What is the Best Airgun Calibre? – A UK Shooter’s Guide. When it comes to airgun shooting in the UK, one of the most common questions asked by beginners and experienced shooters alike is: What is the best airgun calibre? The answer isn’t as simple as picking one over the other – it depends on your shooting discipline, target type, and personal preferences.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular airgun calibres available in the UK, discuss their advantages, and help you decide which is right for you.
The Most Common Airgun Calibres in the UK
1. .177 (4.5mm)
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Best for: Target shooting, plinking, and competition use.
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Advantages:
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Flatter trajectory, meaning pellets drop less over distance.
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Excellent for precision shooting and hitting smaller targets.
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Widely available pellet types and brands.
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Considerations: Smaller pellet size means slightly less knockdown power compared to larger calibres.
2. .22 (5.5mm)
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Best for: Pest control and small game hunting (where legal).
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Advantages:
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Heavier pellet delivers more impact energy.
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Better stopping power for close to medium range.
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Quieter shot due to lower velocity.
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Considerations: More pellet drop over long distances, requiring greater skill to judge range.
3. .20 (5.0mm) – The “Compromise Calibre”
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Best for: Shooters who want a mix of flat trajectory and hitting power.
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Advantages:
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Balanced performance between .177 and .22.
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Suitable for both target shooting and light pest control.
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Considerations: Less pellet variety and availability compared to .177 and .22.
4. .25 (6.35mm) – The Heavy Hitter
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Best for: Close-range pest control and high-power air rifles.
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Advantages:
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Maximum knockdown power for sub-50-yard shooting.
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Excellent for dispatching pests humanely.
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Considerations: Very pronounced pellet drop and lower pellet availability in the UK.
UK Legal Considerations for Airgun Calibres
In the UK, non-FAC (Firearm Certificate) air rifles must not exceed 12 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. This applies regardless of calibre. For air pistols, the limit is 6 ft-lbs.
If you want to use a high-powered airgun that exceeds these limits, you’ll need to apply for an FAC from your local police firearms licensing department.
Which Calibre Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your shooting goals:
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Target Shooting / HFT / FT: Go for .177 for its flat trajectory and accuracy.
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General Pest Control: .22 is the most common choice due to its energy delivery.
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Versatility: .20 offers a balance if you can source pellets easily.
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Specialist Heavy Hitting: .25 is best for close-range, high-impact use.
Final Thoughts
There’s no “one size fits all” answer to the best airgun calibre – the right choice depends on your needs, shooting style, and the distances you’ll be working with. For most UK shooters, .177 or .22 will be the most practical options, while .20 and .25 cater to more specialised preferences.
When deciding, consider the availability of pellets, your rifle’s intended use, and your comfort with range estimation. With the correct calibre for your needs, you’ll enjoy more accurate, consistent, and satisfying shooting sessions.
About This Blog
Shop Address: Just Air Guns, Trimex House, Pier Road, Feltham, TW14 0TW
Website: www.Justairguns.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0330 999 5224
Blog Title: What is the Best Airgun Calibre? (A UK Shooter’s Guide)
Blog Author: Mark Watts