.22 Airgun Pellets Buying Guide

The right .22 pellets depend on your airgun, the type of shooting you intend to do and the ammunition recommended by the manufacturer. Different pellet profiles and weights can perform differently from one air rifle or air pistol to another, so it can be useful to test suitable options rather than assuming one pellet will work equally well in every gun.

Always check the calibre marked on your airgun before ordering. .22 pellets should only be used with an airgun specifically designed for the appropriate .22 calibre ammunition.

Types of .22 Calibre Pellets

.22 calibre pellets are produced in several common shapes. Each design has different characteristics, making some styles more suitable for particular types of recreational or target shooting.

Domed Pellets

Domed pellets have a rounded head and are a popular general-purpose choice. They are commonly used by airgun shooters looking for a versatile pellet for target practice and recreational shooting.

Flat Head Pellets

Flat head, or wadcutter-style, pellets have a flatter front profile. They are often chosen for paper target shooting because their shape can produce clearly defined holes in suitable targets.

Pointed Pellets

Pointed .22 pellets feature a more pronounced nose profile. Performance varies between airguns, so check compatibility and follow the pellet and airgun manufacturer's guidance.

Hollow Point Pellets

Hollow point pellets have a recessed nose design. As with any airgun ammunition, suitability depends on the intended lawful use, the individual airgun and manufacturer recommendations.

.22 Pellet Weight and Airgun Compatibility

Airgun pellet weight can influence how ammunition behaves in a particular airgun. Rather than selecting a pellet solely by weight, check your air rifle or air pistol manual and choose ammunition within the manufacturer's recommended specifications.

Two pellets marked as the same calibre may also differ slightly in shape, construction and dimensions. Testing compatible ammunition on a safe, appropriate range or target setup can help you identify which option works consistently with your airgun.

Who Are .22 Air Rifle Pellets Suitable For?

.22 air rifle pellets are suitable for owners of compatible .22 calibre airguns who need ammunition for lawful shooting activities. They may appeal to recreational shooters, target shooters and airgun enthusiasts who prefer the characteristics of the larger .22 calibre compared with smaller pellet calibres.

If you are unsure which pellet calibre your airgun requires, check the markings on the gun and consult its instruction manual before purchasing ammunition.

Comparing .22 Pellets with Other Airgun Calibres

Pellet TypeGeneral DescriptionCheck Before Buying.177 pelletsSmaller-calibre airgun pellet commonly used for recreational and target shooting. Your airgun must be chambered for the correct .177 calibre ammunition..22 pelletsLarger airgun pellet calibre commonly referred to as approximately 5.5mm. Confirm your airgun is designed for the specific .22 ammunition selected. Other pellet calibres: Additional airgun calibres are available for compatible equipment. Always follow the airgun manufacturer's calibre and ammunition guidance.

.22 Pellet Brands and Options

Airgun pellets are available from a range of established ammunition manufacturers, with different head shapes, weights and packaging options. The brands and products available in this category may vary, so use the product specifications on each listing to compare the options currently offered.

When comparing pellet brands, consider calibre compatibility, pellet profile, weight and the manufacturer's intended application rather than selecting solely by brand name.

Looking After Your Airgun Pellets

Store .22 pellets in their original container where possible and keep them clean, dry and protected from contamination or damage. Dirt, deformation or debris can affect ammunition consistency and may cause problems when loading a compatible airgun.

Keep airgun ammunition stored securely and away from children or unauthorised users. Follow the ammunition manufacturer's instructions, your airgun manual and current UK law regarding the ownership, storage and use of airguns and related ammunition.

Why Buy from BBGuns4less

BBGuns4less makes it straightforward to browse .22 pellets and other compatible airgun ammunition online. Product listings provide the information available for each item so you can compare calibre, pellet style and other relevant details before ordering.

• Free UK shipping on orders over £75
• Price Match Guarantee
• Easy returns
• Expert customer support
• Secure online ordering

Related Airgun Ammunition and Accessories

• Shop .177 pellets
• Air rifle targets
• Air Rifle scopes

Frequently Asked Questions About .22 Pellets

What are .22 pellets?

.22 pellets are ammunition designed for compatible .22 calibre airguns. The calibre is commonly associated with approximately 5.5mm pellets, although you should always confirm the exact ammunition requirements specified by your airgun manufacturer.

Are .22 pellets the same as .22 rimfire ammunition?

No. .22 airgun pellets and .22 rimfire cartridges are different types of ammunition intended for completely different types of equipment. Never use ammunition that is not specifically approved for your airgun.

Can I use .22 pellets in any air rifle?

No. Only use .22 pellets in an air rifle or air pistol specifically designed for the correct .22 calibre ammunition. Check the calibre markings and manufacturer instructions before use.

What is the difference between domed and flat head .22 pellets?

Domed pellets have a rounded head and are commonly selected as a general-purpose option, while flat head pellets have a flatter profile and are often used for paper target shooting. Performance depends on the individual airgun and pellet design.

What weight .22 pellet should I choose?

The appropriate pellet weight depends on the airgun and its manufacturer's recommendations. Check your airgun manual and compare compatible pellet specifications before choosing.

How should .22 airgun pellets be stored?

Keep pellets clean and dry, preferably in their original container. Store them securely away from children and unauthorised users and follow current UK law, manufacturer instructions and your retailer's safety guidance.

Can different .22 pellet brands perform differently?

Yes. Pellet shape, weight, dimensions and construction can vary between products, and individual airguns may perform differently with different compatible pellets.

Are .22 pellets BBs?

No. Traditional airgun pellets have a shaped pellet design, while BBs are generally spherical. They should not be treated as interchangeable unless the manufacturer of the specific airgun clearly states that the ammunition is compatible.