Best .177 Pellets for Pest Control

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When it comes to pest control, the right .177 pellet can make all the difference between a clean, humane kill and an ineffective shot that leaves pests injured and scurrying away. I’ve been in those situations—lined up a shot, fired, and watched as the pellet didn’t quite have the impact needed to stop the target immediately. That’s when I realized the importance of selecting pellets designed specifically for pest control.

For pest control, whether you’re dealing with rats, squirrels, or other small vermin, you need a pellet that combines accuracy, penetration, and energy transfer. The goal is to deliver maximum impact to the target for a quick and ethical dispatch. The best .177 pellets for pest control usually feature hollow point designs for expansion, domed shapes for deep penetration, or hybrid designs for balanced performance.

Here’s a rundown of the best .177 pellets for pest control in 2024 to help you make the right choice for effective and humane results.

Best .177 Pellets for Pest Control in 2024

1. H&N Terminator Pellets

The H&N Terminator Pellets are specifically engineered for pest control, and they excel in combining expansion and penetration.

  • Pros:
    • Hybrid Hollow Point with Pointed Tip: Unique design provides deep penetration with rapid expansion, ensuring quick and humane kills.
    • High Accuracy: Known for excellent shot placement, essential for hitting vital areas.
    • Medium Weight (7.25 grains): Offers a good balance between velocity and impact force.
    • High Quality Manufacturing: Consistent weight and shape for reliable performance.
  • Cons:
    • Best at Close to Medium Range: Loses energy quicker at longer distances compared to heavier pellets.
    • Premium Price: Slightly more expensive than standard pellets, but worth it for effectiveness.

Best Use: Perfect for close to mid-range pest control of rats, squirrels, and small birds where expansion is crucial for an effective kill.

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2. Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets

For those looking for an affordable yet effective option, Crosman Premier Hollow Point Pellets offer great performance for pest control.

  • Pros:
    • Hollow Point Design: Expands upon impact, delivering effective stopping power.
    • Widely Available and Affordable: Easy to find in most stores and budget-friendly.
    • Medium Weight (7.9 grains): Strikes a good balance between speed and impact.
    • Versatile Use: Can be used for both pest control and target practice.
  • Cons:
    • Quality Control Issues: Some batches may have slight inconsistencies in pellet size.
    • Moderate Long-Range Accuracy: Accuracy can drop off at longer distances.

Best Use: Ideal for backyard pest control scenarios where close to mid-range shots are common, such as in sheds, garages, or gardens.

3. JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo Pellets

JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo Pellets are a top choice for those who need precision and penetration for pest control at longer ranges.

  • Pros:
    • Heavyweight (10.34 grains): Delivers more kinetic energy for deeper penetration and more stopping power.
    • Domed Shape: Offers superior accuracy and stability over long distances.
    • High Ballistic Coefficient: Retains energy downrange, making it effective for longer shots.
    • High Quality Control: JSB pellets are known for exceptional consistency in weight and shape.
  • Cons:
    • Less Expansion: As a domed pellet, it doesn’t expand as much as hollow points, but offers deeper penetration.
    • Higher Cost: A premium pellet that comes with a premium price tag.

Best Use: Best for mid to long-range pest control, particularly when targeting vital areas for a humane kill.

4. RWS Superdome Pellets

RWS Superdome Pellets are a versatile choice that balances accuracy, penetration, and cost-effectiveness.

  • Pros:
    • Domed Head with Ribbed Skirt: Provides excellent aerodynamics for consistent accuracy and penetration.
    • Medium Weight (8.3 grains): Offers a good balance of speed, impact, and range.
    • German Engineering Quality: Highly consistent in weight and build quality.
    • Versatile Use: Suitable for both hunting and pest control in varied conditions.
  • Cons:
    • Less Expansion Compared to Hollow Points: Might require more precise shot placement to ensure a quick kill.
    • Moderate Cost: Priced in the mid-range, reflecting its quality.
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Best Use: A great all-rounder for medium-range pest control where both accuracy and penetration are needed.

5. H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Pellets

If you’re looking for maximum impact and penetration combined with expansion, H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Pellets are an excellent choice.

  • Pros:
    • X-Point Hollow Point Design: Expands rapidly upon impact while penetrating deeply, making it highly effective for pest control.
    • Heavyweight (9.57 grains): Provides the mass needed for more impactful shots and deeper penetration.
    • Highly Accurate: Known for precision at both short and medium ranges.
    • Excellent Build Quality: Consistently manufactured for reliable results.
  • Cons:
    • Requires High-Powered Air Rifles: Performs best with air rifles capable of generating higher muzzle velocities.
    • Higher Cost: More expensive due to its specialized design and performance.

Best Use: Ideal for mid-range pest control, particularly when you want to ensure rapid expansion and deep penetration.

Tips for Choosing the Right Pellet for Pest Control

Choosing the right pellet for pest control requires balancing several factors:

1. Consider the Pellet Design

  • Hollow Point Pellets: Best for close-range shots where expansion is key to delivering a quick, humane kill. Ideal for soft-skinned pests like rats and birds.
  • Domed Pellets: Best for longer-range shots where penetration is more critical. Great for pests like squirrels that may require deeper impact to reach vital organs.
  • Hybrid Pellets: Designs like the H&N Terminator or H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme offer both penetration and expansion, making them versatile options.

2. Match Pellet Weight to Your Air Rifle

  • Heavier pellets (9-10.5 grains) are better for high-powered air rifles that can maintain velocity and energy over longer distances.
  • Medium-weight pellets (7-9 grains) are ideal for most standard air rifles, providing a balance of speed, accuracy, and impact.
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3. Consider the Shooting Range

  • For close to mid-range pest control, hollow points or hybrid pellets like the H&N Terminator are ideal.
  • For longer-range shots, domed pellets like the JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo provide superior accuracy and penetration.

4. Test Different Pellets

  • Always test different pellet types in your air rifle to find the one that delivers the best accuracy and performance. Every rifle can have a slight preference for different pellets.

5. Focus on Shot Placement

  • Even with the best pellets, shot placement is key for humane pest control. Aim for the vital areas to ensure a quick and effective kill.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best .177 pellets for pest control involves finding the right balance of accuracy, penetration, and expansion for your specific needs and equipment. Whether you go for the hybrid design of the H&N Terminator, the affordability of the Crosman Premier Hollow Point, or the long-range precision of the JSB Exact Heavy Diabolo, there’s a perfect pellet out there for every pest control scenario.

Remember, ethical pest control is about precision and effectiveness. Make sure to practice regularly to improve your accuracy and always aim for quick, humane dispatches.

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