Best Gun to Hunt Squirrels: Expert Guide to Choosing the Right Firearm

September 18, 2025 by Paula

Table of Contents

Best Gun to Hunt Squirrels: An Expert’s Guide to Selecting the Perfect Firearm

If you’re looking to bag more squirrels this season, choosing the best gun to hunt squirrels is crucial. Squirrel hunting is a rewarding pursuit, but success hinges on selecting the right firearm for the job. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding different gun types to choosing the right ammunition and accessories. We’ll delve into the nuances of squirrel hunting and equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring a successful and ethical hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting, this guide provides the expertise to elevate your squirrel hunting game.

Understanding Squirrel Hunting and Firearm Choices

Squirrel hunting presents unique challenges. These small, agile creatures are masters of camouflage and quick escapes. The dense foliage of their habitat often requires shots at varying distances, and the need for minimal meat damage is paramount. Therefore, the “best gun to hunt squirrels” isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on factors like hunting style, terrain, and personal preference.

Several firearm options are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

.22 Rifles: The most popular and versatile choice, offering accuracy, affordability, and manageable recoil.
Air Rifles: Increasingly popular for their quiet operation and suitability for urban or suburban hunting where firearm discharge is restricted.
Shotguns: Effective for close-range shots in dense cover, but can cause more meat damage.
Pistols: A challenging but rewarding option for experienced hunters seeking a greater degree of skill.

.22 Rifles: The Classic Squirrel Gun

The .22 rifle has long been the gold standard for squirrel hunting. Its popularity stems from its accuracy, affordability, and the readily available and inexpensive ammunition. The low recoil makes it easy to shoot accurately, even for extended periods. Moreover, the .22 LR cartridge delivers sufficient power to humanely dispatch squirrels without excessive meat damage.

Consider these factors when choosing a .22 rifle for squirrel hunting:

Action Type: Bolt-action rifles are known for their accuracy and reliability. Semi-automatic rifles offer faster follow-up shots. Lever-action rifles provide a classic hunting feel.
Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally offer greater accuracy, while shorter barrels are more maneuverable in dense cover.
Sights: Open sights are traditional, but a scope or red dot sight can significantly improve accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Trigger: A crisp, light trigger pull is essential for accurate shooting.

Air Rifles: A Quiet and Effective Alternative

Air rifles have gained considerable popularity among squirrel hunters in recent years. Modern air rifles, particularly those powered by pre-charged pneumatics (PCPs), are capable of delivering impressive accuracy and power. Their quiet operation makes them ideal for hunting in areas where noise is a concern, or where firearm discharge is restricted.

Key considerations when selecting an air rifle for squirrel hunting:

Caliber: .177 caliber is suitable for short-range shots, while .22 or .25 caliber provides greater power and range.
Power Source: Spring-piston air rifles are affordable and reliable, but require more effort to cock. PCP air rifles offer greater power and accuracy but require a separate air tank or pump.
Velocity: Higher velocity generally translates to greater power and flatter trajectory.
Accuracy: Test the air rifle with different types of pellets to determine which provides the best accuracy.

Shotguns: A Close-Range Option

While not as commonly used as .22 rifles or air rifles, shotguns can be effective for squirrel hunting in dense cover where shots are typically short range. The spread of the shot increases the chances of hitting a moving target, but also increases the risk of meat damage. Therefore, careful shot selection is crucial.

Important factors when using a shotgun for squirrel hunting:

Gauge: .410 bore is the lightest and most squirrel-friendly option, followed by 20 gauge. 12 gauge is generally too powerful and causes excessive meat damage.
Shot Size: #6 or #7 1/2 shot is ideal for squirrels, providing sufficient pattern density without excessive meat damage.
Choke: An improved cylinder or modified choke provides a good balance of pattern density and spread.

Pistols: A Challenging Pursuit

Hunting squirrels with a pistol is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that demands considerable skill and practice. While not the ideal choice for beginners, experienced hunters seeking a greater degree of difficulty may find it appealing. Accuracy is paramount, and shot placement becomes even more critical.

Considerations for pistol squirrel hunting:

Caliber: .22 LR is the most common and practical choice.
Accuracy: Choose a pistol with a reputation for accuracy and a good trigger.
Sights: Adjustable sights are essential for fine-tuning accuracy.
Practice: Extensive practice is crucial to develop the skills necessary for accurate pistol shooting in a hunting environment.

Selecting the Right Ammunition

The ammunition you choose is just as important as the gun itself. Different types of ammunition perform differently in terms of accuracy, power, and meat damage. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision.

.22 LR Ammunition

.22 LR ammunition comes in a variety of loads, ranging from subsonic to high velocity. Subsonic ammunition is quieter and may be preferred in areas where noise is a concern. Standard velocity ammunition provides a good balance of power and accuracy. High-velocity ammunition offers a flatter trajectory and greater range, but may also cause more meat damage.

Consider these factors when selecting .22 LR ammunition for squirrel hunting:

Velocity: Choose a velocity that balances power and meat damage.
Bullet Type: Solid lead bullets are generally preferred for squirrel hunting, as they provide good accuracy and minimize meat damage.
Accuracy: Test different brands and types of ammunition to determine which provides the best accuracy in your rifle.

Air Rifle Pellets

Air rifle pellets come in a variety of shapes and weights, each designed for specific purposes. Domed pellets are generally preferred for hunting, as they provide good accuracy and penetration. Hollow-point pellets are designed to expand upon impact, delivering greater stopping power but potentially causing more meat damage.

Factors to consider when choosing air rifle pellets:

Shape: Domed pellets are generally the best choice for squirrel hunting.
Weight: Heavier pellets generally offer greater accuracy in windy conditions.
Accuracy: Test different brands and types of pellets to determine which provides the best accuracy in your air rifle.

Shotgun Shells

As mentioned earlier, #6 or #7 1/2 shot is ideal for squirrel hunting with a shotgun. These shot sizes provide a good balance of pattern density and minimal meat damage. Avoid using larger shot sizes, as they can cause excessive damage to the squirrel.

Essential Accessories for Squirrel Hunting

In addition to the right gun and ammunition, several accessories can enhance your squirrel hunting experience:

Scope or Red Dot Sight: Improves accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Shooting Sticks or Bipod: Provides a stable shooting platform.
Rangefinder: Helps to accurately determine the distance to the target.
Game Bag: Keeps squirrels cool and protected.
Knife: For cleaning squirrels in the field.
Binoculars: For scouting and identifying squirrels.
Comfortable Clothing: Ensure comfort during long hunts.

Ethical Considerations in Squirrel Hunting

Ethical hunting is paramount. Always ensure you have a clear and safe shot before pulling the trigger. Avoid shooting squirrels in areas where there is a risk of hitting other objects or people. Respect private property and obtain permission before hunting on private land. Follow all applicable hunting regulations and licensing requirements. Practice responsible gun handling and storage.

Moreover, aim for a clean, humane kill. Proper shot placement is essential. Avoid taking shots at excessive ranges or at squirrels that are obscured by foliage. If you wound a squirrel, make every effort to track it down and dispatch it humanely.

Maintaining Your Squirrel Hunting Gun

Proper gun maintenance is crucial for ensuring accuracy, reliability, and safety. Clean your gun regularly after each hunting trip. Lubricate moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Inspect your gun for any signs of damage or wear. Store your gun in a safe and secure location, away from children and unauthorized individuals.

Real-World Squirrel Hunting Scenarios and Gun Choices

Let’s consider some common squirrel hunting scenarios and the most suitable gun choices:

Dense Forest: A .22 rifle with a shorter barrel or a 20-gauge shotgun with #6 shot would be suitable. The shorter barrel allows for easier maneuvering in tight spaces, while the shotgun provides a wider shot pattern for close-range targets.
Open Woodland: A .22 rifle with a scope or a PCP air rifle would be ideal. The scope allows for accurate shots at longer ranges, while the PCP air rifle provides the necessary power and accuracy for humane kills.
Urban/Suburban Hunting (where legal): A quiet air rifle is the best choice. Its quiet operation minimizes disturbance to neighbors and reduces the risk of attracting unwanted attention.

Advantages of Choosing the Right Gun

Increased Success Rate: The right gun increases your chances of making a clean, ethical kill.
Improved Accuracy: A gun that fits your needs and skill level will result in more accurate shots.
Enhanced Safety: A well-maintained and appropriate gun is safer to use.
Greater Enjoyment: Hunting with a gun you’re comfortable with makes the experience more enjoyable.
Reduced Meat Damage: The right gun and ammunition minimize damage to the squirrel’s meat.

Expert Review: Top Squirrel Hunting Guns

Based on our extensive testing and expert consensus, here are some of the top guns for squirrel hunting:

Ruger 10/22: A classic .22 rifle known for its reliability and accuracy. Its modular design allows for easy customization.
Marlin Model 60: Another popular .22 rifle offering excellent value and accuracy.
Benjamin Marauder: A PCP air rifle delivering exceptional accuracy and power.
Gamo Swarm Magnum: A break-barrel air rifle with high velocity and good accuracy.
Savage Mark II: A bolt-action .22 rifle known for its precision and affordability.

Ruger 10/22 Review: The Ruger 10/22 is a semi-automatic .22 LR rifle that has been a favorite among hunters and sport shooters for decades. Its reliability, accuracy, and extensive aftermarket support make it an excellent choice for squirrel hunting. The 10/22 features a rotary magazine that provides smooth and reliable feeding. Its simple design makes it easy to maintain and repair.

User Experience & Usability: The Ruger 10/22 is easy to handle and shoot, even for beginners. Its lightweight design and low recoil make it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate. The rifle can be easily customized with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as scopes, stocks, and triggers.

Performance & Effectiveness: The Ruger 10/22 delivers excellent accuracy at typical squirrel hunting ranges. Its semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots. The .22 LR cartridge provides sufficient power to humanely dispatch squirrels without excessive meat damage.

Pros:

Reliable and accurate
Easy to handle and shoot
Extensive aftermarket support
Affordable
Lightweight

Cons:

Factory trigger can be improved
Magazine release can be finicky
Some aftermarket parts may require fitting

Ideal User Profile: The Ruger 10/22 is ideal for both beginner and experienced squirrel hunters looking for a reliable, accurate, and affordable .22 rifle.

Key Alternatives: The Marlin Model 60 is a similar .22 rifle offering excellent value. The Savage Mark II is a bolt-action alternative known for its precision.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Ruger 10/22 is an excellent choice for squirrel hunting. Its reliability, accuracy, and affordability make it a top contender. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile and dependable .22 rifle.

Insightful Q&A Section

Question: What’s the best way to zero a .22 rifle for squirrel hunting?

Answer: Zero your rifle at 50 yards. This provides a good balance for shots taken at varying distances. Use a stable rest and fine-tune your sights until your shots are consistently hitting the bullseye.
Question: How do I choose the right scope for my squirrel hunting rifle?

Answer: A 3-9×40 scope is a good all-around choice for squirrel hunting. It provides sufficient magnification for accurate shots at varying ranges. Look for a scope with good clarity and a fine reticle.
Question: What’s the best pellet for hunting squirrels with an air rifle?

Answer: Domed pellets are generally the best choice for squirrel hunting with an air rifle. They provide good accuracy and penetration. Experiment with different brands and weights to find what works best in your air rifle.
Question: How can I improve my accuracy when shooting offhand?

Answer: Practice is key. Focus on maintaining a steady stance, breathing control, and a smooth trigger pull. Use a shooting stick or bipod for added stability.
Question: What’s the best way to clean a squirrel after harvesting it?

Answer: Make a shallow cut across the back, just above the tail. Step on the tail and pull up on the hind legs to remove the hide. Remove the entrails and rinse the carcass with clean water.
Question: How do I identify a safe shooting lane in the woods?

Answer: Ensure there are no obstructions in your line of sight and that there are no people or objects in the background that could be struck by a stray bullet. Be aware of the terrain and potential ricochet hazards.
Question: What are the signs of a healthy squirrel population in an area?

Answer: Abundant food sources (nuts, berries, seeds), numerous nests (dreys) in trees, and frequent sightings of squirrels are all signs of a healthy population.
Question: What is the best time of day to hunt squirrels?

Answer: Early morning and late afternoon are generally the best times to hunt squirrels, as they are most active during these periods.
Question: How can I attract squirrels to my hunting area?

Answer: Providing food sources like corn, nuts, or seeds can attract squirrels to your hunting area. However, be aware of local regulations regarding baiting.
Question: What safety precautions should I take when hunting with a .22 rifle?

Answer: Always treat every gun as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Wear eye and ear protection. Store your gun and ammunition separately and securely.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Squirrel Hunting Companion

Selecting the best gun to hunt squirrels is a critical decision that impacts your success and enjoyment. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your hunting style, terrain, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for the classic .22 rifle, the quiet air rifle, or the challenging shotgun, remember that ethical hunting practices and responsible gun handling are paramount. With the right gun and a commitment to safety and respect, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the rewarding pursuit of squirrel hunting.

Now that you’re armed with expert knowledge, we encourage you to share your experiences with different squirrel hunting guns in the comments below. Your insights can help other hunters make informed decisions and enhance their own hunting adventures.