Short answer: big-bore airguns are PCP rifles in .35 caliber and larger, including .357, .45, .50, .58 and .72. They fire heavy slugs and produce far more energy than small-bore airguns, from roughly 150 FPE to over 1,000 FPE depending on the model. The trade-offs are fewer shots per fill, higher air use and more expensive ammo, and hunting rules vary by location.
Big-Bore Calibers at a Glance
| Caliber | Example rifles we carry | Example ammo |
|---|---|---|
| .35 / .357 | FX Impact M4 .35, EDgun Leshiy 2 9mm, AEA Megalodon | JSB Exact 81.02 gr, Nielsen .35 |
| .45 / .457 | AirForce Texan, AEA Megalodon | Nielsen .45, Mr Hollowpoint .457 |
| .50 / .51 | AEA Megalodon, AEA Challenger Elite | AEA .50 slugs, Nielsen .50 |
| .58 | AEA Zeus GEN 2, Zeus MK2, Megalodon | AEA .58 slugs |
| .72 | AEA Zeus GEN 2, Zeus MK2 | AEA .72 slugs 500 gr |
Published Big-Bore Performance
All figures come from our product pages or manufacturer spec tables.
| Rifle | Configuration | Published energy |
|---|---|---|
| AEA Megalodon | .35, 22 in, 120 gr | 850 fps / 192 FPE |
| AEA Megalodon | .58, 22 in, 450 gr | 765 fps / 585 FPE |
| AirForce Texan LSS | .45 | Up to 600 ft-lbs max muzzle energy |
| AEA Challenger Pro (Gen 2) | .35, 80 gr | Up to 185 FPE |
| AEA Zeus MK2 Bullpup | .72, 30 in | Up to 1300 FPE (specs to be verified per AEA) |
| AEA Zeus GEN 2 | .72, 32 in, 820 gr | 850 fps / 1300 FPE |
Actual performance varies with projectile and conditions, as AEA notes on the Zeus MK2 page.
Shot Count and Air Use
Big bores use a lot of air per shot. EDgun lists 10 to 16 shots per fill for the Leshiy 2 9mm, depending on regulator setting. The Megalodon lists 6 to 11 round magazines by caliber. Plan on a carbon fiber tank or a capable compressor. Fill pressures are high: the Zeus and Megalodon list 4500 psi, and the Texan lists 3000 psi.
Choosing a Big Bore
Entry point: .35 / .357
The FX Impact M4 .35 and Leshiy 2 9mm bring big-bore power in compact packages. EDgun says the Leshiy 2 9mm folds small enough to fit a standard day pack.
Repeaters and pump action
The AEA Megalodon is a pump-action big bore that AEA describes as a shotgun-style rifle that shoots slugs. AEA warns not to dry fire it.
Maximum power
The AEA Zeus family is AEA's top-power line, offered as the traditional GEN 2 and the MK2 bullpup.
Accessories
- Mountain Metal Zeus Gen 2 Tactical Chassis and Zeus Gen 2 Barrel Band
- DonnyFL moderators, including big-bore models like the EMPEROR +P .457/.50. Know your local laws.
- Big-bore ammo
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a big-bore airgun?
Generally .35 caliber and larger. Our catalog covers .35, .45, .50, .58 and .72.
How powerful is a big-bore air rifle?
Published figures in our catalog range from about 158 FPE (Megalodon .35, 15 in) to 1300 FPE (Zeus GEN 2 .72, 32 in).
How many shots do big bores get?
Far fewer than small bores. EDgun lists 10 to 16 shots per fill for the Leshiy 2 9mm, depending on regulator setting.
Can I hunt with a big-bore airgun?
Some states allow big-bore airguns for certain game, with specific rules. Check your state wildlife agency's current regulations.
What air source do big bores need?
A high-pressure tank or compressor that reaches the rifle's fill pressure, often 4500 psi.
Always follow the manufacturer manual, wear eye protection, and know your local laws before buying, carrying or shooting an airgun.
Talk to The Pellet Shop
Have a question about a specific rifle, caliber or setup? Visit our showroom in Westbury, NY, call or text (718) 450-4146, or email info@ThePelletShop.com. You can also browse every airgun we carry online. Specs in this article come from our product pages and manufacturer documentation and can change, so check the current product page before you buy.