While hunting, accurate pellet size with the air gun is crucial for precision, penetration, and efficiency. The wrong pellet size will result in missed shots or poor performance. Here we will guide you how to find the right pellet size for hunting.

Understand Caliber Choices

There are many calibers for airgun pellets; fast and accurate .177 pellets, a hard-hitting .22 caliber and .25 Caliber for most impact are commonly used in airguns for hunting.

• .177 Caliber, suits pest control and best small game as it has a flat trajectory and high velocity.
• .22 Caliber, well-rounded choice with both strength and precision, ideal for hunting in the mid-game.
• .25 Caliber or above, these are the bigger pellets that will produce the most impact and are used for larger game.

Pellet Weight

Each pellet has several weights, and the right selection affects performance:

• Light pellets (7-12 grains in.177, 14-18 grains in.22) are suitable for precision and long-range, high-speed shots
• Medium Weight Pellets (10-16 grains in.177, 15-22 grains in.22) have the best balance of power and accuracy.
• Heavy pellets (16 grains in the in.177, 22 grains in the in.22) For big hunting with maximum power.

Match Pellet Type with Hunting Requirements

Shape and design determine the performance of pellets. The common types are:

1. Pointed pellets – For deeper penetration, best suited for animals with thick and tough skin.
2. Hollow Point Pellets – They expand on contact, making them ideal for use in humane kills on small game.
3. Domed pellets – Provide excellent penetration and accuracy and hence are used everywhere.
4. Flathead (Wadcutter) Bullets – Most effective for the close shot, but not ideal for larger games.

Test Accuracy Before Hunting

Test the Performance and Precision Before you head out for hunting, experiment with different pellet sizes and companies to ensure the most suited pellet for your airgun. Try:

• Consistency – Ensure consistent pellet width to avoid random shooting.
• Grouping – Fire two shots to determine if they land relatively close together.

Penetration – Firing soft targets to see how deeply the pellet penetrates.

Check Your Airgun Compatibility

Not all weights of pellets will function successfully with all air guns. Optimal performance may come with specific weights and types of air gun. Review your airguns manual and test different combinations for maximum performance.

A Pelletgage lets you sort and size pellets according to head diameter for consistency and optimal performance. By selecting uniform pellets, you enhance accuracy and reduce flyers, leading to better hunting results.

Final Thoughts

The choice of the best pellet size for hunting depends on the game you are hunting, the compatibility with your airgun, and the specific performance you need. Whether you prefer a fast and accurate .177 pellet or a hard-hitting .25 caliber option, always test and refine your choices for the best results.