When it comes to target shooting with a .177 air rifle, the choice of pellet is crucial for achieving tight groupings and consistent performance. The best .177 pellets for target shooting must offer superior accuracy, consistency in weight and shape, and a stable flight path. Target shooting requires precision, so selecting a high-quality pellet that matches your rifle’s barrel and your shooting style is key to hitting the bullseye every time.
What to Look for in a .177 Pellet for Target Shooting
- Shape: Wadcutter pellets (flat-nosed) are generally considered the best for target shooting at shorter distances (10 meters) because they cut clean, visible holes in paper targets. Domed pellets (round-nosed) are ideal for longer distances due to their aerodynamic stability.
- Weight: Lighter pellets (7-8 grains) are preferred for shorter distances and minimal wind drift, while slightly heavier pellets (8-10 grains) offer better stability at longer ranges.
- Consistency: High-quality pellets should have minimal variation in weight and size, ensuring consistent performance.
- Cleanliness: Clean, smooth pellets with no deformations ensure optimal accuracy and reduce fouling in the barrel.
Best .177 Pellets for Target Shooting
Here are some of the top-rated .177 pellets for target shooting, known for their exceptional accuracy, consistency, and quality.
1. JSB Match Diabolo Exact .177 Pellets
The JSB Match Diabolo Exact pellets are widely regarded as some of the most accurate pellets available for target shooting. Known for their high uniformity and quality control, these domed pellets are perfect for both competitive shooters and those looking to improve their precision.
- Weight: 8.44 grains
- Shape: Domed
- Best For: Precision shooting at medium to long ranges; excellent for competitions.
- Key Features: Extremely consistent weight and shape, high-quality manufacturing process, smooth skirts for better accuracy.
- Price: Around £10-£15 for 500 pellets
2. H&N Finale Match Light .177 Pellets
The H&N Finale Match Light pellets are designed specifically for target shooting. With a wadcutter shape, they deliver flat, clean holes in paper targets, making them ideal for 10-meter competitions. These pellets are also highly consistent, which is crucial for competitive shooters.
- Weight: 7.87 grains
- Shape: Wadcutter
- Best For: 10-meter air rifle and pistol target shooting.
- Key Features: High precision, consistent weight, and clean-cut holes in targets for easy scoring.
- Price: Around £12-£16 for 500 pellets
3. RWS R10 Match .177 Pellets
RWS R10 Match pellets are known for their quality and precision, making them a popular choice for competitive shooters worldwide. These wadcutter pellets are specifically manufactured to provide exceptional accuracy and tight groupings.
- Weight: 8.2 grains
- Shape: Wadcutter
- Best For: Competition-level shooting at 10 meters.
- Key Features: Hand-picked for consistency, precise head sizes, clean cutting action on paper targets.
- Price: Around £12-£18 for 500 pellets
4. Air Arms Diabolo Field .177 Pellets
While the Air Arms Diabolo Field pellets are primarily known for their versatility in both hunting and target shooting, their domed shape and consistent quality make them an excellent choice for target shooters who need pellets that perform well over longer distances.
- Weight: 8.4 grains
- Shape: Domed
- Best For: All-round target shooting, particularly at longer ranges.
- Key Features: Manufactured by JSB for Air Arms, offering high consistency and superb aerodynamic performance.
- Price: Around £12-£16 for 500 pellets
5. H&N Field Target Trophy .177 Pellets
The H&N Field Target Trophy pellets are known for their exceptional consistency and accuracy, making them ideal for both field target and paper target shooting. Their slightly heavier weight provides stability and accuracy at longer ranges.
- Weight: 8.64 grains
- Shape: Domed
- Best For: Field target competitions and longer-range target shooting.
- Key Features: High-quality control, available in different head sizes (4.50mm, 4.51mm, 4.52mm) for fine-tuning to your barrel.
- Price: Around £10-£14 for 500 pellets
6. JSB Match Diabolo Exact Express .177 Pellets
The JSB Match Diabolo Exact Express pellets are a lighter version of the popular Exact series, offering faster velocity and flatter trajectory. These domed pellets are perfect for competitive shooters who need speed without compromising on accuracy.
- Weight: 7.87 grains
- Shape: Domed
- Best For: Target shooting at medium to longer distances where a flatter trajectory is beneficial.
- Key Features: Lighter weight for higher velocity, consistent build quality, and excellent accuracy.
- Price: Around £10-£15 for 500 pellets
Tips for Choosing the Right Pellet for Target Shooting
- Test Different Brands and Types: Even the best-rated pellet might perform differently depending on your air rifle’s barrel and setup. It’s important to test a few types to see which ones provide the tightest groupings.
- Match Pellet Shape to Distance: For shorter distances (10 meters), go for wadcutter pellets like H&N Finale Match Light or RWS R10 Match. For longer distances, domed pellets like JSB Match Diabolo Exact or Air Arms Diabolo Field provide better stability.
- Consistency is Key: High-quality pellets with uniform weight and shape are essential for target shooting. Variations can cause erratic shots and reduce your scores.
- Check Head Sizes: Some pellets come in different head sizes (like 4.50mm, 4.51mm, 4.52mm). Slight differences in diameter can affect how the pellet engages the rifling in your barrel, impacting accuracy.
- Consider Environmental Factors: Wind and other environmental conditions can affect pellet performance. Choose heavier pellets if you are shooting outdoors or in windy conditions for better stability.
Conclusion
Finding the best .177 pellets for target shooting comes down to understanding your air rifle, the type of shooting you are doing, and testing to see what works best. JSB Match Diabolo Exact and H&N Finale Match Light pellets are highly regarded for their consistency and precision, making them top choices for serious target shooters. RWS R10 Match and H&N Field Target Trophy pellets also offer excellent accuracy and quality, making them ideal for both competitive and recreational target shooting.
Experiment with different pellets to find the one that delivers the best performance for your specific air rifle and shooting style. Happy shooting!