Choosing the calibre of your pellet rifle

The caliber of the rifle refers to two things: the diameter of the barrel and the diameter of the ammunition used to load the weapon. At Jean Pierre Fusil, we offer two types: 4.5 and 5.5 millimetres. Which calibre should you choose for your pellet rifle? We help you to see more clearly below!

The two main calibres for rifles available on the online gun shop

Rifles and ammunition of 4.5 and 5.5 mm are available in the armoury.

The 4.5 millimetre calibre

The 4.5 mm lead is the most common in France (= .177 inch). It is used to load 4.5 mm rifles, pistols and revolvers. It is perfect for recreational or precision shooting. It generally weighs between 0.45 and 0.8 grams. Available in a variety of shapes and materials, pellets of this calibre are sold at a very affordable price. 

The three ranges of 4.5 mm pellets

- Classic pellets, which are used for recreational shooting. More commonly known as diabolos, they weigh an average of 0.50 grams and are inexpensive. They are characterised by their flat or pointed head and striped skirt. They are ideal for plinking and are suitable for shooters who want to practice on boxes, cans and moving targets.

- Shooting school pellets are specially designed and engineered for sport shooting and competition. They are higher quality, better finished and therefore more expensive. They are suitable for club members who use a competition weapon.

- The heavier pellets can weigh up to 1.2 grams and are used to load rifles of more than 15 joules. The weight of the pellet makes it easier to hit the target without having to be propelled further.

The 5.5 millimetre calibre

The 5.5 mm calibre is less used in France, but much more in England. Its diameter is larger than the 4.5 millimetre, so its range is a little greater. It is used for sport shooting, military small arms and pest hunting. Many brands produce 22 calibre ammunition: Winchester, Hammerli, Umarex, Gamo...

The 6.35 mm calibre

Ammunition of this caliber is available at the gun shop, but no 6.35 mm pellet rifle. Being less common than the 4.5 and 5.5 millimetre calibres, 6.35 ammunition is a little more expensive. 

Choose the calibre of your rifle using our drop-down menu. To sort our pellet rifles by caliber, simply check the correct one in our drop-down menu: 

All our pellet rifle