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When you want to protect yourself and your family, it’s reassuring to have a rifle on hand to help watch over your loved ones and hunt
At the same time, the sound of a gunshot can easily disturb neighbors and cause the police to come out when there’s no real danger.
Many people try to solve this problem by looking into quiet air rifles, but do they exist?
The good news is that you can find plenty of quiet air rifles that use the latest muffle technology to give you an almost silent advantage when hunting.
Check out these quiet air rifles to see which one could be right for you and your family.
Here are the best quiet air rifles we tested in this roundup:
The Quietest Air Rifles
- Quietest Air Rifle – Gamo Raptor Whisper
- Best for Small Game Hunting – Stoeger S4000-E
- Most Quiet Air Rifle for the Money – Gamo Raptor Whisper
- Best Silent Air Rifle on the Market – Benjamin Marauder
- Quietest Air Rifle for Neighborhood Use – Hatsan AT44-10 QE
- Best Low Decibel Air Gun for Squirrels – Umarex Ruger Air Magnum
- Most Silent Pellet Gun – Gamo Swarm Maxxim
- Most Accurate Quiet BB Gun – Daisy Avanti Champion
- Quietest .22 Air Rifle – Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1
- Quietest .177 Air Rifle – Beeman Quiet Tek
- Quietest PCP Air Rifle – Hatsan Bullboss
Quietest Air Rifle
Gamo Raptor Whisper
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: Gas piston
- Action: Break barrel
- FPS: 1300 FPS with PBA
- Scope: 4×32 scope with rings and 1-piece mount
Overview
When you want a quiet rifle that will get the job done, you should look into a Gamo Raptor Whisper (is it just me or do these two words not go together at all?).
It was specifically designed to kill small animals and vermin while maintaining a 25% noise reduction level with minimal recoil.
The Raptor Whisper air rifle is a new and improved version of the Gamo Silent Cat.
The Raptor Whisper air rifle swaps the spring powerplant of the Silent Cat with a fancy IGT (Inert Gas Technology) gas piston, resulting in smoother, more powerful shots.
Our Favorite Features
The best features about this air rifle are:
- The noise muffler is attached to the barrel, so you don’t lose any efficiency while staying silent
- It comes with a 4 x 32 scope and extra mounts for moving targets
- The Smooth Action Trigger (SAT) improves accuracy by minimizing jerky trigger pulls
- The Shock Wave Absorber (SWA – Gamo loves their acronyms) rubber ventilated pad protects you from recoil impact
- A one year warranty is a nice piece of mind, though it’s not the longest
Our Biggest Complaints
Some people don’t like this rifle because:
- As far as hunting goes, you’re limited to small game and vermin. But that’s a limitation on most air rifles
- You’ll quickly outgrow the included scope (here’s our list of the best air rifle scopes you can buy in 2023)
- Break barrel rifles aren’t for everyone and can lead to inconsistent groupings
Conclusion
Nearly every customer who purchases a Gamo Raptor Whisper air rifle finds that it’s a quiet alternative for small prey hunting that holds up over time, though a few noted that it lost power over time after a fair bit of shooting.
Best Quiet Air Rifle for Small Game Hunting
Stoeger S4000-E
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: Gas Ram Piston
- Action: Break Barrel
- FPS: 1,200 FPS
- Scope: 4×32 Scope
Overview
The Stoeger S4000-E uses an advanced S3 suppressor that shrouds the barrel to reduce the sound caused by Stoeger’s gas ram piston system.
You can customize multiple parts of this air rifle. It comes with black, blue, and blaze orange grips, so you won’t lose it in the field.
The S4000-E also has interchangeable fiber-optic sights for when it gets dark in the woods and an adjustable two-stage trigger for maximum precision.
Our Favorite Features
People appreciate this rifle because:
- The S4000-E is available in .22 and .177 calibers
- You can use the Multi Grip System to change the grips
- It uses an adjustable two-stage trigger
Our Biggest Complaints
A few users have noted that:
- Some users didn’t like the trigger
- It’s only a single shot rifle
- At 7.65 pounds, this Stoeger also isn’t the lightest long gun on this list
Conclusion
The Stoeger S4000-E is a highly-customizable air rifle that’s good for both hunting and plinking, though it may be too heavy for smaller shooters.
Most Quiet Air Rifle for the Money
Gamo Raptor Whisper
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: Gas piston
- Action: Break barrel
- FPS: 1300 FPS with PBA
- Scope: 4×32 scope with rings and 1-piece mount
Overview
I bet you didn’t expect to see the Raptor Whisper air rifle on this list again!
Not only is this Gamo gun one of the most accurate and quiet air rifles on the market, it’s also easy on the wallet.
If you missed it earlier, the Raptor Whisper uses noise reduction technology that guarantees it won’t make a peep when it’s time to fire.
The Inert Gas Technology (IGT) gas piston produces less vibration resulting in a quiet, accurate shot.
Our Favorite Features
People love this air rifle because:
- It’s fast, accurate, powerful, and affordable
- It’s durable and made to last through any kind of weather or hunting trip
- It’s shock-proof, so it’s easy for beginners to handle
Our Biggest Complaints
- The scope is a nice add-on but you’ll want to replace it
- The break barrel action may malfunction in rare cases
- While it is pretty quiet, it may still not be quiet enough for some closely-packed neighborhoods
Conclusion
The Raptor Whisper is an excellent air rifle for beginners and experts. It’s built to last and remain quiet, so you won’t need to replace it like with other cheaper models.
Related: .177 vs .22 Air Rifles: Which is Best?
Best Silent Air Rifle on the Market
Benjamin Marauder
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22, .25
- Powerplant: PCP
- Action: Bolt action
- FPS: 1000 FPS
- Capacity: 8 or 10 round magazine
Overview
Pellet guns are more powerful than they look, especially the Benjamin Marauder air rifle.
It can tackle anything from small game hunting to garden pest control, plus the occasional plinking session in the backyard.
The Marauder can also be purchased as a pistol with a stock you can install, a synthetic stock, or a wood stock.
Our Favorite Features
People love this pellet gun because:
- It only creates 74 decibels of sound when fired
- It can take down animals as big as skunks and rabbits (I’ve heard people talking about shooting coyotes with the Marauder but I would not recommend that)
- It’s a pre-charged pneumatic rifle, so it’s more accurate than most spring-piston models
- Made in the USA
Our Biggest Complaints
You should know that some of the most common complaints about this rifle are:
- It’s one of the pricier options on the market. You could buy two Raptor Whispers for the price of the Marauder
- Some barrels are defective so check yours before shooting at anything
- Takes a long time to pump (unless you have an electric air compressor pump)
Conclusion
The Benjamin Marauder air rifle (or pistol!) is at the top of its class because it’s worth every penny. It’s silent and quick and maintains its quality and accuracy well after you bring it home.
Quietest Air Gun for Neighborhood Use
Hatsan AT44-10 QE
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22, .25 (AT44 QES)
- Powerplant: PCP
- Action: Side Lever Action
- FPS: 970 FPS
- Capacity: 9-10 rotary clips
Overview
It’s irritating to deal with pests in your yard, but you can take care of the problem with a Hatsan AT44-10 QE air rifle.
It’s perfect for neighborhood use because it’s extra quiet and fast, so you won’t waste time shooting extra pellets and potentially bothering your neighbors.
Related: Different Types of Air Rifles Compared
Our Favorite Features
The best features about this air rifle are:
- It’s a precharged pneumatic (PCP) rifle, making it quiet and powerful
- It comes in .22, .25, and .177 caliber models
- It fires quickly and doesn’t weigh as much as other rifles
Our Biggest Complaints
Some users have noted that this rifle:
- Has a thin rubber butt pad
- It only uses traditional dome and pointed pellets
- The magazine may jam on first use because it’s sensitive when reloading
Conclusion
The Hatsan AT44-10 QE air rifle is the best option for anyone who lives in a neighborhood. It’s fast, quiet, and gets the job done, without making your neighbors wonder what’s going on next door.
Most Quiet Air Rifle for Squirrels
Umarex Ruger Air Magnum
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: Spring Piston
- Action: Break Barrel
- FPS: Up to 1400 FPS (.177)
- Scope: 4x32mm
Overview
Squirrels can be tricky prey, but the Umarex Ruger Air Magnum combo air rifle takes care of the problem.
See our top picks for the best air rifles for squirrel hunting
It’s produced by a high-quality company for a budget-friendly price, which makes it the perfect investment.
Our Favorite Features
The best parts about this air rifle are:
- You’ll get 1400 fps with .177 caliber pellets
- The sturdy design supports numerous high-powered shots
- The composite stock will last through all kinds of weather
Our Biggest Complaints
A few people have noted that this rifle:
- While the fixed sights are good, the scope is not
- It may feel a little heavy for some users
- Cocking it requires an average of 42 pounds of force
Conclusion
Squirrels don’t stand a chance against the quick, accurate, and quiet Ruger Air Magnum by Umarex. You’ll find an excellent pellet rifle in this product and never worry about choosing between keeping the peace in your neighborhood and getting rid of small rodents.
Most Silent Pellet Gun
Gamo Swarm Maxxim
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: IGT Gas Piston
- Action: Break Barrel
- FPS: 1300 FPS
- Scope: 3-9×40
- Capacity: 10 round rotary-style magazine
Overview
If you want to get the quietest air rifle on the market, you’ll want to try out the Gamo Swarm Maxxim model.
It comes with all the features you’d want in an air rifle, including sound suppression technology built in.
Our Favorite Features
Buyers love this air rifle because:
- Both .22 or .177 caliber models available
- IGT masks the rifle’s recoil in the receiver
- The two-stage trigger produces a clean pull
Our Biggest Complaints
If you invest in this model, you could experience these challenges:
- The scope may require frequent calibration
- It’s only accurate up to 75 yards
- Some customers experience metal on metal abrasion during cocking
Conclusion
Everyone wants to spend their money on something that’s worth it, which is why so many people buy the Gamo Swarm Maxxim air rifle. Try it out for yourself to experience the low recoil, powerful, quiet accuracy during hunting or target practice.
Most Accurate and Quiet BB Gun
Daisy Avanti Champion
Specs
- Calibers: .177 pellet
- Powerplant: Spring Piston
- Action: Lever Action
- FPS: 240 FPS
- Scope: None
Overview
If BB guns are more your style, you’ll love the Daisy Avanti Champion single-shot model.
It uses gorgeous stained hardwood stock to complement its bore steel barrel and total accuracy.
Related: How to Bore Sight a Rifle the Right Way
The Avanti Champion is meant for kids and adults to use for education and precision shooting, so the whole family can practice with this BB gun.
Our Favorite Features
This model tops the BB gun charts because:
- It’s extremely accurate for a BB gun
- It weighs only three pounds
- It’s made in the USA
Our Biggest Complaints
A few customers have mentioned that this model:
- Has a delicate micrometer sight
- The instructions aren’t very clear
- It only loads a single BB at a time
Conclusion
The Daisy Avanti Champion has won awards for its accuracy and quality, so try it for yourself if you’re looking for a quiet BB gun. It’s easy to use and handle for even those just starting out.
Quietest .22 Air Rifle
Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1
Specs
- Calibers: .22
- Powerplant: Gas Piston
- Action: Break Barrel
- FPS: 1020 FPS
- Scope: 3-9×40
Overview
Gamo is back again with their quiet Whisper Fusion Mach 1 .22 air rifle.
More powerful than other Gamo guns, it can achieve a 1,020 fps velocity, which is close to the speed of sound but doesn’t cross the sound barrier.
That makes each shot quieter without reducing its accuracy.
Our Favorite Features
People love this air rifle because:
- It uses Whisper Fusion technology, which is the quietest patented air rifle tech
- It only weighs 6.6 pounds
- It has more stopping power than a .177 pellet, so it’s better for small to medium game
Our Biggest Complaints
Before you purchase this rifle, you should know that it:
- Requires 41 pounds of force to cock it
- The scope can rotate easily
- The trigger can seem big to some users
Conclusion
You can trust that Gamo knows what it’s doing, especially when it comes to the Gamo Whisper Fusion Mach 1 rifle. It’s meant for quiet, easy use in both hunting and target practice, so it’s easy to adapt to your air rifle needs.
Quietest .177 Air Rifle
Beeman Quiet Tek
Specs
- Calibers: .177 and .22
- Powerplant: Spring Piston
- Action: Break Barrel
- FPS: 1,000 FPS
- Scope: 4x32mm
Overview
If you prefer .177 air rifles, you should look at a Beeman Quiet Tek model.
It uses quick-change dual barrels in a Quiet Tek sound suppression system, so it’ll never fail when you need it the most, whether you’re using .177 or .22 caliber pellets.
Our Favorite Features
This is a popular .177 air rifle because:
- It features an adjustable RS-2 trigger system
- Interchangeable barrels means you can shoot both .177 and .22 pellets
- It’s made with all-weather polymer stock
- It uses an automatic safety to prevent accidents
Our Biggest Complaints
A few users have mentioned that this air rifle:
- Doesn’t come with a carrying case.
- The barrel may be bigger than traditional models
- It’s loud at first before you break it in
Conclusion
Beeman’s Quiet Tek won’t disappoint anyone who’s a fan of quiet .177 air rifles. It’s fast, accurate and ready to go when it arrives at your door.
Quietest PCP Air Rifle
Hatsan Bullboss
Specs
- Calibers: .177, .22
- Powerplant: PCP
- Action: Side Lever
- FPS: 1,070 FPS
- Scope: None
- Capacity: 10 shot rotary magazine
Overview
Quiet PCP air rifles are a bit of an investment, but the Hatsan Bullboss model is worth your money.
It’s an extra quiet air rifle with a 23-inch barrel and a max velocity of 1,070 fps.
The polymer grip stock and barrel materials make it lightweight and easy for anyone to use.
Our Favorite Features
People who own this air rifle love it because:
- It features an adjustable two-stage match trigger
- There’s an adjustable rubber butt pad and cheek rest
- Quiet Energy tech and built-in sound moderator reduces the rifle’s noise by up to 50%
Our Biggest Complaints
You’ll need to know that previous buyers have noticed:
- It doesn’t come with a regulator
- The clip on the included sling failed for one owner and he’s very upset about it
- Some users have had a hard time finding adapters to fit the included filler
Conclusion
The Hatsan Bullboss air rifle is the quietest PCP model you’ll find on the market. It’s easy for anyone to learn how to use and get comfortable with, thanks to multiple adjustable components and Quiet Energy technology.
Features to Look for When Buying a Quiet Air Gun
You can browse options and compare different models, but it won’t make sense unless you know what to look for when buying a quiet air gun.
Read about these important features so you stay informed and know what you prefer.
Power Sources
Air rifles use different power sources and will be labeled accordingly. Here are the most common sources:
- Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)
- Spring-piston
- Gas-piston
- Variable pump
PCP is the easiest power source for air rifles.
They use compressed air cans to launch each pellet after the firing valve opens by a trigger pull. The noise depends on the pressure of the can.
Spring and gas pistons are very similar.
Each gets cocked before you can fire, but a spring piston doesn’t take in new air when cocked.
That air creates the popping sound, so they’re quieter than gas pistons.
Shrouded Barrels
The majority of pellet guns will have a shrouded barrel.
They’re almost always permanently part of the rifle and encircle the barrel completely.
It directs the compressed air in the rifle when you fire[1], forcing the energy forward with the pellet and reducing the noise from the air that escapes.
Verified Decibel Measurement
Each air rifle should have a clear and verified decibel measurement that you can see in a product description or label. Decibels (dB) are how sound is measured[2], and each rifle will have a different output.
Studies show that the average air rifle has a peak output of between 117-134 dB[3], so anything less than those numbers can be labeled as quiet.
Conclusion
There are many things to keep in mind when you want a new air rifle, especially one that’s quiet.
Pay attention to things like built-in features and decibels to ensure that you get the best model possible for your future rifle.
