Texas air gun laws focus less on ownership and more on how air guns are used for hunting. So, the state law provides a complete guide on which air guns can be used for hunting and the specific game that can be hunted with each air gun caliber.
So, if you are interested in using your air gun for hunting in Texas, here are two points you should be primarily concerned about:
- Whether your air gun meets the legal definition under Texas law
- Whether caliber, projectile weight, and power output are appropriate for the game you are pursuing
Texas provides relatively clear guidance on these points, especially for hunters using modern PCP air rifles.
Texas Air Gun Laws: What is an Air Rifle?
The law in Texas defines an air rifle as a device that “fires a bullet solely by use of unignited compressed gas as the propellant”. PCP air guns are defined as air guns for which the propellant is supplied by means of a source that is physically separate from the air gun.
Not all PCP air rifles can be used for hunting in Texas, and the permitted PCP air rifles must have a defined caliber. Pre-charged pneumatic air guns must:
- Fire a projectile of at least 30 caliber in diameter and at least 150 grains in weight
- Have a minimum muzzle velocity of 800 feet per second or any combination of bullet weight and muzzle velocity that produces muzzle energy of at least 215 foot pounds of energy.
However, air rifles that do not meet these thresholds may still be legal for small game, depending on species and season.
- For larger game, you need at least a .30 Cal air rifle
- For smaller game, at least .177 Cal is required.
Texas Air Gun Rifle Hunting Guide: What Can You Hunt With an Air Rifle?
| .30 cal. PCP Air Rifle (At least) | .177 Cal Air Rifles (At least) |
| Alligators | Squirrels |
| Bighorn sheep | pheasant |
| Javelina | quail |
| Mule Deer | chachalaca |
| White-tailed deer | |
| Pighorn | |
| Turkey (except wild turkey in some zones) |
Legal Tips for Air Gun Hunting in Texas
Gun laws in Texas are big on reducing wounding loss, so keep the following tips in mind when hunting with your air rifle.
- Check the specifications of your air gun and ensure they meet the minimum caliber and muzzle energy requirements (as mentioned above).
- Even if your air rifle meets the standard requirements, ensure that the ballistic performance (which can differ according to brand) is not excessive and that you have the level of skill required to wield it in a safe and effective manner.
- The recommended effective range is 75 yards or closer. Most air guns diminish in performance beyond that range, so knowing the ability of your air gun is crucial.
- Pay close attention to shot placement and strive to take ethical shots to reduce the chances of wounding loss.
- Wait about an hour for the game animal to fully expire.
Best Times of Year to Hunt in Texas With an Air Rifle
- Fall and winter are prime seasons for most small game
- Deer seasons vary by zone and are tightly regulated
- Turkey seasons depend on the region and the species
- Warm-weather hunting is common for pests and certain small game
- Always confirm season dates, zone rules, and legal hunting methods before heading out.
PCP Air Rifles for Hunting (Small-sized game) in Texas
1. The Pinty Striker .22 / .25 Cal PCP Air Rifle
The Pinty Striker PCP air rifle offers higher flexibility with dual-caliber capability and strong follow-up shot performance.
- Fires .22 or .25 caliber pellets (5.5 / 6.4 mm)
- Pellet velocities up to 800 fps
- Built-in regulator for consistent precision
- 310 cc air tank providing approximately 90 shots per fill
- Dual large magazines with a smooth side-lever action
- 21 mm Picatinny rail for scopes, lights, and bipods
The Pinty Striker is a solid option for small to medium game hunting, depending on caliber choice and local regulations.
2. The Nightfall .22 Cal PCP air rifle
This is a compact, regulated air rifle designed for precision and customization.
- Fires 5.5 mm (.22 caliber) pellets at speeds up to 850 fps
- 350 cc air reservoir, filled to 3600 psi
- Delivers up to 120 shots per fill
- Built-in regulator for consistent air pressure and accuracy
- Picatinny rail for mounting optics, lights, or bipods
- 16.1-inch barrel and 34.5-inch overall length for easy handling
This rifle is well-suited for small-game hunting and pest control where .22 caliber air rifles are permitted.
Texas Air Gun Laws FAQ
1. Are air rifles legal in Texas?
Yes. Air rifles are legal to own and use in Texas, including for hunting, when used in accordance with state regulations.
2. Can you hunt deer with an air rifle in Texas?
Yes, but only with a PCP air rifle that meets the minimum .30 caliber, projectile weight, and energy requirements.
3. Is a .177 air rifle legal for hunting?
Yes, for small game where permitted. .177 caliber air rifles are not legal for large game.
4. Do local rules override state law?
Some hunting zones and species have additional restrictions, so always check local and seasonal regulations.
Final Thoughts on Texas Air Hunting Laws
When matched with the right air rifle and used within its effective range, air gun hunting in Texas can be both effective and humane. As always, double-check current regulations before heading out, know your equipment’s capabilities, and prioritize safe, ethical shot placement on every hunt.
You might be interested in our complete guide on Texas 2025–2026 Game and Furbearer Hunting Seasons.
