Groundhogs & other pests

[ChaoSS]

I want a marauder. Just wish it didn't have that ugly stock.

 

[SleazyRider]

… I suggest something like a Gamo Whisper http://www.gamousa.com/product.aspx?product=Whisper%2022&productID=289 as a good starting point. The trigger has been upgraded recently so be sure to get a newer model and not one that has been on the shelf for a while if that is your choice.

Agreed. The Whisper is one fine air gun, and even with the newer trigger it can be upgraded. I just installed a Charlie da Tuner trigger on mine, and it made a world of difference. It seems not to be affected much by the double-recoil phenomenon, making the artillery hold not as important than it is with other springers.

 

[mope540]

The RWS is more than enough... (It's arguably the best of most all
practical springers -- ask me how I know.)
But I ask the OP to please stay w/ head shots

Agreed. RWS can easily handle critters of that size. I have a sweet shootin' RWS 48, .177. And always do head shots!!!

 

[sd790]

Something that you may not be aware of. In Ohio, townships do not have the authority to regulate the use of firearms like municipalities can. If you look up the township codes, you should not find any firearms restrictions. If you do, please share what township you are in and let us know. There are some fellow Buckeyes who are doing our part to get rid of illegal restrictions.

 

[jmorris]

We have pocket gophers at our farm. I built a special plow that creates a tunnel under ground and drops a half dozen poisoned seeds every yard into the tunnel.

 

[NWCP]

For groundhogs, raccoons, fox and coyote at a reasonable range I'd go with a PCP rifle in .25 cal. Benjamin makes an excellent entry level PCP rifle in their Discovery. If you can afford it though the Benjamin Marauder is the way to go. They are quiet, accurate and will lay out vermin at decent range. If you can't use a rimfire they are the way to go. I've had my .25 caliber Marauder for over a year now and wouldn't give it up for anything. When I go ground squirrel hunting I take it along. Pellets are cheaper than rimfire, or centerfire ammo and at reasonable distances will get the job done just as well.

 

[mr.trooper]

If you need something cheap, the various models from SAG are a good amount of gun for the modest cost.

PCPs are nice, but a springer is in my opinion much less hassle. One of the more powerful springers with a gas piston upgrade will take you a long way.

I had a gas piston installed in my .25 Walther Falcon. I don't know the velocity stats, but it hits noticably harder than your standard "1,000fps" 177 pellet gun, and penetrates more than you would think. Takes fur game excellent out to 30 yards. The trajectory drops off after that, and I hunt irons only. I've taken pot shots at pests out much farther, but never managed to do anything better than get close.