Welcome back to the Airgun 411 series, where we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the world of airguns. If you’ve been following along, you know we’ve covered the basics, small game hunting, and more. Now, in this fifth installment, we’re cranking up the power to talk about big bore airguns—the heavy hitters of the airgun world. Modern PCP air rifles have evolved into serious tools for hunting, recreational,and competition shooting. Let’s dive under the surface of big bore PCPs.

Big Bore Airguns: The Heavyweights of Air Power

Picture this: you’re in the field, stalking a trophy buck, and instead of a firearm, you’ve got a  powerful airgun in your hands. That’s the reality with big bore airguns—air rifles chambered in .35 caliber and above, designed to deliver serious energy, often exceeding 200 foot-pounds. These pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) beasts are built to take down big game like deer, hogs, and even larger exotic species with precision and ethical impact. At Umarex USA, we’re proud to lead the charge with models like the Umarex Hammer, a .50 caliber powerhouse that pumps out up to 700 foot-pounds of energy. That’s more than enough to stop any whitetail deer in its tracks. 

Big bore airguns aren’t just about raw power; they’re about versatility. Weighing in at under 10 pounds with an optic (the Hammer is just 8.5 pounds), bog bore PCPs are no heavier than most comparable firearms. Plus, with features like M-LOK slots and AR-15 compatible grips, you can customize them to fit your style. Whether you’re a hunter, a target shooter, or even a law enforcement trainer, these airguns have a place in your arsenal.

What Can You Do with a Big Bore Airgun?

How are people using big bore airguns? First and foremost, they’re a game-changer for hunting. From whitetail deer in Florida to feral hogs in Texas, these airguns deliver the power needed for an ethical harvest. The Airgun Hunting Legion highlights how quiet they are, when combined with (non-NFA) airgun moderators, —perfect for hunting on private land where you don’t want to spook the neighbors (or the rest of the herd). And with less recoil than a firearm, you’ll stay on target for follow-up shots if needed.

But hunting isn’t the only game in town. Big bore airguns are awesome for long-range target shooting, letting you test your skills at longer ranges. Banging steel silhouettes at 200 or 300 yards is challenging and rewarding. They’re also a go-to for pest control on a larger scale, like taking out coyotes or hogs that threaten livestock.

Calibers That Pack a Punch

Now, let’s get to the fun part: the calibers. Big bore airguns start at .30 caliber and go up from there, each one tailored for different game and hunting scenarios. Here’s the breakdown:

• .357 Caliber (9mm): The .357 is a sweet spot for game in the 25- to 50-pound range—think foxes or turkeys. With 200-300 foot-pounds of energy, it’s accurate and effective for most shots under 75 yards, depending on your setup. Many states will prohibit this smaller caliber for large game hunting. 

• .40 Caliber: Capable of producing up to around 400 foot-pounds, .40 caliber airguns are great for deer or hogs, especially in states like Utah, where it’s the minimum for big game hunting.

• .45 Caliber: A favorite for hunters, .45 caliber airguns typically produce between 200-500 foot-pounds, making them ideal for deer-sized game. 

• .50 Caliber: The Hammer is Umarex USA’s offering in .50 caliber. This big bore PCP cranks out up to 700 foot-pounds and is great for hunting game out to a range of 150 yards.   

Where Can You Hunt with Big Bore Airguns?

Hunting with big bore airguns is growing in popularity, but it’s a state-by-state affair in the U.S. Regulations vary, often specifying minimum calibers and energy requirements for big game. The Airgun Sporting Association and Umarex USA have teamed up to create an interactive map of airgun hunting laws—a must-have resource for any airgun hunter. But laws can change fast, so always check with your local wildlife agency. Here’s a rundown of states where big bore airgun hunting for big game is legal as of May 2025:

• Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, Washington: These states allow big game hunting with airguns, typically requiring a minimum of .35 or .40 caliber and 400 foot-pounds of energy (Michigan allows .35 caliber with 350 foot-pounds). Some, like Washington, restrict use to firearms seasons.

• Florida: You can hunt whitetail deer with a .30 caliber or larger airgun—no energy requirement, just ethical shot placement. Wild turkey requires .20 caliber and up.

• Idaho: Big game like deer and antelope need a .35 caliber minimum; larger game like elk or moose requires .45 caliber.

• Tennessee: Use a .40 caliber airgun with 400 foot-pounds for deer and hogs.

• Texas: One of the most airgun-friendly states, Texas allows big game hunting (deer, javelina, even alligators) with a .30 caliber minimum, requiring either 215 foot-pounds of energy or 800 FPS with a 150-grain projectile.

• Utah: Big game hunting is legal with a .40 caliber airgun producing 400 foot-pounds, but only during firearms seasons.

Why Choose Big Bore Airguns?

So, why go for a big bore airgun over a traditional firearm? For starters, you get the power you need without the noise or recoil of a firearm, making them perfect for noise-sensitive areas or long days in the field. Plus, they’re a blast to shoot—whether you’re plinking at targets or stalking game, the experience is unmatched.

At Umarex USA, we’re passionate about bringing you the best in airgun technology, and the Umarex Hammer is proof of that. It’s a game-changer for hunters, offering big power and American ingenuity in one package. Paired with resources from your favorite outdoor retailer for accessories and advocacy from the Airgun Sporting Association and Airgun Hunting Legion, and you’ve got everything you need to hit the field with confidence.

Whether you’re in Texas chasing hogs or in Idaho after a trophy elk, big bore airguns are ready to deliver. So grab your gear, check your local laws, and get out there—your next adventure is waiting!