There have been reports of raccoons breaking into Cybertrucks, much like they do in attics. These animals can be very disturbing, damaging interiors and electronics while searching for food or shelter. To avoid such issues, it’s essential to take steps to keep raccoons out of your yard. We’ve tested the best air rifles for raccoons in 2025 to find the perfect blend of accuracy and performance.
When it comes to hunting raccoons with air rifles, speed and precision are crucial. Just as in the world of crossbows, where speed can make all the difference, choosing the right air rifle ensures you can make that perfect shot with accuracy intact.
As we explore the best air rifles for raccoons in 2025, our focus is on finding that sweet spot between power, precision, and ease of use. Echoing the wisdom of shooting editor Townsend Whelen, who famously said, “Only accurate rifles are interesting,” I’ve prioritized rifles that deliver both performance and reliability.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Rifle for Raccoons
So, when choosing the appropriate air rifle for raccoon control, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure you get something that works well and is gentle on the animals. Check out these key points to remember:
1. Power and Caliber
Raccoons are strong and will require an air rifle with sufficient stopping power. While .177 and .22 calibers are popular, big bore air rifles, specifically .25, .30, 35 and .45, make a much bigger impact. They release more energy, which is important for a humane, one-shot kill.
2. Accuracy and Range
Accuracy is a big deal when raccoons are involved. Find some rifles that will shoot within 30-50 yards with good accuracy. Scopes are good for improving your aim and those big bore rifles tend to shoot well out to a distance which seems to work well for raccoon hunting.
3. Noise Level
These raccoons are usually nocturnal, so if you’re in a neighborhood, you’re definitely going to need a quiet air rifle. Most of these models feature built-in suppressors. That’s awesome for keeping it low-key while packing a punch, making them perfect to deal with raccoons.
4. Durability
So you want an air rifle that really can be beaten up outside, huh? Synthetic stocks and weather-resistant stuff are awesome for staying in there for the long haul. Big bore rifles usually are made to handle more power so you’d get a good shot.
5. Feet per Second (FPS) and Foot-Pounds of Energy (FPE)
At least 25-30 FPE is considered sufficient for raccoons. Although FPS is important for the rapidity of the shot, FPE ensures sufficient impact for a speedy, humane kill. Most big bore rifles exceed these levels and are recommended for hunting raccoons.
Top 6 Best Air Rifles for Raccoons and Big Game Hunting in 2025
Best Six Air Rifles for Raccoon Hunting in 2025 Here, we review every model tested to power, precision, and reliability, thus giving you the best air rifle to take to your hunt. No matter if you are an oldtimer or a newcomer, these picks will give you all performance needed to get that nice hit.
1. Editor’s Choice: Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun Air Rifle
The Umarex Hammer .50 Caliber PCP Pellet Gun is oft considered to be the most powerful production air rifle on the market. This big game hunting rifle was designed specifically to deliver high impact energy that can ensure efficient and humane dispatch of targets such as raccoons, wild hogs, and other medium-sized game.
With advanced engineering built into the proprietary Lightspeed valve, this rifle gives a muzzle energy of 705 ft-lbs-a number that has never been seen on any other air rifle. The .50 caliber pellets coming out of this barrel at up to 1130 fps make it one of the most capable air rifles for serious hunters.
In-Depth Features Of Umarex Hammer
- Power and Performance: Capable of delivering three full-power shots and a finishing shot per fill, this rifle provides reliability and consistency in high-pressure situations. The .50 caliber slugs are designed to transfer energy effectively, ensuring clean kills without over-penetration.
- Innovative Air System: The Hammer’s 4500 psi carbon fiber air tank ensures optimal pressure for maximum performance. With a 3000 psi minimum operational requirement, it guarantees dependable shots even under varying conditions.
- User-Friendly Design: Featuring a straight-pull bolt with a 2-pound pull weight and 2-inch travel, the rifle allows for quick and effortless cycling. The inclusion of dual safeties (magazine lock-out and trigger block) adds an extra layer of security during handling.
- Quiet Operation: Despite its immense power, the Hammer maintains a low acoustic signature, thanks to its sound-absorbing barrel shroud. This feature is essential for hunting scenarios where stealth is critical.
- Customization Options: Equipped with an M-LOK-compatible stock for accessories and a Picatinny rail for optics, the Hammer accommodates a variety of upgrades, enhancing its versatility for different hunting setups.
Performance Insights
The Umarex Hammer delivered exceptional accuracy and power to the game, a good combination for pest control and big game hunting. It excelled mid-range engagements with a performance that can deliver knockdown energy at 40-50 yards, which was unmatched. Proper optics and air pressure management could guarantee consistent performance in demanding field conditions.
Advanced materials, innovative design, and powerful performance put the Hammer at the head of a favorite list for anyone seeking serious hunting capabilities in an air rifle.
Top Customer Insight
So I bought this rifle a few years ago. I believe it was 3 years ago. My wife and I live off grid in Oregon. Already this rifle has gotten us out of VERY close situations with a black bear, and 3 mountain lions. One of those mountain lions was the biggest one I’ve ever seen in my life. Easily 300 pounds. And anyone who doubts it, ask someone from here, or Google it. They really get that big here. I wouldn’t trade this rifle for anything. I kept stressing on the carbon fiber barrel. Anyone who wonders why they would put a carbon fiber barrel on a hunting rifle that constantly gets knocked on trees and whatnot, once you carry it up a mountain to pick mushrooms(just in case) with a bipod and scope, flashlight, and laser, both with tac plates, well, you should understand. The thing is heavy.
Not as heavy as others. But ya. I keep extra shot in the handle too. So I understand why they’d do carbon fiber. But I still stressed it. I worried about it getting knocked wrong and cracking the barrel. I know that it’s got a mechanical necessity as far as it’s design. From what I’ve read it can’t be changed out, only it will work. I thought of everything I could do to make it stronger. So I did the only thing that I could think to do. I heat shrinked the entire barrel.
One piece. Then I gently filed out the part of the stock that holds the air tank steady. I took the entire tac rail/barrel shroud off of my crosman dpms/sbr full auto, and filed it out just a smidge, and wrapped the end of the barrel in nonadhesive bandage(the sports wrap that sticks to itself). My scope has tac rails all around it. I’ve got my light and laser on either side and just in case, I have a fixed blade knife on the top tac rail of the scope.
All in all, it’s a surgical little devil, and I’ve actually got it pretty dialed. This thing not only killed a fricking cape buffalo with one shot, it also is the same gun that a guy on you tube uses to hunt black bear, and grizzly bear. It’s the only gun he uses for it. There’s a guy on a forum that I’m a member of that uses it to plinks soda cans at 385 yards. That’s over a thousand feet. I had to invest in a firefighters SCBA air tank and put a valve attachment on it.
Now I can fill it to 4500 in under a couple minutes, and it’s ready to go. Best airgun for the money, and it’s regulated so the shots are pretty even. The only thing that these people have wrong is the two shots with one finishing shit. I get six per tank. Granted at about 1200 psi ot won’t even put one out the barrel. But the six before that are killers. I have to say this tho, this thing is NOT a toy. Everyone that I’ve let shoot it has said the same thing. It kicks and sounds like a 30-30 or a 30-06. I have to say I wish they could come up with a four shot clip, just like someone else said here in a review. It is no longer the most powerful production airgun on the market, but who cares? There isn’t a critter in this state that it won’t stop from coming at me. That’s all I wanted.
Jesica Tiffany-Clark
2. Best Value: Seneca Big Bore 44 909 Light Hunter PCP Air Rifle
When out in the woods, your air rifle needs to be more than just a tool; it needs to be a trusted sidekick, giving you that thrust, accuracy, and continuity needed to knock down small and medium game easily. The Seneca Big Bore 44 909 Light Hunter PCP Air Rifle was designed for the serious hunter, giving you everything you need for an absolutely successful hunt.
Featuring a .45 caliber barrel, a high velocity of 730 fps, and an advanced precharged pneumatic (PCP), this rifle is aimed at achieving accuracy and performance. It is suitable for hunters going after raccoons or other games since the Seneca combines power and versatility, and one would want more in their air rifle. Such a bolt-action rifle as the Seneca Big Bore 44 909 is built to last and offers customizable power levels, making it hunter-friendly at all times.
In-Depth Features Of Seneca Big Bore
- PCP Power: Equipped with a precharged pneumatic system, this single-shot rifle operates on bolt-action mechanics and a 3,000 psi max fill pressure. The dual air chambers (500cc total capacity) provide plenty of shots, ensuring you’re ready for prolonged hunting sessions.
- Exceptional Build Quality: Featuring a rifled barrel measuring 0.4516″ to 0.4567″ in diameter, the Seneca delivers pinpoint accuracy. Its hardwood Monte Carlo stock, complete with a checkered forearm and grip, adds both elegance and functionality.
- Adjustable Performance: This rifle offers two power levels controlled by a bolt stop—low power for close-range shots and high power for when maximum velocity is needed. With a built-in manometer (pressure gauge), you can easily monitor air pressure to ensure optimal performance.
- Hunting-Ready Design: The fixed front sight and fully adjustable, removable rear sight make target acquisition simple. For those who prefer optics, the 11mm scope rail accommodates compact scopes for added precision.
- Safe and User-Friendly: Safety is paramount with the Seneca, featuring a manual safety mechanism for secure handling. The quick-disconnect Foster male fitting ensures fast and hassle-free air refills, making it easy to keep your rifle ready to go.
Performance Insights
The Seneca Big Bore 44 909 packs its punch with a high velocity of 730 fps. Perfectly balanced power with precision, it delivers to the sweet spot for medium ranges. The dual air chambers ensure enough shots for longer hunting excursions. Long sessions can be slightly noisy, but the hunters will find suitable rewards with every shot.
Indeed, the Seneca Big Bore 44 909 Light Hunter will make a great choice for those hunters who look to settle on powerful, reliable performance that is consistent from a PCP high power air rifle with maximum usability. And this quality of artistry, power, and reliability makes it one of the best on the market, even for serious air rifle enthusiasts.
Real-World Experience: Customer Review
I use my scuba tank to fill the rifle to 206 bars or 3000 psi. The rifle comes with open sights if you don’t have enough money to buy a scope. I have 3 PCP rifles, but this is my first Sam Yang rifle, and the quality is excellent—the metal, the wood stock, everything is very well made. The rifle is very, very loud; you can’t use it in your backyard if you have close neighbors.
I decided to get a muzzle brake to quiet down the loudness. I’m very happy and I do recommend the Sam Yang 909 .45 caliber Light Hunter. You get about 8 to 10 shots in high power using a round ball or the 200-grain hollow point Air Venturi pellets, which you can get from Amazon. Very accurate to 100 yards, great power with this rifle, and excellent shot count. I’m very pleased with my purchase.
Vegas
3. Best for Precision: Benjamin Bulldog Hunting Rifle
Among the best air rifles for big game, Benjamin Bulldog Hunting Rifle stands at the first place in a leader position for any serious hunter who needs firepower, precision, and versatility. It’s ranked number 3, which doesn’t make it among the worst air rifles for raccoon and hog hunting or even African plains game and whitetail deer. The Bulldog will provide the power and precision you’ll need in a stopping shot when hunting predators or even bigger games.
Available in .357 and .457 caliber variants, the Benjamin Bulldog allows you to choose the right caliber for your specific hunting needs. The .357 variant is perfect for raccoons, wild hogs, and coyotes, while the .457 model is ideal for larger game, including whitetail deer, black bear, and even bison. Both calibers feature powerful performance, but with slight variations in velocity and shot count, giving you options based on your hunting style.
In-Depth Features of Benjamin Bulldog
- PCP-Powered Precision: The Bulldog is a precharged pneumatic (PCP) rifle, ensuring consistent power for multiple shots. With its .357 model delivering up to 910 fps and the .457 variant reaching up to 760 fps, both calibers offer excellent velocity to take down game effectively.
- Durable Synthetic Design: Featuring a 36-inch bullpup configuration, this rifle is compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry through the woods or across open fields. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on performance.
- Reversible Sidelever Bolt Action: Whether you’re a left-handed or right-handed shooter, the Bulldog accommodates both with its easily adjustable sidelever bolt action. Plus, it’s equipped with a lever safety for added security while hunting.
- Sound Suppression with SoundTrap Technology: One of the standout features of the Bulldog is its baffle-less SoundTrap shroud. This technology helps minimize the loud report of the rifle, making it less disruptive during your hunt—crucial when hunting close to other wildlife or in areas where stealth is essential.
- Rifled Steel Barrel: Both the .357 and .457 versions of the Bulldog come equipped with a rifled-steel barrel, ensuring exceptional accuracy and power. Whether you’re taking a shot at a raccoon 50 yards away or aiming at a larger target like a wild hog, you can trust the Bulldog to perform consistently.
- Customization and Accessories: The 26-inch Picatinny rail allows you to add your preferred accessories, such as optics, bipods, or flashlights, to enhance your setup. Plus, the 5-shot magazine and included cleaning kit ensure you’re fully equipped for a successful hunting experience.
Why the Benjamin Bulldog is Perfect for Big Game
It is no ordinary air rifle-the Benjamin Bulldog is being built for serious big game hunting. Whether tracking raccoons in the woods or taking it on to take out a wild boar, the performance is here. Compact rifle that can squeeze through just about anything in the field, and the power will give you a clean, humane kill.
With SoundTrap technology to reduce noise and a reliable 5-shot magazine, you’ll be ready for anything the hunt throws your way. The Benjamin Bulldog Hunting Rifle is more than just a powerful tool; it’s a true hunting companion that’ll help you bring home your trophy.
Customer Review: A Hunter’s Experience with the Benjamin Bulldog
Awesome airgun. Powerful. Accurate. I selected this rifle over some of the more expensive ones because of the wide range of slugs it can shoot using the same magazine. And obviously because it is less expensive. ($2000 for an FX airgun is just a little too hard to justify. They are, after all, just airguns.)
I have fired 81 gr up to 163 gr slugs using the original magazine. You can fire even heavier slugs with the addition of a single shot tray placed in the magazine well. I have seen slugs up to 220 gr fired accurately with this rifle.
It is easy modify and upgrade this rifle yourself. (check out pit bull airguns for parts and service). It’s almost like they designed this airgun to be easily modified. Mounted a vortex scope, extended air reservoir and stronger hammer spring. Now I get about 15 shots before pressure drops to 2000psi. Still effective for small game at that pressure also. Simple to top off with air tank and back in business.
Having received the rifle this last spring I have not had the chance to hunt any big game yet, but the destructive ground squirrels on my property have come to fear me! A little bulky and heavy towards the front of the gun. A bi pod attached to the included rail system easily fixed that issue. There are higher quality rifles out there for a much higher price. But I have not found any magazine fed airguns that allow the wide range of slugs to be used.
Most use just 81.2 gr pellets. Which is fine if all you want to do is target shoot or scourge small animals. But the bulldog can, and has , been used for game as small as squirrels and as large as deer, antelope, wild boars, and larger African game. (Albeit with additional modifications.).
I would like to see the cocking handle made out of steel rather than aluminum. With the upgraded hammer spring the aluminum handle works hard.
Overall, very happy with the rifle. Good value for the money. Can handle almost all but the biggest North American game. With the 5 shot mags that change out quickly you could even give zombies a run for their money during the apocalypse.Jason
4. Fastest: Hatsan Blitz Semi/Full Auto PCP Air Rifle
That is no ordinary air rifle-the Hatsan Blitz is a full-up, select fire, semi-auto/ full-auto powerhouse bringing a whole new dimension to the excitement of the airgun enthusiasts. Whether raccoons, wild hogs, or even bigger games are on the target list, the Blitz will deliver fantastic power and rapid fire, putting it as an exquisite choice for hunters who do things in leagues of their own.
Available in .22, .25, and .30 calibers, the Blitz delivers up to 53 ft-lbs of energy and 1,150 FPS, making it more than capable of taking down small to medium-sized game with ease. The most exciting feature? You can switch between semi-automatic and full-automatic firing modes with just a flick of a switch, allowing you to empty an entire magazine in less than a second! With a cyclical rate of 1,000 rounds per minute, the Blitz offers non-stop action that few rifles can match.
In-Depth Features of Hatsan Blitz
- Select Fire, Semi-Auto/Full-Auto: The Blitz is a Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifle that gives you the flexibility to shoot in both semi-auto and full-auto modes. This powerful feature ensures you’re ready for any hunting scenario, whether it’s a quick follow-up shot or a rapid-fire defense against predators.
- Unbeatable Power and Velocity: With a maximum muzzle energy of 53 ft-lbs and a velocity of up to 1,150 FPS (depending on the caliber), the Blitz ensures maximum impact and accuracy for hunting at both close and mid-range distances.
- Massive 580cc Carbon Fiber Air Tank: This rifle comes with a 580cc carbon fiber air tank that can deliver over 100 shots per fill at optimal velocity. This means fewer breaks to refill and more time spent in action, hunting down your target. The air tank is easy to refill with a TactAir pump or compressor, keeping your rifle in top shape for long hunting expeditions.
- Large-Capacity SwingLoad Magazines: The Blitz is equipped with two SwingLoad magazines—21-shot capacity in .22 caliber, 19-shot in .25 caliber, and 16-shot in .30 caliber—so you can focus on the hunt instead of constantly reloading. These magazines are designed for quick and easy loading, ensuring you’re always ready for the next shot.
- Ergonomic Tactical Design: The all-weather synthetic stock features an integrated pistol grip with rubberized panels for enhanced control and comfort. Plus, the elevation-adjustable cheek rest and angle-adjustable rubber butt pad allow you to customize the rifle to fit perfectly, no matter your shooting position.
- Sound Suppression and Precision: With the baffle-less sound trap and carbon fiber barrel shroud, the Blitz offers effective sound suppression for quieter shots, crucial when you’re trying to maintain stealth in the field.
- Customization Ready: The 26-inch Picatinny rail gives you endless possibilities to attach accessories like scopes, lights, or bipods to enhance your setup. With integrated Weaver and 11mm Dovetail optics rails, you can easily mount your preferred optics for more accurate shots at longer ranges.
- Safety First: A manual safety switch ensures you can safely carry the Blitz in the field without worrying about accidental firing. The rifle also comes with fitted sling mounts for easy carrying.
Why the Hatsan Blitz is a Top Choice for Hunters
Hatsan Blitz turns out one of the great air rifles for a versatile hunter who looks for power, speed, and rapid-fire capabilities. From taking down raccoons and wild boars, coyotes, and even larger game like deer, the performance is delivered by this rifle to ensure that your successful hunt is met. Semi-auto and full-auto modes make the Blitz good to alternate with quick follow-up shots and rapid-fire when things heat up at the hunting grounds.
For those looking to raise the stakes of a traditional hunting experience, the Blitz offers unmatched shot count, tactical design, and extreme accuracy all backed with a powerful carbon fiber air tank that lets you focus on what matters most: bringing home your trophy.
Customer’s Helpful Review
Purchased a .22 Blitz for my Birthday and was kinda disappointed that the gun would not even load. The charging handle would only go half way back. Called a friend who had one and said he had to kinda horse it a little So taking his advice,I used that rubber cover that comes on the charging hammer and worked it up and down about a couple hundred times with a lot of force before it started to work properly.
The trigger is very long and heavy but still shoots fairly accurate but not as accurate as a Marauder. It is probably because of it’s full auto capabilities. The first time shooting full auto in my back yard was extremely fun but also very frightening. I expected S.W.A.T to be surrounding my house. Wow what a blast! Since then I installed a DonnyFL suppressor to keep the noise down. (Was advised to purchase a adapter and new springs to use the suppressor in full auto but the gun failed.
Later just epoxyed the advised suppressor directly to the factory end cap to get it to work in full auto.)
Sam
5. Hatsun Hercules Bully
Following the success of the Hercules, Hatsan listened to opinions from their customers and then developed a new, updated version called the Hercules Bully. The bullpup is near 3 lbs lighter and 12 inches shorter than its predecessor, with the synthetic stock and carbon fiber air cylinder, making it much more mobile and suitable for maneuvering in any situation. However, Hercules Bully will not trade off where power is concerned. It releases up to 290 FPE of muzzle energy. The .25, .30, .35, and .45 calibers make it ideal for hunting large game, wild boars, whitetail deer, and African plains game.
In this air rifle, Hercules Bully has been made with Hatsan’s QuietEnergy technology. This includes a completely shrouded, barreled air rifle sporting a dedicated sound moderator in integrating support to cut noise by up to 50%. That makes it ideal for hunters who are hunting deep into the woods to obtain a quiet, stealthy rifle that can still pack a punch. Adjustable “EasyAdjust” cheek comb and clever repositioning of the side lever above the trigger enhance comfort, precision, and usability on this air rifle.
In-Depth Features of Hercules Bully
- Bullpup Design with Side-Lever Action: The compact bullpup configuration provides a shorter overall length without sacrificing power, while the side-lever action allows for smooth and efficient cocking.
- QuietEnergy Technology: Fully shrouded barrel with an integrated sound moderator reduces noise by up to 50%, making it quieter than traditional air rifles for more discreet hunting.
- Precision Rifled German Steel Barrel: Known for its durability and accuracy, the German steel barrel ensures every shot is true and reliable.
- 480cc Carbon Fiber Air Bottle: Mounted in the forearm for better balance and lightweight performance, the air cylinder provides consistent shots with every pull of the trigger.
- “EasyAdjust” Cheek Comb: Features an elevation adjustment button, allowing you to customize the cheek comb position for a more comfortable and precise shooting experience.
- Caliber Options: Available in .25, .30, .35, and .45 calibers, providing versatility for different types of big game hunting.
- Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger: Lets you customize the trigger travel and load for a more personalized and responsive shooting experience.
- Detachable Multi-Shot Magazines: Includes three detachable, caliber-specific, multi-shot magazines with storage in the stock, allowing for quick reloading during your hunt.
- 21” Combination Optics Rail: A long optics rail that accepts both 11mm and Picatinny scope mounts, perfect for mounting your preferred optics for improved accuracy.
- Picatinny Rail for Accessories: Located beneath the forearm, allowing you to mount accessories like a bipod for greater stability and control.
- Built-In Pressure Gauge: Monitors the air cylinder’s pressure, so you always know when it’s time for a refill.
- Anti-Double Pellet Feed: This feature prevents more than one pellet from loading into the barrel, ensuring safe and efficient shooting.
- Fitted Sling Swivels: Easy to attach a sling for comfortable transport when you’re on the move.
Final Thoughts
Hatsan Hercules Bully is the model of the air rifle which will enthuse the power-hungry, precision-potent, and silent hunter who would like to do wild boar, coyote, or even big game hunting in Africa. Advanced features such as QuietEnergy technology, precision rifling, and a customizable trigger make the Hercules Bully a rifle with everything you need for a successful hunt. If you are one seeking a flexible, high-quality air rifle to take on the toughest game at hand with boldness, then Hercules Bully is what you hope to get.
Helpful Customer’s Review
This Hatsan Hercules Bully in a 30 caliber is a beast. I’ve only owned the 30 caliber, but it’s accuracy at 50 yards is easily 1/2” to 3/4” groups all day long if you do your part. The gun comes hot from the factory, so it must be tuned down to achieve a combination of accuracy and decent shot count.
Also, it is very loud, which is no big deal cause 99% of PCP rifles have a moderator installed so this would be no different. If you look in the top Airgun forums, and cruise the classifieds section, you will never, ever see a Hercules Bully up for sale. Sure, it’s not up there with one of those fancy European air guns that are in the $1500-$2500 level, but for a mid priced gun, this Bully gives the shooter power, accuracy, and many extras that don’t come in those high dollar guns such as three magazines, a built in mag holder, sling, O ring rebuild kit, etc.
oh, and that comment about beware about hatsan? Hogwash to that! I’ve dealt with their customer service, and they’ve always responded, addressed any issues I had, and bottom line, they build a good product. This Bully is on the heavy side at 10.15 lbs out of the box, so keep that in mind if you plan on walking with it in the woods. As far as a bench target gun?
You’ll have a blast. Plan on investing in a large fill tank and/or a compressor to keep this thing fed with air, as it holds a bunch at 3600 psi max fill. Don’t even think you’ll be able to hand pump this baby.
BigRagu
6. Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL Air Rifle
Big-game hunting just doesn’t cut it without a serious air rifle with high power, and the Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL is among the top picks in this category. Though several were tried, the reason this particular model was chosen as last was not because it doesn’t perform well but, rather, it packs more punch and accuracy. The Carnivore comes with outstanding features suited for professional hunters as well as those willing to advance their level. It promises excellent performance for large and medium-sized game including ground hogs and rabbits.
It comes in .30 and .35 calibers. This powerful pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifle is built for high velocity and energy, making it great for hunters who target big animals such as wild boar, deer, and larger game. Whether it is trophy hunting or harvesting to feed the family, the Carnivore serves up the package deal.
In-Depth Features of Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL
- Side Lever Action: The side lever action makes cocking smoother and easier than traditional bolt versions. This repeater action allows for quick follow-up shots, reducing downtime between shots for a more efficient hunting experience.
- QuietEnergy Technology: This air rifle features QuietEnergy technology, including a fully shrouded barrel and integrated sound moderator, reducing noise by about 50%. This makes it a great choice for stealthy hunting without alerting nearby animals.
- Quattro Trigger: Equipped with the two-stage, fully adjustable Quattro trigger, you can fine-tune the trigger travel and weight to match your shooting style for improved accuracy.
- Precision Rifled Barrel: The German steel rifled barrel ensures maximum precision, delivering tight groupings and high velocity with every shot. Whether you’re shooting at long distances or aiming for small targets, this barrel won’t let you down.
- Rotary Magazines: The BT65SL includes two detachable rotary magazines—a 7-round magazine for .30 caliber and a 6-round magazine for .35 caliber—giving you multiple shots without the need to reload after every shot.
- Adjustable Comb and Butt Pad: This air rifle comes with an adjustable comb and butt pad, allowing you to customize the fit for maximum comfort. This is especially useful during long hunting sessions, ensuring that you can shoot accurately without fatigue.
- Anti-Double-Feed Mechanism: The anti-double-feed mechanism ensures that only one pellet is loaded at a time, eliminating any risk of misfires and improving safety during operation.
- Picatinny Accessory Rail: The Picatinny rail located beneath the forearm provides space for additional accessories like a bipod, laser, or flashlight to enhance your shooting experience, making this rifle highly adaptable.
- Anti-Knock System: Hatsan’s anti-knock system prevents gas wastage when the rifle is knocked or bounced, ensuring that the rifle maintains pressure and performance during active use.
- Integrated Scope Rail: The rifle has a combo optics rail that accepts Weaver or 11mm mounts for scopes or other optics (note that no open sights are included).
- Hatsan Sling: For easier carrying, the rifle includes fitted sling swivels and a Hatsan sling, allowing you to comfortably transport the rifle during long hunting trips.
Final Thoughts
Although it ranked last in our tests, the Hatsan BT Big Bore Carnivore QE SL is no slouch. It produces phenomenal power and precision and features that are perfect for serious big game hunting. With high muzzle energy, quiet operation, and precision accuracy, this rifle is sure to serve hunters well in the field. If you are looking for a large caliber PCP rifle that handles exceptionally at an exceptional value, the Big Bore Carnivore is a great choice.
Helpful Review
I chose the 30 Caliber because you get several more shots. Quieter than I thought. Backyard friendly? That will depend on your neighbors and how big your backyard is. Little bigger than I thought but I’ve found it helps steady my shot.
The side lever is awesome. I have the Flash 22 Caliber bolt action. I find this 30 easier to cock. Nothing against the Flash… no regrets and I’d buy it again. Only side levers from now on though.
If you’re only familiar with smaller calibers…. you’re in for a surprise. I shot a few rounds through some trees and some smaller branches and leaves came falling down…lol. Pellets just kept going… went through with authority.
Update; I now have 8 Hatsan’s. 6 pcp’s & 2 Model 125 Springer’s. Cleaning the barrel is the first thing you need to do. The barrels are protected with some black goop to prevent rust during shipping and storage.
Don’t use anything metal!!! Airgun Barrels are soft metal and you can damage them and hurt its accuracy!!! Get the Patchworm Cleaning Kit. It’s basically weedeater line to drag a cleaning patch through the barrel…. in the same direction the pellet travels.
Don’t use your traditional Firearms cleaning solvents. Airguns have Rubber O-Rings you might melt. I use Ballistol and use airgun oil / silicone.
I clean the QE Silencer too….. its easy. Unscrew the end cap, the baffles slide out… 4 pieces… keep them in proper order. A 9/16 or 14mm socket… plus an extension… down inside the shroud… unscrew the nut on the end of the barrel. The nut has vent holes drilled in it… a couple of my guns… they needed some cleaning and deburred. Its aluminum… so the burrs were easy to knock off. This will help your silence and accuracy!!!
If you want… the Shroud just slides off the barrel. Makes cleaning inside the barrel easier.
Clean, clean and clean until the patches come out clean. Leaving a little Ballistol soak overnight will help.
Half of my guns shot hole in hole accurate at 75ft… immediately!!! Literally stack pellet on top of pellet in a dime size spot!!!
Jedi
How We Tested and Select the Best Air Rifles for You?
We don’t just go to our lab and pick air rifles based upon a popularity contest or rating from others. Rather, we get up close and hands-on, select a broad range of air rifles, and design specific tests based upon real-world hunting and shooting situations. Yes, we’re certainly not going to check every model made, but the ones we do are those that will meet the needs of the hunter, the target shooter, and enthusiasts alike, thereby providing every possible view of every rifle’s performance.
Our testing process addresses the main characteristics: power, accuracy, and user-friendliness, all under varying conditions. We consider a range of factors, from pellet velocity and recoil to noise level—because real-world conditions matter. After testing each rifle, we cross-reference the results with the official features published by manufacturers and retailers, ensuring that its performance matches what’s claimed. Comparing helps us determine which rifles stand out.
Once we’ve gathered our findings, our writers craft detailed, helpful reviews for our readers. These reviews are designed to highlight each rifle’s strengths and provide insights that help our audience make informed decisions based on their specific needs. That is how we ensure that our air rifle reviews are equally accurate and useful for you.
Frequently Asked Questions by People Dealing with Raccoon Disturbances
1. What is the raccoon hunting season?
The raccoon hunting season varies by state and region, but it typically starts in the fall and can last through the winter. It’s important to check local regulations for specific dates and licensing requirements, as some areas may have restrictions on hunting during certain months.
2. Can you hunt raccoons with an air rifle?
Yes, air rifles, especially big bore PCP models, are suitable for hunting raccoons. These rifles provide enough power for humane kills when used with the proper caliber, typically .22 or .25. Always ensure the air rifle meets local legal requirements for hunting.
3. What is the best air rifle for raccoon hunting?
A powerful PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifle, such as the Benjamin Bulldog or Hatsan Blitz, is ideal for hunting raccoons. These rifles offer high muzzle velocity and energy, allowing for effective and humane hunting of medium-sized game like raccoons.
4. Are raccoons dangerous to humans?
While raccoons are generally not aggressive, they can become dangerous if threatened or cornered. They may carry diseases like rabies and leptospirosis, making it crucial to approach them with caution and take appropriate steps to remove them from your property safely.
5. How can I keep raccoons out of my yard?
To prevent raccoons from invading your yard, make sure trash cans are tightly sealed and remove outdoor food sources. Secure entry points to sheds, garages, and attics. Using raccoon repellents or motion-activated lights can also help deter them from entering your property.