[Handyman]

I am looking to purchase a .177 caliber pellet rifle for my grandson to hunt small game with (squirrels, rabbits). What would be the minimum FPS to properly dispose of small game.

Thank You

 

[AsmelEduardo]

>1000fps

1000fps. or more...
Look for break barrels instead of CO2 powered... I like the GAMO brand, I had one of those and are indestructible, reliable, long lasting, exelent craftmanship... but you could look for Crossman brand too, I had a Crossman pistol and I loved but was a CO2 and sometimes run out of gas, that's why I do prefer the break barrel... and .177(4.5mm) it's a good caliber but I still prefer the .22(5,5mm).
I hope your grandson enjoy it!
Regards.-

P.D
check: www.gamousa.com

 

[Handyman]

Thanks

Thank You Very Much

 

[stalkingbear]

Why can't you get a small .22 single shot bolt action such as the Chipmunk or Crickett. They wouldn't be noticeably more than a good quality air rifle, accurate, and lightweight as well as being safe. Also the higher power air rifles are HEAVY and HARD TO COCK on the break barrel versions. Get the best you can afford in air rifles. Word of advise-use heavy, good quality pellets instead of the lighter Gamo pellets. Basically when firing the Gamo Raptor pellets, it's almost like dry firing a bow. heavy pellets will penetrate deeper and generally be more accurate.

 

[cpttango30]

for an air rifle I would get him the new Crosman Benjamin Discovery PCP Air Rifle. You fill the tank with a high pressure pump that looks like a bicycle pump.

These are very popular in Europe and produce the same velocity as the break action but offer faster follow up shots if needed. I also prefer a 20 or 22 cal.

 

[SlamFire]

And this grandson is how old? Cricket or Chipmunk or whatever it's called these days is designed for Grandpa . . . The gun is too small for most kids over the age of 8 -- which is the age where I'd be thinking about introducing a kid to shooting a 22 cal.

Marlin makes the 915Y -- scaled down single shot bolt action. I picked up one used for $99. But wouldn't let any kid have any sort of rifle . . . BB gun, etc. until he's about 14. Unless with adult supervision during the possession and use.