A .177 air rifle can take squirrels cleanly if you use the right pellet and keep your shots close. Shot placement matters more than pellet type.
For 2026, I updated this guide with accurate, heavier pellets and added the rules that keep squirrel hunting ethical and legal.
- Best overall: JSB Exact Heavy .177
- Best hollow point: H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme
- Best for accuracy: H&N Field Target Trophy
- Best budget: Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum
.177 Pellets for Squirrels: Comparison Chart
| Pellet | Shape | Weight | Best For | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JSB Exact Heavy | Domed | 10.34 gr | Accurate head shots | $$ | Check Price |
| H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme | Hollow point | About 9.6 gr | Close range energy transfer | $$ | Check Price |
| H&N Field Target Trophy | Domed | About 8.6 gr | Lighter rifles | $$ | Check Price |
| Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum | Domed | 10.5 gr | Budget | $ | Check Price |
Price guide: $ = under $15 per tin, $$ = $15 to $35. Prices change often, so check the current price on Amazon.
The 4 Best .177 Pellets for Squirrel Hunting in 2026
Pick the most accurate pellet in your rifle. A precise head shot with a domed pellet beats a body shot with a fancy hunting pellet.
1. JSB Exact Heavy (Best Overall)
- Shape: Domed
- Weight: 10.34 gr
- Use: Mid to high power rifles
The JSB Heavy is accurate and carries energy well. That combination is exactly what you need for clean head shots on squirrels.
- Very accurate
- Good energy
- Too heavy for weak rifles
2. H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme (Best Hollow Point)
- Shape: Hollow point
- Use: Close range hunting
The Hunter Extreme expands on impact, which helps at close range. It is less accurate at long range than a domed pellet.
- Expands on impact
- Good close range
- Less accurate far out
3. H&N Field Target Trophy (Best for Lighter Rifles)
- Shape: Domed
- Weight: About 8.6 gr
- Use: Springers and mid power
In lower powered rifles, a lighter pellet shoots flatter and is easier to place. The FTT is very accurate.
- Accurate
- Flatter trajectory
- Less energy than heavies
4. Crosman Premier Ultra Magnum (Best Budget)
- Shape: Domed
- Weight: 10.5 gr
- Tin: 500 count
A cheap heavy domed pellet that shoots well in many rifles. Test it first, since batch quality varies.
- Cheap
- Heavy
- Batch quality varies
Ethical Squirrel Hunting With a .177
- Check your state’s laws. Airgun hunting rules, seasons and license requirements vary.
- Use enough power. A rifle making around 12 foot-pounds or more is a common minimum.
- Aim for head shots and keep shots within the range where you can hit a small target every time, often 25 to 35 yards.
- Know your backstop, especially when shooting up into trees.
Final Verdict
The JSB Exact Heavy is the best .177 pellet for squirrel hunting in 2026, as long as your rifle has the power for it.
In lighter rifles, use H&N Field Target Trophy pellets and keep shots closer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a .177 good for squirrels?
Yes, with enough power and good shot placement. Head shots are best.
Are hollow point pellets better for hunting?
Only at close range. Domed pellets are more accurate and usually better overall.
Is it legal to hunt squirrels with an air rifle?
In many US states, yes, but rules vary. Check your state’s wildlife agency.
Related Guides
New to air guns? Start with our Air Guns for Beginners guide →