Best Airgun Rifles Under $100 | Tested by a 40+ Year Enthusiast

Updated November 2025: Article substantially revised and expanded with additional hands-on testing experience.

As an avid airgun enthusiast with a genuine passion for the sport, I’ve owned and shot many of the airgun rifles on this list.  With real-world experience and countless hours spent honing my skills, I’m excited to share my insights and provide you with valuable advice to help you make an informed decision. For some of the ones I picked, I have owned other models from the company and can vouch for their quality.

Budget Doesn’t Mean Junk

You know my rule: no cheap crap. So why recommend airguns under $100?

Unlike most gear categories, airguns have legitimate quality options at budget prices. Crosman, Daisy, and Umarex have spent decades perfecting affordable designs that actually work. They’re not cutting corners that matter—they’re meeting a price point by skipping premium features you don’t need for plinking.

The Crosman 2100 I shot in 5th grade? Still going strong decades later. That’s not junk—that’s smart engineering.

Every airgun here performs reliably, comes from a proven manufacturer, and won’t fall apart. What’s NOT here: no-name overseas guns, plastic-barreled garbage, or anything sacrificing performance for looks.

Budget? Yes. Cheap crap? Absolutely not.

Quick Picks:

• Best Overall Value: Daisy 880
• Most Power for the Money: Barra Sportsman 900
• Best for Kids: Umarex NXG APX
• Most Fun: Crosman 1077 RepeatAir
• Best Classic Style: Barra 1866 Cowboy

Get ready to “shoot your eye out,” unleash your inner marksman, and make the most of your shooting experiences without breaking the bank.

My testing is simple: these rifles get used hard in my backyard where six kids might burn through hundreds of BBs and pellets on a Saturday afternoon shooting cans, jugs, and water bottles filled with food coloring. You learn what a gun is really made of after a hundred rounds by shooters of different ages and skill levels. If it performs well and stays fun, it makes the list. If it falls apart or gets frustrating, it doesn’t.

Crosman 2100

Best Dual Ammo Workhorse Under One Hundred Dollars

The Crosman 2100 has been around forever and it is still one of the most capable air rifles you can buy without spending real money. It shoots both pellets and BBs, has a rifled steel barrel, and uses a multi pump system that lets you dial in the power depending on what you are doing. Light pumps for backyard cans, heavier pumps when you need more reach.

The rifle feels solid in the hands and the accuracy is better than most people expect at this price. It is not perfect though. The pumping gets old if you shoot a lot at full power and the trigger is nothing special, but the overall performance makes up for those small complaints.

Why I Picked It

I picked the Crosman 2100 because it offers more versatility and real shooting feel than almost anything else under one hundred dollars. If you want a single rifle that can handle plinking, basic pest work, and general practice without costing much, this is the one to choose. It is reliable, flexible, and one of the best values in budget airguns.

Daisy 880

The Best Airgun Under One Hundred Dollars. Period.

The Daisy 880 is the greatest budget air rifle ever made and I say that with full confidence because this was my first airgun back in fifth grade. I have owned several over the years and we still keep two of them at home today, the blackout version and the regular.

Both get used constantly. It is lightweight, easy to pump, accurate enough to keep things interesting, and it is still the rifle my kids reach for before anything else. The trigger is nothing special and the plastic construction reminds you of the price point but the 880 has always been tougher than it looks. It is simple, reliable, and more fun than anything else in this price range.

Why I Picked It

I chose the Daisy 880 because nothing under one hundred dollars beats it for pure shooting value. It is the perfect starter gun, a great backyard plinker, and a model I have trusted for decades. If you want the best budget air rifle, this is it.

Barra Airguns Sportsman 900

Best Power-Value Budget Air Rifle under $100

The Barra Airguns Sportsman 900 hits a sweet spot of power and value that few rifles in this class reach. I added this one to my stable because I saw it repeatedly recommended by forum shooters as the go-to budget multi-pump rifle and I wanted to test the hype.

With its dual ammo capability (BBs and .177 pellets), an 800 fps performance claim, and a 20-inch rifled barrel, this rifle impressed me right out of the box. The ergonomics are solid for the price, the fiber-optic sights work well enough in lower-light backyard sessions, and the bolt-action loading gives it a more “rifle-like” feel rather than a tinny toy.

My only real gripe is that the bolt is a little stiff you’ll notice it if you shoot a lot, but it’s not a deal-breaker given what you’re getting for the price.

Why I Picked It

I picked the Sportsman 900 because it gives you serious rifle feel under one hundred dollars without falling into total junk territory. If you want something more capable than a basic trainer, something with decent “oomph” for backyard pests or longer-range plinking, this is a smart choice. If you’re prioritizing ultra-light carry or maximum precision at range you might lean elsewhere, but for raw fun-per-dollar this one holds its own.

Crosman 760BKT Pump Master

Best Classic Trainer Under $100

The Crosman 760BKT Pump Master is a throwback workhorse that doesn’t pretend to be fancy and instead delivers reliable backyard shooting for a solid budget price. I’ve owned several iterations of the 760 platform dating back to my early shooting days and this version holds up the tradition.

The multi-pump action gives you control over power, the compatibility with both .177 pellets and steel BBs adds versatility, and the brown stock with crossbolt safety makes it straightforward and safe. In use I found it light, easy to handle, and more forgiving than many budget models.

The drawbacks–you’ll have to pump it more to get decent power compared to dedicated high-end rifles, and the smooth-bore barrel (rather than rifled) means accuracy is good but not championship-level. Still, for teaching kids, plinking, and casual pest control this one hits exactly where it should.

Why I Picked It

I selected the Crosman 760BKT because it is as dependable as an old pickup truck and costs less than many junk air rifles. If you want a no-frills, budget trainer that still teaches the basics of marksmanship and lets you throw rounds downrange without stress, this is the one.

If you’re looking for sub-minute-of-angle accuracy or serious hunting performance, you’ll want to step up, but for everything else this rifle over-delivers on value.

Umarex NXG APX

Best Youth and Beginner Multi Pump Under One Hundred Dollars

The Umarex NXG APX is one of the better starter rifles you can buy on a tight budget. It is lightweight, easy to pump, and simple for new shooters to understand, which makes it ideal for kids or anyone learning the basics.

The multi pump design lets you control the power level and the rifle has enough punch for backyard plinking without being too much for smaller shooters. The included scope is basic but it gets the job done. The drawbacks are what you would expect at this price.

The trigger is heavy, the sights are only average, and the overall build leans more toward utility than refinement. Still, for a true entry level airgun, it delivers more value than most in this price range.

Why I Picked It

I chose the NXG APX because it does exactly what a beginner rifle should do. It is affordable, user friendly, and reliable enough to develop real shooting skills.

If you want an inexpensive airgun that helps new shooters gain confidence, this is a smart pick. If you need serious accuracy or hunting performance, you will outgrow it, but as a first step into air rifles it works extremely well.

Umarex Prymex Break Barrel .177 

Best Value Break-Barrel Upgrade for Around $100

The Umarex Prymex is a solid choice if you want a break barrel rifle without spending a lot. It uses a gas piston system that makes cocking smoother and reduces the harsh vibration you get from cheaper spring guns. The rifle has good power for a budget model and enough accuracy for backyard shooting or light pest control. It feels more substantial than most rifles around this price and the overall build gives you the sense that it will hold up over time. The downsides are typical for this category. The trigger is just average and the included scope does not add much, but the core rifle itself is the real value here.

Why I Picked It

I chose the Prymex because it gives you a real break barrel experience at a price that usually buys you much less. If you want a powerful, single shot rifle that feels like a step up from the usual budget pump guns, this is a smart pick. If you prefer effortless plinking or lighter cocking effort, you might look elsewhere, but for a budget break barrel this one delivers.

Hatsan AirTact Spring Piston Air Rifle, .22 Caliber

Best Power Upgrade for Just Over One Hundred Dollars

The Hatsan AirTact ED is one of those rifles that makes you double-take the price tag. Getting a .22 caliber spring piston rifle with this much power and this level of build quality for just over one hundred dollars feels almost unreal in today’s market. The rifle has the typical Hatsan feel: solid construction, a good amount of weight, and a barrel that actually delivers respectable accuracy once you settle into its rhythm.

The .22 caliber hits noticeably harder than the usual .177 budget guns, which gives it more authority for small game or pest work. It does have the standard spring piston quirks. The cocking effort is heavier and the recoil has that familiar spring snap, but nothing outside what you would expect from a rifle in this class.

Why I Picked It

I included the AirTact ED because it offers real .22 caliber performance at a price where you would normally expect nothing but entry level plastic pump guns. If you can stretch the budget a little past one hundred dollars, this rifle gives you far more capability for the money.

If you want an easy cocking rifle for casual plinking you might skip it, but if you are looking for power and real air rifle performance on a tight budget, this is one of the best values available.

Umarex Strikepoint .177 Caliber Pellet Airgun

Best Quiet Budget Multi Pump

The Umarex Strikepoint is a simple and reliable single shot multi pump that stands out because it is quieter than most pump guns in this price range. You can run it with just a few pumps for casual backyard plinking or take it up to full power for a little more reach.

It is easy to handle, accurate enough for everyday shooting, and the built in noise reduction makes it a great choice if you live in a neighborhood and do not want to draw attention. The pumping effort gets heavier as you crank it up and the sights are basic, but overall the Strikepoint delivers solid performance for very little money. Read My Full Review of the Strike Point Here.

Why I Picked It

I chose the Strikepoint because it gives you quiet backyard shooting without sacrificing the fun. It is a dependable airgun for beginners, casual plinkers, or anyone who wants a simple multi pump that does not feel cheap. It is not a power gun or a precision rifle, but for under one hundred dollars it earns its spot on the list.

Gamo 6110017154 Varmint Air Rifle

Best High-Velocity Budget Upgrade (Worth the Extra $20)

Yes, this one stretches the “under $100” rule, but I’m including it because for just about twenty dollars more you get a genuine step up in performance and build quality. The Gamo Varmint delivers high velocity, a fluted steel barrel with polymer jacket, and a synthetic ambidextrous stock that feels far more durable than the typical budget gun.

I tested it for plinking and light pest control and found it surprisingly competent for the price. It tracks better, shoots flatter, and looks more like a “real” rifle than most models hitting this price bracket.

On the downside you’re still in budget territory: the trigger is acceptable but not refined, the scope it comes with is lightweight, and you’ll still want to check for consistent pellets to optimize accuracy. But you’re getting much more rifle per dollar than you might expect at this price range.

Why I Picked It

I included the Gamo Varmint because sometimes “budget” means you don’t want complete compromise. If you can stretch your budget a bit beyond the nominal $100 and want something with better velocity and build, this is the smartest upgrade pick. If your shooting is only casual plinking and you want something ultra cheap, you can skip it. But if you’ve learned the basics and want more rifle feel and performance for minimal extra cost then this model delivers.

Winchester 1977XS Dual Ammo

Best Multi-Pump Versatility Under ~$100

The Winchester 1977XS gives you the kind of flexibility that you rarely find at this price point. It’s a dual-ammo rifle—capable of shooting both pellets and BBs—and uses a multi-pump pneumatic system that gives you adjustable power depending on how many pumps you put in.

I spent a good number of sessions using it for target shooting and backyard pest work and appreciated the adaptability. If you need the BBs for tin cans one evening and switch to pellets for more serious shooting the next, this rifle supports both without asking you to change platforms.

That versatility doesn’t come without trade-offs: the stock is composite rather than wood, so it lacks that classic feel; the trigger is okay but not fantastic; and while the adjustable power is fun, the more pumps you add the more you’ll feel the workload.

But the simple fact that you’re getting multi-ammo capability, decent power, and a flexible rifle for around one hundred dollars is impressive.

Why I Picked It

I picked the Winchester 1977XS because versatility is a big value in budget airguns and this model packs in options. If you want one rifle that covers cans, pests, and sighting in at different ranges then this one answers that. If your only focused on either pellets or BBs and our budget is ultra-tight, you might consider sticking with something simpler. But for shooters who want freedom without spending big, the 1977XS is hard to beat.

Umarex Marlin Lever Action

Best Classic Style Lever Action for Casual Backyard Fun

The Umarex Marlin Lever Action brings that old school lever rifle feel into the backyard, and while it looks like a light plinker, it actually takes a bit more muscle to cock than you would expect. My nine year old struggles with it at times, so this is not the best choice for very young shooters.

Once cocked, though, it is a genuinely fun BB rifle with a smooth firing cycle, a huge BB reservoir, and the kind of nostalgic character that makes you keep shooting longer than planned.

Accuracy is good enough for cans and spinner targets and the overall build is solid for the price, even if it is mostly polymer. It is not powerful enough for pest work, but for plinking it delivers exactly what it should.

Why I Picked It

I chose the Marlin Lever Action because it brings a different kind of enjoyment to the sub-$100 category. It is a feel good plinker with classic styling and a shooting experience you do not get from the typical pump guns.

If you need something easy for kids to cock, look elsewhere, but if you want a fun, nostalgic BB rifle for backyard sessions, this one earns its place.

Barra Airguns 1866 Cowboy Series Lever Action

Best Old-School Lever Action Fun Under One Hundred Dollars

The Barra 1866 Cowboy is a throwback in all the right ways. It uses a long pump lever disguised as a classic Western action, which makes it smoother to pump and a lot more enjoyable to run compared to a standard budget air rifle.

It shoots both BBs and .177 pellets, has that brass style receiver, and feels like something you actually want to pick up and shoot rather than just another cheap plinker. Accuracy is perfectly fine for cans and backyard targets, and while the materials are still budget grade, the rifle has far more character than most guns in this price range.

Why I Picked It

I picked the 1866 Cowboy because it brings genuine fun to a category filled with lookalike pump guns. If you want a budget rifle with personality that makes you smile every time you work the lever, this is it.

If you are chasing quiet precision or hunting performance you may want something else, but for pure backyard enjoyment the Cowboy stands out.

Crosman 1077 RepeatAir

Most Fun Semi Auto Style Air Rifle Under One Hundred Dollars

The Crosman 1077 RepeatAir is the rare CO2 gun that I will gladly make an exception for. I usually skip CO2 rifles in budget roundups because they can be finicky and the ongoing cost of cartridges adds up, but this one is simply too much fun to ignore.

The 1077 gives you a fast firing, semi auto style shooting experience that none of the pump guns can match. It uses a twelve shot rotary magazine that keeps the shots coming, and the lightweight build makes it easy for anyone to handle.

Accuracy is solid for what it is and the gun has that grin inducing factor that makes you burn through pellets quicker than you planned. Power is modest and CO2 performance drops in cold weather, but the sheer enjoyment more than makes up for it.

Why I Picked It

I picked the Crosman 1077 because sometimes fun is the whole point, and this rifle delivers it nonstop. If you want a backyard plinker that feels lively, fires quickly, and keeps everyone smiling, the 1077 is worth every dollar.

If you need serious power or hate buying CO2, you may want something else, but if you want a budget rifle that is an absolute blast to shoot, this one easily earns its place.

Gamo P-430

Best Budget Dual Ammo Air Pistol Under One Hundred Dollars

The Gamo P-430 is a simple and surprisingly fun option if you want a budget air pistol that shoots both pellets and BBs. It has decent power for its size, a lightweight frame, and enough accuracy for backyard plinking or teaching someone the basics.

The rotary magazine keeps the shooting smooth and lets you run through a full load without constant reloading. You will not get rifle-level precision and the fixed sights limit how far you can stretch it, but that is expected at this price. The build is mostly plastic, yet it feels solid enough for regular practice.

Why I Picked It

I chose the P-430 because it gives you variety and entertainment in a small, affordable package. If you want an inexpensive airgun that lets you switch between pellets and BBs and keeps things fun without overcomplicating anything, this pistol deserves a spot. It is not meant for long range accuracy or serious hunting, but as a budget-friendly plinker it does its job very well.

Crosman M4-177

Best Tactical-Style Multi-Pump Under One Hundred Dollars

The Crosman M4-177 gives you serious budget airgun value wrapped in a tactical AR-style shell. It shoots both .177 pellets and BBs, features a rifled steel barrel, and has a variable pump action that lets you adjust power depending on range and use. If you’re looking for a fun, customizable air rifle that won’t break the bank, this is one of the smartest choices.

It is not flawless. The polymer stock and plastic parts show the budget roots, the pump handle gets tiring at higher power levels, and accuracy is good but not match-rifle quality. But for teaching, plinking, backyard fun, or someone who wants a cool looking rifle for cheap, it wins.

Why I Picked It

I picked the M4-177 because it combines style, versatility, and performance in an affordable package. If you want a rifle that looks like something serious, shoots both pellets and BBs, and lets you upgrade accessories later, this is the one.

If you need precision marksmanship or heavy hunting power, you’ll want to move up.

Final Thoughts: Budget Airguns That Actually Deliver

You do not need to spend three hundred dollars to get a legitimate airgun that performs. The rifles on this list prove that budget does not automatically mean junk—it just means you are skipping premium features you probably do not need anyway.

If you are teaching a kid to shoot, plinking in the backyard, or just want something fun without dropping serious money, any of these airguns will do the job. The Daisy 880 remains my top pick for pure value, but the Barra Sportsman 900 and Crosman 2100 are close seconds if you want a little more power or versatility.

Start with what fits your budget and use case. Shoot it. Learn it. You can always upgrade later if you catch the bug, but most people find that a seventy dollar airgun delivers plenty of entertainment for years.

Now get out there and put some holes in some cans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Airguns

Do I need a license to own an airgun rifle?

In most of the United States, no. Airguns are generally not classified as firearms and do not require licenses, background checks, or registration. However, some cities and states have restrictions on power levels, age requirements, or where you can shoot them. New York, New Jersey, and a few other states treat higher-powered airguns more like firearms. Check your local laws before buying—it takes five minutes and saves you potential legal headaches.

Can kids safely use these airguns?

Yes, with proper supervision and training. I handed my kids their first Daisy 880 around age eight, but every kid is different. The key is teaching safe handling, ensuring they understand the rules, and matching the airgun to their size and strength. Lighter multi-pump models like the Daisy 880 or Umarex NXG APX are easier for younger shooters to handle than heavy break-barrel rifles. Always supervise, always enforce safety rules, and never let them treat it like a toy.

What’s the difference between .177 and .22 caliber?

The .177 caliber is smaller, lighter, shoots flatter, and is better for target shooting and plinking. It is also cheaper to feed since pellets cost less. The .22 caliber hits harder, delivers more energy on target, and is better for small pest control or hunting. For budget airguns under one hundred dollars, most are .177 because it is easier to get decent velocity and accuracy at lower price points. If you are only shooting cans and paper, stick with .177. If you need a little more authority for pests, step up to .22.

Are these powerful enough for hunting?

For small pests like mice, rats, and sparrows in your backyard? Yes, with good shot placement. For squirrels and rabbits? Maybe, but you are pushing the limits of what a budget airgun can do ethically. For anything larger? No. These rifles do not have the power or consistency for responsible hunting beyond very small game at close range. If hunting is your primary goal, save up for a more capable PCP or springer in the $200+ range with higher energy output.

How accurate are sub-$100 airguns?

Good enough for backyard fun, not good enough for competition. Most of these rifles will keep groups around 1-2 inches at 25 yards if you do your part, use quality pellets, and shoot from a rest. That is plenty for hitting soda cans, paper targets, or small pests at reasonable distances. Do not expect sub-inch precision or long-range performance. If you need real accuracy, you need to spend more money.

Do I need to buy a scope, or are the iron sights good enough?

The iron sights on most budget airguns work fine for close-range plinking. Fiber optic sights are surprisingly usable in good light. That said, adding a basic scope makes shooting more enjoyable and helps with accuracy, especially as distances increase. Many of these rifles come with scopes included, though they are typically cheap optics. A $30-50 aftermarket scope is a smart upgrade if you plan to shoot regularly. Start with iron sights, add glass if you want to get more serious.

How much maintenance do these airguns require?

Not much. Keep the barrel clean, lubricate any moving parts per the manufacturer’s instructions, and store it in a dry place. Most budget airguns do not need constant fussing. I clean mine every few hundred rounds or whenever accuracy starts dropping off. Avoid over-lubing spring-piston rifles as that can cause dieseling and accuracy issues. Honestly, these things are pretty low-maintenance compared to firearms.

What’s the best first airgun for someone who has never shot before?

The Daisy 880. It is affordable, easy to use, accurate enough to build confidence, and forgiving enough that beginners will not get frustrated. It has been the standard beginner airgun for decades because it works. Start there, learn the fundamentals, then move up to something more capable if you want.

Can I shoot these in my backyard?

Depends on where you live. Many suburban and rural areas allow airgun use on private property as long as you have a safe backstop and are not endangering anyone. Urban areas often have stricter rules. Check local ordinances, respect your neighbors, and always use a proper backstop. Pellets ricocheting off hard surfaces or flying into someone else’s yard is a fast way to lose shooting privileges and make enemies.

Understanding Budget Airgun Types

Most airguns under $100 fall into two categories, and understanding the difference helps explain why they shoot and feel different.

Multi-Pump Pneumatic Airguns

Most rifles in this guide are multi-pump pneumatics. You pump a handle multiple times to compress air into a chamber, then that air pushes the pellet when you pull the trigger. More pumps equal more power. These are beginner-friendly, require no external power source, and let you control your power level. The downside is that pumping gets old if you shoot a lot, and maximum power is limited compared to other types.

Examples in this guide: Crosman 2100, Daisy 880, Barra Sportsman 900, Winchester 1977XS

Spring-Piston and Gas-Piston Airguns

These use a break-barrel design where you cock the rifle by breaking the barrel downward, which compresses either a spring or gas cylinder. When you fire, that stored energy launches the pellet. They deliver more power per shot and require less effort between shots, but they kick harder and can be more difficult to shoot accurately. Gas-piston models smooth out some of the vibration.

Examples in this guide: Umarex Prymex, Hatsan AirTact, Gamo Varmint

Why This Matters

If you want easy, forgiving shooting for learning or casual plinking, multi-pump models are your best bet. If you want more power and do not mind the extra recoil and cocking effort, break-barrel springers deliver more performance. At this price point, both types work fine—it just depends on what feels better to you.