginning shooters are looking for because it has so many adjustable options and so many premium features. It needs a high-pressure air source capable of providing dependable air to allow this PCP air rifle to deliver top performance. To enable the type of tuning and adjustment that make this air rifle famous, a chronograph is required.
Best PCP Air Rifle for Budget: Air Venturi Avenger
The Air Venturi Avenger PCP Air Rifle quickly became the air rifle to beat when it entered the market because reviews showed it was capable of incredible accuracy, challenging celebrated airguns that cost nearly five times more. You simply can't find an air rifle at this price level that has the features and performance of the Avenger.
The only way to improve on the Avenger is to look at a different model of the Avenger, like a wood stock or bullpup model, or to get even more performance for a higher price with the Air Venturi Avenge-X.
"I just love it. The most enjoyment I have had in shooting and the gun is very accurate. You just can not go wrong with this gun."
Why We Like It
For the price, no other PCP air rifle can beat the performance, accuracy, and adjustability of the Air Venturi Avenger. It has an externally-adjustable regulator to deliver smooth and consistent performance. It is convenient and easy to use, and although accurate out of the box, it has many features for tuning to a specific use and pellet.
Things to Consider
It requires an air source capable of providing high-pressure fills to achieve its maximum shot count. Proper tuning for specific ammo and uses requires equipment such as a chronograph. Some shooters may prefer a shorter air rifle or one with a wood stock (and the Avenger comes in a bullpup model and a wooden stock model).
Common Questions
What are the disadvantages of PCP air rifles?
PCP air rifles have a large number of advantages, but they also have a few disadvantages, or at least some things to be aware of. First, a PCP air rifle can't work without a fill source, such as an air tank, hand pump, or high-pressure compressor. These accessories mean shooters have to buy added equipment. It also means a PCP air rifle is limited to a certain number of shots before needing a refill, which means the accessories need to be transported along with the airgun for continued shooting. Plus, refilling takes more time that other types of airguns take to get more shots.
Second, a pre-charged pneumatic air rifle is generally more complex than other types of air rifles. It contains more parts, and it has more O-rings that need lubrication and can wear out and need replacement. Every airgun needs to be inspected and maintained, but PCPs may need to be inspected and maintained more frequently.
Third, because they are so consistent and dependable, they typically cost more than other types of airguns. Especially when the accessories are factored in, they usually cost more than competing solutions.
Is a license needed for a PCP airgun?
Although the laws and regulations are different in each location, in general, no, most parts of the United States do not require a license to own a PCP airgun. Many states restrict PCP airguns for specific uses, especially for hunting. Check our Hunting Map for more information.
Other countries have different laws, with some requiring a license for any airgun above a certain power level. Always be sure to check the local laws and regulations for any specific location where you intend to transport, store, or use a PCP airgun.
Are PCP air rifles any good?
PCP air rifles can be fantastic! If you're looking for an air rifle that is dependable, accurate, has low recoil, and gives you fast follow-up shots, you need a PCP air rifle. We already reviewed some potential disadvantages, but a great many shooters find the advantages completely outweigh those because of the incredible performance and consistency of PCP air rifles.