Hunting with a .177 is all about accuracy and enough energy at the target. The right pellet helps with both.
For 2026, I removed hard-to-find pellets from this list and kept the ones hunters actually use. For squirrels specifically, see my guide to the best .177 pellets for squirrel hunting.
- Best overall: JSB Exact Heavy
- Best hollow point: H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme
- Best expanding: Predator Polymag
- Best heavy domed: H&N Baracuda Match
- Best budget: Crosman Premier Hollow Point
.177 Hunting Pellets: Comparison Chart
| Pellet | Shape | Best For | Weight | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JSB Exact Heavy | Domed | All-round hunting | 10.34 gr | $$ | Check Price |
| H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme | Hollow point | Close range | About 9.6 gr | $$ | Check Price |
| Predator Polymag | Polymer tip | Expansion | About 8 gr | $$ | Check Price |
| H&N Baracuda Match | Domed | Powerful rifles | About 10.6 gr | $$ | Check Price |
| Crosman Premier HP | Hollow point | Budget | 7.9 gr | $ | Check Price |
Price guide: $ = under $15 per tin, $$ = $15 to $35. Prices change often, so check the current price on Amazon.
The 5 Best .177 Pellets for Hunting in 2026
Test 2 or 3 of these in your rifle and hunt with whichever groups best.
1. JSB Exact Heavy (Best Overall)
- Shape: Domed
- Weight: 10.34 gr
- Use: Mid to high power rifles
Accurate, consistent and heavy enough to carry energy. It is the pellet most airgun hunters try first.
- Accurate
- Good energy
- Too heavy for weak rifles
2. H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme (Best Hollow Point)
- Shape: Hollow point
- Use: Close range
Expands on impact for close shots on pests. Less accurate than a dome at longer range.
- Expands
- Heavy for a hollow point
- Short range
3. Predator Polymag (Best Expanding)
- Shape: Polymer tipped
- Use: Close to mid range
The polymer tip helps the pellet expand on impact. It works well in some rifles and poorly in others, so test it.
- Expands well
- Accuracy varies by rifle
- Pricey
4. H&N Baracuda Match (Best Heavy Domed)
- Shape: Domed
- Weight: About 10.6 gr
A heavy, accurate dome that carries energy well in powerful rifles.
- Good in wind
- Accurate
- Too heavy for weaker guns
5. Crosman Premier Hollow Point (Best Budget)
- Shape: Hollow point
- Weight: 7.9 gr
- Tin: 500 count
Cheap and widely available. Test a tin first, since batch quality varies.
- Cheap
- Batch quality varies
Ethical Airgun Hunting Basics
- Check your local laws on what you can hunt with an air rifle.
- Use enough power for the animal, and keep shots close.
- Accuracy first. A precise head shot is more humane than a powerful body shot.
Final Verdict
The JSB Exact Heavy is the best .177 hunting pellet for most rifles in 2026.
For close-range pest control, H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme hollow points are a strong choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hollow point pellets better for hunting?
Only at close range. Domed pellets are more accurate further out.
What pellet weight is best for .177 hunting?
Heavier pellets around 10 grains work well in powerful rifles. Lighter pellets suit weaker rifles.
Is .177 good enough for hunting?
Yes for small game and pests, with good shot placement and enough power.
Related Guides
New to air guns? Start with our Air Guns for Beginners guide →