Two air rifles sit on opposite sides of a very interesting fence. On one side, you have the classic, self-contained power of a spring-piston rifle. On the other, the modern, regulated consistency of a pre-charged pneumatic system. The Gamo Varmint and the Umarex Zelos .22 represent these two worlds, each promising a path to effective pest control and small game hunting. But which one aligns with your needs, budget, and shooting style?
This isn’t just about picking a pellet gun. It’s about choosing an entire shooting ecosystem. The upfront cost, the ongoing maintenance, the feel, and the performance all differ dramatically. My honest assessment is that there is no single “best” rifle, only the best tool for a specific job and shooter. Let’s break down exactly what each offers.
Head-to-Head: Gamo Varmint vs. Umarex Zelos Specifications
Starting with the raw numbers provides a clear snapshot of their fundamental differences. One is a .177 caliber break barrel, the other a .22 caliber PCP. This table lays out the foundation.
| Feature | Gamo Varmint Breakbarrel | Umarex Zelos .22 PCP |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .177 | .22 |
| Powerplant | Spring-piston | Pre-charged pneumatic |
| Velocity | Up to 1250 FPS | Up to 1000 FPS |
| Cocking / Loading | Break barrel, single-shot | Side-lever, 20-round rotary magazine |
| Trigger | Manual safety | Two-stage adjustable |
| Optics Rail | Includes 4×32 scope & mount | Integrated Picatinny rails |
| Air Source | N/A (self-contained) | 3625 PSI tank, 1000-2000 PSI adjustable regulator |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Power & Accuracy: The Springer vs. PCP Showdown
The core of this comparison lies in the powerplant. The break barrel springer and the pre-charged pneumatic system deliver power in fundamentally different ways, directly impacting air rifle accuracy and shooter experience.
Gamo Varmint: The High-Velocity Springer
The Gamo Varmint operates on a simple, time-tested principle. You break the barrel, compressing a spring and piston. This stores the energy that will propel the pellet. It advertises a blistering 1250 FPS in .177 caliber. Honestly speaking, that number is achieved with very light pellets. Heavier, more stable hunting pellets will travel slower but carry more energy downrange.
The shooting cycle has a distinct two-part recoil: a forward jump as the piston slams forward, followed by a rearward kick. This movement can disrupt your sight picture and requires a specific “artillery hold” for best accuracy. The included 4×32 scope is a start, but it must be a springer-rated model to withstand the unique shock. From my honest perspective, mastering this hold is the key to unlocking this rifle’s potential.
Umarex Zelos: The Regulated PCP
The Umarex Zelos represents the modern approach. Power comes from a 3625 PSI air reservoir regulated down to a consistent 1000-2000 PSI. This regulator is the heart of PCP performance. It ensures each shot gets the same air pressure, leading to exceptional shot consistency in velocity and point of impact. You get up to 1000 FPS in the heavier .22 caliber, which often translates to superior pellet energy on target.
The side-lever action is smooth and cycles the 20-round magazine effortlessly. There’s virtually no recoil or vibration, just a quiet “puff.” This makes it incredibly easy to stay on target through the scope for follow-up shots. The trigger mechanism is a two-stage adjustable unit, allowing for a fine-tuned, crisp break that further enhances precision.
Hunting & Pest Control Performance
For small game hunting and pest control, both rifles are capable, but their effective use cases differ. The question of which is better for pest control Gamo Varmint or Umarex Zelos depends heavily on the environment and your intended range.
The Gamo Varmint, in .177, is a classic for birds and small pests like rats at closer ranges. Its high velocity with pointed pellets can be effective, but shot placement is absolutely critical due to the smaller caliber. The single-shot loading means you have one chance before the game is spooked by the distinct “twang” and action of the break barrel.
The Umarex Zelos, in .22, delivers more knockdown power with each shot. The larger caliber creates a more significant wound channel, which is a major consideration for ethical hunting. The 20-round magazine and quiet operation allow for engaging multiple pests or taking a second shot if needed. For sustained pest control sessions, the higher shot capacity is a significant advantage.
A critical missing entity many reviews skip is noise level comparison. The Zelos, with its shrouded barrel (implied by the PCP design), is significantly quieter than the spring-piston crack of the Varmint. This can be the difference between alerting every squirrel in the county and discreetly managing a problem. Always check your local legal considerations by state regarding airgun use for hunting and pest control, as laws vary widely.
Build Quality & User Experience
How these rifles feel and function on a daily basis defines long-term satisfaction. This covers everything from the initial setup to ongoing maintenance requirements for each rifle.
Gamo Varmint: The Ready-to-Shoot Workhorse
The Varmint features a synthetic Monte Carlo stock with dual raised cheekpieces and a steel barrel with a fluted polymer jacket. It comes with a scope mounted, so you can theoretically take it out of the box, sight it in, and start shooting. There are no external air sources or fills to manage.
Maintenance is minimal. The main wear item is the mainspring, which can last for thousands of shots. The manual safety and single-shot loading are straightforward. However, to be completely honest, the need for a specific holding technique and the physical effort of breaking the barrel can be a barrier for some shooters. It’s a physically engaging rifle to shoot.
Umarex Zelos: The Modern Shooting System
The Zelos offers a different kind of readiness. Out of the box, you have a rifle, but you need a high-pressure air source. This means investing in a hand pump, carbon fiber tank, or compressora crucial part of the cost of ownership. Once filled, the experience is refined. The side-lever is smooth, the magazine indexes cleanly, and the adjustable trigger mechanism is a luxury at this price point.
The integrated Picatinny rails offer vast flexibility for optics and accessories compared to the dovetail mount on the Gamo. Maintenance involves keeping the air reservoir O-rings in good condition and ensuring dry, clean air is used for filling. Speaking honestly, the initial setup is more complex, but the shooting experience is undeniably easier and more consistent.
Final Verdict: Defining the Best Use Cases
So, who wins? The answer is situational. My honest take is that your choice hinges on your priorities: simplicity and low entry cost versus investment and top-tier performance.
Choose the Gamo Varmint Breakbarrel if:
- Your budget is strict and you want a complete, ready-to-shoot package under $500.
- You value ultimate simplicity and portability with no need for external air.
- You’re willing to learn and practice the artillery hold to master air rifle accuracy.
- Your pest control needs are occasional and at shorter ranges (inside 40 yards).
It remains a popular choice and we’ve compared it to other models like the Crosman Fury and the Gamo Swarm for those looking at other spring-piston air rifles.
Choose the Umarex Zelos .22 PCP if:
- You prioritize shot-to-shot consistency, low recoil, and a superior trigger.
- You need higher shot capacity and quieter operation for extended pest control.
- You are hunting larger small game like rabbits or squirrels where .22 caliber and higher foot-pounds of energy are preferred.
- You’re okay with the upfront investment in the rifle plus an air source (hand pump or other).
For those new to the sport wondering about the best air rifle for beginners under $500, the Varmint fits the budget but has a learning curve. The Zelos offers a much easier shooting experience but will likely exceed that budget once the air system is factored in.
The Honest Bottom Line
The Gamo Varmint is a testament to traditional airgunning. It’s affordable, self-sufficient, and powerful. The Umarex Zelos is a gateway to modern PCP performance, offering a taste of precision and ease that rivals more expensive guns. I honestly believe your decision should weigh the total cost of ownership against the quality of experience you desire.
For competitive or serious target shooting fundamentals, organizations like the ISSF, NSRA, CMP, and NRA provide excellent authority guide resources. And for the latest official specs, always check the manufacturer’s site like Gamo USA.
In the end, both rifles will get the job done. The Varmint requires more from the shooter in technique. The Zelos requires more from your wallet upfront. Choose based on which trade-off makes sense for your backyard, your quarry, and your shooting aspirations. That’s the Honest Opinion from here.