I bought an RWS 34 for squirrels in the backyard. It is a .177 and with Crosman 10.5 grain pellets it shoots completely through them on broadside shots. I got it at BassPro Shop as a package with a scope and it has performed well. It is a heavy rifle but if feels like a centerfire which I think is a good thing. I think a .22 caliber would be even better.