Social StudentIt is important to choose the right pellets for your air rifle. The correct ammo is key for maximum accuracy and precision and can be the difference between a hit or a miss. With so many options available, you can be spoilt for choice. Continue reading to find out how to make an informed decision and select the pellets that will make that all-important difference to your shooting.
Purpose
Before you make a final decision, you must consider the purpose of your air rifle. Air pellets come in a wide range of shapes such as pointed, hollow, and round. Roundhead pellets are most commonly selected for general use. They cut through the air with a higher degree of speed and precision compared to others on the market. Because of this, they are less likely to be blown off-course by high winds or external air sources. This also makes them an excellent choice for beginners. Pointed pellets, on the other hand, are better suited to hunting and hollow point pellets and flathead pellets have a higher success rate when shot at close-range as they spread on impact. They are usually chosen for rat shooting. Pellets from a reputable manufacturer, such as The Wolfman, are the best choice for your rifle.
Calibre
As well as purpose, you must also consider calibre. Air rifle pellets come in four key calibres or sizes for the legal-limit airgun shooter in the UK and range from smallest to large. These include .177, .20, .22, and .25. .177 is commonly used for target shooting due to its high energy almost always guaranteeing a clean kill. They also tend to be the cheapest option. .22 is perhaps the second most popular choice of calibre and is a great choice for hunting and pest control as its small size allows it to strike smaller targets. The .20 calibre pellet is seen as an intermediary between .177 and .25. It is used for hunting and in target competition. Finally, .25 is the most hard-hitting of them all and is used for close-range hunting and pest control.
Weight
Pellets also come in a wide range of weights. The weight should match the calibre. There are no set guidelines, but the general rule is that airguns with less power should use lighter pellets. High-powered airguns should therefore opt for heavier pellets. Mixing these up can affect the trajectory and airflow of your shot.
Cost
The cost of pellets can vary depending on a wide range of factors. Expensive pellets may be constructed with better materials, but they will not necessarily perform better. You must trial several pellets to find the one best suited to your gun and your shooting needs.
The right pellets for your air rifle can transform your shooting game and make you a better hunter. Airguns can be fussy when it comes to which type of pellets they will accept. Airguns from certain manufacturers may also prefer pellets constructed from the same manufacturer. If you are unsure, your airgun manufacturer should be able to point you in the right direction.