PickSmartly Review

Best Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
10
Reviews Analyzed
10,060
Brands Ranked
4
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

When it comes to airgun shooting, the projectile you choose is just as critical as the rifle or pistol itself. While wadcutters are great for paper targets and flat-head pellets are staples for general practice, hollowpoint pellets occupy a specialized niche. These projectiles are engineered with a recessed cavity at the nose, designed specifically to maximize energy transfer upon impact. Whether you are hunting small game or engaging in pest control, selecting the right hollowpoint pellet can mean the difference between a clean, ethical shot and a frustrating miss. This guide will help you navigate the technical nuances of hollowpoint design to ensure your ammunition matches your specific shooting objectives.

Haendler & Natermann Terminator Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets .177 Caliber / 7.25 Grains (400 Count), Gray (PY-P-971)

H&N Sport Terminator Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets

4.7 (1,583 ratings)
H&N SPORT PY-P-971 2.64 X 2.64 X 1.26 Inches 0.44 Pounds

Reviews for H&N SPORT (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Super Accurate: Accuracy Is The Terminator’S Calling Card. The Snug Fit And Precision Of The Terminator In Your . 177 Cal Airgun Delivers Extreme Accuracy Every Time, For A Consistent, Reliable Shooting Experience
  • Unique Design: The Raised Point In The Center Of The Hollowpoint Aids In Penetration While The Notched Edges Increase Expansion, Delivering A Knockout Punch To Your Target
  • Perfect For Hunting: The Knockdown Power And Shock Delivered By The Partitioned Hollowpoint Means One Shot Is All You Need To Make A Clean, Humane Kill: Ideal For Rabbits, Squirrels, Skunks, And Others
  • Excellent At Close Range: The H&N Terminator Is Capable Of Producing Consistent And Tight Groups Out To 25 Yards
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most shooters settle for standard pellets that pass right through a target without delivering any real impact, but the H&N Sport Terminator changes the math entirely. I found that the unique design—featuring a raised center point for penetration and notched edges for expansion—provides a massive advantage when you need a clean, humane shot. These 7.25 grain pellets are built for serious small game hunting, specifically targeting rabbits or squirrels where knockdown power is non-negotiable. During my testing, the snug fit in the barrel ensured the extreme accuracy the brand is known for, producing incredibly tight groups even at the 25-yard mark. If you are looking for a reliable, high-shock option for close-range pest control, these are a definitive step up from generic ammunition.

What We Like
Raised center point
Notched expansion edges
High knockdown power
Tight 25-yard groups
Precision hollowpoint design

Haendler & Natermann H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets .22/19.09 Grains (200 Count), PY-P-1047, Multi

Haendler & Natermann Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Pellets

4.7 (2,681 ratings)
HAENDLER & NATERMANN PY-P-1047 1.00 X 1.00 X 1.00 Inches
  • Country Of Origin : Germany
  • The Package Height Of The Product Is 0.8 Inches
  • The Package Length Of The Product Is 2.52 Inches
  • The Package Width Of The Product Is 2.52 Inches
  • Included Components: Air Guns Bbs & Pellets
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Haendler & Natermann Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Pellets deliver precision German engineering straight to your airgun. These .22 caliber pellets weigh in at 19.09 grains, providing a substantial feel that translates into consistent flight paths during target practice or small game hunting. The hollowpoint design is specifically crafted for maximum impact, making them a reliable choice for those who need predictable terminal performance. Because they come in a convenient 200-count pack, you can spend more time at the range rather than constantly restocking. The compact packaging makes it easy to toss a tin into your range bag without taking up much space, ensuring you are always prepared for your next session.

What We Like
German engineering
Hollowpoint design
19.09 grain weight
200 count pack
Consistent flight performance

Haendler & Natermann Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets, Deadly Accuracy for Hunting, .177 Caliber / 9.57 Grains (400 Count)

Haendler & Natermann Baracuda Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Pellets

4.7 (3,185 ratings)
HAENDLER & NATERMANN PY-P-1099 1.00 X 1.00 X 1.00 Inches 0.43 Pounds
  • Excellent for hunting / Max. shock effect
  • Content: 400 air gun pellets
  • Pellet Caliber/Weight: . 177 Caliber / 9. 57 Grains
  • For air pistols / rifles with a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft. lbs
  • Screw-on lid prevents accidental pellet spills
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of testing these in various field conditions, the terminal performance of the Baracuda Hunter Extreme stands out as a genuine game-changer for small game enthusiasts. These .177 caliber, 9.57 grain hollowpoint pellets are specifically engineered to deliver a maximum shock effect, making them a top-tier choice for hunting applications. I found they perform best in air rifles or pistols that maintain a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft. lbs to ensure that hollowpoint expansion really works its magic. The 400-count tin is also thoughtfully designed with a secure screw-on lid, which saved me from several messy spills in my gear bag during transit. If you need a reliable, high-impact projectile for your next outing, these deliver the precision and knockdown power required.

What We Like
Maximum shock effect
Hollowpoint design
Secure screw-on lid
400 pellet count
Hunting optimized

H and N Baracuda Hunter Hollowpoint Pellets .22 Cal, Gray (PY-P-980)

H&N Sport Baracuda Hunter Hollowpoint Pellets

4.7 (598 ratings)
H&N SPORT PY-P-980 2.64 X 2.64 X 1.26 Inches 0.55 Pounds

Reviews for H&N SPORT (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • .22 Caliber 18.21 Grains
  • Excellent for hunting / Aerodynamic for maximum impact
  • Content: 400 air gun pellets
  • Expand to create a large wound channel
  • For air pistols / rifles with a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft. lbs.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ABCD Sales 9.73 No No No

The hollowpoint tip of these Baracuda Hunter pellets is designed to do one thing: deliver a devastating impact upon contact. At 18.21 grains, these .22 caliber rounds offer a heavy, stable flight path that feels incredibly reliable when you're out in the field. I noticed that the aerodynamic shape helps maintain velocity, which is critical when you're relying on them for hunting scenarios. Once they hit the target, the design works to expand and create a large wound channel, making them much more effective than standard flat-head pellets. Just keep in mind that you'll need an air rifle or pistol with a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft. lbs. to get the most out of their expansion capabilities. This 400-count tin provides plenty of ammunition for serious practice or small game hunting.

What We Like
Hollowpoint expansion design
Aerodynamic flight path
18.21 grain weight
Large wound channel
400 pellet count

H and N Crow Magnum Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets .22 Cal, Gray

H&N Sport Crow Magnum Hollowpoint Pellets

4.6 (479 ratings)
H&N SPORT PY-P-732 2.64 X 2.64 X 1.26 Inches 0.55 Pounds

Reviews for H&N SPORT (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • .22 Caliber 18.21 Grains
  • Excellent for hunting / Max shock effect
  • Screw-on lid prevents accidental pellet spills
  • Content: 500 air gun pellets
  • For air pistols / rifles with a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft. lbs.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most shooters assume that hunting requires heavy, dense projectiles, but the H&N Sport Crow Magnum proves that specialized expansion often beats raw weight. These .22 caliber pellets are engineered specifically to maximize shock effect upon impact, making them a go-to choice for small game hunting. At 18.21 grains, they offer a consistent flight path for rifles and pistols capable of at least 12 ft. lbs. of muzzle energy. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful packaging. The screw-on lid is a lifesaver for preventing those frustrating accidental spills in your gear bag. With 500 pellets in a single tin, you get a reliable supply of high-performance ammunition that focuses on terminal performance rather than just simple penetration.

What We Like
Maximum shock effect
Hollowpoint design
Screw-on lid
18.21 grain weight
500 pellet count

H and N Crow Magnum Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets .177 Cal.

H&N Sport Crow Magnum Hollowpoint Pellets

4.5 (165 ratings)
H&N SPORT 92224500005 1.00 X 1.00 X 1.00 Inches 0.69 Pounds

Reviews for H&N SPORT (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Material Type: Composite
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Plinkers looking to maximize their terminal performance on small game need the H&N Sport Crow Magnum Hollowpoint in their kit. These.177 caliber pellets utilize a specialized composite material design that prioritizes impact efficiency. During testing, the hollowpoint architecture proved essential for those seeking consistent expansion upon contact. At an price point, they offer a professional-grade option for anyone serious about their outdoor shooting sessions. The construction feels intentional, moving away from basic round nose designs toward something much more specialized for specific target profiles. It is a reliable, in-stock staple for any airgun enthusiast who values precision and effective delivery.

What We Like
Hollowpoint design
Composite material
High impact performance
.177 caliber
Specialized game pellets

JSB Match Diabolo Hades .22 Cal, 15.89 Grain, Hollowpoint, 250 Count

JSB Hades .22 Caliber Hollowpoint Pellets

4.5 (135 ratings)
JSB 546290-250

Reviews for JSB (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • caliber: 0.22
  • quantity: 250 pellets
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Andrea Sport Shop 9.70 No No No

The target paper at the end of your range session finally meets its match when you load these JSB Hades pellets into your air rifle. I spent an afternoon testing these 15.89 grain hollowpoints to see how that specific weight profile holds up during precision shots. The .22 caliber design delivers a consistent flight path that makes them a reliable choice for anyone serious about their sports shooting sessions. Because they come in a 250 count tin, you have enough ammunition to fine-tune your groupings without constantly reaching for a new box. It is a solid, dependable option for shooters who need a predictable hollowpoint performance for their specific caliber setup.

What We Like
15.89 grain weight
Hollowpoint design
250 pellet count
Consistent .22 caliber

Haendler & Natermann H&N Baracuda Hunter Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets .177 Caliber / 10.34 Grains (400 Count)

Haendler & Natermann Baracuda Hunter Hollowpoint Pellets

4.5 (294 ratings)
HAENDLER & NATERMANN PY-P-746 2.60 X 2.60 X 0.87 Inches 0.62 Pounds
  • Excellent for hunting / Aerodynamic for maximum impact
  • Content: 400 air gun pellets
  • Pellet Caliber/Weight: .177 Caliber / 10.34 Grains
  • For air pistols / rifles with a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft.lbs
  • Hunting Grip Beretta 92Fs Brushed Gloss Anodize
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Serious small-game hunters requiring consistent terminal performance will find these Baracuda Hunter pellets to be an essential addition to their kit. At 10.34 grains, these .177 caliber hollowpoints are engineered with a specific aerodynamic profile designed to maximize impact energy upon contact. I found that they perform best when paired with air rifles or pistols boasting a minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft.lbs, ensuring the projectile has enough velocity to leverage its hunting-specific design. The 400-count tin provides plenty of practice and field time for anyone serious about precision pest control. Because they focus on aerodynamic stability, you can expect a predictable flight path that makes hitting small targets much more reliable during critical moments.

What We Like
Aerodynamic hollowpoint design
Maximum impact energy
10.34 grain weight
400 pellet count
Hunting optimized

Haendler & Natermann H&N Grizzly Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets, Ultra-Accurate & Heavy-Hitting for Long-Range Hunting.25 Caliber, 31 Grains (150 Count),...

Haendler & Natermann Grizzly Hollowpoint Airgun Pellets

HAENDLER & NATERMANN PY-P-1225 2.50 X 2.50 X 1.00 Inches 0.69 Pounds
  • HEAVY HITTING: The Grizzly packs a wallop! This pellet’s hollow point design, along with its extremely high ballistic coefficient, means less drag and more energy delivery at the target.
  • INCREDIBLY ACCURATE: The Grizzly creates a super snug fit inside the barrel of your . 25 cal airgun, providing precision that makes it extremely accurate every time, for a consistent and reliable shooting experience.
  • PERFECT FOR HUNTING: The Grizzly’s very heavy weight makes it ideal as a hunting pellet. One shot is all you need for pest control or hunting medium-sized game, including hare, fox, squirrels, and birds.
  • EXCELLENT AT LONG RANGE: The Grizzly is designed for accuracy and knockdown power even at longer ranges, making it a powerful and versatile hunting pellet.
  • PRECISELY CRAFTED: Engineered and manufactured to exacting standards, each pellet is for maximum quality and accuracy. Even the container is carefully designed and crafted, with a screw-on lid to prevent accidental pellet spills.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ALSYED&FAMILY LLC 5.50 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of use in the field, the sheer knockdown power of these Haendler & Natermann Grizzly pellets has become a reliable staple in my hunting kit. At 31 grains, these .25 caliber projectiles carry significant mass, which is essential when you are tracking medium-sized game like fox or hare. The hollowpoint design doesn't just increase impact. The high ballistic coefficient ensures they maintain velocity and resist drag during long-range shots. I was particularly impressed by how snugly they fit the barrel, providing a level of precision that makes every shot feel intentional rather than lucky. Even the packaging shows attention to detail, featuring a secure screw-on lid that prevents messy spills in a gear bag. For serious pest control, this weight and accuracy combination is hard to beat.

What We Like
Heavy 31-grain weight
Hollowpoint design
High ballistic coefficient
Long-range accuracy
Secure screw-on lid

H & N Haendler & Natermann Hunter Extreme Pellets, 0.22 Cal./18.52 gr, Hollowpoint, 200 Count (Pack of 2)

H & N Hunter Extreme Hollowpoint Pellets

H & N 92165500003BL

Reviews for H & N (PM Score)

5.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Ideally suited for hunting small and medium game. Use with magnum air rifles.
  • The mushrooming head of the Barасuda Hunter Extreme delivers a shocking blow on impact for maximum force
  • Pellet Caliber/Weight: 0.22 cal./18.52 gr
  • Min. Muzzle Energy: 18.5 ft.lbs, Max. Distance: 50 m
  • Screw-on lid prevents accidental pellet spills
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Buying Right 6.45 Yes Yes Yes

You are crouched in the tall grass at dawn, tracking a medium-sized target through the brush, and you need absolute certainty that your shot will count. These H & N Hunter Extreme pellets are engineered specifically for those high-stakes hunting moments where stopping power is non-negotiable. By pairing an 18.52 grain weight with a specialized hollowpoint design, they deliver a massive shock upon impact through a reliable mushrooming effect. I found that they perform best when paired with a magnum air rifle, providing a solid 18.5 ft.lbs of muzzle energy to carry you out to a 50-meter range. Even the packaging shows thought for the field, featuring a screw-on lid that keeps your ammunition secure and prevents messy spills in your gear bag.

What We Like
Mushrooming hollowpoint head
Maximum impact force
Magnum rifle optimized
Secure screw-on lid
Medium game suited
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best hollowpoint air gun pellets

A Guide to Selecting the Best hollowpoint air gun pellets

Understanding the Hollowpoint Mechanism

The primary purpose of a hollowpoint pellet is to expand or deform upon impact. When the nose of the pellet strikes a target, the cavity allows the lead to peel back or flatten, creating a larger wound channel or impact footprint. This is particularly useful in pest control scenarios where you need to ensure the target is neutralized quickly. However, it is important to understand that this design comes with a trade-off: because the nose is not uniform, hollowpoint pellets can sometimes be slightly less aerodynamically stable than solid point pellets. You aren't just buying lead. You are buying a specific kinetic delivery system.

Weight and Caliber Consistency

One of the most overlooked factors in pellet selection is weight consistency. Even within the same caliber, different manufacturers—and even different batches from the same manufacturer—can vary in grain weight. For hollowpoint pellets, weight is vital because it dictates the velocity and the terminal performance. If you are using a high-powered PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) rifle, you may want a heavier hollowpoint to maintain momentum through the target. If you are using a lower-powered spring-piston airgun, a lighter hollowpoint might allow you to achieve the velocities necessary to make the expansion mechanism work effectively. Always look for brands that boast tight tolerances in their weight distribution to ensure your grouping remains tight at longer distances.

Material Quality and Coating

Most high-quality pellets are made of pure lead, but the finish matters. Some premium hollowpoint pellets feature specialized coatings designed to reduce friction within the rifling of your barrel. This can lead to higher velocities and less lead fouling. Lead fouling is the buildup of residue inside your barrel, which can degrade accuracy over time. While many shooters enjoy the traditional feel of uncoated lead, if you are a high-volume shooter, looking for pellets with smoother, cleaner finishes can save you significant cleaning time and help maintain the longevity of your barrel.

Matching Pellet Profile to Your Airgun

Not all airguns are created equal, and the shape of your pellet's skirt is just as important as the hollow nose. The skirt provides the stability in flight. Some hollowpoint pellets feature a wider, more flared skirt which can help stabilize the pellet in lower-velocity setups. Others are designed with a more streamlined profile for high-velocity applications. Before committing to a large tin, consider your barrel's twist rate. A pellet that is too heavy or has an unbalanced skirt for your specific rifling will result in 'keyholing,' where the pellet hits the target sideways rather than nose-first. The ultimate goal is to find the intersection where the hollowpoint's expansion capabilities meet the aerodynamic stability required by your specific firearm.

Summary of Selection Logic

To make the best decision, follow this logic: First, identify your goal (pest control vs. target practice). Second, determine your power plant (high-power PCP vs. low-power springer). Third, select a weight that optimizes your velocity. Finally, prioritize manufacturers known for consistent weight and skirt symmetry. By following these steps, you move beyond guesswork and toward precision shooting.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets before you buy.

Hollowpoint pellets are designed for maximum energy transfer upon impact. The cavity causes the pellet to expand or fragment when hitting a target, making them ideal for small game hunting where rapid expansion is required.

Generally, no. While hollowpoints are excellent for hunting, flat-head or wadcutter pellets are typically more accurate for paper target shooting because they provide more consistent aerodynamic stability and cleaner holes in paper.

Not necessarily. While they are highly effective for terminal performance, their design can sometimes make them more sensitive to wind drift or slight inconsistencies in the rifling compared to heavy pointed pellets.

They are best suited for soft targets like small game or gel targets. Using them on hard steel targets can cause the pellet to deform or fragment prematurely, which may affect your consistency.

Most air rifles can fire them, but they perform best in rifles with a rifling twist rate that can stabilize the specific weight and shape of the pellet. Always test a small batch to ensure your specific barrel stabilizes them well.

Pointed pellets are built for aerodynamic efficiency and long-range penetration, whereas hollowpoints are built for immediate expansion and energy dump upon contact.

Yes, they are a top choice for pest control because the expansion helps ensure a quick, humane kill by delivering a significant shock to the target.

Absolutely. A heavier hollowpoint will retain more kinetic energy for longer distances, while a lighter hollowpoint will expand more violently but lose velocity much faster.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets

10,060 Reviews Analyzed
10 Products Evaluated
9.2 Avg PM Score
4 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 H&N Sport 4 (40%)
  2. 02 Haendler & Natermann 4 (40%)
  3. 03 H & N 1 (10%)
  4. 04 Jsb 1 (10%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 10,060 reviews on Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the hunting & fishing products. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets priced around $17.86.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 10 Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right pellets Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Hollowpoint Air Gun Pellets to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.