Air Gun Home :: View topic - What's the best ammo to bring down a large possum?

Kazareh · New Member

I'm the owner of an older (Prior to the 'orange tip' barrels) Marksman Repeater, and there's four kinds of ammo available. What I'm going for here is a kill shot, not a wound. We live on a farm, and this thing is hell on our poultry livestock. It's quite large, near cat size, and I wanna know. What's the best thing to kill this son of a female dog? It's all .177 Cal, Metal BB's, Darts (http://www.airgunwarehouseinc.com/py-p-796.html ), Pellets, or Bolts (http://budk.com/Outdoor-Sports/Airgun-Bolts-177-Caliber-12-Pack)? Again, looking to end this little devil of a creature, not just wound it. Thanks.

mod90 · Veteran Member

I don't think that particular air gun will hack it. Usually any gun that shoots BB's and or darts is somewhat on the lower end of the power spectrum. The possum won't let you get close enough to take a shot with that gun that MAY effectively give a clean kill. As I said, not enough power.
If you must use air arms, a rifle capable of 900-1000 fps in .177 caliber would effectively do the job at a greater distance than the one you have now. Provided you ca get a clear head or heart shot.

radar · Silver Status Member

Yeah, I'd say for a cat sized possum the best ammo would be big and fast.
I'd use a .22 rimfire with at least a CB cap, a Benjamin Marauder .25, or something like that. If you can be sure of a critical area shot within 20-25 yards, then maybe a .22 airgun with at least 20 ft. lbs. ME and fairly heavy domed or pointed pellets. My 2 cents worth.

An accurate crossbow would be a good choice, too, I think.

Kazareh · New Member

Hm, alright. Well thanks guys, really appreciate it. I'll have to go out and get a .22 airgun then.

domer_pyle · Senior Member

You will want ammo with better penetration than expansion as well. For that reason you might consider a .177 rated at 1000 fps, any of the Crosmans at wally world (usually for 80 bucks around here) are a good choice.