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What Are Air Gun Slugs?

Slugs are solid and cylindrical projectiles for air-powered guns that are usually composed of lead. They are essentially like typical firearm bullets. Compared to diabolos (pellets), their design allows for a heavier weight, better aerodynamics, and more energy retention, which makes them suitable for high-powered PCPs and hunting.

Air gun slugs are both longer and heavier than pellets, and they are stabilized with spin when used in rifled barrels. They are typically used at speeds of 800 fps and up and are designed for deep penetration and flatter trajectories.

PCP slugs require more air power to operate effectively, so they are best suited for PCP air rifle platforms that offer more power.

Choosing the Right Slugs

Air gun slugs (or airgun slugs) come in a wide range of calibers, each with its unique combination of velocity, accuracy, and energy, catering to various shooting preferences. From the quiet and precise .177 caliber, perfect for target shooting, to the powerful .50 caliber, air gun slugs offer diverse options for every shooter. Let's take a look at a few of our options:

.177 cal pellet slugs are 4.5 mm and produce 6.8 foot-pounds of energy, enough for pests and small game under 75 yards.
.22 caliber slugs are 5.5 mm, and produce 10 foot-pounds of energy, used for small game under 75 yards.
.25 air gun slugs are 6.35 mm, used for medium-sized game under 75 yards.
.30 caliber slugs are 7.62 mm, used for coyotes and similar-sized animals.
.357 cal pellet slugs are 9.07 mm, used for hunting and target shooting.
.45 cal air gun slugs are 11.43 mm, used for big game at close range.
.50 caliber slugs are 12.57 mm, used for large game.

Not sure where to start?

Hunters should use large-caliber hollow-point slugs for clean kills and energy transfer. Long-range shooters should use boat-tail slugs with high ballistic coefficients. Big-bore slugs are for maximum impact. Each air gun is different, so try various brands and weights to find what works for your rifle. Heavy slugs are dangerous and require safety precautions.

Additional Tips:

Longer and heavier slugs require faster barrel twist rates for optimized flight stabilization.
Even slight differences in caliber matters (e.g., .217 vs. .218) and should be matched to your specific barrel.
Slugs typically require at least 30 foot-pounds of energy (FPE) for stabilization, and larger air rifle slugs need even more air output.

Beginner's Guide to Air Gun Ammo

Learn about common types & their purpose!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shoot slugs in a pellet gun?

Only if it's a PCP air rifle rated for slugs. Springers and CO2 guns don't generate the power or stability needed.

What's the best slug for hunting?

For small to medium game, use .25 cal hollow points. For large game like deer or hogs, go with .45 or .50 cal big bore slugs.

What makes a slug accurate?

It's all about the fit and balance---diameter, length, weight, and your rifle's twist rate all need to match up.

How do I know what weight slug to use?

Start with your rifle's power level (FPE). Use a chronograph to test velocity and fine-tune based on your shooting results.

Picking the right air gun slug doesn't have to be confusing and often relies on trial and error because every gun likes certain ammo. You can also read about the different types of air gun ammo or reach out to our team, and we'll be happy to answer any questions you still have.